Trees Planted at Troy Preschool

ReLeaf Michigan, a non-profit tree organization, in collaboration with the Troy School District, SavATree, and the DTE Energy Foundation, planted 20 trees at Troy School District Preschool in Troy on Saturday, May 6th. Students and members of the TSD community came together to make this happen and benefitted from ReLeaf Michigan’s tree experts, who showed volunteers how to plant.

This really was a community effort as Troy Preschool applied to be considered for this program:

• DTE donated 20 trees of various types (1.5”/2.5” in diameter and 6 – 8 feet tall) at an estimated cost of $8,000
• SavATree dug the holes and donated site prep services
• 80 volunteers attended, including current and past Preschool families, Preschool staff, community members and representatives from 5 different tree planting groups

Troy Schools signed a three-year maintenance agreement for caring for the trees, including watering, mulching etc. Said TSD Maintenance & Operations Supervisor Larry Franckowiak: “The trees planted will create a tree canopy for shade, improve the aesthetics of the new school, create an outdoor learning space, and provide a fantastic teaching resource.”

Many hands made for quick work and all 20 trees were prepped, placed and planted by 11 am. Preschool Director Erin Keyser was also excited about the program, “What a joy to see our community come together for something so close to our Preschool hearts, our connection to nature! These trees will provide learning opportunities and beautify our space for years to come.”

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Photos courtesy of the Troy School District