Ponderosa Elementary Launches Food Forest for Earth Day 2025

This Earth Day, Ponderosa Elementary School in NW Aurora joined forces with The Walls Project to plant the seeds, literally, for long-term food security, environmental education, and community connection.

With the support of students, staff, families, and volunteers, we installed the school’s very first food forest, featuring 40 endangered and heritage apple trees generously donated by the Montezuma Orchard Restoration Project (MORP).

In the days leading up to Earth Day, over 60 volunteers rolled up their sleeves to help dig planting holes, haul mulch, and clear invasive weeds, transforming a previously underutilized space near the school’s track into a vibrant, living classroom. On Earth Day itself, students participated in hands-on learning by planting the trees, learning about the historical significance of the varieties, and gaining a deeper appreciation for local food systems and land stewardship.

Looking ahead, the food forest is just the beginning. With support from the Sprouts Healthy Communities Foundation, Ponderosa and The Walls Project will continue expanding the site to include raised garden beds, native pollinator plants, composting infrastructure, and more. A listening session with parents and faculty on April 21 kicked off a collaborative planning process to shape a garden space that reflects the needs and dreams of the Ponderosa community. Together, we’re growing something beautiful—rooted in equity, sustainability, and shared care for the land.