In honor of tomorrow's opening of the Florida State Fair, the Gradebook would like to remind Hillsborough parents and teachers of an upcoming school holiday.
Friday, Feb. 8 is Students' Day at the Fair.
The quirky holiday deserves at least passing note, mostly because it marches on. Classes are canceled at most, but not all, schools to allow children to visit the Fair. A handful of east Hillsborough schools observe an alternative holiday in March to frequent the Plant City Strawberry Festival.
In the calendar wars of recent years, Fair Day emerged as prime target. Why recognize a holiday rooted in Hillsborough's agricultural past? Fair officials rallied to their defense. Many freebie later, they seem to have secured their place on the school calendar.
At least, until the next calendar controversy...


Get inside the world of Florida education with St. Petersburg Times staff writer Jeffrey S. Solochek and the rest of the Times education reporting team. We'll bring you up-to-date information about the latest education trends, fads and news and dig deep into Tampa Bay area school issues.
Please, tell me why I have a freebie "holiday" so thousands and thousands ( with FREE tickets distributed at school) yet I have to take a Personal Day to observe Good Friday? What's the kickback to the School Board?
Posted by: disillusioned | February 07, 2008 at 06:04 PM
This year, we handed out free Fair tickets to every student. Imagine how much money the kids will drop on rides, food, etc, if they actually go to the fair. What a scam!
Posted by: Ann E. Mouse | February 06, 2008 at 05:40 PM