It’s one thing to recognize a problem in your community. It’s another thing entirely to do something about it. A High School West science and technology research class comprised of 9th and 10th graders has been awarded a grant of more than $2,000 by the Long Island Regional Planning Council to build rain gardens at the school.
The grant was awarded because of the students’ submission in the LI Regional Planning Council’s annual Long Island Water Quality STEAM Challenge. Under the guidance of adviser Donna Plante, students Sameha Vundecode, Ava Tagliavia, Liana Cheng, Iman Khan, Shannon John, and Nicholas Cardi proposed building rain gardens with native plants with soil composed of sand, gravel, mulch and compost to ensure drainage. The rain gardens will provide a method of filtration for water coming off the roof of the school from downspouts, reducing stormwater runoff. The project includes plans to establish a Garden Club for ongoing maintenance and educational opportunities.
During a ceremony held at High School West, the team was awarded the grant check and several proclamations by local officials including Suffolk County Legislator Robert Trotta, and representatives of Suffolk County Legislator Leslie Kennedy, Smithtown Supervisor, Ed Wehrheim, NY State Senator, Mario Mattera, NY Assemblyman, Michael Fitzpatrick and US Congressman, Nick LaLota. CBS-2 reporter Carolyn Gusoff also covered the event for a Thursday evening story!
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