"Founded by Dr. Jane Goodall, The Roots & Shoots program inspires youth of all ages to make a difference by becoming involved in their communities. Each Roots & Shoots group plans and implements service-learning projects that promote care and concern for animals, the environment, and the human community."
- quoted directly from the Roots & Shoots homepage

The Roots & Shoots group at The Branch School is in its fifth year. The group meets after school once a month from 3:30 - 4:30 and is mentored by Ms. Kimber Gross and Ms. Smith - our Head of School.

Our Roots & Shoots group was founded after Ms. Smith had an opportunity to speak with Jane Goodall, who strongly believes that each child can make a positive impact on the world around them. Dr. Jane's model of "Knowlege, Compassion, and Action" to inspire help for humans, animals, and the environment seemed a good way to extend the projects already in place at The Branch School, such as the Outdoor Classroom, wildscape, and peacemaking curriculum.

Each semester, the group chooses one or more service projects. The members brainstorm for ideas about what problems exist in the community and what can be done to help. The final decision reflects the group's consensus. There is a hands-on project at each meeting, as well as planning sessions on how to accomplish the larger goal.

For further information, visit www.rootsandshoots.org.