On Friday April 15, Dr. Jane Goodall visited T.C. Williams to speak to over 900 students, including the STEM 10 Academy. Prior to speaking to the student body, Dr. Goodall met with several small groups of students who are currently working on Roots and Shoots projects. Brielle Quarles and Catherine Mellette spoke with Dr. Goodall about their solution for Alexandria’s food desert problem; by creating a hydroponic system the group hopes to make healthy food available and affordable to all Alexandria City residents. Charlotte Carey discussed her group’s idea to teach elementary students the process of composting. Both of these projects will support Dr. Goodall’s vision of promoting a sustainable earth through community involvement.

During her school-wide talk, Dr. Goodall discussed her childhood, her work with chimpanzees and her role as an activist. Following the talk, Dr. Goodall and principal Dr. Jesse Dingle planted a tree in front of the school to commemorate her historical visit.

We are very grateful for the opportunity and know that our students were inspired!