“Our last and final activity is actually a special surprise no other student group has or will get to see,” Mr. C explained.
“This Sunday will be the ceremony to celebrate New Jersey’s extraordinary thinkers and the Rutgers University’s 250th Anniversary. It’s one of the many places where thinkers from our state can go to let their imaginations flourish,” Ms. Springer said.
“This is the main reason we came here today. You guys are going to get to hold the seeds to a very special tree that will be planted at Rutgers,” Mr. C said.
“What makes this tree so special? Isn’t it just another plant with a plaque in front of it?” Maya whispered to Cooper.
“No, no, no! This is the New Jersey Imagination Tree. Just sitting under it is known to inspire great thoughts,” Ms. Springer explained.
“Then why are the seeds locked up in a vault? Shouldn’t they be out where people can see them?” Cooper persisted.
Ms. Springer’s face tightened as she looked at the floor nervously.
“In the last year we have received threats that someone will try to come and take the seeds. We cannot leave them out in the open until Sunday when they are finally planted at Rutgers. Then we will know they are safe.”
“Wait, who do you think is trying to steal the seeds?” Mr. C interjected. He was starting to look worried too.