Reflecting on 2024: Planting Seeds of Hope and Growth

As 2024 draws to a close, I’m reflecting on a year filled with moments that remind us of the power of community, the value of collaboration, and the incredible potential of young people. This year has been about more than just accomplishments—it’s been about connection, resilience, and planting seeds for a brighter future.

A Year of Purposeful Growth

There’s something transformative about nurturing growth—whether it’s in a garden, a community, or a student’s sense of possibility. At Furr High School, over 300 students in the Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources career pathway have experienced this transformation firsthand. Every school day, these students step outside the classroom during their class time to work on hands-on projects that cultivate both hard and soft skills while building their resumes.

From tending chickens and maintaining the Outdoor Classroom at Herman Brown Park—the largest in the city—to enhancing garden spaces on campus, maintaining the fruit orchard, and collaborating with feeder schools, our students are learning skills that go far beyond agriculture. They’re learning teamwork, leadership, and the value of hard work while strengthening our community. They’re discovering what it means to connect with nature—and each other.

Cultivating Growth: New Tree Donation Enriches Our Campus Orchard

As the new semester began, our students and interns from the Students Conservation Association (SCA) celebrated an exciting milestone with the arrival of a generous donation from The Fruit Tree Planting Foundation. This contribution included 20 new trees, specifically pecans and loquats, which will strengthen our efforts to create a sustainable, green campus while providing valuable learning opportunities for students.

The pecan tree, known as the state tree of Texas, was a deliberate choice for its cultural and environmental significance. As a native species, pecans are well-adapted to Houston’s climate, capable of thriving through extreme temperature fluctuations. Beyond their beauty and shade, these trees provide a natural source of protein each fall, contributing to food security and offering students a tangible connection to their state’s rich agricultural native heritage.

Equally exciting is the addition of loquat trees, which bring a unique blend of practicality and year-round aesthetic value to our orchard. As hardy evergreens, loquats retain their lush green foliage through winter, while their vibrant fruits emerge in spring and summer, offering a sweet treat that will be enjoyed by many. These trees are a living example of adaptability, thriving in urban settings while enriching biodiversity.

This donation builds upon the success of our existing orchard, which now hosts over 200 thriving trees. Our orchard includes an impressive variety of fruit-bearing species, such as pears, apples, figs, persimmons, plums, peaches, bananas, and other native Texas trees. Together, they create an ecosystem that benefits not only our campus but also the surrounding community. These trees provide shade, improve air quality, and serve as a hands-on educational resource for students studying agriculture, conservation, and sustainability.

The orchard also plays a crucial role in addressing local challenges. As Houston grapples with food deserts and a lack of tree canopy in urban neighborhoods, these efforts demonstrate how schools can take active steps to support environmental justice. By growing trees that yield nutritious fruits and fostering spaces for community engagement, we are helping bridge gaps in access to fresh food and green spaces.

Through this partnership with The Fruit Tree Planting Foundation, we aim to inspire our students to become stewards of the environment. Whether they are learning to care for trees, observing how different species adapt to their environment, or understanding the larger role of agriculture in combating food insecurity, these experiences plant seeds of knowledge and responsibility that will last a lifetime.

This project is a testament to the power of collaboration. It shows how community partnerships can drive meaningful change and how students can take ownership of creating a sustainable future. As these trees grow and bear fruit, they will serve as a reminder of the impact we can achieve when we work together toward a greener, healthier world.

Furr High School Agriculture Program Honors Over 100 Certified Students

Furr High School’s Vocational Career Pathway of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources is celebrating an extraordinary achievement. A newly wall-mounted plaque was awarded to the campus in November, it honors over 100 students who earned the prestigious Ducks Unlimited Ecology Conservation and Management Certification last year.

This nationally recognized certification, offered through Ducks Unlimited, equips students with critical knowledge in wetland ecology, wildlife conservation, and ecosystem management. It emphasizes sustainable practices, environmental stewardship, and the importance of balancing agricultural and ecological needs. By completing this program, students gain valuable skills that open doors to a wide array of career opportunities.

The certification serves as a launchpad for careers in wildlife biology, environmental science, forestry, agricultural management, park services, conservation education, and ecological restoration. Students can pursue roles as wildlife managers, conservation specialists, agricultural extension agents, or environmental consultants. Additionally, this foundation is ideal for those interested in working with government agencies like the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, private conservation organizations, or sustainable agriculture companies.

The newly mounted plaque at Furr High School is more than just a display—it’s a symbol of the program’s commitment to preparing students for meaningful careers that positively impact the environment. It also stands as a source of inspiration for current and future students, showcasing the potential to turn passion for nature into impactful, rewarding professions.

With this recognition, Furr High School reaffirms its dedication to empowering students with the tools and certifications needed to thrive in the agriculture and natural resources industries, all while fostering a deeper understanding of sustainable practices and environmental responsibility.

Day of the Dead: Honoring Culture, Conservation, and Legacy at Furr High School

At Furr High School, the Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) is more than a celebration—it is a deeply rooted tradition that connects cultural heritage, conservation, and community. Each year, our Agriculture vocational students design and maintain a stunning altar (ofrenda) on campus, which remains displayed for a month. This meaningful project invites participation from students, teachers, and staff, who contribute photos and mementos of their loved ones to honor their memory.

The altar is not only a place of reflection but also a living lesson in cultural and environmental awareness. Students explore the rich traditions of Día de los Muertos, such as the significance of the monarch butterfly. According to legend, these butterflies, arriving in Mexico during their migration, carry the spirits of ancestors returning for the celebration. This story provides a natural tie-in to lessons on monarch conservation, which is also the state insect of Texas, emphasizing the importance of protecting their habitats and migration routes, as the habitats of monarchs are endangered.

Our students actively contribute to the monarch butterfly's migration habitat by collecting milkweed seeds and propagating milkweed from cuttings—an essential host plant for monarchs. This year alone, they successfully propagated over 200 milkweed plants. In addition, they plant native flowers and other pollinator-friendly plants to enhance habitats, supporting not only monarchs but also other pollinators crucial for increasing biodiversity and agricultural production.

Agriculture students also connect the altar to the cultivation and harvest of symbolic items like fruits, as well as the significance of incense such as Copal (pine resin) and Palo Santo (incense wood). These traditional elements reflect the deep interplay between nature, spirituality, and cultural practices.

This meaningful tradition was initiated by Juan Elizondo, Vocational Educator whose vision brought the altar to life at Furr High School. His idea has grown into a beloved annual event that embodies the values of culture, conservation, and education.

Reflecting on its importance, Elizondo shares:"The Day of the Dead altar is more than a display—it’s a bridge between the past, present, and future. Through this tradition, we honor those who came before us, learn the lessons of conservation, and empower our students to make a lasting impact in their communities and the natural world."

In addition to personal dedications, the altar commemorates environmental and social leaders whose lives continue to inspire. Figures such as César Chávez, Martin Luther King Jr., Berta Cáceres, and Ebbert L. Furr are celebrated for their contributions to social justice, environmental advocacy, and community well-being. Their legacies resonate with our commitment to sustainability and equity, serving as a beacon for students to honor the past while cultivating a brighter future.

Through this annual tradition, Furr High School fosters a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of culture, conservation, and community. It is a reminder of our shared responsibility to honor those who came before us while preserving the planet and its living treasures, like the monarch butterfly, for generations to come.

Reflecting on Environmental Justice and Community Conservation

Last October was a pivotal moment for Rocio Puente, ForUSTree SCA Furr High School Vocational Intern, as she took center stage to represent Furr High School at the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Headquarters in Austin. This collaborative meeting focused on advancing diversity and inclusion in conservation, bringing together organizations committed to creating equitable access to environmental education and outdoor opportunities.

Furr High School’s participation highlighted its dedication to addressing environmental justice issues within underrepresented communities. Rocio Puente’s invitation to speak was a testament to the school’s impactful work in fostering sustainability and community resilience through innovative conservation efforts.“Standing there reminded me that dreams can become reality,” Rocio shared, reflecting on the experience. “As a kid, I never imagined being in spaces like this, but the opportunity to represent our community made it all the more meaningful.”

A Heartfelt Presentation

Rocio described the initial invitation to speak as both exciting and nerve-wracking. “It wasn’t about delivering a perfect speech—it was about sharing our story with sincerity and passion,” she said. Preparing for the presentation meant not only crafting a narrative but also embracing the challenge of connecting with a new audience. Once the presentation began, any lingering nerves disappeared. A video highlighting the conservation efforts at Furr High School captured the audience’s attention, setting the stage for a heartfelt discussion about the students’ work. The speech flowed naturally, embodying the passion behind Furr’s environmental initiatives. “Community-driven conservation has the power to transform lives and landscapes,” Rocio shared. “Seeing how our work resonates with others was deeply inspiring.”

A Reminder of Purpose

The day at Texas Parks and Wildlife Headquarters was more than an event; it was a reminder of the transformative power of shared purpose and collaboration. Rocio left feeling inspired by the passion and dedication of everyone in the room. “Dreams don’t just come true—they evolve into something greater when combined with collaboration and shared vision,” she concluded. This experience underscored the importance of creating spaces for young people to lead, learn, and inspire. Through their work at Furr High School, Rocio and her peers are not only tackling environmental justice but also proving that community-driven conservation can pave the way for a more equitable future.

A Year of Purposeful Growth

There’s something transformative about nurturing growth—whether it’s in a garden, a community, or a student’s sense of possibility. At Furr High School, over 400 students in the Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources career pathway have experienced this transformation firsthand. Every school day, these students step outside the classroom during their class time to work on hands-on projects that cultivate both hard and soft skills while building their resumes.

From tending chickens and maintaining the Outdoor Classroom at Herman Brown Park—the largest in the city—to enhancing garden spaces on campus, maintaining the fruit orchard, and collaborating with feeder schools, our students are learning skills that go far beyond agriculture. They’re learning teamwork, leadership, and the value of hard work while strengthening our community. They’re discovering what it means to connect with nature—and each other.

Texas Youth Hunt Program: An Unforgettable Experience for the Furr High School Community and Neighbors

Parents and their youth recently had the unique privilege of participating in the Texas Youth Hunt Program, a partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This remarkable opportunity offered hunter education training and an immersive weekend on private lands in Moscow, Texas.

Four youths and their guardians embarked on a journey that combined conservation education, mentorship, and hands-on experience. Guided by game wardens and hunt masters from the Texas Youth Hunt Program, participants learned the critical values of land stewardship, wildlife conservation, and the cultural heritage of hunting in Texas.

Each youth successfully harvested a whitetail deer, an achievement that underscored the importance of ethical hunting and sustainability. Although wild boars—known for causing habitat destruction across the state—were not present during their field sessions, students gained a deeper understanding of their ecological impact. After the hunt, students processed the deer meat, taking home a tangible reminder of their hard work and newfound skills.

​​"Providing these young people and their families with access to Texas's natural heritage is truly rewarding. This program is about more than just hunting—it's about mentorship, conservation, and fostering a deep respect for the land and wildlife. Seeing the students gain these skills and take home the experience is a reminder of why we do this work," said Nancy Brown, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Beyond the hunt, the experience fostered lasting memories as participants camped under the Texas stars, sharing stories and building bonds around the campfire. This program not only connected students to the natural world but also introduced them to potential career pathways in wildlife management and conservation, guided by the mentorship of dedicated professionals.

Through this partnership, we aim to empower communities with life-changing experiences that celebrate Texas’ rich natural heritage and the responsibility of stewardship for generations to come.

Sharing the Fruits of Our Labor

This year, one of the most rewarding milestones of our program was the fruit tree giveaway made possible through the ForUsTree initiative, a $15 million effort funded by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service and led by Houston Advanced Research Center (HARC). Designed to expand tree canopies in underserved communities, this program provided the resources to distribute over 600 native and sustainable fruit trees to families, schools, and gardens across Houston and Harris County this past year.

A standout event took place at Furr High School’s Outdoor Classroom in Herman Brown Park, where nearly 300 trees were shared with the community in a single day. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement and collaboration as our dedicated partners—the Student Conservation Association, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Texas A&M Superfund Research Center—joined us to celebrate the collective impact of sustainability and community empowerment.

The success of these events has been amplified by the efforts of Furr High School’s ForUsTree interns and vocational educators in agriculture and natural resources. Together, they went door-to-door to over 100 homes in the community, spreading the word about these monthly events. At each giveaway, participants received not only native fruit trees but also plants cultivated by Furr High School students, such as bananas, edible nopales (cactus), and willows. Additionally, we provided training to attendees, equipping them with the skills to properly plant, care and nurture these plants.

“The ForUsTree project at Furr High School, under the guidance of Mr. Elizondo, exemplifies how hands-on, student-led efforts can build a greener, more sustainable future. Our interns are at the heart of this initiative, gaining invaluable experience in sustainable agriculture, food systems, and natural resource management. They’re not just learning—they’re actively applying their skills to grow a thriving community garden, empower youth, and nurture a fruit tree orchard campus, all while supporting broader urban forestry goals,” said David Salazar, SCA Texas Program Manager.  

Through these efforts, we have reached nearly 200 families, building strong connections within the community. Our final fruit tree giveaways are scheduled for January and February 2025, during which we aim to surpass a total of 1,000 distributed trees throughout the four events. These trees, thoughtfully chosen by the collective and funded by the USDA, serve as lasting gifts to the community. They provide shade, fresh fruit, and ecological benefits, mitigating flooding, stabilizing soil, replenishing groundwater, and improving air and water quality. Their resilience to Texas’ extreme weather ensures they’ll thrive for years, creating habitats that foster biodiversity and strengthen local ecosystems.

More than just trees, these gifts symbolize hope and connection—offering nourishment not only for the land but also for the spirit of our community. They remind us of the power of shared efforts to build a healthier, more resilient future for everyone.

Houston Food Bank Campus Food Drive: Understanding Community Needs Through Volunteerism

Furr HS Campus Houston Food Bank Drive

This year, our students had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of food insecurity and community support through volunteer work with the Houston Food Bank Drive, hosted right on Furr High School’s campus.

Since the start of the school year, we have participated in seven food drives, reaching over 115 families at each event. These events provided critical resources to our community while giving students an opportunity to engage in meaningful service. Each food drive had over 55 students volunteering during school hours for the four-hour event.

Collective Impact

• 385 volunteer slots (55 students x 7 food drives)

• 577.5 volunteer hours (385 slots x 1.5 hours per slot)

As students of agriculture, this experience was particularly meaningful. By participating in the food drive, they gained firsthand insights into the challenges many families face in accessing fresh, nutritious food. This volunteer effort connected the lessons they’ve learned about sustainable food systems to the real-world needs of their community.

"Helping us learn about real-world needs, the food drive events at Furr’s own campus allow me to serve my community and contribute to solving local environmental issues and food insecurity,” said Angely Guevara.

Sorting donations, organizing distributions, and engaging with families gave our students a tangible sense of the impact their efforts can have. It reinforced the importance of the work we do—not just in growing food, but in ensuring it reaches those who need it most.

Service-learning experiences like these empower students to think critically about their role in addressing food insecurity and highlight the vital connection between agriculture, education, and community support. These moments inspire them to become leaders who not only grow but also give back.

Honoring Our Journey

As we celebrate 2024, we take a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come. Back in 2016, with the help of a $20,000 grant from the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) and The Walt Disney Company, we began building the community garden at Herman Brown Park. This initial funding provided resources to construct a ½-acre fenced garden, complete with raised vegetable beds, a fruit orchard, on-site water access, and a storage area for tools.

What started as a simple vision for a community garden has flourished into something extraordinary—a hub of learning, connection, and sustainability. The garden not only provides fresh produce and green spaces for the neighborhood but also serves as a living classroom for students at Furr High School. It has become a vital part of our identity, showing what’s possible when a community comes together with a shared purpose.

In addition to this milestone, we honor other recognitions that have shaped our journey, such as the Abraham Lincoln Honor Award for Diversity, Inclusion, and Outreach from the United States Department of Agriculture and the Vice Chancellor’s Award in Excellence from Texas A&M AgriLife. These accolades remind us of the impact our work has had over time.

We also celebrate the transformative support from the XQ Super School Project, which awarded Furr High School a $10 million grant in 2016. This funding not only helped reimagine education at Furr High School but also enabled initiatives for our environment. Through this support, we’ve integrated environmental programs that teach students how to use food as a tool for sustainability. From planting and harvesting to composting and creating nutritious meals, these programs highlight the interconnectedness of food systems and environmental health.

While these achievements are milestones, they are also motivators—proof that when students, educators, and community members come together with purpose, the possibilities are endless. And as we honor our past, we look forward to continuing to build a future filled with growth, opportunity, and resilience.

Walking Toward a Healthier Future

Our program also emphasizes physical health and time spent in nature. Over the course of 18 weeks, during their class period, each student:

• Walked over 35 miles on the nature and park trails of Herman Brown Park, fostering physical fitness and endurance.

• Burned approximately 4,500 calories, promoting a healthy lifestyle.

• Spent over 25 hours immersed in nature, gaining firsthand experience of its calming and rejuvenating effects.

• Observing and becoming familiar with identifying plants, trees and wildlife.

"This class has provided chances to take various walks to improve our health, and in my case, I feel as if it helped mentally as well. Everything is quiet, I can think. I can see the sun, the trees, and feel the wind. It’s a peaceful moment. It’s as if nature heals the soul and wipes the mind, like a baptism from mother nature" said Virgina Maldonado.

Along the way, students witnessed incredible wildlife, such as whitetail deer along the trails, migratory birds in flight, and even the vibrant ecosystem of Hunting Bayou. For many, these walks represent their only opportunity to engage with nature, making the experience even more impactful.

These achievements reflect not only a commitment to environmental stewardship but also to holistic student well-being. By combining physical activity with outdoor education, we’re preparing students to be well-rounded individuals who value both their health and the world around them.

Empowering Students Through Hands-On Green Education

At Furr High School, hands-on learning is at the heart of our Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources career pathway. Over the course of 18 weeks, students participate in structured, place-based training during class periods, dedicating 90 minutes each week to meaningful work in our green spaces and community garden. These sessions not only provide critical skills in sustainable farming, tree care, and propagation but also serve as a gateway to real-world experiences that prepare students for future careers. By embedding these opportunities into the school day, we ensure every student, regardless of after-school availability, has access to these transformative learning experiences.

Weekly Training

• Students spend 90 minutes once or twice a week in hands-on training.

• Over 18 weeks, this totals over 50 hours per student per semester.

Activities Include

• Pruning and care for a 200+ tree orchard.

• Sheet mulching and tree care.

• Propagation of plants and trees like 100+ figs, 100+ milkweed, 500+ weeping willow, 500+ sugarcane, 300+ banana plants, and 300+ mountain laurels.

• Vegetable farming and gardening in 100+ garden beds.

• Seed harvesting from species such as mountain laurel and milkweed.

• Raising chickens for egg distribution and incubating eggs for students to take chickens home.

• Utilizing free-range chickens with the deep litter method, where wood chips decompose to fertilize and create nutrient-rich soil for gardens and orchards.

Program Reach

• Over 300 students are enrolled in the four-year Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources career pathway.

• Across 300 students, this adds up to over 12,000 hours of hands-on training per semester.

Accessibility

These place-based, work-based learning opportunities are incorporated into the class period, ensuring equitable access for students who cannot stay after school.

The hands-on training offered in this program is more than just skill development—it’s a foundation for lifelong learning and environmental stewardship. Through activities like orchard care, gardening, seed harvesting, and raising chickens, our students are cultivating not only their technical expertise but also a deeper connection to nature and their community. By investing over 12,000 collective hours of training each semester, we are planting seeds of growth, resilience, and opportunity for over 400 students. This program exemplifies the power of vocational education to inspire, empower, and create lasting impact in the lives of our students and beyond.

Sustainable Soil-Building Through Sheet Mulching

This past semester, students at Furr High School applied over 200 tons of wood chips across the campus orchard, which includes more than 200 trees. This hands-on activity provided students with the opportunity to learn and practice sustainable techniques during the winter months. By applying a thick layer of mulch, students helped protect root systems and soil from extreme cold temperatures, while also preparing the orchard to retain moisture during the hot summer season.

“Agriculture has helped me physically and mentally, from walking on the trail and pushing barrels full of mulch with my classmates to working in the garden, even when I break a little sweat and need to take a break, talking and reflecting always makes the work with my classmates worth it. I’m thankful that I get the chance to work in such an empowering community," said Jayla Marinelarena. 

Key Highlights

• Quantity of Mulch: Over 200 tons of wood chips were used this semester.

• Purpose: Mulch protects root systems during winter, retains moisture during summer, and enriches soil.

• Waste Diversion: These wood chips were diverted from the city dump, preventing waste while promoting sustainability.

• Cumulative Impact: Since 2016, over 1,000 tons of wood chips have been applied across the campus and community garden spaces.

• Green Spaces Served: Furr High School’s orchard of 200+ trees and the community garden at Herman Brown Park have greatly benefited from this initiative.

• Student Involvement: This hands-on activity teaches sustainable practices and fosters environmental stewardship.

The wood chips used in this project were diverted from the city dump, turning potential waste into a valuable resource for soil enrichment and organic matter development across Furr High School’s green spaces. Since the establishment of the new campus in 2016, this sheet mulching practice has been a cornerstone of our environmental stewardship efforts, with over 1,000 tons of wood chips contributing to soil-building initiatives at Furr High School and the community garden at Herman Brown Park. These efforts underscore the importance of sustainable practices in promoting environmental resilience and fostering healthier ecosystems.

Six Students Earn Prestigious Certification Opportunity in Landscaping and Horticulture

This semester, six dedicated students from Furr High School’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) program participated in a cohort offered through a partnership with Houston Independent School District (HISD), the Texas Landscaping and Nursery Association (TCLA), Houston Community College, and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Agency. This free, specialized program prepared students for the prestigious Texas Certified Landscape Associate (TCLA) Industry-Based Certification (IBC), providing them with invaluable skills and industry connections.

"I can envision having an agriculture-based career because it is something that I find interesting and enjoy. Agriculture has played a big part in who I am today. In the future, I can see myself giving back to the community to create a better future,” said London Reyes. 

Key Program Features

• Earned 36 Continuing Education Hours from Houston Community College.

• Received hands-on training and instruction from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension.

• Gained membership in the Texas 4-H Youth Development Foundation.

• Completed rigorous coursework and practical training to strengthen plant science knowledge, meeting CCMR Accountability.

• Prepared to take all three levels of testing for the TCLA certification.

Training Highlights

Participants engaged in in-depth training covering essential topics, including:

• First Aid and Safety

• Landscape Design & Plan Reading

• Grading, Drainage, and Erosion Control

• Landscape Installation, Maintenance, and Turf Selection

• Irrigation, Fertilizer, Pruning, and Pesticide Application

• Equipment Operation and Maintenance

The Path to Success

Eligibility required students to be at least 16 years old, actively involved in horticulture or landscaping studies, and willing to commit to approximately 40 hours of learning outside school hours between November and December 2024.

The six participating students demonstrated exceptional commitment and drive, completing intensive coursework and practical training while balancing their regular school responsibilities. Their hard work has paved the way for future success in the landscaping and horticulture industries.

This program reflects the power of partnerships in creating opportunities for students to excel. It not only equips them with technical skills but also positions them for meaningful careers in landscaping and horticulture—a growing industry with endless possibilities.

Revitalizing Herman Brown Park: Planting Trees, Cultivating Hope, and Building Community

In November 2024, Herman Brown Park was alive with energy and purpose as over 350 trees were planted during a remarkable day of restoration and collaboration. Led by the Houston Parks and Recreation Department, this event showcased the city’s commitment to revitalizing green spaces while bringing together students, community volunteers, and local organizations for a shared mission.

A Milestone in Recovery

Director Kenneth Allen opened the event by reflecting on the immense recovery efforts following the challenges faced by Houston’s parks. “We’ve removed over 10,000 tons of debris from parks across the city—an astonishing amount of work,” he shared. “Unfortunately, we lost about 5,000 trees system-wide, but today’s planting is part of a plan to replace what was lost and create something even greater for future generations.”

Allen’s remarks underscored the spirit of the day: resilience through unity. “The work being done here, especially by our partners like Furr High School, is extraordinary,” he said. “Their community garden is a model of what can happen when education and passion come together. This isn’t just about trees—it’s about restoring connections between people, nature, and their community.”

Honoring Juan Elizondo’s Leadership

Among those celebrated was Juan Elizondo, the vocational agriculture and natural resources educator at Furr High School. Since 2016, Elizondo has dedicated himself to creating opportunities for students to connect with nature and take on leadership roles.

“Our community garden actually sits on what used to be a church, and I always say we’re working to get back to the Garden of Eden,” Elizondo shared with a smile. “It’s about rebuilding what’s been lost and reconnecting with the land in a meaningful way.”

Council Member Joaquin Martinez praised Elizondo as an “unsung hero” whose work has transformed Herman Brown Park into a space of learning and connection. “Juan’s dedication is unmatched,” Martinez said. “He’s not just cultivating plants—he’s cultivating leaders.”

Leaving a Legacy

Before the planting began, Elizondo energized the crowd with the rallying cry, “Sí, se puede! Yes, we can!” His words embodied the spirit of the day, reminding everyone that their efforts would have a lasting impact. “These trees will grow to provide shade, privacy, and a hug from nature,” he said. “What we’re doing today is more than just planting trees—it’s planting a legacy for future generations.”

As the final trees were placed into the ground, Herman Brown Park stood as a living testament to what can be achieved when communities unite. Through the efforts of city leaders, educators like Juan Elizondo, and countless volunteers, this green space has become a symbol of resilience, hope, and the enduring power of collaboration.

Nurturing Growth and Creativity within Special Education: Life Skills Program Fall 2024

At Furr High School and Holland Middle School, our SCA Urban Tree House and Fish and Wildlife Service Migratory Birds Education interns worked weekly with life skills students, blending gardening, wildlife activities, art, and seasonal crafts to inspire creativity and connection to nature.

Gardening Meets Creativity

At Furr High School, 11 Life Skills students spent three hours a week planting seeds, tending gardens, and exploring the joy of nurturing life. Activities like painting rocks, crafting pinecone bird feeders to attract local wildlife, and seasonal projects such as pumpkin painting encouraged teamwork and self-expression.

At Holland Middle School, four students participated in similar two-hour sessions. A standout moment was making salsa from tomatoes and peppers they grew themselves, bringing the gardening process full circle—from planting to harvest to enjoyment.

Building Skills and Empowering Potential

Through hands-on learning, students gained skills in propagation, garden maintenance, and environmental stewardship. Cultural projects like Day of the Dead tissue paper flowers added excitement and representation, and the importance of flowers for pollinators.

“Working with life skills students has shown me just how much potential they have. These students are passionate, intelligent, compassionate, funny, and endlessly creative,”  said Jaxon Aguirre, Houston - Urban Tree House intern.

These sessions go beyond education, fostering confidence, inclusion, and joy. By nurturing their potential, we’re not just growing gardens—we’re cultivating creativity, and a belief in their ability to thrive.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we embrace 2025, we are energized by the foundation laid in the 2024 fall semester. With continued support from initiatives like ForUsTree, partnerships with organizations such as the Student Conservation Association (SCA), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the unwavering dedication of our educators and students, our vision remains focused on meaningful growth and impactful action. We are committed to:

• Expanding immersive, hands-on learning experiences for our students.

• Broadening the scope of our green initiatives, including orchard expansions, community gardens, and sustainability workshops.

• Strengthening the green spaces at feeder schools, fostering a love for nature among younger students.

• Providing valuable internships and paid opportunities to inspire the next generation of environmental leaders.

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"Reflecting on 2024, I carry forward the belief that meaningful change starts with small, deliberate actions. Community is the cornerstone of environmental progress, and our connection to the land is transformative when nurtured with care. This past year deepened my commitment to fostering a world where both people and the environment thrive," shared Rocío Puente, Furr High School CTE SCA ForUsTree Intern.

Partnerships with organizations like SCA have profoundly impacted Furr High School. These collaborations enable us to employ young adults, alumni, and community members to support vocational education. Over 300 students are actively enrolled in the four-year Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources career pathway, where they gain invaluable experiences that strengthen their resumes and prepare them for successful futures. 

"Returning to Furr High School as an intern has been an incredible journey. Working alongside students in the field and documenting their efforts through media has allowed me to witness their growth firsthand. It’s fulfilling to give back to the program that shaped me and to help the next generation discover their potential through hands-on learning and storytelling," Said Luis Cruz, Furr High School Alumni and SCA ForUsTree Intern

 An Invitation to Grow Together 

The accomplishments of 2024 serve as a testament to the power of collective effort. As we step into 2025, I encourage each of you to reflect on your role in shaping a brighter future. What seeds of change will you plant this year? Together, we can continue to grow—one student, one tree, and one community at a time.

"As we nurture the soil for the roots of our community to thrive, let’s remember that every seed we plant—whether in the land or in the hearts and spirits of our students—has the potential to flourish into something extraordinary. Let’s make 2025 a year of strength, collaboration, and legacy, said Juan Elizondo, Vocational Education, Furr High School and Community