TrEE Program: A Collaboration for Trees, Equity, and Education

Learn about an innovative program at Seattle Parks and Recreation (SPR) that is at the nexus of trees, equity, and education, the TrEE program. Join SPR staff for a lunchtime webinar as they share about this collaborative program and answer your questions. Registration is required for this free presentation.

Friday, December 6^th

12:00 - 1:00 p.m.

Register Here >>

About Tree Equity and Education (TrEE): Integrated Project-based Environmental Education for Equity in the Ethnic Studies Classroom

TrEE began as an initiative to allow students to develop a firsthand understanding of the impact of tree canopy as reflected in the socioeconomic disparities of green spaces. Our work helps to illustrate how access to green space, habitat restoration, and experiential learning benefit BIPOC youth in a post-pandemic urban setting. TrEE also allows students to learn outdoors and enjoy all that nature has to offer.

Our community and internal partnerships allow us to successfully connect underserved audiences to outdoor spaces in a safe and responsive way while fostering meaningful relationships in community. TrEE is a 7-month project that incorporates nature education, habitat restoration, social and emotional learning, time to enjoy nature, and more. This program is designed to be equitable and accessible. Each of our partners brings a different unique perspective and expertise to the table, which we will share with photos and stories.

TrEE is held at the Maple School Ravine in Southeast Seattle, a historic orchard and forest that had been neglected and abused over the years. In 2023, we worked with 330+ students from Grover Cleveland STEM High School, providing them with weekly site visits, complete with tools, gloves, plants, and trained guides at no cost.

Presenters

• Nicolasa Hernandez is SPR's Community Naturalist for Central & Southeast Seattle
  Nicolasa is an intrepid naturalist with Seattle Parks & Recreation's Environmental Sustainability, Education & Engagement Unit, where they design and lead nature programs in high-priority neighborhoods. They bring a unique perspective to their work, blending cultural heritage with a love for synthesizers, food, and softness to inspire curiosity and wonder in urban environments. Dedicated to environmental education and social justice, Nicolasa is committed to helping Seattle residents discover the hidden natural treasures in their own backyards.

• Penny Rose is SPR's Public Education Program Specialist/School Programs Coordinator
  Penny has worked as a Naturalist and Public Education Program Specialist with Seattle Parks and Recreation Department for a number of years. Based out of Discovery Park she currently coordinates School and Organized Group programs as well as Public Programs throughout the city of Seattle. Working with Seattle Urban Nature Guides Penny works to foster a connection with volunteers, students, and the public with their urban green spaces.