Washington Unified hears update on Cal Fire‑funded ‘Cool Schools’ greening project for multiple campuses

Washington Unified School District trustees on Monday received an update on a Cal Fire‑funded Cool Schools grant — administered by the Texas Trees Foundation with Tree Davis as an implementation partner — that will add tree plantings, outdoor classrooms and nature‑based play elements at multiple district campuses.

The presentation outlined school‑specific designs for Riverbank, Westmore Oaks, River City High and the Yolo Education Center and described a community‑centered planning process. "The program itself really looks to connect students and teachers to nature through expansive tree planting, creating fun and experiential learning opportunities in play areas," said Samantha Bradley, who identified herself as the Cool Schools grant director, describing the program’s educational and environmental goals.

Why it matters: the designs aim to both cool hot blacktop areas and create new outdoor learning opportunities for students in campuses the presenters said face environmental and economic need. Staff said design work is on track to finish by the end of the year and that greening installation is scheduled to start in February 2026, with a five‑year maintenance funding plan tied to the grant to support irrigation and upkeep.

Details presented to the board included age‑appropriate play for middle schoolers, arboretums and pollinator plantings, sensory elements for students with autism, and gathering spaces that can serve teachers and students. Riverbank’s west side, presenters said, currently functions largely as hot blacktop; planned changes include shaded gathering areas, a walking loop and climbing/play features for older students. Presenters said some campuses may receive larger stock trees in public zones to provide earlier shade while younger stock will be planted for long‑term benefits.

Trustees pressed presenters on species selection and growth timelines. A Tree Davis representative said the organization bases species choices on a "climate‑ready tree palette," selecting hardy, pest‑ and heat‑resistant trees and providing irrigation to support establishment. "We're thinking 50 years down the line about what's gonna be appropriate," the presenter said, adding the team is coordinating with district maintenance and the city on placement to avoid infrastructure conflicts.

Trustees and school staff also discussed how students were engaged in design charrettes; Emma Swan, the project’s community engagement manager, described youth input that prioritized swings, shaded areas and spaces that make students want to be on campus. Presenters said ongoing engagement will include planting events with students and community members.

Next steps: staff said they will finish designs this year, return with additional implementation details and begin planting and campus activation events starting February 2026. The board did not take formal action on the grant at the meeting; the presentation served as an informational update and part of the district’s outreach and planning process.