This winter, fourth graders will be able to take advantage of free skiing opportunities at 21 of Pennsylvania’s ski resorts. The Pennsylvania Ski Areas Association (PSAA) is offering a program called “4th Grade Snowpass” which will allow fourth graders to obtain a booklet containing a free learn to ski or snowboard package including a beginner lift ticket, rental equipment, and lesson voucher. The booklet also contains three lift tickets to each of the 21 member ski areas across Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania resorts hope the program will attract new skiers and snowboarders to the mountains.

“It’s the perfect age to accelerate downhill skills. The excitement and enthusiasm among 9 and 10 year old boys and girls on the mountain is dramatic,” said Gregg Confer, President of the PSAA. “It’s the point in life where they can really feel a solid commitment to a sport that will last a lifetime.”

The vouchers in the booklet can be used whenever a fourth grader is accompanied by a paying adult, and there are some days the vouchers aren’t valid, such as holidays. The booklet can be obtained by any fourth grader, and is not limited to residents of Pennsylvania.

To obtain the booklet, fourth graders should visit the PSAA web site at www.skipa.com. From there, they can complete the 4th Grade Snowpass application. They must then mail the application along with a copy of their most recent 4th grade report card, a 2x2 school photo, and a $10 processing fee.

Maryland’s Wisp Resort also offers a similar program for fourth graders. Fourth graders with a “B” average or higher can receive an unlimited 2003-2004 winter season pass valid at Wisp. Students should bring a copy of their most recent report card to Wisp to receive the pass.

For more information on the Pennsylvania 4th Grade Snowpass, call (570) 443-0963.