{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Atwater Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":34.5,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9531437,"projectId":10248771,"letterContent":"Our classroom mailbox system has made a wonderful impact on our Pre-K students. Each child now has their own special space for completed work and communication folders, giving them an opportunity to practice independence and responsibility every day. The students are proud to recognize their names, organize their belongings, and complete this classroom routine on their own. This project has helped build confidence, organization skills, and responsibility while preparing our little learners for the routines they will experience in kindergarten. Thank you for helping us give our students the tools they need to become more independent and successful!","fullyFundedDate":1779127843530,"projectUrl":"project/little-mailboxes-big-responsibility/10248771/","projectTitle":"Little Mailboxes Big Responsibility","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Rafidi","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9531437_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1778205401533","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9531437"},{"teacherId":3630837,"projectId":10285997,"letterContent":"Dear Donors,\r\n\r\nThank you so much for your incredibly generous donation of flexible seating stools for our small group table! I am so grateful for your kindness and for choosing to support my students and our classroom.\r\n\r\nOur small group table is one of the most important spaces in our classroom. It is where I am able to work closely with students in smaller groups and provide them with the individualized instruction, practice, and encouragement they need. Throughout the school day, students will gather at this table for reading, phonics, writing, math, hands-on activities, and extra support. Your donation has helped make this special learning space even more comfortable, inviting, and functional for my first graders.\r\n\r\nThe flexible seating stools are the perfect addition to our classroom. They give students a comfortable place to sit while also allowing them a little movement as they learn. For young children, having seating that meets their needs can make such a difference in their ability to stay focused, engaged, and ready to participate. Instead of worrying about uncomfortable or bulky chairs around our small group table, students now have a seating option that is just right for them.\r\n\r\nAs a first-grade teacher, I want my classroom to be a place where children feel safe, welcomed, excited, and ready to learn each day. Every detail of our classroom environment helps create that feeling, and these stools are one more way to make our learning space work better for my students. I know they will be used and loved every single day throughout the school year.\r\n\r\nYour generosity means more than simply providing new classroom furniture. You are helping create a space where students can build their confidence, take risks, ask questions, practice new skills, and celebrate their growth. Some of our most meaningful learning moments happen around the small group table, and I am so excited that my students now have a comfortable and inviting place to experience those moments.\r\n\r\nTeachers often have big dreams for their classrooms, and donors like you help turn those dreams into reality. Knowing that there are people willing to invest in our students and their education is incredibly encouraging. Your support reminds my students that there are people beyond our classroom walls who believe in them and want to see them succeed.\r\n\r\nThank you again for investing in my first graders and helping me create the best possible learning environment for them. I cannot wait to see all of the learning, laughter, conversations, and \"aha!\" moments that will happen around our small group table this year. Your kindness will make a difference in our classroom every single day, and we are truly grateful for your support!\r\n\r\nWith heartfelt gratitude,\r\n\r\nMrs. Musgrove & Her First Graders ❤️","fullyFundedDate":1779200251488,"projectUrl":"project/small-group-seating-for-big-learning/10285997/","projectTitle":"Small Group Seating for Big Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Musgrove","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3630837_orig.jpg?crop=3161,3161,x0,y189&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1777486154158","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/sarah-musgrove"},{"teacherId":3630837,"projectId":10246159,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation to our classroom! The blocks, magnetic tiles, dolls, and other indoor recess activities will bring so much fun, creativity, and excitement to our students. These items will give them opportunities to build, imagine, problem-solve, and play together, especially on those rainy Florida days when we can't get outside. Your kindness and support mean so much to me and my first graders. Thank you for helping make our classroom an extra special place to learn and grow! ❤️","fullyFundedDate":1778593245850,"projectUrl":"project/building-minds-during-indoor-recess/10246159/","projectTitle":"Building Minds During Indoor Recess","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Musgrove","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3630837_orig.jpg?crop=3161,3161,x0,y189&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1777486154158","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/sarah-musgrove"},{"teacherId":9531437,"projectId":10251329,"letterContent":"The Toniebox and Sleepytime Tonies have made a meaningful impact in our preschool classroom by creating a calm, peaceful environment during rest time. Before introducing the Toniebox, many children struggled to settle their bodies and minds after a busy morning of learning and play. The gentle music, calming sounds, and soothing stories from the Sleepytime characters now help our students transition smoothly into rest time each day.\r\n\r\nOur students have become more relaxed, comforted, and emotionally regulated during nap time routines. The familiar sounds and predictable routine provide a sense of security, especially for children who may have difficulty calming themselves independently. Since using the Toniebox, we have noticed children falling asleep more quickly, resting more peacefully, and waking up more refreshed and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nThe Toniebox has also supported the social-emotional well-being of our preschoolers by encouraging self-regulation, mindfulness, and relaxation skills at an early age. Rest is essential for growing minds and bodies, and this calming addition to our classroom has helped ensure students receive the quiet, restorative break they need to be successful throughout the school day.","fullyFundedDate":1778278279910,"projectUrl":"project/sweet-dreams-for-little-learners/10251329/","projectTitle":"Sweet Dreams for Little Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Rafidi","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9531437_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1778205401533","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9531437"},{"teacherId":3630837,"projectId":10212349,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our cozy reading corner project! Because of your generosity, my students now have a warm, inviting space where they can truly enjoy reading. The rugs, pillows, bookshelves, and weighted stuffed animals have completely transformed a small area of our classroom into a calm and comfortable environment that students look forward to using every single day.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials arrived, my students were beyond excited. They immediately began exploring the new space, choosing books from the shelves, and curling up with their favorite pillows and stuffed animals. Some of my students who are usually hesitant readers are now asking for extra reading time because they feel relaxed and safe in our cozy corner. The weighted stuffed animals have been especially helpful for students who need additional comfort and support to stay focused during independent reading time.\r\n\r\nThis reading corner has already become one of the most loved parts of our classroom. We are using it daily during independent reading, partner reading, and small group literacy activities. As we continue building strong reading habits and a love for books, this space will help my students grow in both confidence and academic success. Thank you for making such a meaningful impact on our classroom and helping create a place where students can fall in love with reading!","fullyFundedDate":1778197049967,"projectUrl":"project/a-cozy-space-for-growing-readers/10212349/","projectTitle":"A Cozy Space for Growing Readers","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Musgrove","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3630837_orig.jpg?crop=3161,3161,x0,y189&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1777486154158","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/sarah-musgrove"},{"teacherId":3630837,"projectId":10156916,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity in supporting our classroom organization project. Because of your kindness, our classroom has been transformed into a more structured, calm, and student-friendly learning environment. The new organizational tools—like bins, carts, and storage systems—have given every material a place, which has made a huge difference in our daily routines. My students are now able to quickly find what they need and take responsibility for keeping our classroom neat and organized.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the students were so excited to help set everything up. They immediately noticed how much easier it was to transition between activities and work independently. We've already seen an increase in focus and learning time because less time is spent searching for supplies or managing clutter. One special moment was watching students proudly clean up and organize their spaces without reminders—it showed just how much ownership they are taking in their classroom.\r\n\r\nThese resources will continue to support our learning every single day as we move through lessons, centers, and small group instruction. A well-organized classroom allows me to better support each student's needs, and it gives them the structure they need to be successful. Your support has truly made a lasting impact on our classroom community, and we are so grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1776707958644,"projectUrl":"project/organized-classroom-ready-to-learn/10156916/","projectTitle":"Organized Classroom, Ready to Learn!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Musgrove","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3630837_orig.jpg?crop=3161,3161,x0,y189&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1777486154158","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/sarah-musgrove"},{"teacherId":3630837,"projectId":10137337,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity in providing \"Sit Spots for Success\" in our classroom. These flexible seating options have made an immediate and meaningful impact on my students. We use the sit spots daily during whole group lessons, small group instruction, and independent work time. Having clearly defined, comfortable spaces helps my first graders stay focused, organized, and ready to learn. One special moment that stood out was during our reading block—students eagerly chose their spots and were able to stay engaged in their books for longer periods than before.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the excitement was incredible! My students couldn't wait to try them out, and many commented on how comfortable and \"special\" their learning space felt. For some of my students who struggle with attention and movement, these sit spots have been a game changer, allowing them to feel calm, supported, and successful throughout the day.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, we are continuing to build strong routines and independence in our classroom. As we move forward, we will use these spots to support collaborative learning, small group phonics instruction, and literacy centers. Your kindness has helped create a positive, structured environment where all students can thrive. Thank you for making a difference in our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1773443989988,"projectUrl":"project/sit-spots-for-success-in-school/10137337/","projectTitle":"Sit Spots for Success in School","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Musgrove","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3630837_orig.jpg?crop=3161,3161,x0,y189&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1777486154158","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/sarah-musgrove"},{"teacherId":3630837,"projectId":10113116,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity in supporting our \"Soft Lights, Bright Minds\" project. Because of you, our classroom has been transformed into a calm, welcoming space where students feel safe, focused, and ready to learn. The calming lights and light covers have made an immediate difference—harsh fluorescent lighting has been replaced with a softer glow that helps reduce overstimulation and anxiety. I've noticed students are more settled during lessons, transitions are smoother, and even those who typically struggle to focus are able to stay engaged for longer periods of time.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials were first introduced, the students were in awe. Many commented on how \"peaceful\" and \"cozy\" the room felt, and some even said it made school feel like a \"happy place.\" It has been especially impactful during small group instruction and independent work time, where students are more relaxed and open to learning. The improved environment has allowed me to better support their academic and emotional needs, creating a space where all learners can thrive.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, we will continue to build on this positive environment by incorporating more calming routines and focused learning opportunities. The improved lighting has laid the foundation for stronger concentration, better behavior, and increased confidence in our classroom. Your support has truly made a lasting impact, and we are so grateful for your kindness and belief in our students.","fullyFundedDate":1773667761295,"projectUrl":"project/soft-lights-bright-minds/10113116/","projectTitle":"Soft Lights, Bright Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Musgrove","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3630837_orig.jpg?crop=3161,3161,x0,y189&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1777486154158","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/sarah-musgrove"},{"teacherId":10404750,"projectId":10023412,"letterContent":"When the new materials arrived, my students were immediately engaged. Their excitement was evident as they explored each item and began discussing how they could use the resources in upcoming lessons. One student in particular, who often hesitates during independent work, quickly gravitated toward the new tools and demonstrated a level of confidence and focus that was wonderful to see.\r\n\r\nThese materials have already become an integral part of our daily instruction. We have incorporated them into small‑group activities, hands‑on practice, and collaborative projects that support both academic skills and classroom routines. Students are using the resources to deepen their understanding, participate more actively, and work with greater independence.\r\n\r\nOur next steps include expanding a current multi‑day learning project in which students will apply these tools in more complex and creative ways. Your generosity has strengthened our classroom environment and provided meaningful opportunities for growth. Thank you for supporting our students and their learning.","fullyFundedDate":1769191991047,"projectUrl":"project/organized-seats-organized-minds/10023412/","projectTitle":"Organized Seats, Organized Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Zach","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10404750_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1769193822071","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10404750"},{"teacherId":1521161,"projectId":9820999,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of the Starbucks Store items through Donors Choose. Your support truly made a difference, and we are incredibly grateful for your kindness.\r\n\r\nThese items have already been a wonderful addition to our monthly Starbucks Store and are being used to incentivize our students for showing HEART (Hardworking, Empathetic, Active Learners, Respectful, and Trustworthy), our schoolwide positive behavior expectations. Seeing their excitement and enthusiasm has been amazing, and it would not have been possible without your generosity.\r\n\r\nYour willingness to support our students at Atwater means more than words can express. When students and teachers consistently reinforce expectations and celebrate positive behaviors, we see a decrease in unexpected behaviors and an increase in student engagement and success.","fullyFundedDate":1761848169555,"projectUrl":"project/starbucks-store-prizes/9820999/","projectTitle":"Starbucks Store Prizes","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Vlahakis","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1521161_orig.jpg?crop=490,490,x0,y115&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1760303260307","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1521161"},{"teacherId":3626134,"projectId":9799954,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting my classroom and my little learners! You donation helped us purchase a few more Tonies for our classroom. We have been listening to them non-stop since they arrived. Our girls have loved having Mirabel and Moana to listen to and our boys have been loving Wild Kratts and the two dog Tonies! We use our Tonie box during learning centers as part of our reading corner and during naptime. The two dog Tonies that tell stories of dogs that have saved people have also supported our winter unit this month so well! They have loved hearing how different dogs have jobs and how they have risked their lives to save humans! These Tonies have definitely increased their love of stories and I can't wait to watch them blossom into little readers. Thank you so much for helping build the foundation of reading!","fullyFundedDate":1760965372711,"projectUrl":"project/little-listeners/9799954/","projectTitle":"Little Listeners","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Arnold","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3626134_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y504&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1666179817616","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3626134"},{"teacherId":1878813,"projectId":9697658,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of a Generation Genius subscription. Your support will have a meaningful impact on our students by giving them access to engaging, high-quality science content that brings learning to life.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, our students will be able to explore complex scientific concepts through interactive videos, lessons, and activities that spark curiosity and deepen understanding. Resources like Generation Genius help make learning more accessible, engaging, and fun for all learners.\r\n\r\nWe are truly grateful for your support and commitment to education. Thank you for investing in our students and helping us create enriching learning experiences that will benefit them now and in the future.","fullyFundedDate":1760119659394,"projectUrl":"project/generation-genius-2025/9697658/","projectTitle":"Generation Genius 2025","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Conley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1878813_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1466770961978","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1878813"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_97972","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":974,"numTeachers":52,"percentFrplEligible":62,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":9,"percentWhite":62,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":19,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":7,"gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"18.7:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_SMALL"},"inStateSupporters":65.5,"schoolId":97972,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Atwater Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Atwater Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/florida/sarasota-county-school-district/atwater-elementary-school/97972"}
Join the 638 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Atwater Elementary School is
an urban public school
in North Port, Florida that is part of Sarasota County School District.
It serves 974 students
in grades Pre-K - 5 with a student/teacher ratio of 18.7:1.
Its teachers have had 327 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Supporting this school will directly impact historically underfunded classrooms.
Public School
Title 1
Data about Title 1 status comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education.
Grades Pre-K - 5
974 Students
52 Teachers
4701 Huntsville AveContact info is sourced from our partners at MDR Education, and DonorsChoose updates our site ahead of each school year.
Boost support for this school! Share this page with friends, family, alumni, and fellow supporters. Every connection helps teachers get the supplies they need and shows how much your community cares about its students.
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for public school teachers.
Every donation funds real needs — pencils, books, lab equipment, art supplies, and more — helping students learn and thrive. We ship supplies directly to the school, and you'll see exactly where each dollar goes.
of students receive free or reduced price lunch
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
Source: the National Center for Education Statistics
28%
of students are Black, Latino, Native
American, or Asian
Data about school demographics comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. The numbers in this chart may not add up to 100% because of limitations in the available data.
Atwater Elementary School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Aug 20, 2026
DonorsChoose makes it easy for anyone to help a teacher in need, moving us closer to a nation where students
in every community have the tools and experiences they need for a great education.
Atwater Elementary School
$176,339
raised using DonorsChoose
327
projects
funded
93
teachers
funded
638
donors
17
projects
for
basic supplies
79
projects for
technology
60
projects for
books
19
projects
for
art supplies
Atwater Elementary School has received support from
418 individuals from Florida and
220 individuals out-of-state.