BLOOMINGTON, Ind. - Indiana fair organizers are seeking support for a measure that would grant excused absences to students who miss class to participate in agricultural events such as 4-H fairs.

The Indiana Association of Fairs is circulating a petition calling for legislation to ensure students aren't punished if they miss class to attend the Indiana State Fair or other events.

Association representative David Smith tells The Herald-Times that agriculture is an educational experience. He says students shouldn't be penalized for participating in events such as the state fair.

The effort is being driven by concern about changing school calendars that have shortened summer vacations.

Many Indiana schools will resume classes during the state fair's Aug. 2-to-Aug. 18 run.