The Mettawee Community School (MCS) observed the arrival of spring in quintessential Vermont fashion. They planted a tree.
But this was not just any tree. The Minnesota Strain Redbud, a flowering tree designed to survive in harsh winter climates, was donated by Branch Out Burlington! (BOB!), a non-profit organization with a mission to spread the benefits of trees far and wide, with an emphasis on getting the message to students in Vermont.
As part of the program, Mettawee students are charged with the care and nurturing of the new resident on the school's campus. Under the guidance of Pawlet Tree Warden Tim Waite, elementary students helped select a location, dug the hole, and filled in the dirt after the Redbud was placed in its forever home spot. From here on in, they are in charge of caring for the tree.
“The kids were so excited to participate in the tree planting ceremony,” said MCS Principal Brooke DeBonis. “Their smiles and attention to detail showed their interest. Their involvement is just one more way to expose our students to learning.”
The BOB! gift was donated to Mettawee in honor of Frank and Sally Kearney, dairy farmers in Pawlet, in the mid-20th century. BOB! Founder Margaret Skinner, born and raised in Dorset, was especially pleased with the planting.
““It was so encouraging to see the young students so excited about planting a tree in their school yard,” said Skinner, who also serves as a Research Professor and Extension Entomologist at the University of Vermont. “It is this kind of enthusiasm that is essential for protecting our fragile environment. They are our only hope for the future of this earth!”
(Photo above: Mettawee elementary students helped select a location, dug the hole, and filled in the dirt after the Redbud was placed in its forever home spot.)
All proper measurements are taken in planting Mettawee's latest addition to the school campus.
Mettawee students fill-in the dirt at the school’s tree planting ceremony.
Pawlet Tree Warden Tim Waite and Branch Out Burlington Founder Margaret Skinner stand proudly with Mettawee’s new Minnesota Strain Redbud tree.