Story by Brad Perry

This year will be the first time in many years that students at Carleton North High School will start classes in September.

During previous years, students returned to class in August, giving them time off in late September for what is known as the potato break.

But this year, the district is doing something a bit different.

Students are able to sign up to take part in the potato break, and will have 12 flexible days off to work the harvest.

On days that weather does not allow them to work in the fields, they can work on assignments using a virtual classroom.

So far, about 100 students have signed up.

Officials with District 14 say the numbers are encouraging, and Potatoes New Brunswick is impressed.