Two Springfield Lutheran School students were recently recognized and celebrated by officials from the City of Springfield, the Missouri Department of Conservation, and the Missouri Community Forestry Council for their contributions to urban forestry. Students Amaya Portis and Emily Rossow both won Arbor Day poster contests at the state level, and had trees planted in their honor! Both students were supported and encouraged in their poster creation by 5th grade teacher Ms. Jennifer Williams and art teacher Mrs. Cyndi Shepard.

Amaya Portis won 1st place in technical merit for her poster in the spring of 2020. A Cotton Candy Magnolia tree was planted in her honor. This tree was named the “Williams-Portis Magnolia” and added to the Springfield Tree Registry, part of Springfield being identified as an official “Tree City.” Her poster also made Springfield Lutheran School the winning school in the Missouri Community Forestry Council poster contest. Due to COVID-19, Amaya’s recognition for her winnings were changed. Amaya was set to go to the Missouri State Capitol Building to be recognized. Her tree ceremony was also postponed until this spring. We are so proud of her contribution to urban forestry, and know that her beautiful pink Magnolia tree will be a beautiful inspiration for generations.

Emily Rossow won the popular vote for her poster in the spring of 2021. A Frontier Elm tree was planed in her honor. This tree was named the “Williams-Rossow Elm” and added to the Springfield Tree Registry, an additional tree in the Springfield “Tree City.” Her elm tree sits near the school entrance as a graceful reminder of God’s creation.

Congratulations to Amaya, Emily, Ms. Williams, and Mrs. Shepard!