After nearly 15 years of dedicated service to Langtree Elementary as PTA leaders, Lisa Schulz, Angela Mendola, and Danielle Nutt have unveiled their most meaningful project yet: a living tribute to two beloved members of the school community, teacher Julie Smith and longtime secretary Laurie Morgante.
Smith passed away unexpectedly in 2016, and Laurie Morgante in 2022. Both women had worked closely with the PTA, helping to shape the school’s culture through countless events and initiatives.
Their passing left a lasting impact on Schulz, Mendola, and Nutt, who began looking for a way to honor their memory.
With Lisa Schulz’s youngest daughter graduating from Langtree, Danielle Nutt recognized it was “now or never” to create a lasting tribute. The initial idea of a playground mural evolved into something even more meaningful after a conversation with Langtree Principal Joyce Gallo, who suggested revitalizing the underused front garden.
“I believe there is a better option that would be more beneficial to the school community,” Gallo said. “We have the garden out in front of the school that needs love…Both ladies were avid readers, and Laurie loved plants. This way we can improve the garden and enhance the Little Free Library.”
Embracing this idea, the three women formed The Friends of Langtree and named the project The Garden of Joy.
Through grassroots fundraising efforts on Facebook and direct outreach, the group raised the necessary funds—led by a generous donation from Cindy Peroni, a retired and beloved first grade teacher at Langtree. Over the winter, they designed the space, carefully selecting elements that reflect both the spirit of the school and the women being honored.
“Everything in the garden is purposeful and has meaning,” said Nutt. “We’ve reimagined what this garden can be for future students and families. We want everyone who’s walked the halls of Langtree to feel they can leave their mark—that they were here, they mattered, and they won’t be forgotten.”
Highlights of the Garden of Joy include a heart-shaped border in tribute to Julie Smith’s book, “Hearts for the Homeless,” and her signature phrase, “lots of love,” as well as bricks from Langtree families embedded in the garden’s border to symbolize unity and remembrance.
There is also a stepping stone infinity path, colorful plantings, statues, birdhouses and a community mailbox beneath the Little Free Library offering scavenger hunts and trivia games.
Installation began in April. A dedication ceremony was held on May 10 at Langtree.
