How U PREP’S Project-Based Learning IS HELPING Green detroit

Detroit, MI — In line with University Prep’s commitment to project-based learning (PBL), Ms. Quick’s Urban Forest and Culture class at UPA High has launched an inspiring project in collaboration with Michigan State University (MSU) and the Residential College of Arts and Humanities (RCAH). This initiative, part of the Green New Deal class, aims to reforest urban areas in Detroit, fostering environmental awareness and community engagement among students.

The partnership was led by Dr. Estrella Torres from RCAH and Dr. Asia Dowtin from MSU’s Department of Forestry. Both have previously collaborated with U Prep’s Ms. Quick on environmental projects, including an educational trip to Costa Rica, laying a strong foundation for this current endeavor. The class at MSU was crafted specifically to engage with Ms. Quick’s students. They kicked off the project by reading "Racist Roots" by Dr. Christine Carmichael, a book that explores the deforestation of Detroit and its socio-economic ramifications following the 1967 riots.

Students participated in various activities, including virtual meetings, visits to MSU, and hosting MSU students at their school. They discussed chapters of "Racist Roots" and had the opportunity to converse with Dr. Carmichael herself. The collaboration extended beyond reading, as students designed reforestation plans for specific Detroit neighborhoods: River Rouge, Palmer Park, and Brightmoor.

Each student group identified stakeholders, planned community involvement, and strategized on overcoming barriers to reforestation. The hands-on aspect culminated in planting trees on their school property and in the chosen neighborhoods. "It all resulted in planting trees in our area and on our property. Then we’ll measure the benefits those trees bring to the community," Ms. Quick noted.

The project also included practical learning experiences at the Michigan State Extension Center, where students will help manage trees and cultivate urban farms. This involvement not only contributes to their environmental education but also fulfills community service requirements. "For me, it's important so that they have an invested interest in our city and are cognizant of where the city fails its residents and how they can make their communities more attractive mentally, physically, and just for the health of the city," Ms. Quick emphasized. The project aims to instill a sense of environmental stewardship and community responsibility in students.

Supported by a grant from the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE), the project funded transportation, materials, and activities. Ms. Quick and her team plan to apply for additional grants to expand their efforts. This tree-planting project exemplifies the core principles of Project-Based Learning (PBL) promoted by University Prep, culminating in public presentations and practical outcomes. It is a testament to the power of collaborative education and community engagement, providing students with valuable skills and experiences that will benefit them and their community for years to come.