The students of cycle 2 class at Sainte-Marie school enthusiastically participated in the “Sprouts of Hope” project, an initiative supported by Groupama. As part of this project, several interventions by the CPIE (Permanent Center for Environmental Initiatives) allowed children to discover essential themes: the tree ecosystem, its role in biodiversity and the importance of its preservation.
The culmination of this educational and ecological project was the planting of a maple tree in the establishment. This symbolic gesture was made possible thanks to the active support of the municipality of Cassagnes. The ceremony took place in the presence of Nathalie Puel, president of the local bank of Groupama, and the mayor. The event began with a presentation of the plane maple, carefully prepared by the students. They shared their knowledge about the importance of this tree for nature and for their school. It was a moment rich in learning.
To mark this special occasion, the students also recited poems that they had learned for the occasion. These texts, imbued with poetry and sensitivity, celebrated nature, life and hope. Some spoke of the quiet strength of the roots, the soothing rustle of the leaves and the protective shade that the maple tree will provide over the years.
The planting was a real team effort. The students, helped by municipal employees, placed the earth around the roots and protected their new tree from the cold with straw. This collective gesture symbolizes their commitment to the environment.
In addition to this collective act, each student received a special gift from Groupama: a hazel tree to plant at home. This present symbolizes continuity between school and home, allowing each child to extend the experience by taking care of their own tree. A strong gesture, carrying a message of commitment to nature.
The soaring maple tree, now rooted in the Sainte-Marie school complex, will become a living witness to generations of students to come. It will grow, just like the children who helped plant it, carrying with it a message of hope and responsibility for nature.