Weigand Elementary School

In 2023, TreePeople completed the transformation of 4 LAUSD campuses in the Watts neighborhood of South Los Angeles. The project removed approximately 8,000 square feet of asphalt and replaced it with 127 trees as part of the Watts Rising/Watts Transformative Climate Communities initiative. This project, awarded by the California Strategic Growth Council and overseen by the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles, involved extensive partnerships with local residents, agencies, and LAUSD schools to create a healthier, safer, and more sustainable community.

The project focused on assembling, supporting, and guiding Green Teams. These teams, composed of students, faculty, parents, and neighbors, volunteered to assist with final site designs, tree planting, and tree care at each school. Additionally, the installation was constructed by Salazar Landscaping, with all trees planted during volunteer events.

This school greening initiative focuses on incorporating environmental education into school culture emphasizing hands-on learning, outdoor activities, and real-world applications. Over volunteer planting days and the design process students, teachers, and parents come together to learn the importance and benefits of having a green school and how to steward it.

At Weigand Elementary School TreePeople’s greening initiative removed 3,100 square feet of asphalt and planted 33 trees. The project involved 90 volunteers and included low-water, climate-resilient species such as 14 Willow Acacia trees, 15 Evergreen Ash, 2 Toyons, and 4 Crape Myrtles. These trees were strategically placed in extremely hot areas around the campus’s playing field and courtyards. Adding shade will significantly increase available campus green space and shaded seating for safe outdoor play and physical education.