One Challenge. Two Destinations. Endless Imagination.
2026 Student Decorating Challenge
22 student teams bring their creativity to life through larger-than-life public art—12 displays at Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens and 10 at Jacksonville Beach Deck The Chairs.
For 2026, 22 student art programs are exploring how people and wildlife can thrive together. Inspired by educational guidance from the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens, students will turn research, ideas and imagination into illuminated public art.
Each participating program receives a $500 decorating stipend, with finished works exhibited for five weeks at Jacksonville Beach Deck The Chairs and the Jacksonville Zoo & Botanical Gardens.
Student Challenge
At Jacksonville Beach
Deck The Chairs
Alfred I. DuPont Middle School
Beaches Chapel School
Discovery School
Duval Charter at Coastal
Fletcher High School, Interact
Fletcher Middle School
Global Leadership Academy ARTS
Mayport Coastal Sciences Middle School
Sandalwood | Beaches Go Green
Seaside Charter School
Student Challenge
At Jacksonville Zoo And Botanical Gardens
Daniel Kids
Darnell Cookman
DePaul School of NE FL
Episcopal High School
Englewood High School
Ft. Caroline Urban Arts Academy
Girls of Virtue - Men of Vision
Homeschool Fun Club
LaVilla School of the Arts
Nease High School
River City Science Academy Southeast
The Foundation Academy