Classroom to Canopy Tree-Planting Program teaches kids the benefits of trees
Hillsborough County, Fla. (March 24, 2026) - Trees play a vital role in local communities by protecting people from extreme environmental elements.
Through a hands-on educational opportunity, Hillsborough County's Environmental Services Division and Hillsborough County Public Schools will teach students about the resilience of trees and how they help mitigate storm surge, absorb stormwater, decrease urban heat island effects, and provide shade to lessen chances of heat stroke and dehydration.
In celebration of Arbor Day and Earth Month, two local schools are receiving donated trees from TECO as part of the County's 3rd Annual Classroom to Canopy Tree-Planting. The private events will take place at Thompson Elementary School and Giunta Middle School.
Students will have a chance to assist in the tree-plantings by carefully refilling the trees' new homes with soil to help them grow strong, resilient roots.
Who: Hillsborough County Environmental Services and Hillsborough County Public Schools
What: Tree planting events at local schools
When and Where:
- Thompson Elementary School, 2020 E. Shell Point Rd., Ruskin, FL 33570, 8 a.m., Thursday, March 26
- Giunta Middle School, 4202 S. Falkenburg Rd., Riverview, FL 33569, noon, Wednesday, April 8