Jefferson Duo Replaces
Crabapple Tree
After a beloved crabapple tree was destroyed during a violent storm last fall, Jefferson Primary School third graders Julia Segal and Jennifer Low didn't sit on the hands and sulk. The dynamic duo went about raising $250 to replace it.
The tree stood a short walk from Jefferson's front door. It was a favorite of students, who would pass by it each day on their way inside the building. Many youngsters climbed on its sturdy branches after school.
The new tree was planted on June 17 with the assistance of Jefferson head custodian Thomas Ehlers and Principal Margaret Evers. It is already being admired for its color and general attractiveness.
Misses Segal and Low asked friends, family and the greater Jefferson community to contribute funds to replace the tree. It took them 5 months to raise the needed monies. The girls then negotiated with Oakwood Road Nurseries for a fair price for the tree and later helped Mr. Ehlers pick out a spot for the tree to be planted.
"I am so proud of Julia and Jen," Mrs. Evers said. "Months ago they had a dream to replace a tree that had fallen during a storm. Instead of letting the dream vanish, they took action by writing a very persuasive letter sharing their dream with me! After a meeting or two a plan was created and work began! Jen and Julia taught all their friends that with hard work, perseverance and a little help from grown-ups any dream can come true!"
Workers from the district's buildings and grounds department pitched in by digging the large hole the tree was placed in. The buildings and grounds crew assisted with digging the hole for the tree. Misses Segal and Low's third grade dual language class taught by Luz Marottta and Tirsa Oliva also participated in the planting.
"The new tree is officially known as a 'prunus thundercloud' flowering plum. It will be cared for over the summer by Jefferson's custodial staff.