{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Atwater High School","outOfStateSupporters":31.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9208261,"projectId":10085663,"letterContent":"This project has been very rewarding for my students. Using varied activities for Long Way Down creates a deeper, more personal connection to the novel while helping students build multiple skills at once. Visual projects like collages and illustrations allow students to process heavy themes grief, violence, and choices in a creative, less intimidating way. These activities make abstract ideas more concrete, especially for students who struggle with traditional reading responses.\r\n\r\nDiscussion questions and floor-by-floor analysis guide students to think critically about character development and symbolism. They encourage students to slow down and reflect on how each encounter in the elevator shapes Will's thinking. This builds comprehension and strengthens their ability to support ideas with evidence.\r\n\r\nIncorporating writing tasks, like creating anagrams or explaining symbolism, improves literacy skills while keeping students engaged with the text. These smaller, focused tasks feel manageable and help build confidence.\r\n\r\n\r\nOverall, these strategies increase engagement, promote critical thinking, and create a supportive space for students to explore complex emotions and real-world issues connected to the story.","fullyFundedDate":1772149512890,"projectUrl":"project/words-that-heal-journals-for-deeper-rea/10085663/","projectTitle":"Words That Heal: Journals for Deeper Reading and Reflection","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. D. Silva","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9208261"},{"teacherId":9269011,"projectId":10058187,"letterContent":"The items you helped fund- like dry shampoo, dental floss and toothpaste, and other items- has made a real difference in what we are able to provide students in our campus clothing closet. Items such as travel-sized lotion and lip balm may not seem like much, but for students who often go without, it means the world to them to know they have access to such products. It has been such a joy being able to help our students alleviate some of their stress. \r\nThey are so appreciative, and so are we. Thank you!","fullyFundedDate":1769415719614,"projectUrl":"project/fresh-starts-full-confidence-essential/10058187/","projectTitle":"Fresh Starts, Full Confidence: Essentials for Our Campus Closet","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Dougherty","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9269011_orig.jpg?crop=426,426,x191,y43&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1694641963725","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9269011"},{"teacherId":3856390,"projectId":10083853,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for providing two new Therm-a-Rest sleeping mats for our students. Your generosity directly supports our outdoor learning experiences and makes a real difference in how comfortable and prepared students feel when we take learning beyond the classroom.\r\n\r\nFor many of our students, these trips are their first time camping or spending extended time outdoors. Having quality sleeping gear helps them feel safe, rested, and more confident, which allows them to fully engage in the experience. Instead of worrying about staying warm or comfortable at night, they can focus on connecting with nature, building relationships, and learning in a new environment.\r\n\r\nYour support helps make these opportunities possible and meaningful. We truly appreciate your investment in our students and the experiences that will stay with them long after the trip is over.","fullyFundedDate":1772204795899,"projectUrl":"project/leave-no-trace-student-led-backpacking/10083853/","projectTitle":"Leave No Trace: Student-Led Backpacking & Community Stewardship Project","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. O","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3856390_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1473284666435","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3856390"},{"teacherId":9486349,"projectId":10063560,"letterContent":"When students first saw the materials, their reaction was immediate excitement. Many students who are typically disengaged became eager to participate, asking when they could play and how they could be involved. The game created an inclusive environment where students of all ability levels felt comfortable joining in. We are using the cornhole boards as part of both structured classroom activities and community-building opportunities. Students have enjoyed skill building with their teams. It is great because all students could participate.","fullyFundedDate":1769705635437,"projectUrl":"project/cornhole-boards-inclusive-activity-for/10063560/","projectTitle":"Cornhole Boards- Inclusive Activity for ALL Students","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Silva","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9486349_orig.jpg?crop=946,946,x26,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1709667857178","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9486349"},{"teacherId":9269011,"projectId":9916127,"letterContent":"I am writing to extend my deepest gratitude for your generous contribution to our Saturday Academy program. \r\n\r\nBecause of you, we've been able to offer a wide variety of engaging and fun activities for our students. From the excitement of card games like Phase 10 and SkipBo to the creative fun of Six Second Scribbles, students are not only having a great time but are also forming stronger connections with their peers in a relaxed and supportive environment. These Saturday Academy sessions have become a time for students to bond, share laughs, and unwind, which is so vital in their overall well-being and development.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, the addition of tasty treats like Welch's Fruit Snacks has brought smiles to their faces, allowing them to refuel while enjoying a lighthearted moment away from the usual pressures of schoolwork and extracurricular commitments. Your contribution has truly made these sessions more vibrant and enjoyable for everyone involved.\r\n\r\nThank you once again for helping us create a positive, fun, and supportive environment for our students. I look forward to continuing to watch these young people grow, learn, and connect with one another, all thanks to your kindness.","fullyFundedDate":1764628411979,"projectUrl":"project/games-good-vibes-and-saturday-growth/9916127/","projectTitle":"Games, Good Vibes, and Saturday Growth","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Dougherty","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9269011_orig.jpg?crop=426,426,x191,y43&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1694641963725","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9269011"},{"teacherId":799520,"projectId":9761236,"letterContent":"Our music program runs on a shoestring budget. They do so much with so little and lean on parents and the community for support and they do an outstanding job. However, every little bit helps distribute the load of mobilizing an entire band and helping them to be hydrated and fed.\r\n The students were amazed to find an entire pallet of water and their doorstep. The storage room was filled to capacity and they are all set for the rest of the year as well as the next season. Students are touched that donors supported something like water for them. They are forever grateful for your contribution!!","fullyFundedDate":1769177382113,"projectUrl":"project/libations-for-thirsty-musicians/9761236/","projectTitle":"Libations for Thirsty Musicians","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Armas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp799520_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1506032703035","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/799520"},{"teacherId":2994055,"projectId":9955824,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous donations to our boys basketball program. We are very thankful for your continued support and know that none of this would be possible without your contributions.\r\n\r\nThe boys enjoyed the book, it's something they look forward to each year. Every season we try and find a different story that ties in different concepts of team building, motivation, or building mental toughness through positivity. The story this year encompassed all of these things and we hope the boys were able to take something from it and apply it to their own lives.\r\n\r\nThank you again for everything you've done and continue to do for students throughout the country.","fullyFundedDate":1765843479890,"projectUrl":"project/team-bonding-off-the-court-motivational/9955824/","projectTitle":"Team Bonding Off the Court: Motivational Books for the Team","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Smith","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2994055"},{"teacherId":9269011,"projectId":9915262,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom is taking a big step toward fostering deeper thinking, creativity, and hands-on learning. Your contribution has provided students with tools that go beyond screens and digital shortcuts, helping them engage critically, solve problems, and reflect on their learning in meaningful ways.\r\n\r\nThe analog wall clock is already helping students develop essential time-management skills, while the binder paper gives them the space to work through problems manually and strengthen their handwriting and organizational abilities. Fun pencils bring a touch of creativity that keeps students motivated, and the heavy-duty electric pencil sharpener ensures they can focus on learning without interruption. Meanwhile, the charging dock keeps our new Kindle ready for reading and exploration, supporting a balance between digital and analog learning.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, students are learning that education is not just about quick answers; but it's about thinking deeply, being creative, and building skills that will serve them in the classroom and in life. Your generosity has made our classroom a more engaging, interactive, and thoughtful space where students can grow in both mind and character.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in their learning journey!","fullyFundedDate":1764794634883,"projectUrl":"project/time-to-think-enhancing-critical-thinki/9915262/","projectTitle":"Time to Think! Enhancing Critical Thinking with Hands-on Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Dougherty","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9269011_orig.jpg?crop=426,426,x191,y43&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1694641963725","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9269011"},{"teacherId":9269011,"projectId":9139444,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, this DonorsChoose project is already making a meaningful difference in my classroom and professional growth. As I near completion of Module 3 in the Breathe For Change Master's Program, I have been actively implementing research-based mindfulness and social-emotional learning strategies with my students. These practices have helped create a calmer, more focused learning environment where students feel safe, supported, and better prepared to engage in their learning each day.\r\n\r\nThe impact has been visible in students' ability to regulate their emotions, sustain attention, and participate more positively with their peers. Through consistent routines such as reflection moments and intentional community-building, students are developing lifelong skills in self-awareness, stress management, and empathy. At a time when many students are navigating increased stress and distractions, these tools have provided them with practical ways to reset, refocus, and re-engage with their academic work.\r\n\r\nThis project's influence will continue well beyond this school year. The strategies and training I have gained through Breathe For Change will remain embedded in my classroom practice and will be shared with colleagues to expand the benefit to even more students. Your support has helped strengthen not only my teaching practice but also my students' ability to thrive both academically and emotionally. Thank you for investing in our classroom community.","fullyFundedDate":1743033438806,"projectUrl":"project/advancing-campuscommunity-wellness-thro/9139444/","projectTitle":"Advancing Campus/Community Wellness Through Breathe for Change Module 3","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Dougherty","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9269011_orig.jpg?crop=426,426,x191,y43&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1694641963725","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9269011"},{"teacherId":7603716,"projectId":10078129,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, we were able to distribute the journals to students during Mental Health Week at lunch — and it was such a meaningful experience. We set up a dedicated table focused on self-care and reflection, inviting students to stop by, learn about the importance of mental wellness, and pick out their own personal journal.\r\n\r\nStudents were immediately drawn to the display. Many were excited just to have something that belonged to them. Some flipped through the pages right away, while others asked thoughtful questions about how journaling could help with stress and anxiety. A few students shared that they had never owned a journal before. Seeing them smile, sit down with friends, and begin writing during their lunch period was incredibly powerful.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, our students now have a safe space to process their thoughts and feelings. Your generosity helped make Mental Health Week not just an event, but the beginning of meaningful self-care practices for many of our students. Thank you for investing in their well-being.","fullyFundedDate":1771007929376,"projectUrl":"project/journals-for-life-skills-self-reflectio/10078129/","projectTitle":"Journals for Life Skills, Self-Reflection, and Student Voice","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Smith","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7603716_orig.png?crop=522,522,x821,y967&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1759441365760","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7603716"},{"teacherId":3856390,"projectId":10057431,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our backpacking program! Because of your kindness, our students now have nutritious, lightweight backpacking meals that will fuel them on their outdoor adventures.\r\n\r\nFor many of our students, these trips are their first opportunity to explore the wilderness, challenge themselves physically, and experience the beauty of nature away from screens and daily stress. Having reliable meals means they can focus on learning new skills, building confidence, and supporting one another as a team. Your donation helps make these life-changing experiences possible and ensures that every student, regardless of financial situation, can participate fully.\r\n\r\nOn our upcoming trips, students will practice backcountry cooking, nutrition planning, and Leave No Trace principles while sharing meals together under the stars. These are moments they will remember for the rest of their lives — and you made them happen.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in our students' growth, resilience, and love for the outdoors. We are truly grateful for your support.","fullyFundedDate":1771008269825,"projectUrl":"project/backpacking-breakfasts/10057431/","projectTitle":"Backpacking Breakfasts","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. O","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3856390_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1473284666435","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3856390"},{"teacherId":9208261,"projectId":10000923,"letterContent":"Thank you for providing the cornhole sets. These sets offer students a fun, active way to build teamwork, communication, and good sportsmanship. Cornhole encourages strategic thinking as students plan their tosses, adjust their aim, and collaborate with partners. It also provides a healthy break from academic tasks, helping students release energy, reduce stress, and return to learning more focused and refreshed. The game is easy to learn, inclusive for all skill levels, and promotes positive social interaction. Overall, the cornhole sets help create a more engaging, active, and community-centered environment where students can have fun while developing important social and motor skills.","fullyFundedDate":1769177380298,"projectUrl":"project/cornhole-board-inclusive-activity-for-a/10000923/","projectTitle":"Cornhole Board- Inclusive Activity for All Students","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. D. Silva","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9208261"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_104021","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":2051,"numTeachers":80,"percentFrplEligible":80,"percentAsian":2,"percentBlack":1,"percentWhite":13,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":80,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"9 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":"25.6:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":68.7,"schoolId":104021,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Atwater High School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Atwater High School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/merced-union-high-school-district/atwater-high-school/104021"}
Join the 785 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Atwater High School is
a suburban public school
in Atwater, California that is part of Merced Union High School District.
It serves 2,051 students
in grades 9 - 12 with a student/teacher ratio of 25.6:1.
Its teachers have had 1,352 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
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
83%
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 High School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Apr 30, 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 High School
$2.2 million
raised using DonorsChoose
1,352
projects
funded
99
teachers
funded
785
donors
88
projects
for
basic supplies
260
projects for
technology
28
projects for
books
33
projects
for
art supplies
Atwater High School has received support from
539 individuals from California and
246 individuals out-of-state.