Twinbrook Community Care Day Unites Volunteers to Beautify School Grounds

Parents, students, neighbors and local organizations came together on March 31 for Community Care Day at Twinbrook Elementary School, transforming the school’s outdoor space into a more welcoming learning environment. Volunteers spent the day planting trees, creating an outdoor wellness space, landscaping, building benches, mulching and improving storm drains.

“It’s really special to me, the amount of support and love here,” said Monica Kellner, the school’s acting principal. “Creating a safe, beautiful space for students and staff is more important than ever.”

The event highlighted the school’s strong sense of community as participants worked side by side to improve the school grounds. Ana Maria Lopez, a mother of a second grader, says her family has received lots of support since they joined the school community, “The people I met at the school are now part of me.”

Tanya Aguilar, a community school liaison, emphasized how this event empowered students. “There are students, parents and kids building benches and boxes. It’s about giving them the opportunity.” 

Habitat for Humanity, Montgomery County Recreation, Nature Forward, the Department of Environmental Protection and Rockville Housing Enterprise – Youth Build contributed to the event’s success

Montgomery County Councilmembers Natali Fani-Gonzalez and Laurie-Anne Sayles presented a proclamation from the County Council, recognizing the event’s impact on the community. “This is a testament to the power of community engagement and collective action,” they said.

Rockville Mayor Monique Ashton praised the volunteers for their commitment, “Today is a day off, but because of this community’s dedication, it’s a day on. You’re making this community better.”

Teemo Taiwo, a high school senior and apprentice in the MCPS Division of Sustainability and Compliance, noted that student involvement is key to fostering appreciation for the school’s improvements. “When students see things appear at school, they become more excited and appreciative when they’re involved in the process.”