John F. Kennedy Elementary School in Spring Valley and Mendota High School were two of 43 Illinois schools recently selected to receive a Schoolyard Habitat Action Grant.

Both schools plan to put in butterfly gardens on their grounds. Mendota High received $1,000, and JFK $240.

The schools were selected among applications sent in for the fall 2020 application period. A total of $35,524.59 is being distributed around the state to support natural habitat projects in school grounds and other public places.

“The Illinois Schoolyard Habitat Action Grant program provides children and educators with an opportunity to increase the use of native plants in Illinois landscapes while benefiting wildlife species,” said Illinois Department of Natural Resources Director Colleen Callahan.

“By participating in these projects, students learn that their efforts can make a positive difference in the world, and they gain experience in problem-based learning by planning, developing and maintaining the habitat.”

Funding for the program is provided through donations to the Illinois Conservation Foundation. The Jadel Youth Fund and the Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice Foundation are the major sponsors for the program. More than $329,000 in Illinois Schoolyard Habitat Action Grant funding has been distributed since the program’s inception.

State Rep. Lance Yednock, D-Ottawa, released a statement in support of the schools who received Schoolyard Habitat Action Grants in his district.

“The Youth Habitat Initiative program is an amazing opportunity for local students to learn the importance of protecting natural resources and educating others on the need for conservation of native species,” Yednock said. “I am excited to see students in our district will now be able to plant their own habitats and native gardens to promote our state’s conservation efforts.”

Applications will be accepted soon for the next round of the Illinois Schoolyard Habitat Action Grant Program, with an application deadline of Nov. 30. See www2.illinois.gov/dnr/education/Pages/GrantsSHAG.aspx for the application form and related information, call 217-524-4126 or email dnr.teachkids@illinois.gov.