Forterra is proud to announce that it is awarding a Community Restoration Grant to the Environmental Science Center (ESC) based in Burien, Washington.

The Environmental Science Center promotes environmental stewardship and academic achievement through science-based education. With this grant funding, ESC will partner with ten students from Innovation Heights Academy and Highline School District to restore Hilltop Park over a six-week program. 

Students assess site health, design planting plans, remove monoculture species, and replant the landscape with native species. This is, however, more than a volunteer opportunity. Each student receives a paid stipend and takes part in a robust curriculum focused on urban forestry, ecological restoration, community resiliency, environmental justice, and green career pathways. 

This initiative is a collaborative effort with the City of Burien’s Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Services Department and Dirt Corps, whose expertise in green job training and site knowledge enriches the student experience.

Opportunities like this one target youth who traditionally face systemic barriers that prevent them from participating. The program serves a critical need in the Highline School District, where 75% of students are low-income, 82% identify as students of color, and more than one-third are English Language Learners. Innovation Heights Academy specifically supports students who struggle with traditional education models.

The program culminates in a community celebration where students share their knowledge of indigenous plant species, demonstrate planting techniques, and show their work to the larger community, including family, friends, and other community partners.

You can learn more about New Start and Big Picture Restoration projects.

Congratulations to the Environmental Science Center! We are so grateful for the work you do.