Recognition of 2026 Arbor Day Poster Contest Winners

Congratulate and recognize Arbor Day poster contest winners.

The City Council will recognize student winners of the 2026 Arbor Day Poster Contest.
 
Kindergarten and First Grade:
First place – Theo Brouwer, First Grade
Second place – Lucy Sadaka, First Grade
Third place – Max Abraham, First Grade  

Second and Third Grade:
First place – Izabela Nieves, Second Grade
Second place – James Becker, Second Grade
Third place – Adelyn Anderson, Second Grade

Fourth and Fifth Grade:
First place – Talulah Templin, Fourth Grade
Second place – Kendra Schmidt, Fourth Grade
Third place – Scarlett Smith, Fourth Grade
 

• The three first-place winners will each have a tree planted in recognition of their achievement at a City park of their choice.
• Each winner will receive a City of Mankato prize pack.
• The winning posters will be shared on the City’s social media channels, website, and featured in the online newsletter. All winners receive Certificates of Recognition.
   
• This year’s theme, “Growing a Better Tomorrow Together,” encouraged students to reflect on the importance of trees and environmental stewardship in building a healthier, more sustainable community.
• More than 16,000 trees make up Mankato’s urban forest. Trees help cool our community, improve air quality, conserve energy, support wildlife, and enhance property values and neighborhood livability.
• Special thanks to contest judge Justin Lundborg, Mankato’s Natural Resources Specialist.