“Nature holds the key to our aesthetic, intellectual, cognitive,
and even spiritual satisfaction.” E.O. Wilson
and even spiritual satisfaction.” E.O. Wilson
What We Do
Nature In The Classroom seeks to transform the education environment by installing ceiling murals of tree canopies in classrooms. The character of a student’s learning environment plays a key role in learning and behavioral outcomes. Bringing nature into the classroom sends a strong message that the natural world isn’t separate from the pursuit of knowledge. It is the source of all that is known.
Making this seemingly simple connection provides students and teachers with context for all of the subjects being taught.
Mathematics, physics, social studies, and poetry all emanate from humans engaging with, and attempting to understand the natural world. Including the natural world in the pursuit of learning, whether indoors or out, has the potential to positively influence the outcomes all schools seek.
Classroom Transformations
Why We Do It
Greening schoolyards and classroom views to trees has been documented to boost academic achievement, creativity and social emotional learning. Outdoor experiences are essential for the healthy development of children of all ages. But students, faculty and staff spend 85-90% of their day indoors. In urban and inner-city schools, playgrounds are mainly asphalt and windows are often barred, covered or simply have a view to another wall. Due to the increased violence, new schools are being built without classroom windows.
Overcrowded schools have brought in portable classrooms to accommodate nine million plus students, where window views often look out to another portable classroom.
Why This Works
Nature In The Classroom is the embodiment and application of Attention Restoration Theory (ART) and fifty years of supporting research. The science shows that when we view trees or images of trees, it calms us, helps us focus, and engage. Karyn Smolic, a middle school teacher, summed it up, “I can already tell that by having the tree ceiling it has brought a sense of calmness and peace to the students seated underneath them.”
CNN The Optimist Daily: We are sharing our final category in the Best of 2024 Series: Staff Picks! See the story here>
Nature In The Classroom Selected as One of the Top Stories in 2024
CBS News: Yep, good things happened in 2024. Here are the top 10 most uplifting news stories from 2024. See the story here.
The students say it all.
Our Values
Bringing nature inside, opens up more than their view – it opens inspiration.
Inspiring Environmental Stewards
Inspiring Environmental Stewards
Our immersive nature murals encourage curiosity about ecosystems, including the vital role of clean water. Students learn how water supports all life and why protecting this resource matters—starting with hands-on exploration right in the classroom.
Building Foundations for Healthy Futures
Building Foundations for Healthy Futures
While nature can’t replace medicine, it can inspire scientific curiosity. Our programs foster observation, critical thinking, and a respect for living systems—early steps toward understanding health, hygiene, and community wellness.
Boosting Focus, Creativity, and Learning
Boosting Focus, Creativity, and Learning
Biophilic classrooms with nature-themed ceilings and walls have been shown to increase attention spans, calm anxious minds, and improve academic performance. Nature becomes more than a subject—it becomes a tool for learning.
Connecting Classrooms to the Land
Connecting Classrooms to the Land
From pollinators to plant cycles, our murals and garden-based activities introduce students to where food comes from and how it grows. These real-world lessons empower the next generation to understand sustainability and care for the planet.
