Fraser Woods Montessori School students began gathering outdoors after 2 pm on Thursday, April 21, for the school's annual Earth Day Ceremony.

One class arrived early and students spread out across the school's grounds, some hugging trees.

When asked why they wanted to celebrate Earth Day, which is nationally recognized on April 22, students responded quickly, some talking over one another, eager to share their excitement.

"It helps you live," one student said.

"We want to keep it healthy, because it keeps us healthy," said another.

"It has everything beautiful in it," another student said.

Soon the entire school was gathered outside in one large circle.

Fraser Woods Montessori School teacher Yun-Kyung Kim led a group of volunteer students through a drumming demonstration at the start of the ceremony, before she and some student helpers led the entire school in singing "This Pretty Planet" by Tom Chapin.

Students, teachers, and staff all sang and made hand motions with the song.

As the group sang the lyrics, "Gentle blue giant, spin us around," everyone turned in a circle where they stood.

Fraser Woods Montessori School Head of School Myriam Woods told students to go home and remind their parents about why they celebrated the Earth at school.

She also told students to remember, "Respect, love, and take care of it."