DISTRICT NEWS: Harmony Public Schools-Central Texas practices sustainability with Native Plant Rescue Project

Harmony Public Schools-Central Texas has joined in a groundbreaking partnership with the Native Plant Rescue Project (NPRP) to preserve and relocate native plant species discovered at the site of its upcoming campus in Georgetown, TX. The campus held a groundbreaking ceremony on March 22 at the new location: 201 Blue Ridge Drive, Georgetown, TX 78626. Harmony Public Schools-Georgetown is scheduled to open its doors to students for the 2025-2026 school year. This partnership with NPRP reflects HPS's commitment to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.

The Native Plant Rescue Project, a joint effort between two esteemed Williamson County nonprofits, The Native Plant Society of Williamson County and the Good Water Texas Master Naturalists, is dedicated to rescuing crucial native plants before initiating construction projects. These significant plants are meticulously relocated to conservation partners such as The Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin, TX, and the San Antonio Botanical Gardens in San Antonio, TX. Not only will this vegetation survive to support Austin's ecosystem, restore habitats, continue to nourish migrating insects and animals, and provide continuing enjoyment to visitors.

Ashley Landry, a Texas Master Naturalist and member of the Native Plant Society, emphasized, "NPRP volunteers play a crucial role in rescuing important native plants, ensuring their preservation, and contributing to habitat restoration projects. The rescued plants are also utilized for local community pollinator gardens in Williamson County."

A landmark harvesting event occurred on Saturday, December 2, 2023, where NPRP volunteers successfully retrieved various native plant species from the Harmony Science Academy-Georgetown site. Notable discoveries included False Foxglove, Golden Prairie Clover, Blazing-Star, White Heath Aster, and more.

This initiative aligns with Harmony Public Schools' mission to provide quality education while fostering an awareness of environmental responsibility. By partnering with NPRP, the organization aims to showcase its dedication to sustainability, contributing positively to the local ecosystem and promoting a harmonious coexistence between educational development and environmental conservation.

"We're so proud to partner with Native Plant Rescue and help rescue native Central Texas plants from the heart of Williamson County.," said Victoria Mancha, Public Relations Director for Harmony Public Schools-Central Texas. "This endeavor is more than a simple rescue; it is a commitment to nurturing a deep appreciation for local ecosystems that we hope will inspire our students to become ambassadors of sustainability and guardians of our natural heritage.

Our partnership with Native Plant Rescue underscores the importance of collective action in preserving the unique biodiversity of Central Texas. Ashley and her team exemplify the spirit of community engagement, serving as seeds of hope for the betterment of Williamson County and the Georgetown community."

The partnership with Native Plant Rescue highlights the significance of collective action in preserving the distinctive biodiversity of Central Texas. Ashley and her team epitomize the spirit of community engagement, serving as catalysts for the betterment of Williamson County and the Georgetown community at large.

Harmony Public Schools-Central Texas takes pride in its involvement in a project that enriches the educational landscape while demonstrating a steadfast commitment to environmental preservation. Through initiatives like this, the organization continues to champion sustainability and foster a holistic approach to education that encompasses ecological awareness and stewardship.