Trees for Teachers is ReForest London’s wildly successful schools program!
At the heart of the Trees for Teachers project is a passion for environmental education and
action. We believe, and have seen first-hand, that long-lasting and transformative change only happens when there is a personal investment in the cause.
In partnership with local school boards (Thames Valley District School Board, London District Catholic School Board, Conseil scolaire de district des écoles catholiques du Sud-Ouest and Conseil scolaire Viamonde) our team fosters a passion in participants through a three-pronged strategy:
Professional Development Workshops
Teachers and educators have the opportunity to participate in one or both of two (2) hands-on workshops. These workshops provide all the necessary resources and skill development to enable teachers to confidently and actively engage in the Trees for Teachers program. Furthermore, every participant in the professional development sessions will receive a unique toolkit. This toolkit equips teachers with a range of additional lesson plans, activities, and community connections, empowering them to effectively engage and nurture the spirit of learning in their students.
Schoolyard Tree Planting
Students will undergo site planning and tree planting of up to five (5) large native shade trees in their schoolyard through this self-led activity. ReForest London will provide all the supplies and equipment needed for a successful planting.
Students will gain valuable hands-on experience with project management, collaboration, critical thinking, and tree planting while also getting some exercise. This activity helps foster a sense of ownership over their project.
Time requirement: Site Planning (3-4 hours), Approvals (2-5 days), One planting session lasts 1 to 2 hours depending on the number of trees.
When: Spring plantings are April to June 2024. Fall plantings are September to November 2024.
Seedlings Growing Kits
Students have the opportunity to plant seeds of native tree species and nurture their seedlings in their classroom during the winter and spring seasons. Eventually, they can take their seedlings home in May or June. This activity enables students to learn about the life cycle of trees and the needs of plants. It also provides numerous opportunities to make connections with math and science, including measuring seedlings, calculating growth rates, and exploring topics such as photosynthesis. Moreover, children thoroughly enjoy witnessing the growth of their young trees.
Time requirement: One 40-minute session for the initial planting + daily watering for the remainder of the season.
When: January – February 2024
Registration
Contact Jessica at [email protected] to register for 2024 schoolyard plantings.
Please note:
- Teachers must have the support of their principals to register for a schoolyard planting. Principals will be required to approve site plans and to assist with board approvals for planting.
- Schools located within the city of London will be given priority, but please do not let this dissuade you from applying. We have worked with schools in Lucan and Dorchester in the past.
All of the trees planted in schoolyards contribute to London’s Million Tree Challenge!
Contact
Questions? Please contact Jessica Vanhoucke at [email protected] or at 519-936-9548, ext. 222.
