Smithtown HS Students Collaborate On Environmental Project

SMITHTOWN, NY — Students in Kimberly Williams’ marine science class at Smithtown High School West are once again collaborating with Advanced Placement art students from Tim Needles' class at Smithtown High School East for an environmentally-conscious project that aims to keep local sewers and waterways clean, the school district announced.

The Smithtown High School West marine science students began the project by studying the nitrates in the soil. They learned about different plankton and how it affects water. The class virtually connected with Maureen Dolan-Murphy, executive programs manager for the Citizens Campaign for the Environment, to learn about the science and importance of the storm drain project to the community and Long Island.

The students then spoke with local artist Susan Buroker to learn more about local storm drains, how to bring attention to their importance, and the next steps, including the students monitoring their own local storm drain.

The West students will next work with Mr. Needles to come up with slogans and designs to decorate the storm drains.

"I am so happy to continue this awesome STEAM project with the help and guidance from Citizens Campaign for the Environment and Susan Buroker through her Little Fish Reporting program," Ms. Williams said. "We’ve had to make some COVID adjustments, but it’s been great to keep it alive and moving forward!"