Why Tree Canopy Ceilings
Research has demonstrated that nature views out classroom windows and viewing images of trees boost academic achievement, creativity, problem solving, focus, attention, engagement, and language skills in students.  Our two-year pilot study found that students settle down quicker, giving teachers more time to teach.  Students say the trees are the reason they like coming to school.  Tree canopy ceilings have also sparked curiosity about environmental stewardship.

Nature-based learning:  exposures, probable mechanisms, and outcomes 

Kuo, Barnes and Jordan. "Do Experiences With Nature Promote Learning?  Converging Evidence of a Cause-and-Effect Relationship."  Frontiers in Psychology, (Feb. 2019).

Our Next Step
We have partnered with the University of North Carolina at Greensboro to conduct a two year study.  It will measure the cognitive and behavioral impact of tree canopy ceiling murals in 160 K-3 classrooms in North Carolina.  We are currently seeking grants and donations to fund this study. 

Support unc study

Board of Directors

​Carlos de la Rosa, PhD
Ecologist / Educator / Photographer / Author​

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​Betsy Perluss, PhD
​Ecopsychologist / Psychotherapist​

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Becky Davidson, MEd
Retired Educator / School Psychologist​

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Mary Theresa Stein, BA
Business Owner 

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Academic Achievement 
Personal Development • Stewardship

​Ernesto Rodriguez, MS, PPS
​Retired School Psychologist / Photographer​

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Steve Tabor, MA
Educator / Assoc Supt / Photographer

Frank Hein, MS
Naturalist / Educator / Author / Exhibit Designer

Sandra Rodriguez, BA
Retired Educator

​Partner With Us
​Tree canopies in classrooms can reinforce the impact of environmental education curriculums and teacher involvement.  We are interested in developing partnerships with environmental education organizations to advance our mutual goals.

contact us