Smithtown HS West Students Win $2K Garden Grant

SMITHTOWN, NY — Smithtown High School West students did not just recognize a problem in their community. They did something about it.

A Smithtown High School West science and technology research class comprised of 9th and 10th
graders was awarded a grant of more than $2,000 by the Long Island Regional Planning Council to build rain gardens at the school, the Smithtown School District announced.

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, the team 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 on May 22, 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 U.S. Congressman Nick LaLota.