Students at College Park School in Lloydminster recently got their hands dirty, planting trees to promote sustainability and community connection.
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The Sept. 25 event was the brainchild of local artist and educator Brandi Hofer and came to life with the assistance of the North Saskatchewan River Basin Council (NSRBC).
Cenovus Energy, whose funding priorities include youth leadership and sustainability, helped back the project.
“It’s very important to show kids that when you imagine something and take the steps, people will usually say yes to you, and anything is possible when you’re willing to get your hands dirty,” said Hofer. “They’ll come back years from now and pick an apple from a tree they planted, and that’s something they can feel real pride in.”
“It’s been a very happy collaboration of sponsorship and facilitation,” added the NSRBC’s Alanna Gunsch. “Kids getting their hands dirty and planting something in the ground and connecting with the long-term sustainability of their community is pivotal to our future.”
Grade 5 student Quinn agreed with the sentiment.
She explained they added fertilizer to help the young trees grow and is looking forward to seeing them bear fruit in years to come.
Jason Neville, director of education with the Lloydminster Public School Division, said these projects teach valuable lessons.
“We’ve done this in two of our other schools already,” said Neville. “They’re definitely spreading the joy across the city and we’re always thankful to Cenovus for being a phenomenal community partner.”
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