Rocky Mountain High School Greenhouse Class Takes Root in Meridian’s Tree City Initiative
Meridian, ID (March 17, 2023)
– The Rocky Mountain High School (RMHS) greenhouse class is partnering with the City of Meridian to grow trees for the city’s Tree City Initiative. The Tree City Initiative, a program by the Arbor Day Foundation, recognizes cities that demonstrate a commitment to planting and maintaining trees in urban areas. Meridian received its Tree City designation in 2022. As part of the partnership, RMHS students will propagate, plant, and care for trees in the school greenhouse. The trees will then be donated to the city for planting in parks, along streets, and in other public areas. “This is a great opportunity for our students to learn about the importance of trees and to give back to our community,” said RMHS greenhouse instructor, Jennifer Smith. The city will provide the seeds and seedlings, as well as technical support to the students. “We are thrilled to partner with Rocky Mountain High School on this initiative,” said Meridian Parks and Recreation Director, Jeff Haberstroh. “The students’ hard work will help us to beautify our city and create a healthier environment for generations to come.” The RMHS greenhouse class has already planted over 100 trees as part of the project. The students plan to plant an additional 500 trees this year.
About Rocky Mountain High School
Rocky Mountain High School is a public high school in Meridian, Idaho. The school serves over 2,000 students in grades 9-12.
About the City of Meridian
Meridian is a city in Ada County, Idaho. The city is home to over 116,000 people. Meridian is a Tree City USA and is committed to planting and maintaining trees in urban areas.
Rocky Mountain High School Greenhouse Class Takes Root in Meridian’s Tree City Initiative
Students in Rocky Mountain High School’s Greenhouse Management class are actively contributing to Meridian’s Tree City Initiative. Under the guidance of teacher Susan Bailey, the class has embarked on a mission to grow and nurture trees for planting in the city. The Tree City Initiative aims to enhance the urban canopy, improve air quality, and foster a greener and healthier community. By growing trees in the school greenhouse, students gain practical experience in horticulture and contribute directly to these goals. The students carefully tend to a variety of tree species, including maples, oaks, and willows. They monitor the plants’ growth, water them regularly, and troubleshoot any problems that arise. The experience provides them with a deep understanding of tree biology and the importance of urban forestry. “This project has been incredibly rewarding for my students,” said Bailey. “They’ve learned so much about growing trees, and they’re excited to see their efforts make a difference in our community.” The trees grown in the greenhouse will be planted in parks, along streets, and in other public spaces throughout Meridian. The students’ contributions will not only improve the city’s aesthetics but also provide numerous environmental benefits. “We’re proud of our students for taking on this important initiative,” said Rocky Mountain High School Principal John Doe. “Their work will have a lasting impact on Meridian for years to come.” The Greenhouse Management class at Rocky Mountain High School serves as a model for how schools can engage in community initiatives and educate students on the importance of sustainability. Their efforts are not only benefiting Meridian but also inspiring future generations to care for the environment.
