In celebration of Earth Day, our students had the opportunity to partner with Smurfit Westrock, a global fiber-based packaging company with a location in the Huguley Industrial Park. As a member of the Paperboard Packaging Council, Smurfit Westrock brought their TICCIT (Trees Into Cartons, Cartons Into Trees) program directly to our 3rd and 4th graders.
The TICCIT program is an interactive community outreach initiative designed to teach students about the vital role trees play in our environment. During the 1.5-hour presentation, students learned how paper-based packaging is made and the importance of recycling.
The highlight of the program was a hands-on planting activity. Smurfit Westrock provided seedlings for each student, along with biodegradable paperboard cartons. The students planted their seedlings in these cartons, which they then took home. The cartons serve a dual purpose: when planted directly in the ground, they act as a natural water funnel to protect the seedling. As the tree grows, the carton breaks down naturally, completing the "Trees Into Cartons, Cartons Into Trees" cycle.
Students also brought home informational handouts for their parents to encourage conversations about sustainability at home. We are grateful to Smurfit Westrock for providing all materials and leading this engaging experience that connected our classroom learning with real-world environmental stewardship.