After receiving a mini grant for a science project during the 2023-24 school year, then seventh graders at Grand Avenue Middle School worked on a Butterfly Grow and Release program. 

Under the guidance of their teachers, students spent weeks nurturing caterpillars through their life cycles in a unit lesson that culminated with a butterfly release in June 2024.  

The final stage of the grant was the creation of a mural, which was designed by science teacher Lisa Marino. 

“The mural compliments both the environmental efforts of our school to support biodiversity as well as encourage students to reflect upon what inspires them in their lives,” added Marino.“Many similar murals exist around the world and have become quite popular as they provide people an opportunity to become a living work of art by stepping into the wings and snapping a photo.” 

Science Chairperson Heather Bizewski assisted in coordinating the program and called Marino’s work a ‘magnificent masterpiece.’ 

“This butterfly garden has been designated a Monarch Waystation and will make a wonderful temporary home for butterflies as they complete their migrations,” added Bizewski. “We look forward to this becoming an annual event.”

Click here to view the Butterfly Mural Gets Its Wings at Grand Avenue slideshow.

Date Added: 10/2/2024