Rooted in Hope: Honoring Dr. Jane Goodall at Seven Arrows

On October 1, 2025, the Seven Arrows Elementary School community gathered for what was meant to be a joyous milestone in our decades-long partnership with Dr. Jane Goodall. Together with students, educators, and local leaders, we planned to welcome Dr. Goodall to Los Angeles for a community tree-planting celebration of TREEAMS, an initiative to restore our environment and reimagine a greener, more resilient future after the devastating 2025 wildfires.

That morning, the world learned that Dr. Goodall had passed away peacefully at the age of 91. What was to be a celebration of her presence became a moving tribute to her life’s work and her message of hope.

A Partnership Nearly Three Decades in the Making

Seven Arrows’ connection to Dr. Goodall began in 1994, when she first visited the school and planted what she called a “seed of hope.” That seed grew into a lasting relationship between Seven Arrows and the Roots & Shoots program she founded.

Dr. Goodall’s philosophy that every individual has the power to make a difference and that all living things are interconnected deeply shaped the values of our school. Her message continues to inspire our students through Ethical Leadership Projects and daily opportunities to care for their community, the environment, and one another.

October 1, 2025: From Celebration to Tribute

The October 1 event was originally planned as a gathering at EF Academy in Pasadena, where Dr. Goodall was scheduled to speak and help plant trees with students from Seven Arrows and partner schools. Instead, it became a day of remembrance and gratitude.

Students and community members honored her by planting a Coast Live Oak, a symbol of strength and resilience, and by creating a time capsule to preserve messages of hope for future generations. This act of stewardship reflected Dr. Goodall’s enduring belief that young people are the changemakers who will heal our planet.

Carrying Her Legacy Forward

Although Dr. Goodall is no longer with us, her presence remains deeply embedded in the heart of Seven Arrows. Her example guides us as we encourage students to take action, think globally, and care locally. The TREEAMS initiative, launched with her blessing, will continue to serve as a living memorial to her vision.

Dr. Goodall’s life was a beacon of hope, reminding us that compassion, courage, and action, no matter how small, can change the world. At Seven Arrows, we are honored to carry her message forward, ensuring her legacy thrives in the hearts and actions of our students for generations to come.