You're on track to get doubled donations (and unlock a reward for the colleague who referred you). Keep up the great work!
{"challengeId":22515049,"pageId":7,"challenge":"[Paid] Matched Book Projects (FES26 evergreen live update)","displayTitle":"Every student deserves a shelf full of possibilities.","displaySubtitle":"Right now, these book requests on DonorsChoose will be matched, while funds last. Donate to a classroom today and help put books in the hands of students. Let’s #FillEveryShelf in America’s classrooms! 📚","backfillUrl":"/donors/search.html?matchingId=-1&proposalTypeCombo=Books","teacherCards":true,"projectCards":true,"impact":true,"createdDate":1753198876185,"lastDonationDate":1773865033989,"closedDate":null,"impactState":null,"active":true,"bannerPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/marketing-challenge/b22515049.jpg?t=1773342556096","faqList":[]}
[{"schoolName":"Rolando Park Elementary School","city":"San Diego","costToComplete":169.34,"teacherName":"Mrs. Dennis","fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students a variety of books to help them learn about the California Gold Rush.","totalPrice":169.34,"hideTeacherDetails":false,"essay":"My students are beginning an exciting unit on the California Gold Rush, a pivotal time in our state’s history that shaped communities, culture, and opportunity. To truly understand this era, students need more than a textbook—they need access to engaging, high-interest books that bring history to life.\r\n\r\nThis project will provide a collection of nonfiction texts, historical fiction, and graphic novels focused on the Gold Rush. \r\n\r\nThese requested books will allow my students to explore the experiences of miners, families, and diverse groups who traveled to California in search of a better life. Through these stories and informational texts, students will build background knowledge, strengthen reading comprehension, and develop a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities during this time period.\r\n\r\nWith these resources, my students will participate in literature circles, research projects, and interactive discussions. The variety of text types will support all learners, especially striving readers, by offering multiple entry points into the content. By connecting literacy with social studies, students will not only learn history—they will experience it in a meaningful and memorable way.","stateFullName":"California","proposalURL":"https://www.donorschoose.org/project/striking-gold-bringing-the-gold-rush-to/10173391/","hasReceivedDonations":false,"imageURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/user/src/u1468083_src.jpg?crop=3000,3000,x0,y500&width=210&height=210&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1765384867968","id":10173391,"state":"CA","title":"Striking Gold: Bringing the Gold Rush to Life Through Books"},{"schoolName":"Hoover High School","city":"San Diego","costToComplete":180.42,"teacherName":"Mrs. Leon","fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students the opportunity to experience Dune in an accessible, engaging way, building confidence while connecting powerful themes to our world and growing as readers and thinkers.","totalPrice":439.25,"hideTeacherDetails":false,"essay":"My students are curious, thoughtful freshmen in our Media, Entertainment, and Technology Academy, where they explore coding, computer science, and video production at a predominately low income school. As I prepare to enter this new academy next year, I am excited to design learning that meets their needs through a technology focused lens. What I love most about my students is their resilience. They continue to try even when learning feels challenging. They think from multiple perspectives, care deeply about others, and truly want to learn, even when they have not always been given the opportunities they deserve.\r\n\r\nWhat if one book could help students understand the technology driven world they are growing up in and give them the skills to question and navigate it?\r\n\r\nWith this project, I hope to bring a class set of Dune and graphic novel versions to support English learners and emerging readers. These resources will help all students access complex ideas, build confidence, and engage in meaningful discussions. By connecting Dune to real world issues and technology, students will strengthen literacy skills while exploring ideas that shape their lives and futures.\r\n\r\nThis project is about more than books, it is about giving students the confidence to see themselves as thinkers, readers, and future change makers in a world that needs their voices.\r\n\r\nThis is where confidence begins.\r\n\r\n","stateFullName":"California","proposalURL":"https://www.donorschoose.org/project/from-sand-to-stem-exploring-dune-in-the/10173709/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"imageURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/user/src/u8225741_src.jpg?crop=540,540,x207,y0&width=210&height=210&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1774226691641","id":10173709,"state":"CA","title":"From Sand to STEM: Exploring Dune in the Tech Classroom"},{"schoolName":"Superior Street Elementary Charter School","city":"Chatsworth","costToComplete":148.39,"teacherName":"Mrs. Kim","fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students the opportunity to build strong reading habits with books they will love.","totalPrice":169.56,"hideTeacherDetails":false,"essay":"Building strong reading habits starts with consistent practice at home. In our classroom, students are excited about books; they love listening to stories, exploring new topics, and talking about what they read with their classmates. One series that always sparks laughter and engagement is Narwhal and Jelly by Ben Clanton. These fun, colorful graphic-style books capture students’ attention while supporting early reading skills like comprehension, dialogue, and sequencing in a kid-friendly way. While my students are eager to read, not all of them have access to books they can take home and enjoy outside of school.\r\n\r\nThrough this project, I want to provide each student with their own Narwhal and Jelly books to use during nightly reading time. Having books of their own helps students practice important reading skills, build confidence, and develop a love for reading in a meaningful and personal way.\r\n\r\nWhen children are excited about what they’re reading, it becomes a joyful part of their daily routine instead of a chore. With your support, every student will have the opportunity to laugh, learn, and grow as a reader with books they truly love, helping them build a strong foundation in literacy.","stateFullName":"California","proposalURL":"https://www.donorschoose.org/project/from-classroom-to-home-growing-readers/10178914/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"imageURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/user/src/u1300231_src.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x504,y0&width=210&height=210&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1650490861526","id":10178914,"state":"CA","title":"From Classroom to Home: Growing Readers Every Night Part 6"}]
[{"profilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9420091_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y362&width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1743987564133","schoolName":"Haskell Elementary Steam Magnet","costToComplete":164.86,"teacherId":9420091,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Mrs. Maffei","numDonors":2,"numStudents":30,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students their own copy of the book - \"What Was the Gold Rush?\" so they can actively engage in our history unit and experience this important event in a meaningful way.","totalPrice":186.62,"povertyLevel":"More than half of students from low‑income households","essay":"My fourth graders are curious, engaged, and love learning about the history of our state. I especially enjoy how excited they become when they can connect what they are learning to real places and events in California. They ask thoughtful questions and enjoy imagining what life was like during different time periods.\r\n\r\nProviding each student with a copy of What Was the Gold Rush? will allow them to fully immerse themselves in this important part of California history. Instead of sharing limited materials, each student will be able to follow along, annotate, and participate in meaningful discussions. This book will support reading comprehension while deepening their understanding of the causes and effects of the Gold Rush. By combining literacy with social studies, students will build stronger connections and develop a lasting understanding of this pivotal moment in history.","proposalURL":"project/bringing-the-gold-rush-to-life-through-b/10102451/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"Granada Hills, CA","id":10102451,"title":"Bringing the Gold Rush to Life Through Books"},{"profilePhotoURL":null,"schoolName":"Roybal - Allard Elementary School","costToComplete":301.94,"teacherId":1615448,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Mrs. Navarro","numDonors":10,"numStudents":14,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students social emotional learning tools to learn how to express their feelings and learn how to cope with their personal emotions.","totalPrice":770.76,"povertyLevel":"Nearly all students from low‑income households","essay":"My students with disabilities work incredibly hard each day—not only academically, but socially and emotionally. Many of them face challenges with communication, emotional regulation, self-confidence, and peer relationships. \r\n\r\nThis project will provide specialized social-emotional learning (SEL) materials designed to help them develop essential life skills in a supportive, structured, and engaging way. I teach a group of exceptional students with diverse learning needs, including learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, intellectual disabilities, and social emotional/behavioral challenges. Many of my students struggle with identifying emotions, expressing their needs appropriately, managing frustration, and navigating social interactions.\r\n\r\nFor these students, social-emotional learning is not an “extra”—it is foundational. When they feel regulated, confident, and understood, they are better able to focus, learn, and thrive academically.\r\nStudents with disabilities often require explicit instruction, visual supports, sensory tools, and structured practice to develop social-emotional skills. Traditional classroom materials are not always accessible or developmentally appropriate for their needs.\r\n\r\nThe materials requested in this project will help students: Identify and label emotions, Practice coping and calming strategies, Develop communication and self-advocacy skills, Build positive peer relationships, Strengthen self-regulation and problem-solving abilities, These skills are critical not only for academic success but for lifelong independence and well-being. \r\n","proposalURL":"project/empowering-every-ability-through-social/10112045/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":false,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"Huntington Park, CA","id":10112045,"title":"“Empowering Every Ability Through Social-Emotional Learning”"},{"profilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10009011_orig.jpg?crop=341,341,x316,y476&width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1745972818568","schoolName":"Breeze Hill Elementary School","costToComplete":865.07,"teacherId":10009011,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Mrs. Cole","numDonors":10,"numStudents":150,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students an updated Spanish book collection for their library.","totalPrice":1342.88,"povertyLevel":"More than half of students from low‑income households","essay":"Thank you all so much for taking the time to read this message. I truly appreciate your support and consideration. I am reaching out because I would love some help updating the Spanish section of our library. Many of my students are eager to read in Spanish, but our current collection is outdated and no longer reflects the interests of today’s readers. My goal is to refresh the shelves with engaging, up-to-date titles and popular books that students are excited about. With your support, we can provide meaningful, relevant reading opportunities that inspire and empower our students every day.","proposalURL":"project/spanish-books-are-needed/10120303/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"Vista, CA","id":10120303,"title":"Spanish Books are Needed"},{"profilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3156682_orig.jpg?crop=439,439,x266,y219&width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754166595016","schoolName":"Ledge Street School","costToComplete":215.02,"teacherId":3156682,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Ms. Gallagher","numDonors":4,"numStudents":21,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students reading buddies to practice all of the reading skills.","totalPrice":518.55,"povertyLevel":"More than half of students from low‑income households","essay":"I would like to give my kindergarten students a reading buddy and a book. The plush and book are from our favorite series of stories. Pete is a character we have loved and read many of his stories this school year. They will be so excited to receive a Pete plush and book. My students have worked so hard on their reading. It would be so nice to be able to have a story for them to share with their families. We appreciate all of your support and encouragement for all our learning this school year. ","proposalURL":"project/reading-buddies/10129778/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"Nashua, NH","id":10129778,"title":"Reading Buddies"},{"profilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp187785_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1773274196565","schoolName":"Cherokee Point Elementary School","costToComplete":458.67,"teacherId":187785,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Ms. Patolai","numDonors":10,"numStudents":25,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students the engaging books they need to love reading. I have selected some familiar titles that I know my students love and will love reading. Please help change a life!","totalPrice":1322.67,"povertyLevel":"More than three‑quarters of students from low‑income households","essay":"As a second grade teacher of high risk students in an inner city school, I struggle to engage my students in reading. Having the right books makes all the difference! Please help provide the titles they love so I can read the books in class during guided reading, and allow students to take the books home and read them to their families. Please help me provide quality reading materials for my students and families. When students are interested in reading. They will read. Please help by providing the titles they love like Captain Underpants, National Geographic series, and Pete the Cat books. \r\nThank you ","proposalURL":"project/please-give-the-gift-of-joyful-literacy/10146303/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"San Diego, CA","id":10146303,"title":"Please Give the Gift of Joyful Literacy!"},{"profilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8223829_orig.jpg?crop=1440,1440,x0,y158&width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1681332262428","schoolName":"W.D. Hall Elementary School","costToComplete":454.93,"teacherId":8223829,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Ms. Asnicar","numDonors":6,"numStudents":115,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students the magic of the Harry Potter books! ","totalPrice":813.75,"povertyLevel":"Nearly all students from low‑income households","essay":"For the last month of school, I want to bring a little magic into our classroom by reading the Harry Potter series with my students. This time of year can be exciting but also tiring, and a shared story can keep students engaged and inspired. By turning our classroom into a magical world, students will be able to imagine, discuss, and connect with the characters and lessons in the story. Many of my students have never experienced these books before. With your help, we can end the school year with adventure, imagination, and a love of reading that they will remember long after 5th grade.\r\n\r\nBy donating, you will help place these beloved books into their hands and create a classroom where the joy of reading truly comes to life.","proposalURL":"project/harry-potter-5th-grade/10146707/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"El Cajon, CA","id":10146707,"title":"Harry Potter-5th Grade!"},{"profilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1327469_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1769975144577","schoolName":"Berenece Carlson Home Hospital School","costToComplete":349.58,"teacherId":1327469,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Ms. Katie","numDonors":22,"numStudents":20,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students books and materials to make the literacy class engaging.","totalPrice":1250.69,"povertyLevel":"More than three‑quarters of students from low‑income households","essay":"I am a Home and Hospital teacher so I work with students living in the hospital or who need to be at home because of their physical or mental health challenges. Since many of my students have suffered in life, I try to make my lessons meaningful and engaging with cool books or exciting games.\r\n\r\nThe items in this project will make a difference for my students because the books are ones that they have expressed interest in and they would love to have access to in class. Since my students can't visit the public libraries, my goal for this project would be to provide a wide variety of quality books that would make my students' lives better. My students are kids who are very isolated and reading would open up new worlds for them.","proposalURL":"project/learning-to-read-is-the-key-to-everythin/10149827/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"N Hollywood, CA","id":10149827,"title":"Learning to Read is the Key to Everything!"},{"profilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6429132_orig.jpg?crop=937,937,x756,y1088&width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1660161330537","schoolName":"Glassell Park Elementary S.T.E.A.M. Magnet","costToComplete":455.09,"teacherId":6429132,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Mr. Valadez","numDonors":6,"numStudents":35,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students more graphic novels in the classroom to have more books for the love of reading.","totalPrice":940.39,"povertyLevel":"Nearly all students from low‑income households","essay":"My students are curious, thoughtful, and eager to understand the world around them. They ask big questions, engage in meaningful discussions, and bring diverse perspectives shaped by their cultures, experiences, and interests. Many of my students are developing readers who are highly motivated when learning feels relevant and empowering. When given access to high-quality, engaging texts, they rise to the challenge and show incredible growth as critical thinkers and lifelong learners.\r\n\r\nThe books in this project will provide my students with current, high-interest, and culturally responsive texts that support both academic growth and a love of reading. These resources will be used during independent reading.\r\n\r\nSpecifically, these books will help my students:\r\n- Strengthen reading comprehension skills such as identifying main ideas, analyzing text features, and citing evidence\r\n- Develop academic vocabulary and language skills, especially for English Learners\r\n- See themselves and the world reflected in texts that highlight diverse people, places, and perspectives\r\n- Engage more confidently in discussions, writing tasks, and inquiry-based learning\r\n\r\nAccess to new books will ensure that all students—regardless of reading level—can explore topics that spark their curiosity while practicing essential literacy skills. These books will empower my students to become informed readers who ask questions, seek evidence, and make connections between what they read and their own lives.\r\n\r\nI am also adding a water bottle to this project as well. A reusable bottle will also support our classroom’s commitment to environmental responsibility by reducing single-use plastic waste and encouraging students to develop sustainable habits.\r\n\r\nThank you for supporting my students and helping create a classroom library that inspires curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning.","proposalURL":"project/needing-new-and-different-graphic-novels/10156682/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"Los Angeles, CA","id":10156682,"title":"Needing New and Different Graphic Novels for 5th"},{"profilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp626652_orig.jpg?crop=652,653,x0,y0&width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1588286614079","schoolName":"South Gate Middle School","costToComplete":177.26,"teacherId":626652,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Mrs. Chamorro","numDonors":4,"numStudents":125,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students their own copy of the timeless classic, \"The Lord of the Flies\" to foster a love of reading!","totalPrice":416.67,"povertyLevel":"Nearly all students from low‑income households","essay":"I love that my students read a lot. However, they often consume very brief nonfiction texts through their social media. This year, I embraced a motto,\"no tech, high texts\" in my classroom. Ipads and Chromebooks are tucked away and books and notebooks are out. In the fall semester, we read The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton and the kids were hooked from beginning to end. Students were able to empathize, make connections, discuss and argue about the theme and topics of the book. I want to continue fostering that love of books by delving into the very exciting and palpable plot of The Lord of the Flies by William Golding. \r\nI can foresee students enthralled by the ethical themes in the book and thus it will be easy to capitalize on this to improve their reading skills by annotating the text to follow how the characters develop over time, evaluate multiple perspectives, discuss themes of morality, violence, and fairness. My students are highly opinionated and often stubborn in a good way. I hope to challenge their thinking with this book, build their stamina for reading longer texts, and sharpen their critical thinking skills. Please help me get each student an individual copy! ","proposalURL":"project/no-techhigh-texts-fighting-illiteracy/10157554/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"South Gate, CA","id":10157554,"title":"No Tech,High Texts: Fighting Illiteracy One Classic at a Time"},{"profilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7821463_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1618767896185","schoolName":"Dr Mildred D Henry Elementary School","costToComplete":199.25,"teacherId":7821463,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Mrs. Macias","numDonors":12,"numStudents":12,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students supplies for our low vision summer school programs like an air fryer, low vision pencils, reading passages, shoe tying books and recreational reading books.","totalPrice":540.19,"povertyLevel":"Nearly all students from low‑income households","essay":"My students are bright, curious learners attending summer school to strengthen their academic skills and confidence. They are students with low vision who require accessible, engaging materials to fully participate in reading activities. Many of them work harder than their peers to access text, and without the right resources, reading can feel frustrating instead of enjoyable.Despite these challenges, my students are eager to learn. They love stories, hands-on activities, and opportunities to build independence. With the right books and supports, they can thrive as readers.\r\n\r\nThis project will provide high-interest, accessible books to support literacy development for my low vision students during summer school.\r\n\r\nThe books I’ve selected include early readers, engaging series like Pinkalicious, and skill-building materials such as math fluency workbooks and functional life skills books (like learning to tie shoes). These materials will:\r\nOffer large print and visually accessible formats\tProvide high-interest content to keep students engaged\r\n\r\nSupport foundational reading and math skills\r\nEncourage independent reading practice\r\nMany of my students need repeated exposure to text in a format they can comfortably see. Having their own accessible books will allow them to practice both in the classroom and at home.","proposalURL":"project/bringing-books-to-life-for-learners-with/10159709/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"San Bernardino, CA","id":10159709,"title":"Bringing Books to Life for Learners With Low Vision"},{"profilePhotoURL":null,"schoolName":"MacArthur Park Vpa","costToComplete":174.42,"teacherId":787470,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Ms. Brossy de Dios","numDonors":8,"numStudents":20,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students a set of Kindness and Compassion books, Cultures of the World Theme Book Library, and other great books to help my students learn about themselves and their world.","totalPrice":701.84,"povertyLevel":"Nearly all students from low‑income households","essay":"I love the fact that my 4 and 5 year old students walk into my classroom after snack time and head straight to our classroom library. They enjoy sitting on our two classroom couches or on the carpet to read their books. They ask me to read to them while their classmates are finishing their snacks. \r\n\r\nAccess to books is key to helping to shrink the achievement gap. Kids who read, or are read to by adults, are more successful in school than kids who don't read or don't have adults in their lives who read to them. I am requesting books to add to our classroom library that deal with understanding our feelings, including the separation anxiety that so many young children experience. The books, \"Love,\" \"The Invisible String,\" and \"The Kissing Hand\" are great books to help children understand that even though their parent or loved one is not with them (such as when children are at school,) the love and connection between them is always there. \r\n\r\nThe books in the Kindness and Compassion set, such as \"Have You Filled a Bucket Today?\" help children understand that we all have a role to play in building community and spreading kindness. The Cultures of the World books will help bring awareness of other people and will help sow the seeds of community and mutual respect. \r\n\r\nI will use most of these books in my classroom, in both our indoor and our outdoor libraries. But I will also send some of these books home for a week at a time for families to enjoy together in our reading backpacks. The Spanish Board Book collection will be especially useful in this area. ","proposalURL":"project/books-bind-us-to-each-other/10166054/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"Los Angeles, CA","id":10166054,"title":"Books Bind Us to Each Other"},{"profilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp2760560_272x272.jpg?width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1501201081267","schoolName":"Sanders - Clyde Elementary School","costToComplete":155.78,"teacherId":2760560,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Mrs. Siebert","numDonors":2,"numStudents":350,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students a fun new monthly puzzle center in our school library!","totalPrice":255.78,"povertyLevel":"Nearly all students from low‑income households","essay":"Puzzles are a powerful learning tool in an elementary school library because they combine play with meaningful skill-building. When students work on puzzles, they strengthen critical thinking, problem-solving, and perseverance. They learn to recognize patterns, use logic, and develop strategies—all essential skills that support reading, math, and overall academic success.\r\n\r\nIn the library, puzzles also promote collaboration and communication. Students naturally gather around a puzzle, sharing ideas, taking turns, and encouraging one another. This builds social skills and a sense of community, turning the library into a space where learning is both interactive and inclusive.\r\n\r\nFor many of our students, who come from low-income families, access to puzzles and similar hands-on learning materials at home is limited. Providing a monthly puzzle center ensures that every child has the opportunity to engage with these enriching activities. It helps bridge the gap by offering experiences that spark curiosity, build confidence, and make learning joyful.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, puzzles give students a chance to succeed in a different way. A child who may struggle with traditional academics can shine while completing a puzzle, gaining a sense of accomplishment and pride. By incorporating puzzles into our library, we are not only supporting academic growth but also nurturing creativity, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning.","proposalURL":"project/piece-by-piece-building-minds-with-mont/10169240/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"Charleston, SC","id":10169240,"title":"Piece by Piece: Building Minds with Monthly Puzzles"},{"profilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1468083_orig.png?crop=398,398,x0,y0&width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690504130412","schoolName":"Rolando Park Elementary School","costToComplete":169.34,"teacherId":1468083,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Mrs. Dennis","numDonors":0,"numStudents":23,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students a variety of books to help them learn about the California Gold Rush.","totalPrice":169.34,"povertyLevel":"More than three‑quarters of students from low‑income households","essay":"My students are beginning an exciting unit on the California Gold Rush, a pivotal time in our state’s history that shaped communities, culture, and opportunity. To truly understand this era, students need more than a textbook—they need access to engaging, high-interest books that bring history to life.\r\n\r\nThis project will provide a collection of nonfiction texts, historical fiction, and graphic novels focused on the Gold Rush. \r\n\r\nThese requested books will allow my students to explore the experiences of miners, families, and diverse groups who traveled to California in search of a better life. Through these stories and informational texts, students will build background knowledge, strengthen reading comprehension, and develop a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities during this time period.\r\n\r\nWith these resources, my students will participate in literature circles, research projects, and interactive discussions. The variety of text types will support all learners, especially striving readers, by offering multiple entry points into the content. By connecting literacy with social studies, students will not only learn history—they will experience it in a meaningful and memorable way.","proposalURL":"project/striking-gold-bringing-the-gold-rush-to/10173391/","hasReceivedDonations":false,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"San Diego, CA","id":10173391,"title":"Striking Gold: Bringing the Gold Rush to Life Through Books"},{"profilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8225741_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y38&width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1758002073664","schoolName":"Hoover High School","costToComplete":180.42,"teacherId":8225741,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Mrs. Leon","numDonors":8,"numStudents":108,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students the opportunity to experience Dune in an accessible, engaging way, building confidence while connecting powerful themes to our world and growing as readers and thinkers.","totalPrice":439.25,"povertyLevel":"Nearly all students from low‑income households","essay":"My students are curious, thoughtful freshmen in our Media, Entertainment, and Technology Academy, where they explore coding, computer science, and video production at a predominately low income school. As I prepare to enter this new academy next year, I am excited to design learning that meets their needs through a technology focused lens. What I love most about my students is their resilience. They continue to try even when learning feels challenging. They think from multiple perspectives, care deeply about others, and truly want to learn, even when they have not always been given the opportunities they deserve.\r\n\r\nWhat if one book could help students understand the technology driven world they are growing up in and give them the skills to question and navigate it?\r\n\r\nWith this project, I hope to bring a class set of Dune and graphic novel versions to support English learners and emerging readers. These resources will help all students access complex ideas, build confidence, and engage in meaningful discussions. By connecting Dune to real world issues and technology, students will strengthen literacy skills while exploring ideas that shape their lives and futures.\r\n\r\nThis project is about more than books, it is about giving students the confidence to see themselves as thinkers, readers, and future change makers in a world that needs their voices.\r\n\r\nThis is where confidence begins.\r\n\r\n","proposalURL":"project/from-sand-to-stem-exploring-dune-in-the/10173709/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"San Diego, CA","id":10173709,"title":"From Sand to STEM: Exploring Dune in the Tech Classroom"},{"profilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1300231_orig.jpg?crop=2880,2880,x0,y0&width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1588691234084","schoolName":"Superior Street Elementary Charter School","costToComplete":148.39,"teacherId":1300231,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Mrs. Kim","numDonors":2,"numStudents":24,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students the opportunity to build strong reading habits with books they will love.","totalPrice":169.56,"povertyLevel":"More than half of students from low‑income households","essay":"Building strong reading habits starts with consistent practice at home. In our classroom, students are excited about books; they love listening to stories, exploring new topics, and talking about what they read with their classmates. One series that always sparks laughter and engagement is Narwhal and Jelly by Ben Clanton. These fun, colorful graphic-style books capture students’ attention while supporting early reading skills like comprehension, dialogue, and sequencing in a kid-friendly way. While my students are eager to read, not all of them have access to books they can take home and enjoy outside of school.\r\n\r\nThrough this project, I want to provide each student with their own Narwhal and Jelly books to use during nightly reading time. Having books of their own helps students practice important reading skills, build confidence, and develop a love for reading in a meaningful and personal way.\r\n\r\nWhen children are excited about what they’re reading, it becomes a joyful part of their daily routine instead of a chore. With your support, every student will have the opportunity to laugh, learn, and grow as a reader with books they truly love, helping them build a strong foundation in literacy.","proposalURL":"project/from-classroom-to-home-growing-readers/10178914/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"Chatsworth, CA","id":10178914,"title":"From Classroom to Home: Growing Readers Every Night Part 6"}]
[{"profilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9420091_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y362&width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1743987564133","schoolName":"Haskell Elementary Steam Magnet","costToComplete":164.86,"teacherId":9420091,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Mrs. Maffei","numDonors":2,"numStudents":30,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students their own copy of the book - \"What Was the Gold Rush?\" so they can actively engage in our history unit and experience this important event in a meaningful way.","totalPrice":186.62,"povertyLevel":"More than half of students from low‑income households","essay":"My fourth graders are curious, engaged, and love learning about the history of our state. I especially enjoy how excited they become when they can connect what they are learning to real places and events in California. They ask thoughtful questions and enjoy imagining what life was like during different time periods.\r\n\r\nProviding each student with a copy of What Was the Gold Rush? will allow them to fully immerse themselves in this important part of California history. Instead of sharing limited materials, each student will be able to follow along, annotate, and participate in meaningful discussions. This book will support reading comprehension while deepening their understanding of the causes and effects of the Gold Rush. By combining literacy with social studies, students will build stronger connections and develop a lasting understanding of this pivotal moment in history.","proposalURL":"project/bringing-the-gold-rush-to-life-through-b/10102451/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"Granada Hills, CA","id":10102451,"title":"Bringing the Gold Rush to Life Through Books"},{"profilePhotoURL":null,"schoolName":"Roybal - Allard Elementary School","costToComplete":301.94,"teacherId":1615448,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Mrs. Navarro","numDonors":10,"numStudents":14,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students social emotional learning tools to learn how to express their feelings and learn how to cope with their personal emotions.","totalPrice":770.76,"povertyLevel":"Nearly all students from low‑income households","essay":"My students with disabilities work incredibly hard each day—not only academically, but socially and emotionally. Many of them face challenges with communication, emotional regulation, self-confidence, and peer relationships. \r\n\r\nThis project will provide specialized social-emotional learning (SEL) materials designed to help them develop essential life skills in a supportive, structured, and engaging way. I teach a group of exceptional students with diverse learning needs, including learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, intellectual disabilities, and social emotional/behavioral challenges. Many of my students struggle with identifying emotions, expressing their needs appropriately, managing frustration, and navigating social interactions.\r\n\r\nFor these students, social-emotional learning is not an “extra”—it is foundational. When they feel regulated, confident, and understood, they are better able to focus, learn, and thrive academically.\r\nStudents with disabilities often require explicit instruction, visual supports, sensory tools, and structured practice to develop social-emotional skills. Traditional classroom materials are not always accessible or developmentally appropriate for their needs.\r\n\r\nThe materials requested in this project will help students: Identify and label emotions, Practice coping and calming strategies, Develop communication and self-advocacy skills, Build positive peer relationships, Strengthen self-regulation and problem-solving abilities, These skills are critical not only for academic success but for lifelong independence and well-being. \r\n","proposalURL":"project/empowering-every-ability-through-social/10112045/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":false,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"Huntington Park, CA","id":10112045,"title":"“Empowering Every Ability Through Social-Emotional Learning”"},{"profilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10009011_orig.jpg?crop=341,341,x316,y476&width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1745972818568","schoolName":"Breeze Hill Elementary School","costToComplete":865.07,"teacherId":10009011,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Mrs. Cole","numDonors":10,"numStudents":150,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students an updated Spanish book collection for their library.","totalPrice":1342.88,"povertyLevel":"More than half of students from low‑income households","essay":"Thank you all so much for taking the time to read this message. I truly appreciate your support and consideration. I am reaching out because I would love some help updating the Spanish section of our library. Many of my students are eager to read in Spanish, but our current collection is outdated and no longer reflects the interests of today’s readers. My goal is to refresh the shelves with engaging, up-to-date titles and popular books that students are excited about. With your support, we can provide meaningful, relevant reading opportunities that inspire and empower our students every day.","proposalURL":"project/spanish-books-are-needed/10120303/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"Vista, CA","id":10120303,"title":"Spanish Books are Needed"},{"profilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3156682_orig.jpg?crop=439,439,x266,y219&width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754166595016","schoolName":"Ledge Street School","costToComplete":215.02,"teacherId":3156682,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Ms. Gallagher","numDonors":4,"numStudents":21,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students reading buddies to practice all of the reading skills.","totalPrice":518.55,"povertyLevel":"More than half of students from low‑income households","essay":"I would like to give my kindergarten students a reading buddy and a book. The plush and book are from our favorite series of stories. Pete is a character we have loved and read many of his stories this school year. They will be so excited to receive a Pete plush and book. My students have worked so hard on their reading. It would be so nice to be able to have a story for them to share with their families. We appreciate all of your support and encouragement for all our learning this school year. ","proposalURL":"project/reading-buddies/10129778/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"Nashua, NH","id":10129778,"title":"Reading Buddies"},{"profilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp187785_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1773274196565","schoolName":"Cherokee Point Elementary School","costToComplete":458.67,"teacherId":187785,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Ms. Patolai","numDonors":10,"numStudents":25,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students the engaging books they need to love reading. I have selected some familiar titles that I know my students love and will love reading. Please help change a life!","totalPrice":1322.67,"povertyLevel":"More than three‑quarters of students from low‑income households","essay":"As a second grade teacher of high risk students in an inner city school, I struggle to engage my students in reading. Having the right books makes all the difference! Please help provide the titles they love so I can read the books in class during guided reading, and allow students to take the books home and read them to their families. Please help me provide quality reading materials for my students and families. When students are interested in reading. They will read. Please help by providing the titles they love like Captain Underpants, National Geographic series, and Pete the Cat books. \r\nThank you ","proposalURL":"project/please-give-the-gift-of-joyful-literacy/10146303/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"San Diego, CA","id":10146303,"title":"Please Give the Gift of Joyful Literacy!"},{"profilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8223829_orig.jpg?crop=1440,1440,x0,y158&width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1681332262428","schoolName":"W.D. Hall Elementary School","costToComplete":454.93,"teacherId":8223829,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Ms. Asnicar","numDonors":6,"numStudents":115,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students the magic of the Harry Potter books! ","totalPrice":813.75,"povertyLevel":"Nearly all students from low‑income households","essay":"For the last month of school, I want to bring a little magic into our classroom by reading the Harry Potter series with my students. This time of year can be exciting but also tiring, and a shared story can keep students engaged and inspired. By turning our classroom into a magical world, students will be able to imagine, discuss, and connect with the characters and lessons in the story. Many of my students have never experienced these books before. With your help, we can end the school year with adventure, imagination, and a love of reading that they will remember long after 5th grade.\r\n\r\nBy donating, you will help place these beloved books into their hands and create a classroom where the joy of reading truly comes to life.","proposalURL":"project/harry-potter-5th-grade/10146707/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"El Cajon, CA","id":10146707,"title":"Harry Potter-5th Grade!"},{"profilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1327469_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1769975144577","schoolName":"Berenece Carlson Home Hospital School","costToComplete":349.58,"teacherId":1327469,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Ms. Katie","numDonors":22,"numStudents":20,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students books and materials to make the literacy class engaging.","totalPrice":1250.69,"povertyLevel":"More than three‑quarters of students from low‑income households","essay":"I am a Home and Hospital teacher so I work with students living in the hospital or who need to be at home because of their physical or mental health challenges. Since many of my students have suffered in life, I try to make my lessons meaningful and engaging with cool books or exciting games.\r\n\r\nThe items in this project will make a difference for my students because the books are ones that they have expressed interest in and they would love to have access to in class. Since my students can't visit the public libraries, my goal for this project would be to provide a wide variety of quality books that would make my students' lives better. My students are kids who are very isolated and reading would open up new worlds for them.","proposalURL":"project/learning-to-read-is-the-key-to-everythin/10149827/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"N Hollywood, CA","id":10149827,"title":"Learning to Read is the Key to Everything!"},{"profilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6429132_orig.jpg?crop=937,937,x756,y1088&width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1660161330537","schoolName":"Glassell Park Elementary S.T.E.A.M. Magnet","costToComplete":455.09,"teacherId":6429132,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Mr. Valadez","numDonors":6,"numStudents":35,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students more graphic novels in the classroom to have more books for the love of reading.","totalPrice":940.39,"povertyLevel":"Nearly all students from low‑income households","essay":"My students are curious, thoughtful, and eager to understand the world around them. They ask big questions, engage in meaningful discussions, and bring diverse perspectives shaped by their cultures, experiences, and interests. Many of my students are developing readers who are highly motivated when learning feels relevant and empowering. When given access to high-quality, engaging texts, they rise to the challenge and show incredible growth as critical thinkers and lifelong learners.\r\n\r\nThe books in this project will provide my students with current, high-interest, and culturally responsive texts that support both academic growth and a love of reading. These resources will be used during independent reading.\r\n\r\nSpecifically, these books will help my students:\r\n- Strengthen reading comprehension skills such as identifying main ideas, analyzing text features, and citing evidence\r\n- Develop academic vocabulary and language skills, especially for English Learners\r\n- See themselves and the world reflected in texts that highlight diverse people, places, and perspectives\r\n- Engage more confidently in discussions, writing tasks, and inquiry-based learning\r\n\r\nAccess to new books will ensure that all students—regardless of reading level—can explore topics that spark their curiosity while practicing essential literacy skills. These books will empower my students to become informed readers who ask questions, seek evidence, and make connections between what they read and their own lives.\r\n\r\nI am also adding a water bottle to this project as well. A reusable bottle will also support our classroom’s commitment to environmental responsibility by reducing single-use plastic waste and encouraging students to develop sustainable habits.\r\n\r\nThank you for supporting my students and helping create a classroom library that inspires curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning.","proposalURL":"project/needing-new-and-different-graphic-novels/10156682/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"Los Angeles, CA","id":10156682,"title":"Needing New and Different Graphic Novels for 5th"},{"profilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp626652_orig.jpg?crop=652,653,x0,y0&width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1588286614079","schoolName":"South Gate Middle School","costToComplete":177.26,"teacherId":626652,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Mrs. Chamorro","numDonors":4,"numStudents":125,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students their own copy of the timeless classic, \"The Lord of the Flies\" to foster a love of reading!","totalPrice":416.67,"povertyLevel":"Nearly all students from low‑income households","essay":"I love that my students read a lot. However, they often consume very brief nonfiction texts through their social media. This year, I embraced a motto,\"no tech, high texts\" in my classroom. Ipads and Chromebooks are tucked away and books and notebooks are out. In the fall semester, we read The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton and the kids were hooked from beginning to end. Students were able to empathize, make connections, discuss and argue about the theme and topics of the book. I want to continue fostering that love of books by delving into the very exciting and palpable plot of The Lord of the Flies by William Golding. \r\nI can foresee students enthralled by the ethical themes in the book and thus it will be easy to capitalize on this to improve their reading skills by annotating the text to follow how the characters develop over time, evaluate multiple perspectives, discuss themes of morality, violence, and fairness. My students are highly opinionated and often stubborn in a good way. I hope to challenge their thinking with this book, build their stamina for reading longer texts, and sharpen their critical thinking skills. Please help me get each student an individual copy! ","proposalURL":"project/no-techhigh-texts-fighting-illiteracy/10157554/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"South Gate, CA","id":10157554,"title":"No Tech,High Texts: Fighting Illiteracy One Classic at a Time"},{"profilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7821463_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1618767896185","schoolName":"Dr Mildred D Henry Elementary School","costToComplete":199.25,"teacherId":7821463,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Mrs. Macias","numDonors":12,"numStudents":12,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students supplies for our low vision summer school programs like an air fryer, low vision pencils, reading passages, shoe tying books and recreational reading books.","totalPrice":540.19,"povertyLevel":"Nearly all students from low‑income households","essay":"My students are bright, curious learners attending summer school to strengthen their academic skills and confidence. They are students with low vision who require accessible, engaging materials to fully participate in reading activities. Many of them work harder than their peers to access text, and without the right resources, reading can feel frustrating instead of enjoyable.Despite these challenges, my students are eager to learn. They love stories, hands-on activities, and opportunities to build independence. With the right books and supports, they can thrive as readers.\r\n\r\nThis project will provide high-interest, accessible books to support literacy development for my low vision students during summer school.\r\n\r\nThe books I’ve selected include early readers, engaging series like Pinkalicious, and skill-building materials such as math fluency workbooks and functional life skills books (like learning to tie shoes). These materials will:\r\nOffer large print and visually accessible formats\tProvide high-interest content to keep students engaged\r\n\r\nSupport foundational reading and math skills\r\nEncourage independent reading practice\r\nMany of my students need repeated exposure to text in a format they can comfortably see. Having their own accessible books will allow them to practice both in the classroom and at home.","proposalURL":"project/bringing-books-to-life-for-learners-with/10159709/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"San Bernardino, CA","id":10159709,"title":"Bringing Books to Life for Learners With Low Vision"},{"profilePhotoURL":null,"schoolName":"MacArthur Park Vpa","costToComplete":174.42,"teacherId":787470,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Ms. Brossy de Dios","numDonors":8,"numStudents":20,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students a set of Kindness and Compassion books, Cultures of the World Theme Book Library, and other great books to help my students learn about themselves and their world.","totalPrice":701.84,"povertyLevel":"Nearly all students from low‑income households","essay":"I love the fact that my 4 and 5 year old students walk into my classroom after snack time and head straight to our classroom library. They enjoy sitting on our two classroom couches or on the carpet to read their books. They ask me to read to them while their classmates are finishing their snacks. \r\n\r\nAccess to books is key to helping to shrink the achievement gap. Kids who read, or are read to by adults, are more successful in school than kids who don't read or don't have adults in their lives who read to them. I am requesting books to add to our classroom library that deal with understanding our feelings, including the separation anxiety that so many young children experience. The books, \"Love,\" \"The Invisible String,\" and \"The Kissing Hand\" are great books to help children understand that even though their parent or loved one is not with them (such as when children are at school,) the love and connection between them is always there. \r\n\r\nThe books in the Kindness and Compassion set, such as \"Have You Filled a Bucket Today?\" help children understand that we all have a role to play in building community and spreading kindness. The Cultures of the World books will help bring awareness of other people and will help sow the seeds of community and mutual respect. \r\n\r\nI will use most of these books in my classroom, in both our indoor and our outdoor libraries. But I will also send some of these books home for a week at a time for families to enjoy together in our reading backpacks. The Spanish Board Book collection will be especially useful in this area. ","proposalURL":"project/books-bind-us-to-each-other/10166054/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"Los Angeles, CA","id":10166054,"title":"Books Bind Us to Each Other"},{"profilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp2760560_272x272.jpg?width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1501201081267","schoolName":"Sanders - Clyde Elementary School","costToComplete":155.78,"teacherId":2760560,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Mrs. Siebert","numDonors":2,"numStudents":350,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students a fun new monthly puzzle center in our school library!","totalPrice":255.78,"povertyLevel":"Nearly all students from low‑income households","essay":"Puzzles are a powerful learning tool in an elementary school library because they combine play with meaningful skill-building. When students work on puzzles, they strengthen critical thinking, problem-solving, and perseverance. They learn to recognize patterns, use logic, and develop strategies—all essential skills that support reading, math, and overall academic success.\r\n\r\nIn the library, puzzles also promote collaboration and communication. Students naturally gather around a puzzle, sharing ideas, taking turns, and encouraging one another. This builds social skills and a sense of community, turning the library into a space where learning is both interactive and inclusive.\r\n\r\nFor many of our students, who come from low-income families, access to puzzles and similar hands-on learning materials at home is limited. Providing a monthly puzzle center ensures that every child has the opportunity to engage with these enriching activities. It helps bridge the gap by offering experiences that spark curiosity, build confidence, and make learning joyful.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, puzzles give students a chance to succeed in a different way. A child who may struggle with traditional academics can shine while completing a puzzle, gaining a sense of accomplishment and pride. By incorporating puzzles into our library, we are not only supporting academic growth but also nurturing creativity, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning.","proposalURL":"project/piece-by-piece-building-minds-with-mont/10169240/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"Charleston, SC","id":10169240,"title":"Piece by Piece: Building Minds with Monthly Puzzles"},{"profilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1468083_orig.png?crop=398,398,x0,y0&width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690504130412","schoolName":"Rolando Park Elementary School","costToComplete":169.34,"teacherId":1468083,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Mrs. Dennis","numDonors":0,"numStudents":23,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students a variety of books to help them learn about the California Gold Rush.","totalPrice":169.34,"povertyLevel":"More than three‑quarters of students from low‑income households","essay":"My students are beginning an exciting unit on the California Gold Rush, a pivotal time in our state’s history that shaped communities, culture, and opportunity. To truly understand this era, students need more than a textbook—they need access to engaging, high-interest books that bring history to life.\r\n\r\nThis project will provide a collection of nonfiction texts, historical fiction, and graphic novels focused on the Gold Rush. \r\n\r\nThese requested books will allow my students to explore the experiences of miners, families, and diverse groups who traveled to California in search of a better life. Through these stories and informational texts, students will build background knowledge, strengthen reading comprehension, and develop a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities during this time period.\r\n\r\nWith these resources, my students will participate in literature circles, research projects, and interactive discussions. The variety of text types will support all learners, especially striving readers, by offering multiple entry points into the content. By connecting literacy with social studies, students will not only learn history—they will experience it in a meaningful and memorable way.","proposalURL":"project/striking-gold-bringing-the-gold-rush-to/10173391/","hasReceivedDonations":false,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"San Diego, CA","id":10173391,"title":"Striking Gold: Bringing the Gold Rush to Life Through Books"},{"profilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8225741_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y38&width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1758002073664","schoolName":"Hoover High School","costToComplete":180.42,"teacherId":8225741,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Mrs. Leon","numDonors":8,"numStudents":108,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students the opportunity to experience Dune in an accessible, engaging way, building confidence while connecting powerful themes to our world and growing as readers and thinkers.","totalPrice":439.25,"povertyLevel":"Nearly all students from low‑income households","essay":"My students are curious, thoughtful freshmen in our Media, Entertainment, and Technology Academy, where they explore coding, computer science, and video production at a predominately low income school. As I prepare to enter this new academy next year, I am excited to design learning that meets their needs through a technology focused lens. What I love most about my students is their resilience. They continue to try even when learning feels challenging. They think from multiple perspectives, care deeply about others, and truly want to learn, even when they have not always been given the opportunities they deserve.\r\n\r\nWhat if one book could help students understand the technology driven world they are growing up in and give them the skills to question and navigate it?\r\n\r\nWith this project, I hope to bring a class set of Dune and graphic novel versions to support English learners and emerging readers. These resources will help all students access complex ideas, build confidence, and engage in meaningful discussions. By connecting Dune to real world issues and technology, students will strengthen literacy skills while exploring ideas that shape their lives and futures.\r\n\r\nThis project is about more than books, it is about giving students the confidence to see themselves as thinkers, readers, and future change makers in a world that needs their voices.\r\n\r\nThis is where confidence begins.\r\n\r\n","proposalURL":"project/from-sand-to-stem-exploring-dune-in-the/10173709/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"San Diego, CA","id":10173709,"title":"From Sand to STEM: Exploring Dune in the Tech Classroom"},{"profilePhotoURL":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1300231_orig.jpg?crop=2880,2880,x0,y0&width=136&height=136&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1588691234084","schoolName":"Superior Street Elementary Charter School","costToComplete":148.39,"teacherId":1300231,"hideDetails":false,"teacherName":"Mrs. Kim","numDonors":2,"numStudents":24,"fulfillmentTrailer":"Help me give my students the opportunity to build strong reading habits with books they will love.","totalPrice":169.56,"povertyLevel":"More than half of students from low‑income households","essay":"Building strong reading habits starts with consistent practice at home. In our classroom, students are excited about books; they love listening to stories, exploring new topics, and talking about what they read with their classmates. One series that always sparks laughter and engagement is Narwhal and Jelly by Ben Clanton. These fun, colorful graphic-style books capture students’ attention while supporting early reading skills like comprehension, dialogue, and sequencing in a kid-friendly way. While my students are eager to read, not all of them have access to books they can take home and enjoy outside of school.\r\n\r\nThrough this project, I want to provide each student with their own Narwhal and Jelly books to use during nightly reading time. Having books of their own helps students practice important reading skills, build confidence, and develop a love for reading in a meaningful and personal way.\r\n\r\nWhen children are excited about what they’re reading, it becomes a joyful part of their daily routine instead of a chore. With your support, every student will have the opportunity to laugh, learn, and grow as a reader with books they truly love, helping them build a strong foundation in literacy.","proposalURL":"project/from-classroom-to-home-growing-readers/10178914/","hasReceivedDonations":true,"hasBeenFunded":true,"matchMultiplier":"2X","location":"Chatsworth, CA","id":10178914,"title":"From Classroom to Home: Growing Readers Every Night Part 6"}]