For almost two decades, our beloved AP biology teacher Ms. Sarkar had taken pictures with her students every year under the magnificent trees that once graced the campus of Leland High School in San Jose, CA. These trees were not just part of our school; they were part of our core memories and learning experiences. However, last year they had to be cut down due to safety concerns, leaving large areas of land completely empty and dry.

Beyond our school, San José’s community forest is suffering. Citywide tree canopy cover has decreased from 15.36 percent in 2012 to 13.54 percent in just 6 years. That’s 1,728 acres of tree canopy cover lost. By taking steps one school at a time (schools cover SO MUCH LAND), we can help recover tree canopy cover.

Our campus now stands barren and unappealing without our green friends, who cooled down our campus during scorching hot days. The absence of these trees has not only robbed us of critical shade but also happiness and mental well-being that came from being around nature during school hours. Countless research studies have discovered that green spaces not only improve academic performance (Kuo et. al, 2018) but also aids in the healthy development of teens and children. Natural green spaces and greater tree coverage increases attention in students (Bratman et. al, 1991), reduce stress and depression (Bowler et. al, 2010) and improve well-being and happiness (Kweon et. al, 2017). Exposure to natural environments improve attention and decrease stress in developing teens and children. Now, we are greatly missing out on these benefits.

We understand the previous trees posed hazards, but we believe there are safe alternatives available. Thus, we urge the San Jose Unified School District to approve the process for replanting saplings or small trees in the open plots on our campus as a solution to restore semblance of what was lost.

Please sign and share this petition if you believe in bringing back greenery to Leland High School's campus - for Ms. Sarkar, for her students’ past, present and future, and for everyone who values nature's crucial role in education and life.