MPS students participate in Arbor Day celebration on city's north side

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The sound of kids singing was part of Friday's Arbor Day celebration on Milwaukee's north side.

Children participated in a tree planting event at the Frances Starms Discovery Learning Center.

The kids also read a proclamation from Mayor Cavalier Johnson and got a lesson in the importance of trees to the environment.

Their academic superintendent, Ebony Grice, pointed out the symbolic value of planting trees as well.

"As we recognize Arbor Day, we are reminded that some of the most meaningful work we do does not show immediate results," Superintendent Grice said. "Planting a tree is an act of belief. It's a commitment to a future that we may or may not fully see, but that we, all of us today, are responsible for shaping."

Arbor Day dates back to 1872, when it was created to promote tree planting and care.

Milwaukee has been recognized as a Tree City USA since 1979.