Schools are more than a place to learn; they also shape a student’s growth and health, among other things. Unfortunately, our campus is dominated by asphalt and concrete. The track is nice and green, but except for that, natural elements are often overlooked.

Trees can make a positive difference in how the school looks and feels, while also having a positive impact on the students and staff. It is time to recognize the value of trees and make them part of the development of our school.

Trees are incredibly important in fighting climate change. They absorb carbon dioxide in the air and produce oxygen in return, cleaning the air that the community breathes every day. Planting trees can reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the air in general, reducing the risks of any disease associated with air pollution.

In addition, trees help moderate the temperature. It is getting hotter and hotter in daly city, and trees provide natural cooling and shade for the students and staff, cutting down on air conditioning and saving energy, and money. It’s not just about comfort; it is about making the school conducive to focus and productivity.

“Yes, because when it is really hot outside, there is no shade. Trees also help the planet and give us oxygen.” Janice Chu, an eighth grader, said.

Trees can create unique opportunities for outdoor learning, a growing trend that has been shown to boost student engagement and academic achievement. With trees and green spaces, schools can have more outdoor classrooms where students can engage with nature and observe science concepts firsthand, or just hang out in the shade. This immersion can boost students’ understanding of nature whilst creating a deep bond and appreciation of nature. 

Trees provide a mental sanctuary that cannot be replicated. Studies show that exposure to nature reduces stress, anxiety, and depression, promoting mental well-being. In a high-stress environment like school, where students often face academic pressure, having natural spaces where students can unwind is invaluable.

Trees look good, they add more color to the dull campus and give it more of a green fee to it. Adding more trees would help students feel more involved in school while looking nice and green from the outside and in.

“I think we should have more trees here, it would give more of a nature school kind of vibe, it would be quite enjoyable to walk into school and see many nice trees,” Sora Cabera, an eighth grader, said.

Trees offer environmental, educational, and health benefits while looking good, essential for our thriving school environment. Putting trees on campus would be a simple, sustainable, better school environment. Because it is the school’s obligation to not only teach students, but make them thrive in a comfortable school environment.