Woodhull Youngsters Green up
School Grounds
When the more than 20 acres of land that now surrounds Nathaniel Woodhull Intermediate School was acquired by the Huntington School District in 1949 for $700 an acre the plot was heavily wooded and completely undeveloped. Two current sixth grade classes are doing their part to return that rural feel to the property.
The sixth grade classes of teachers Patricia Anson and Allison VonVange headed into the great outdoors to green-up Woodhull's landscape. The youngsters were "ecstatic" to have an opportunity to plant 50 pine trees not far from the building that opened in January 1967.
An area near the lower field and north parking lot was cleared by buildings and grounds department workers. Principal Mary Stokkers joined the classes as they went about their work under thin, wispy cirrus clouds position high above the Earth.
"Digging with our trowels, the fertile soil was in perfect condition for the soon-to-be growing, healthy trees,' Mrs. Anson said. The beautiful weather was like a magical tonic, bringing the students happily together.
After the holes were dug and the trees planted, the youngsters played a few rounds of games. "While that was happening, with the aroma of crisp pine needles lingering in the air, the students watered the trees," Mrs. Anson said.
Two of Mrs. VonVange's students, Abigail Fernandez and Lindsay Saginaw found the weather, the games, the pine smells and the young trees taking root to be a "perfect moment" in time. The two friends said almost in unison that "the trees are bursting with life and spirit, just like the students of Woodhull themselves!"
In addition to the planting festivities, pebbles and small stones were carefully placed around some of the trees in different shapes, such as hearts, to accentuate the beauty of the newly landscaped area. "This represents the unity and heart of all Woodhull School," Ms. VonVange said.
"The students are excited to see the trees convert from saplings to pines, as they assist with the watering and maintenance of this wonderful endeavor," Mrs. Anson said.