{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Berkshire Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":58.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9565133,"projectId":9611780,"letterContent":"Because of your incredible generosity, flexible seating has quickly become a meaningful and powerful part of our daily classroom experience. Initially, upon receiving the donation, I wrote a letter to parents and students to go over the expectations of how to use them. This set the tone for student behaviors and helps hold them accountable still. From the very first day the seating was introduced, students began using the new resources intentionally and enthusiastically. The stools, cushions, and alternative seating options are now seamlessly integrated into our learning routines during reading, writing, small-group instruction, and independent work time. One particularly meaningful moment occurred during a small-group reading lesson when a student who often struggles to remain focused chose a wobble seat and independently sustained attention for the entire lesson. The flexible seating has allowed students to make choices that support their learning styles, comfort, and focus, helping them take ownership of their learning in a way that feels empowering and respectful.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the flexible seating, their reactions were filled with excitement, curiosity, and gratitude. Their faces lit up as they explored the options, asked thoughtful questions, and eagerly discussed how each seat might help them learn best. What stood out most was how quickly the excitement transformed into responsibility. Students understood that this gift was special and that it came from people who believed in them. They demonstrated care by handling the materials gently, taking turns, and reminding one another of expectations. Several students even expressed their appreciation verbally, saying things like, \"This helps me sit still,\" or \"I can think better this way.\" Those moments were powerful reminders that your donation was not just furniture, it was a message to my students that their comfort, success, and well-being truly matter.\r\n\r\nYour support has also allowed us to move forward with greater confidence as we continue our current classroom lessons and projects. As students work through collaborative discussions, independent reading goals, and hands-on learning activities, flexible seating gives them the physical freedom to remain engaged and productive. Our next steps include using the seating during longer project-based learning activities where students will read, write, reflect, and collaborate for extended periods of time. Because students are more comfortable and focused, they are better able to persevere through challenging tasks, participate in academic conversations, and demonstrate growth. Your generosity has created a learning environment where students feel supported, trusted, and motivated. Thank you for giving my students more than seating; you have given them confidence, comfort, and a classroom that truly feels like a place where they belong.","fullyFundedDate":1762381605179,"projectUrl":"project/flexible-seating-for-busy-4th-grade-lear/9611780/","projectTitle":"Flexible Seating for Busy 4th Grade Learners!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Rivera","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9565133_orig.jpg?crop=200,200,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1749150633269","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9565133"},{"teacherId":6258528,"projectId":9909129,"letterContent":"When the flashcards arrived, I did a box reveal in front of the students. Students were excited because we finally had an efficient way to practice our multiplication and division facts. Hands shot into the air as students eagerly called out, \"Can I have division?\" and \"I need to work on my multiplication first!\" \r\n\r\nStudents partnered up and practiced for five minutes each. We did this every day for 5 days. On the 5th day, I had students take a quiz on their multiplication & division facts. I compared the data from their previous test & there was substantial growth! We will continue to practice 4+ times per week to continue to develop their fluency.","fullyFundedDate":1766439891630,"projectUrl":"project/improve-mathematical-fluency-through-fla/9909129/","projectTitle":"Improve Mathematical Fluency Through Flash Cards","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Thomas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6258528_orig.png?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1550511298418","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6258528"},{"teacherId":530829,"projectId":9662145,"letterContent":"This project has completely transformed how my students explore and learn through sensory play. With these new materials, children are able to squish, scoop, pour, build, and experiment in ways that feel joyful and meaningful to them. I have seen increased focus, longer engagement, and more peer collaboration during STEAM and sensory exploration time. Students are using rich language to describe textures and actions, solving problems together, and building confidence as they test ideas and try again. For many of my learners, especially those who benefit from hands on and sensory input, this project has created a calm, inviting space where learning feels accessible and exciting. Thank you for helping create an environment where curiosity leads the way and every child feels successful.","fullyFundedDate":1763474824138,"projectUrl":"project/squish-scoop-explore-sensory-steam-in/9662145/","projectTitle":"Squish, Scoop, Explore: Sensory STEAM in Action","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Babb","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jbabb"},{"teacherId":530829,"projectId":9689266,"letterContent":"Because of this project, my students are learning that creativity and problem solving go hand in hand. The artsy bridge materials invited them to design, test, and redesign structures using real engineering thinking while still expressing their own ideas.\r\n\r\nI saw students collaborating naturally, talking through their plans, and learning from trial and error. They were engaged for long stretches of time, focused, curious, and proud of their work. For many of my students, hands on STEM activities like this make learning feel accessible and exciting.\r\n\r\nThese materials have transformed our classroom into a space where students feel confident taking risks, experimenting, and thinking like engineers. Thank you for giving my students meaningful learning experiences that build creativity, confidence, and a love of STEM.","fullyFundedDate":1763474808538,"projectUrl":"project/artsy-bridges-building-creativity-throu/9689266/","projectTitle":"Artsy Bridges: Building Creativity Through STEM","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Babb","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jbabb"},{"teacherId":530829,"projectId":9645816,"letterContent":"This project has had an immediate and lasting impact on my classroom. The magnet materials transformed learning into something hands on, engaging, and developmentally appropriate for my Transitional Kindergarten students. Students explored cause and effect, problem solving, early engineering, and fine motor skills as they built, tested, and experimented with magnets in meaningful ways. Because of these materials, I was able to offer open ended exploration, small group learning, and student led discovery that encouraged curiosity and confidence. Learning became active and joyful, and students who sometimes struggle to stay engaged were excited to participate and explain their thinking. This project truly made learning come alive in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1763474831724,"projectUrl":"project/magnets-make-learning-magnetic/9645816/","projectTitle":"Magnets Make Learning Magnetic!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Babb","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jbabb"},{"teacherId":530829,"projectId":9904108,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, my Transitional Kindergarten students were able to learn through hands on play with the Cake Engineers birthday STEAM project. The classroom quickly became a space full of excitement, creativity, and teamwork as students planned and built their own cake designs.\r\n\r\nAs they worked, children practiced counting, measuring, problem solving, and fine motor skills in a way that felt fun and meaningful to them. They talked through their ideas, helped one another, and proudly shared their finished creations. Watching their confidence grow as they tried, adjusted, and tried again was incredibly rewarding.\r\n\r\nFor many of my students, this project provided access to materials and learning experiences they would not otherwise have. Your support helped create joyful moments of learning and curiosity that will stay with them well beyond this project. Thank you for making such a positive difference in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1763598997723,"projectUrl":"project/cake-engineers-a-birthday-party-steam-l/9904108/","projectTitle":"Cake Engineers: A Birthday Party STEAM Lab for TK","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Babb","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jbabb"},{"teacherId":8074847,"projectId":9756725,"letterContent":"Receiving desk trays immediately transform our classroom by reducing clutter and creating predictable spaces for students' materials. When each learner has a designated tray for pencils, notebooks, and current work, transitions become smoother and instructional time increases. Fewer misplaced supplies means less time spent searching and more time focused on learning, so students—especially those who struggle with organization—can stay engaged and complete tasks more efficiently.\r\n\r\nDesk trays also support independence and executive‑function skills. By teaching students a simple system for sorting and returning materials, we build habits that transfer beyond the classroom: planning, prioritizing, and maintaining a workspace. These routines boost student confidence and responsibility; learners take greater pride in their work when their materials are neat and accessible. For teachers, trays make it easier to circulate, provide timely feedback, and run small groups without the chaos of scattered supplies.\r\n\r\nFinally, the trays contribute to an inclusive, equitable classroom environment. Students who lack organizational tools at home arrive ready and prepared at school, leveling the playing field and allowing every child to participate fully. The improved classroom order also creates a calmer atmosphere that benefits social‑emotional learning and classroom community. Your support will have lasting effects by helping students develop practical skills and creating a more focused, joyful place to learn.","fullyFundedDate":1763474718360,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-desk-bins-for-better-student-o/9756725/","projectTitle":"Classroom Desk Bins for Better Student Organization","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Martinez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8074847_orig.jpg?crop=2400,2400,x0,y88&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1702162473555","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8074847"},{"teacherId":9023990,"projectId":9744923,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our \"Sleighing the Season with Stories!\" project. Your generosity brought a wonderful collection of holiday-themed books into our classroom, and the excitement was immediate. As we unpacked each title, my students were buzzing with anticipation — many couldn't wait to dive into the stories right away.\r\n\r\nThese books have transformed our reading time. Students who were once hesitant are now eager to participate, and our class discussions have grown more lively and joyful. The holiday stories sparked curiosity, laughter, and meaningful conversations about kindness, traditions, and family. Watching students share books, recommend favorites to each other, and connect with the characters has been one of the highlights of our season.\r\n\r\nYour support has helped create a warm and engaging learning environment where young readers feel motivated and confident. Thank you for making this special experience possible and for giving my students memories — and books — they will carry with them beyond the holidays.","fullyFundedDate":1763474765777,"projectUrl":"project/sleighing-the-season-with-stories/9744923/","projectTitle":"Sleighing the Season with Stories!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Bickham","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9023990_orig.jpg?crop=2227,2227,x161,y987&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1752968409728","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9023990"},{"teacherId":9023990,"projectId":9481348,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding our project Books, Blocks, and a Bit of Brainpower! Your generosity has made an immediate and meaningful difference in our second-grade classroom. When the books, pattern blocks, games, and supplies arrived, my students were thrilled — it felt like the whole room lit up.\r\n\r\nThe new guided-reading books have helped several reluctant readers become eager participants during literacy time. Our math lessons are now more hands-on and engaging thanks to the pattern blocks and games, which help students visualize and explore concepts in ways that truly stick. Even the simple supplies, like pencils and cardstock, have supported daily writing and creative projects that build confidence.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, your support has created a classroom environment where students feel excited to learn and proud of their accomplishments. Knowing that someone believes in them has had a powerful impact on their motivation and joy for learning.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in my students and giving them tools that will benefit them far beyond this school year. We are all so grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1757874305361,"projectUrl":"project/books-blocks-and-a-bit-of-brainpower/9481348/","projectTitle":"\"Books, Blocks, and a Bit of Brainpower!\"","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Bickham","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9023990_orig.jpg?crop=2227,2227,x161,y987&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1752968409728","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9023990"},{"teacherId":530829,"projectId":9710878,"letterContent":"Our Paws for Kindness Animal Rescue Dramatic Play Center has already brought so much excitement to our classroom. Even in the first moments of exploring the new materials, students were eager to care for the stuffed animals, check them with pretend tools, and work together to \"help\" each pet feel safe. I can already see how this project will support social-emotional learning through empathy, teamwork, and kindness. Students are practicing communication skills, sharing responsibilities, and using rich language as they care for their pretend animals. I'm excited to watch this center continue to grow into a safe and nurturing space where our youngest learners can build compassion through play.","fullyFundedDate":1763474789154,"projectUrl":"project/paws-for-kindness-an-animal-rescue-dram/9710878/","projectTitle":"Paws for Kindness: An Animal Rescue Dramatic Play Center","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Babb","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jbabb"},{"teacherId":530829,"projectId":9790532,"letterContent":"Our Cozy Cocoa Café materials arrived recently, and even after just one day of play, I can already see how exciting and engaging this space will be for my Transitional Kindergarten students. The café setup immediately drew students in, and they were eager to explore the new materials, pretend to make cocoa, and invite friends to join them.\r\n\r\nEven in the first day, students practiced turn-taking and sharing, used new vocabulary, and showed pride in taking care of the materials. I'm looking forward to watching this center grow into a place where students build confidence, friendships, and communication skills all winter long.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping us create something so special. Your generosity is already making a difference!","fullyFundedDate":1763474733005,"projectUrl":"project/warm-up-our-winter-a-cozy-cocoa-cafe/9790532/","projectTitle":"Warm Up Our Winter: A Cozy Cocoa Cafe","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Babb","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jbabb"},{"teacherId":8074847,"projectId":9469228,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding our DonorsChoose project and providing our classroom with a button maker. Your generous gift is already making a meaningful difference.\r\n\r\nWe're using the button maker to create custom reward buttons that recognize student achievements like kindness, effort, improved behavior, and academic growth. Students beam with pride when they design and earn a button — then attach it to their lanyard for the week. Seeing their lanyards fill with earned buttons has become a visible and motivating reminder of progress and positive choices.\r\n\r\nThe process itself builds skills: students plan designs, practice fine motor work, collaborate to produce buttons, and reflect on what each reward represents. Younger students gain confidence when peers help them create a button, and older students develop leadership by assisting with production and distribution. Teachers also use the buttons during celebrations, parent conferences, and student-led conferences to showcase growth.\r\n\r\nThank you again for supporting our classroom community. Your donation not only provides a fun, hands-on tool but also strengthens student motivation, responsibility, and belonging. We look forward to sharing photos and stories of the many smiles and successes your gift continues to create.","fullyFundedDate":1758636491892,"projectUrl":"project/boost-student-motivation-with-custom-ach/9469228/","projectTitle":"Boost Student Motivation with Custom Achievement Buttons!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Martinez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8074847_orig.jpg?crop=2400,2400,x0,y88&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1702162473555","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8074847"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_72505","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":923,"numTeachers":36,"percentFrplEligible":88,"percentAsian":13,"percentBlack":6,"percentWhite":6,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":71,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 6","studentTeacherRatio":"25.6:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":41.7,"schoolId":72505,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Berkshire Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Berkshire Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/panama-buena-vista-union-school-district/berkshire-elementary-school/72505"}