TREES 



377 



ground is to begin at the beginning. The ground should 

 first be properly graded and levelled, so that it is even 

 and the drainage right. Stumps and stones should be 

 removed. Perhaps it is necessary to bring good, black 

 earth to put on poor soil, if it is desired to grow grass. There 

 should be a grass plot, at least, directly in front of the school- 

 house. The children should be required to respect this 



FIG. 161. A Beautiful Farm Homestead Just Opposite the School. 



area and permit the grass to grow. On the playground 

 proper the grass will probably not grow. This should be 

 well drained and covered with sand or gravel, so that even 

 in wet weather it will be possible to play upon it without 

 tracking much dirt into the school. 



The preparing of the grounds and the planting of trees 

 should not be simply a matter for the teacher and pupils, 

 but to ensure success the school officers and the patrons of 

 the district should help. There should be a system agreed 



