The Camas-Washougal Rotary donated $2,875 to create a “Nature in the Classroom” scene in the Hathaway school library

Reading under a canopy of trees is now a possibility for students at Hathaway Elementary School thanks to generous support from the Camas-Washougal Rotary. 

The Camas-Washougal Rotary donated $2,875 to create a “Nature in the Classroom” scene in the Hathaway school library. Hathway third grader Kinzlee Kalian said, “The display is really nice, it’s very relaxing when we look up, and it makes me really calm.” Barb Crozier, a long-time Rotarian, volunteer, and Washougal resident, spearheaded this thoughtful initiative. Her inquiry to Hathaway Elementary School Principal Wendy Morrill was met with an enthusiastic “yes,” and the project quickly moved forward. 

A student survey conducted by Morrill asked which tree scene would be most desired, and the students overwhelmingly selected the majestic MacDonald Oak tree. Kalian added that, “it was really neat for students to be asked, and that the school wanted to know what students thought about the different choices for the ceiling.”

This special nature scene was made possible through the Camas-Washougal Rotary’s financial support and was installed by the Washougal School District’s maintenance team. The location of the tree mural in the library ensures that all students and staff who visit the space each week will benefit from the calming effects of nature.

Research supports the idea behind the project, as studies have shown that exposure to nature—whether through direct views of the outdoors or immersive natural imagery—can improve attention, focus, creativity, and emotional well-being. The installation reflects the district’s commitment to providing students with an enriching environment that promotes both academic and emotional growth.

“This donation highlights the positive impact that strong community partnerships can have on our students’ learning experiences,” said Aaron Hansen, Superintendent of Washougal School District. “We are incredibly grateful to the Camas-Washougal Rotary for their continued dedication to supporting our schools and the district.”

The Camas-Washougal Rotary has long been a valued partner in the district, making countless contributions that support both students and staff. This donation, which enhances the learning environment at Hathaway Elementary, is just one of many ways the Rotary continues to make a difference in the community.

“We are so pleased to support this wonderful project that will bring a little bit of nature into Hathaway Elementary’s library,” said Ernesto Rodriguez, Rotary member and community advocate. “We believe this will not only brighten the space but also contribute to the well-being of students for years to come.”

For more information about the Camas-Washougal Rotary and their community initiatives, visit https://www.cwrotary.com/.  Further information about classroom tree ceilings can be found at https://www.natureintheclassroom.org.

Information provided by the Washougal School District.