Friday, May 6, the entire student body at Hattie Cotton STEM Elementary School took part in a special dedication ceremony and planted the school's new Red Maple Tree. The ceremony was part of the school's nine-week theme based focus of “Earth Matters.”

Dr. Hamilton, principal at Hattie Cotton STEM Magnet Elementary, the staff and students recited the school’s Pop Pledge. Dr. Hamilton then told the students that Hattie Cotton is now a STEM elementary and explained what that means. Students sang "This Land is Our Land," heard from other special guests about the importance of planting trees. The day wrapped up with the Spirit Team who led the students through several cheers, all with the theme of "Earth Matters."