HILLSDALE—Hillsdale, renowned for its commitment to environmental stewardship, recently hosted a series of inspiring Arbor Day celebrations that united schools, local officials, and community members in a heartfelt tribute to the town’s canopy.
Led by Hillsdale’s Environmental Commission and Mayor Michael Sheinfield, these events emphasized the vital role of trees in maintaining ecological balance and enhancing the town’s aesthetic charm.
Arbor Day, celebrated nationwide on April 26, became a poignant moment of local pride and environmental awareness in Hillsdale, where the Environmental Commission noted that “healthy, large, and impressively old trees are gems sitting in plain sight.”
St. John’s Academy Sets the Tone for Green Growth
The festivities kicked off at St. John’s Academy on April 15, where Principal Ann Mitchell and Father Peter presided over a tree-planting ceremony attended by dozens of students and educators. Students placed a weeping cherry tree into the ground—a symbol of growth and sustainability for generations to come.
George White Middle School Discovers Living History
At George White Middle School on April 30, Principal Don Bergamini led members of the Gardening Club in a fascinating activity centered around a grand White oak tree. As students measured its circumference and calculated its estimated age at 168 years—a living relic predating the U.S. Civil War—Principal Bergamini said, “This tree embodies the enduring spirit of Hillsdale and reminds us of the importance of preserving our natural heritage.”
Ann Blanche Smith School Sings for Sustainability
At Ann Blanche Smith School, Principal Christine Higgins and Superintendent Robert Lombardy Jr., orchestrated a lively celebration on the same day. Accompanied by guitar-accompanied singing of Earth-friendly tunes, students planted a small evergreen—a gesture embodying their dedication to environmental conservation.
The Meadowbrook School: Nurturing Nature Together
Closing the series on May 1, Meadowbrook School Principal Chris Bell led a spirited ceremony attended by Council Member Clemente Osso and students from various grades. Against a backdrop of enthusiasm, students planted a vibrant Dogwood tree, symbolizing hope and renewal for Hillsdale’s ecosystem.
These celebrations were made possible by the generous support of Victoria’s Nursery in Paramus, which donated trees and mulch to enrich Hillsdale’s green spaces.
Fred Rubel, chairperson of Hillsdale’s Environmental Commission, underscored the significance of Arbor Day, telling Pascack Press that Arbor Day is “a celebration of the future.” He explained, “An abundance of trees helps reduce rapid runoff of stormwater, preserves water quality, provides shade and cooling on hot days, reduces area noise, and contributes greatly to Hillsdale’s ambiance and character.”
An inventory of Hillsdale’s environmental resources and related interesting environmental information is available for free via the Hillsdale Environmental Commission’s web page.