Lynne Thigpen Elementary School was the site of the City of Joliet’s annual Arbor Day Celebration on April 24, 2025. Joliet Public Schools District 86 Superintendent Dr. Theresa Rouse, Lynne Thigpen Elementary School Principal Dr. Teresa Woodard, and Assistant Principal Chelsea Young joined Joliet Mayor Terry D’Arcy, Joliet City Councilmembers Jan Hallums Quillman, Pat Mudron, Sherri Reardon, and members of the Joliet Tree Advisory Board at the event.
During the outdoor ceremony, Councilwoman Jan Hallums Quillman presented an Arbor Day proclamation on behalf of Joliet Mayor Terry D’Arcy to Thigpen Elementary School Principal Dr. Teresa Woodard. Fifth-grade students Shaundra Barber, Abigail Ceballos, Triston Marie Davis Murray, Karter Smith, Isabella Hernandez, and Ethan Kelly performed a song under the direction of music teacher Cadence Haase. The event also included the planting of a swamp white oak tree on school grounds, with students participating in the effort. The tree was donated by Spring Grove Nursery, and planting services provided by iTrees.
“We always enjoy having one of our schools host the City of Joliet’s annual Arbor Day event,” said Joliet Public Schools District 86 Superintendent Dr. Theresa Rouse.
"The students were thrilled to be part of the celebration.” Lynne Thigpen Elementary School Principal Dr. Teresa Woodard added.
In addition, the Lynne Thigpen student City of Joliet Arbor Day Poster Contest winners were also recognized during the event. Fifth-grade students Ruby Giardina placed first place, Dalia Ramirez Rios earned second, and Olivia Guardiola and Julissa Terrazas tied for third place. The City of Joliet also provided over 245 serviceberry tree seedlings for students to take home and plant.