Sixteen new trees were recently delivered to Apache Junction High School as part of the Arizona Department of Education’s Trees for Kids program.

The initiative, open to public school campuses, aims to plant low-biogenic volatile organic compound-emitting trees on school grounds appropriate for each school’s respective climate, according to a release.

The Trees for Kids program serves a dual purpose: to provide necessary shade structure and health benefits while beautifying Arizona school campuses and enhancing opportunities for children to learn about their natural world and air quality. Funds allocated for the program promote and enhance the quality of Arizona’s urban and community schools, it states.

Principal Lisa Ginn expressed her excitement about the initiative, stating, “Adding these trees to our campus not only enhances the aesthetics but also provides valuable environmental benefits for our students and staff. We are so thankful for the opportunity to participate in the Trees for Kids program.”

Apache Junction Unified School District Superintendent Robert Pappalardo emphasized the importance of teaching environmental awareness.

“By incorporating trees into our school environment, we are creating a culture of sustainability and environmental stewardship among our students. These trees will serve as living classrooms, providing opportunities for hands-on learning about regional flora, the environment, and the importance of preserving our natural resources,” he said in the release.

The goals of the Trees for Kids program include assisting schools in initiating or significantly improving their efforts to care for the school community, encouraging the development and maintenance of sustainable, balanced, and comprehensive community tree programs, and promoting community tree benefits through proper management and care.