School Greening Community Engagement and Design: Lessons Learned on Increasing the Community Voice in Design

School campuses are increasingly recognized as critical sites for expanding tree canopy and creating habitat gardens, contributing to healthier learning environments for students, mitigating the urban heat island effect, and enhancing local biodiversity. In partnership with community based organizations and schools in Oregon and California, we have gathered insights on effective community engagement strategies and optimal timing. Our findings highlight how involving local communities early in the design process ensures that the resulting projects reflect the specific desires and needs of the community, fostering a sense of ownership and ensuring long-term success.