About the Project

The REAL TREES 4 Kids! project began early in 1999 in preparation for the 30th anniversary of Earth Day. Sponsored by the National Christmas Tree Association, the project's goal is to teach school-aged students the ins and outs of Christmas Tree production.

On April 2, 1999, Internet viewers got their first peek at curriculum materials prepared specifically for students, teachers, and leaders in grades 2 through 5. Since that time, the set of materials has grown to include materials for middle and high school students.

In 2008, curriculum materials were made available for teachers of students in grades K through 2. These new materials were designed by elementary educator Michelle Drake as part of a grant through the USDA.

REAL TREES 4 Kids! has had over 169,000 visitors since April, 1999. However, this project is not limited to the Internet. Our REAL TREES team has shared information and activities with participants at the convention of the National Science Teachers Association as well as with visitors to the AgEarth celebration of Earth Day on the Mall in Washington DC.

As we keep growing, keep in mind that new additions to the curriculum happen, in great part, through suggestions and requests made by you. If you would like to "get active" in the update process, please let us know. Send your input, suggestion, or comments to our design team.

The web design and grades 3 through 12 curriculum composition for the project is handled by the educators at The Curriculum Store, Inc.

We would like to acknowledge and thank David Mulhern and Craig Garrison for adding their expertise and good humor to this project!