Being next to walls doesn't mean the snake can't still see things out the sides.
But seriously, it all sounds pretty good. Covering the sides isn't just for security, it's also for stabilizing the temps in a glass tank when you add insulation such as foam or cork.
And yes, make sure you get a thermostat ASAP. It's the most expensive piece of equipment, but it is totally necessary! You could get by with a lamp dimmer or a cheaper stat to start out, but eventually you should have at least a Johnson or Ranco($80) if not a Herpstat ($110).
As far as lighting, especially for a tank, you should make sure your lamp is at least 8-12" above the lid and that your bulb is no higher than 50watts. Otherwise you'll have a humidity battle.
Oh, and make sure you foil treat your screen top to keep heat and humidity in. That one process alone can help more with those things than any amount of misting or other kind of cover.
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