In 2017, Mark Folta, a science teacher at Lakota East High School, initiated the Lakota East Reforestation Project by convincing the school to let a patch of grass grow into a natural habitat.
Students helped plant tree saplings and create a plant nursery, eventually transforming the area into a thriving environment with over 200 students participating.
With support from organizations like the Taking Root Foundation, they planted around 90% native trees and worked on controlling invasive species.
The project has provided hands-on learning opportunities for students and helped restore part of Ohio’s rapidly disappearing native forests.
Future plans include expanding the habitat with a pollinator garden and sunflowers.
This project earned the school’s A+ Award for its environmental impact and educational value!
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