The Bakersfield City School District is in the process of adding solar panels to 15 different schools. So far, five have been installed and the other ten are set to be finished this year.

The addition of the panels at Voorheis Elementary are sparking controversy. Five large trees are planned to be removed to add the panels.

Steven McClain, Assistant Superintendent of Business Services for BCSD, said the district has planted about 35 trees to compensate for the lost five. 

Lori Pesante, a concerned parent, says these trees are sentimental and also are the only source of shade, so she, other parents and the Dolores Huerta Foundation are asking the BCSD Board to reconsider their decision.​​​​​​