The Living Wall

Grant Amount: $1,400
Date In Effect: 2025
Schools Impacted: Jr. Sr. High School

The Living Wall is an innovative botanical installation that reimagines an indoor school space as a thriving, student-maintained vertical garden. Supported by this grant, the wall features a carefully curated selection of tropical and functional plant species, transforming a school corridor into a living, breathing classroom.

Designed to support interdisciplinary learning, the wall engages students in environmental science, biology, horticulture, and sustainability. Students will explore plant life cycles, ecosystems, air purification, and water use—all through daily interactions with the living wall. Art students will contribute to the design and presentation, while Culinary students will benefit from the integration of edible herbs and botanicals into the school’s kitchen program.

The use of an automatic irrigation system and district-supported utilities ensures long-term sustainability, while scheduled maintenance builds shared responsibility.

With over 25 plant varieties selected for their beauty and adaptability, the Living Wall is a model for future green infrastructure projects in schools. It inspires connection between students and their environment, turning the walls of Cold Spring Harbor Jr./Sr. High School into a permanent showcase of learning, growth, and creativity.