At American Academy of Innovation, learning recently took root in a way that reached beyond the classroom.

Sixth graders spent weeks studying trees — their biology, their communication systems and their vital role in the environment — before turning that knowledge into a service project for seniors at the South Jordan Community Center.

The project combined science, literacy and community connection as students explored how trees grow, communicate and support ecosystems, while also developing research skills and creating infographics to share what they learned. Their work culminated with presentations at South Jordan Community Center, where they shared their findings and donated their marigold starts to seniors.

For teacher Landon Leak, the inspiration began last summer when he read a book about trees and discovered its younger version, “The Hidden Life of Trees, a graphic adaption” by Fred Bernard.

“I started reading it and this forester in Germany, he came across this stump in the forest that was hundreds of years old and it was still alive,” he said, saying he learned trees are connected underground.

In the classroom, students explored the science of trees, learning not only how they grow, but how they interact with one another and their environment. 

The lessons were eye-opening for Bronson Cramer.

“I learned how trees all connect and they’re similar to us in a lot of ways,” he said. “It’s surprising how people don’t know how important trees are. We chop them down for materials and not consider how much they’re worth to our ecosystem. I’ve learned a lot I never knew.”

Classmate Enoch Price was equally struck by the parallels between trees and human communities.

“It’s interesting to see how much trees are like humans and how they have similar adaptions to us and they give, they can help other trees,” he said. “I look at trees with more of respect and knowing they’re living too. We should treat them kindly as we should with humans.”

Students were able to recite facts about trees and the impact humans play on the environment from the book they read. They also were excited to plant and give marigolds to seniors.

“I love how Mr. Leak involves us in projects helping people. It’s a cool project; I’ve definitely liked it,” Enoch said.

Jamie Anderson, South Jordan Community Center manager for senior programs, said the impact of the students’ efforts was more important than just the presentation.

“The collaboration is important because it also connects all aspects of the community,” she said. “I’m trying to create the connection between the generations and so when they take marigolds, it will be a reminder people care and don’t just stay in their own corners.”

It all reflects a lesson the students encountered in their reading: “There are things we don’t understand about the forest. We don’t always treat it well, either. Even though it’s the heart of our planet and human survival depends on it. Every piece of the forest, no matter how tiny, has an important role to play.”

Leak said students studying trees and sharing something as simple as a flower are like roots beneath the soil.

“The students can strengthen an entire community,” he said. “It’s a small act that makes a world of difference.”