Possibly looking at a new snake... give me your thoughts

[Hypancistrus]

My Western hognose is very active during the day and a male could stay in that tank for life. I wouldn't bother putting a water feature in with a hog though

Hogs are out. I'd never bring anything even slightly hinting of "venomous" into a public school classroom. Just asking for trouble!

Would you consider maybe a black milk snake?

They get quite a bit larger than cal kings (up to 7ft), actually change color from tri-color to jet black as they age, are extremely hardy and prefer room temps without the need for extra heating, and tend to be very docile and good eaters.

Do they hide as much as other milks and kings do?

Re: Carpet pythons, how many years would I have for a hatchling to live in a 29 before I'd need to upgrade? What size viv for an adult?

Also what do you all think about a Brazilian rainbow boa?