Last Friday, Leone High School’s Forestry Program celebrated their hard work over the past year to “Be Green.”
The Home of the Lions received a sub-grant from the American Samoa Community College Land Grant Program that supported their efforts to plant local trees and shrubs.
Edmund Amataga, an advisor for the program, shared, “Today’s outreach is all about sharing about our project with our community. Our hope is that this project will continue on for generations to come.”
Land Grant Forestry Program Manager & Territorial Forester, Denis Sene and Urban Community & Forestry Specialist, Tony Maugalei joined Leone High School after the Earth Day and Arbor Day wave held in front of CBT that morning. Their role was pivotal to the success of Leone’s efforts along with all of the help received from student volunteers.
Mikaela Saelua, advisor for the project said, “Our environment and ecosystem are very delicate and unique. Leone High School made a concerted effort to contribute to that ecosystem this past year by planting local trees and shrubs throughout campus.” The outreach was completely student-led.
Fuarosa Molesi, Fuata’i Iosefo, Fa’anape Suani, Moemamao Taua, Topelei Matoka and Alana Sorensen, officers for Close Up and JSA, took turns throughout the outreach to share about their project. They handed out ‘Be Green’ bracelets, introduced poetry and rap winners, and wore shirt designs that were all part of their program. 1st place rap winners, Sandi Lolesio and Ruth Taukeiaho blew the crowd away with their rap on the environment.
Mr. Denis Sene committed an additional $20,000 to the Leone High School Forestry Program for the school year 2023-2024.
Leo’o Dr. Patrick Danielson, Principal of Leone High School had the honor of cutting the ribbon on a sign that the students had made to share about their program.
“The kids really took the initiative to create an amazing outreach to share about all the work they put into their program. They are passionate about the environment and taking steps to protect it,” said advisor Vera Peck.
