{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Springfield Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":24.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9811357,"projectId":9331335,"letterContent":"Our students have been excitedly incorporating the new STEM materials into hands-on learning and problem-solving activities. We've used the Legos for team engineering challenges, where students collaborate to design bridges, towers, and simple machines while applying key concepts from our STEM curriculum. The slime and therapeutic putty have also become valuable tools during sensory-based science lessons, but also therapeutically for students when emotionally dysregulated. \r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, their faces immediately lit up. Many rushed to pick up the Legos and began brainstorming building ideas before the activity even began. Others were curious about the sensory items, asking questions and eagerly experimenting with textures and stretchability. Their excitement created an energetic, positive atmosphere that set the tone for meaningful exploration and collaboration.\r\n\r\nAs we continue promoting STEM, these resources will be integrated into ongoing design challenges and student-led projects. Students will be applying scientific inquiry, recording observations, testing hypotheses, and refining their creations based on feedback and classroom discussions. Our next steps include a mini-engineering showcase, where students will present their Lego prototypes or slime experiments, explain their design choices, and reflect on what they learned. These donations are helping our students deepen their curiosity, build confidence, and stay engaged in hands-on STEM learning.","fullyFundedDate":1747081022284,"projectUrl":"project/help-us-bring-stem-to-life-for-our-middl/9331335/","projectTitle":"Help Us Bring STEM to Life for Our Middle Schoolers","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Raquel Mateo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9811357"},{"teacherId":9811357,"projectId":9359410,"letterContent":"The new culturally responsive books, puzzles, journals, and coloring materials have already become powerful tools for building students' understanding of identity, empathy, and social justice. These texts introduce essential skills such as recognizing bias, exploring cultural perspectives, understanding personal identity, and engaging in respectful dialogue. During counseling groups and classroom lessons, we use the books to spark conversations about belonging, representation, and how our differences make our community stronger. Reading in our space often looks like students sitting in small circles, taking turns sharing connections to the characters, or pairing the stories with reflective journaling activities. The puzzles and coloring materials help students decompress while still engaging with themes of culture and diversity in hands-on, accessible ways.\r\n\r\nA few students have already become especially drawn to the new books. One student, who often struggles to find reading material that reflects his lived experiences, immediately gravitated toward a story featuring a family that looked like his. He proudly shared portions of the book with his peers, while another student used the journal activities to reflect on her own identity. Another student, typically hesitant to participate in groups, eagerly joined a discussion after recognizing characters who shared his cultural background. Seeing themselves in these materials has helped students feel seen, valued, and more willing to engage. These resources are not just books, they are bridges that help students understand themselves, connect with one another, and build the inclusive school environment our REDI work strives for.","fullyFundedDate":1747701485196,"projectUrl":"project/fostering-racial-equity-diversity-and/9359410/","projectTitle":"Fostering Racial Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Raquel Mateo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9811357"},{"teacherId":9811357,"projectId":9421510,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous contribution to our mindfulness and stress-relief project. The new resources: coloring books, journals, fidget tools, stress balls, and mindfulness activity cards, have already become an important part of our daily routines. We've been using them during individual counseling sessions and \"calming corner\" breaks, where students practice grounding strategies before returning to class. One powerful moment came during a small-group session on emotional regulation: a student who usually shuts down during conflict chose a mindfulness card, followed the breathing steps, and then quietly began journaling about what upset him. It was the first time he used a coping tool independently, and it completely shifted the tone of the session. When students first saw the materials, their excitement was immediate, they explored the fidgets, flipped through the journals, and several said the space \"finally feels peaceful.\"\r\n\r\nAs we continue our social-emotional learning work, the next step is teaching students how to build their own coping routines using these tools. We're starting a \"Mindfulness Menu\" activity where students select strategies that work best for them and practice using them during real moments of stress. Your donation makes this possible by giving them hands-on tools they can rely on every day. Thank you for supporting our students' emotional well-being and helping us create a calmer, more supportive learning environment.","fullyFundedDate":1753397357512,"projectUrl":"project/colors-of-calm-supporting-students-thro/9421510/","projectTitle":"Colors of Calm: Supporting Students Through Creativity and Care","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Raquel Mateo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9811357"},{"teacherId":9811357,"projectId":9421700,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for the generous donation of hygiene products. These resources have already become an important part of our work with students, especially those who quietly struggle with meeting basic needs. We have been using the items to create private \"care kits\" that students can request discreetly during counseling sessions or through trusted staff. One moment that stood out was when a student who had been avoiding school due to embarrassment about her appearance opened a kit and whispered, \"Thank you, I really needed this.\" Being able to respond immediately with shampoo, toothpaste, lotion, and other essentials made her feel cared for and allowed her to return to class with confidence. When students first saw that these supplies were available, their reactions ranged from relief to gratitude; several shared that it was the first time they'd had access to certain products of their own.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, we are incorporating these donations into a broader self-care and wellness lesson focused on building routines and understanding the connection between personal hygiene, confidence, and readiness to learn. Students will be participating in a \"Taking Care of Me\" activity, where they explore ways to advocate for their needs and practice healthy habits that support their emotional well-being. Your contribution has made it possible for us not only to teach these lessons, but to ensure students have the actual tools to follow through. These next steps will help them develop lifelong skills in self-respect, self-care, and personal agency made possible because of your kindness.","fullyFundedDate":1755718000956,"projectUrl":"project/give-the-gift-of-clean-to-kids-in-need/9421700/","projectTitle":"Give the Gift of Clean to Kids in Need","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Raquel Mateo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9811357"},{"teacherId":9811357,"projectId":8924643,"letterContent":"I want to extend my deepest gratitude for your generous contribution to our project. The sensory tools, fidgets, Legos/blocks, problem-solving materials, and art supplies you provided have already made a meaningful difference in our students' day-to-day experience. These items have become essential supports during individual counseling sessions, small group work, and quiet regulation breaks throughout the school day.\r\n\r\nOne of the first ways we put the materials to use was during a self-regulation activity where students practiced identifying their stress levels and choosing a tool that matched what they needed in that moment. Watching a student who typically struggles with frustration sit down, begin constructing with Legos, and calmly talk through his feelings was a powerful reminder of why these resources matter. The art supplies have also allowed students to express emotions they don't yet have words for, giving them a safe and creative outlet to process challenging moments.\r\n\r\nTheir initial reaction to the donated materials was priceless. Students lit up when they walked into the counseling room and saw shelves filled with new tools they could touch, explore, and call their own. Many were excited to try the fidgets and sensory items immediately, while others gravitated toward the paints and coloring materials. Several students commented that the space \"felt calmer\" and \"more fun,\" which is exactly the environment we want to create for them.\r\n\r\nAs we continue our current social-emotional lessons, the next step is helping students build routines around using these tools independently. We are introducing a \"regulation menu,\" where students learn to pick coping tools based on what their body and mind need. Your donations are allowing them to practice this skill daily, strengthening their ability to self-advocate, communicate emotions, and return to class in a more grounded state.\r\n\r\nThank you again for supporting our students. Your kindness has had a direct and lasting impact on their emotional well-being, and we are truly grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1731506749337,"projectUrl":"project/self-regulation-tools-for-students/8924643/","projectTitle":"Self-regulation Tools for Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Raquel Mateo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9811357"},{"teacherId":9811357,"projectId":8922481,"letterContent":"*How are you and your students using the new resources? Share a specific classroom project or moment.\r\nThe new self-regulation resources have become an important part of my counseling sessions and check-ins. Students use the fidgets, play putty, and breathing ball during conversations to help them stay calm and focused. The bean bag chair and emotion pillows create a welcoming, safe space for students to take a mindful break or process their feelings before returning to class. One memorable moment was when a student used the breathing ball to lead a short mindfulness activity for their peers during a group session—it was a proud and empowering moment for them.\r\n\r\nHow did your students react when they first saw the materials?\r\nStudents were so excited when they first saw the new materials! Many of them immediately wanted to try the fidgets and test the breathing ball. Several students commented on how the room felt \"so cozy\" and \"like a calm place.\" The posters, especially the \"It's okay not to be okay\" one, really resonated with students and helped open up honest conversations about emotions and mental health.\r\n\r\nWhat are the next steps for your students on a current classroom lesson or project?\r\nWe're continuing to build emotional regulation skills through mindfulness, self-awareness, and coping strategies. Students are learning to identify their emotions and choose tools that help them feel grounded—whether it's using a fidget, practicing deep breathing, or taking a brief break in the calm corner. Our next step is to integrate these tools into small group sessions and classroom lessons focused on managing stress, problem-solving, and building resilience.","fullyFundedDate":1735658179940,"projectUrl":"project/supporting-students-through-self-regulat/8922481/","projectTitle":"Supporting Students Through Self-Regulation","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Raquel Mateo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9811357"},{"teacherId":9263677,"projectId":9731362,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our Power Up: Video Game Club for Creative Minds has truly come to life! The new technology has transformed how my students think, create, and collaborate. What used to be casual conversations about games has turned into real teamwork and problem-solving sessions. They're learning about coding, storyboarding, and digital design—skills that connect directly to STEM concepts and creative writing. It's amazing to see how technology that's often just \"for fun\" at home can become such a powerful learning tool in the classroom.\r\n\r\nThe most exciting part for my students is being able to design and test their own games. They love seeing their ideas turn into something playable and sharing those creations with their peers. Students who were once quiet or hesitant to participate now take on leadership roles in their groups, offering tips and strategies to others. One student in particular, who rarely spoke up in class, has found his voice through designing characters and levels that reflect his imagination and personality.\r\n\r\nYour donations didn't just bring in technology—they built confidence, creativity, and community. My students look forward to Video Game Club every week, and I can see how this project has inspired many of them to explore future careers in game design, animation, and technology. Thank you for believing in their potential and for helping us power up their learning experience!","fullyFundedDate":1759797309456,"projectUrl":"project/power-up-video-game-club-for-creative-m/9731362/","projectTitle":"Power Up: Video Game Club for Creative Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Shippy","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9263677_orig.jpg?crop=2664,2664,x0,y62&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1729009409766","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9263677"},{"teacherId":9811357,"projectId":8894462,"letterContent":"On behalf of Springfield Middle School, I would like to sincerely thank you for your generous donation of social-emotional learning tools for our middle school students. Your support has already begun to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our young learners.\r\n\r\nWith the addition of growth mindset journals, fidgets, and other regulation tools, our students are now better equipped to manage their emotions, reduce stress, and stay engaged in learning. For example, the journals are helping students reflect on challenges and build resilience, while the fidgets provide a safe and healthy outlet for energy, allowing them to remain focused during class.\r\n\r\nThese resources are empowering students to develop independence in regulating their emotions and behaviors skills that not only create a calmer, more positive learning environment but also prepare them for success beyond the classroom.\r\n\r\nWe are truly grateful for your generosity and commitment to our school community. Because of supporters like you, we are able to provide students with the tools they need to grow academically, socially, and emotionally.","fullyFundedDate":1730644819151,"projectUrl":"project/supporting-students-in-social-emotional/8894462/","projectTitle":"Supporting Students in Social Emotional Regulation","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Raquel Mateo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9811357"},{"teacherId":5169054,"projectId":8272679,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity. Having this tool (the Yakker Tracker) in our classroom has allowed the students more autonomy in controlling their volume in our learning environment. While a classroom should rarely be a silent place, we have to learn to keep our productive noise at a level that does not impede the learning and comfort of others.\r\n\r\nThe traffic light design of the tracker device uses familiar colors to let the students know when our classroom noise is just right (green), approaching too loud (yellow) or completely too noisy (red). I can adjust the sound sensitivity as well for different activities and parts of our schedule. Further, I can use the light system alone or add in sound reminders. The children love when I change up the language option and they get to hear \"Quiet Please\" in Spanish or French!\r\n\r\nA huge part of true, respectful classroom management is teaching the students self control and respect for others. This tool allows the children to monitor themselves, putting them more in control of their behavior, rather than having an adult constantly giving orders.","fullyFundedDate":1715170265676,"projectUrl":"project/finding-our-calm-and-quiet-ish-place/8272679/","projectTitle":"Finding Our Calm and Quiet (ish) Place","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Hemingway","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5169054_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1518032856974","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5169054"},{"teacherId":9811357,"projectId":8928261,"letterContent":"Since receiving donations of feminine hygiene products, we have witnessed a profound and positive impact on our students. For many, having access to these essential items has provided a sense of security and dignity that was previously lacking. Students who once had to miss class or struggle through the day in discomfort now have the resources they need to focus on their education without unnecessary stress or embarrassment. Attendance has improved, and students feel more confident knowing they can access the products they need without fear or stigma.\r\n\r\nBeyond the physical benefits, this support has helped foster a more inclusive and understanding school environment. By addressing a basic yet critical need, we have shown our students that their well-being matters and that their school is a place where they are supported. Many students have shared how relieved they feel knowing they no longer have to borrow from friends or worry about being caught unprepared. This small but significant change has given them greater self-assurance and the ability to engage more fully in their academic and social experiences.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has done more than just provide products, it has empowered students and removed barriers to their success. The impact of this support will continue to resonate, reminding our students that they are valued and that their needs are important. We are deeply grateful for your kindness and commitment to ensuring that no student has to face unnecessary hardship due to a lack of basic necessities. Thank you for making a lasting difference in their lives.","fullyFundedDate":1732303221624,"projectUrl":"project/period-positive-pantry/8928261/","projectTitle":"Period Positive Pantry","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Raquel Mateo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9811357"},{"teacherId":9263677,"projectId":9024304,"letterContent":"I am so grateful for your generous support of the \"Building Strong Readers\" project! Thanks to your contribution, my students now have access to dry erase boards and markers, phonics books, and phonics cards, all of which have played a crucial role in enhancing their reading skills. The hands-on activities with the dry erase boards have allowed students to practice writing and sound out words in a fun and interactive way, while the phonics books and cards have provided essential tools for reinforcing their literacy foundation.\r\n\r\nWith these resources, my students have made significant strides in their ability to decode words, improve their reading fluency, and build confidence in their literacy skills. It's been exciting to watch them engage with the materials and develop a greater love for reading. Your generosity has not only supported their academic growth but has also made a lasting impact on their self-esteem and enthusiasm for learning. Thank you for helping create a strong foundation for their future success as readers!","fullyFundedDate":1735706245526,"projectUrl":"project/building-strong-readers/9024304/","projectTitle":"Building Strong Readers","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Shippy","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9263677_orig.jpg?crop=2664,2664,x0,y62&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1729009409766","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9263677"},{"teacherId":9263677,"projectId":8923784,"letterContent":"I want to extend my deepest gratitude for your incredibly generous support of the \"Comfort and Dignity: Providing Menstrual Supplies for Students in Need\" project. Your contribution of menstrual pads, pain relief medications, heating pads, and other essential supplies has had an immediate and profound impact on my students. Many of our students face challenges that make it difficult for them to focus on their education, especially during their menstrual cycle. With the supplies you provided, they now have the dignity and comfort they need to continue their school day without added worry or discomfort.\r\n\r\nYour kindness has not only helped alleviate physical discomfort but also supported the emotional well-being of my students. The peace of mind these supplies offer has empowered them to feel more in control of their day, enabling them to stay engaged and focused on their education. I cannot thank you enough for helping ensure that all students, regardless of their circumstances, can attend school with the necessary resources to succeed. Your support has truly made a difference in their lives and their learning experiences.","fullyFundedDate":1735658170293,"projectUrl":"project/comfort-and-dignity-providing-menstrual/8923784/","projectTitle":"Comfort and Dignity: Providing Menstrual Supplies for Students in Need","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Shippy","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9263677_orig.jpg?crop=2664,2664,x0,y62&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1729009409766","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9263677"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_104265","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":18,"numTeachers":10,"percentFrplEligible":68,"percentAsian":1,"percentBlack":17,"percentWhite":9,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":68,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"1.8:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":75.7,"schoolId":104265,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Springfield Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Springfield Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/massachusetts/springfield-public-school-district/balliet-middle-school/104265"}