{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Chester Upland School of Arts","outOfStateSupporters":30.5,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9782161,"projectId":9533116,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has been transformed into a warm, welcoming, and highly engaging learning space! The materials you provided are already making a tremendous difference in our students' daily experience, and I want to share how much your support truly means to us.\r\n\r\nThe new classroom rug has quickly become the heart of our room. Students gather there for morning meeting, read-alouds, partner work, and independent reading. It has created a comfortable, calming corner where students feel safe to share their ideas and connect with one another.\r\n\r\nOur student reward trunk—filled with stuffed animals, stuffed keychains, and water bottles—has completely energized our positive-behavior and motivation systems. Students are working hard, setting goals, and celebrating their growth with pride. The stuffed animals have become beloved classroom \"reading buddies,\" helping students feel comforted and confident during independent reading time. The keychains and water bottles have been a huge hit as well, giving students meaningful, practical rewards that last.\r\n\r\nThe addition of the HDMI transmitter and receiver has improved our instruction in ways we didn't even realize we needed. I can now project lessons from anywhere in the room, making it easier to move around, support students individually, and keep everyone engaged. This simple piece of technology has increased flexibility, participation, and visibility for all learners.\r\n\r\nThese items may seem simple, but together they have created joy, comfort, and a stronger sense of community. Students walk into the classroom excited, engaged, and ready to learn—because they know this space was built with people like you who believe in them.\r\n\r\nThank you for making this possible. Your kindness has made a lasting impact on our students, and we are truly grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1757568882714,"projectUrl":"project/successful-start-for-the-year/9533116/","projectTitle":"Successful Start for the Year!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Mangini","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9782161_orig.jpg?crop=1692,1692,x0,y208&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754343346557","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9782161"},{"teacherId":10339831,"projectId":9870821,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom has transformed into a more welcoming, energizing, and student-centered environment. The addition of the water cooler, along with healthy snacks, ensures that students can stay hydrated and focused throughout the day—something especially important during long lessons, testing weeks, and high-energy activities. Many students who previously struggled with fatigue or hunger-related distractions are now able to stay engaged and confident.\r\n\r\nThe Ninja slushie machine has quickly become a classroom favorite. Beyond simply being a fun treat, it has become a tool for building community, rewarding effort, and reinforcing positive behavior. We've incorporated slushie days into reading challenges, attendance incentives, and STEM lessons on temperature, states of matter, and mixtures. Students light up with excitement knowing that their hard work can culminate in a colorful, ice-cold reward. It has boosted morale, strengthened classroom bonds, and even encouraged students to take greater ownership of their learning.\r\n\r\nYour contribution didn't just provide equipment—it created joy, supported wellness, and enhanced student motivation every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1763498194005,"projectUrl":"project/sips-and-snacks-for-smiles-helping-hung/9870821/","projectTitle":"Sips and Snacks for Smiles: Helping Hungry Learners Stay Energized!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Chung","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10339831"},{"teacherId":9782161,"projectId":9668489,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity and support through DonorsChoose. Because of your kindness, our classroom now has resources that truly make learning more engaging, accessible, and joyful.\r\n\r\nThe new student library books have already had a tremendous impact. Students are eagerly exploring new stories, discovering new interests, and growing as readers every single day. Many have found favorite series and genres they never knew they loved. Our classroom library now feels like a place of excitement, imagination, and choice—and students are reading more because they want to, not just because they are asked to.\r\n\r\nThe dry erase board on wheels has also become an essential part of our daily learning. Its mobility allows us to bring instruction into small groups, breakout spaces, and different parts of the room. Students love using it during math problem-solving, brainstorming sessions, and collaborative work. It has encouraged participation, creativity, and confidence—especially for those who benefit from being able to think aloud and write in a shared space.\r\n\r\nThanks to your support, my classroom is now more interactive, more student-centered, and more inspiring. These resources are not just tools—they are opportunities for growth, excitement, and connection.\r\n\r\nWe are truly grateful for your generosity and the difference you have made. Thank you for believing in our students and supporting their learning journey.","fullyFundedDate":1758855357703,"projectUrl":"project/readers-today-leaders-tomorrow/9668489/","projectTitle":"Readers Today, Leaders Tomorrow!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Mangini","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9782161_orig.jpg?crop=1692,1692,x0,y208&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754343346557","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9782161"},{"teacherId":5223015,"projectId":9852764,"letterContent":"We are so grateful for your kind, generous and thoughtful donation. My students were ecstatic when they came back from Art Class and saw the boxes! They felt so proud that we were chosen. Having clean drinking water every day is amazing! Your donation has been a game changer for our thirsty learners. The snacks, lollipops and freeze pops are something the students enjoy after a hard day of working! Your donation has made a huge difference in our learning. Thank you for helping create a better and safer environment for our students. Your generosity has made a huge impact.","fullyFundedDate":1761418250377,"projectUrl":"project/snack-and-hydration-station-for-student/9852764/","projectTitle":"Snack and Hydration Station for Student Success","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Goodwin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5223015_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1520470944954","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5223015"},{"teacherId":5240806,"projectId":9531157,"letterContent":"When my students first saw all the items, they immediately asked, \"Are we having a party?\" I smiled and explained what I was doing with everything — setting up a Snack Station to help keep their minds and bodies fueled for learning. Their eyes lit up, and they started asking so many questions about when it would be ready and what snacks we'd have. Seeing their excitement and curiosity made me feel so good about creating something special just for them.\r\n\r\nThese snacks came at the perfect time, as we've recently learned that SNAP benefits may be canceled as of November 1st. For many of our families, this has created worry about food access. Having snacks available at school provides comfort and relief for students who may not always have enough to eat. Some of my students even come to me in the morning asking if I have something small before breakfast ends — just enough to help them feel better and start their day strong. One student smiled and said, \"I feel good now — my brain's ready!\" Moments like that remind me why this project matters so much.\r\n\r\nThe Snack Station has quickly become a part of our classroom routine. It's not just about snacks — it's about giving students what they need to thrive. Teachers have noticed calmer, more focused learners, and students are learning responsibility, gratitude, and kindness. Because of your generosity, our students are not only learning better but also feeling cared for. Thank you for helping us nourish both hearts and minds — one snack at a time.","fullyFundedDate":1758232431592,"projectUrl":"project/snack-station-helping-hungry-minds-thri/9531157/","projectTitle":"Snack Station: Helping Hungry Minds Thrive","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ellis","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5240806_orig.jpg?crop=480,480,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1674064463008","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5240806"},{"teacherId":9075316,"projectId":9026502,"letterContent":"When our new classroom organization materials and teaching supplies arrived, my 2nd graders and I were beyond excited! We spent the day unpacking, labeling, and setting up our new learning spaces. The students were amazed to see how neat and colorful everything looked—and how much easier it was to find what they needed.\r\n\r\nThese resources have truly transformed our classroom. The new storage bins, shelves, and organizers have helped students take ownership of their materials and keep our space tidy. The additional teaching supplies have made our lessons more engaging and hands-on, allowing my students to stay focused and enthusiastic during activities.\r\n\r\nOne special moment was watching a group of students proudly organize our classroom library and celebrate how easy it now is to find their favorite books. Their excitement and pride said it all!\r\n\r\nOur next steps are to continue building independence and responsibility by having students rotate classroom jobs that keep our space organized. Thanks to your generosity, our classroom is brighter, calmer, and more efficient—a space where learning can truly thrive!","fullyFundedDate":1742921611833,"projectUrl":"project/learning-enrichment-and-engagement/9026502/","projectTitle":"Learning Enrichment and Engagement","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Wilkins","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9075316_orig.jpg?crop=1179,1179,x0,y298&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1761761106443","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9075316"},{"teacherId":9871125,"projectId":9745762,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our \"Snack Attack\" project has brought a daily moment of joy, comfort, and focus to our classroom. The snacks you helped provide have become a vital part of our school day, especially for students who come to class hungry or need a little boost to stay energized throughout their lessons. One student recently said, \"It's easier to think when I'm not hungry!\" — and that simple truth speaks volumes about the importance of what you've helped us provide.\r\n\r\nThe day the snacks arrived, the classroom buzzed with excitement. Students were so surprised and thankful — some even asked if it was a special occasion! Since then, we've used snack time not just to refuel, but to build community. It's become a chance to pause, connect, and reset before jumping back into our learning. During a recent group project, I noticed how much more focused and cooperative students were after a quick snack break — they tackled challenges with more patience and energy.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we're diving into a new unit that requires focus and creativity — and I know the support you've provided will continue to fuel both. Thank you for investing in my students' well-being and success. Your kindness has made a lasting impact, and we are so grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1758855006258,"projectUrl":"project/snack-attack-supporting-student-success/9745762/","projectTitle":"Snack Attack: Supporting Student Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Heidin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9871125_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1735774704213","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9871125"},{"teacherId":7053676,"projectId":9534132,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for all my items that were given. It has been nothing but a great help towards our classroom. The students were so happy to see our new items to add to our class. The pillows were used as an alternate seat around the classroom. The pencils are used to help us be able to write and become successful. We can keep our classroom clean with the Lysol! We also are able to use our fidgets while I am teaching to keep the focused on the lesson. I am able to use the IPad on small groups, and the students are using it whenever we do one on one grouping. We also are able to use our snacks as an award in the classroom due to behavior. The students are beyond happy and filled with joy to receive all the new items. Thank you so much!","fullyFundedDate":1758232291027,"projectUrl":"project/ms-lewis-classroom/9534132/","projectTitle":"Ms. Lewis Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lewis","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7053676_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1743690801496","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7053676"},{"teacherId":9782161,"projectId":9533970,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your incredible generosity and support of our classroom through Donors Choose. The items you helped provide have already transformed our learning environment in meaningful and exciting ways.\r\n\r\nOur new teacher standing desk has made instruction more dynamic and flexible. I'm able to move easily, teach from different areas of the room, and stay more engaged with students during lessons. It has helped create a more interactive and responsive learning space.\r\n\r\nThe flexible seating items—especially the cushions—have made reading time something students truly look forward to. The classroom now feels more comfortable, calm, and student-centered. Many students who once struggled to stay focused are now more settled and invested during independent work.\r\n\r\nThe fidget tools and student reward items have also made a noticeable difference. They give students positive outlets for energy, help them self-regulate, and reinforce the behaviors and habits we're working hard to grow. These small tools have had a big impact on confidence, motivation, and classroom culture.\r\n\r\nBecause of your kindness, my students have a space that better supports movement, collaboration, focus, and joy. You didn't just provide classroom supplies—you provided opportunities, encouragement, and excitement around learning.\r\n\r\nWe are deeply grateful for your support. Thank you for believing in our classroom and for helping make school a place where students feel seen, motivated, and capable.","fullyFundedDate":1758232825436,"projectUrl":"project/student-rewards-and-engaging-tools/9533970/","projectTitle":"Student rewards and engaging tools","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Mangini","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9782161_orig.jpg?crop=1692,1692,x0,y208&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754343346557","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9782161"},{"teacherId":9871125,"projectId":9350947,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our Healthy and Safe School Year project. Your kindness has provided essential materials that are helping us maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming classroom environment—one where my students can thrive academically and emotionally. While many of you may use technology daily in your homes, you might wonder how the supplies we requested relate to students' learning and growth. I am excited to share with you how these resources play a critical role beyond simply keeping us healthy—they actively support a positive and effective learning experience for every child.\r\n\r\nThe materials you helped provide—such as hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, masks, tissues, and first aid supplies—have quickly become an integral part of our daily routine. At first, students were curious and cautious about the new protocols, but they have embraced these habits with enthusiasm. They understand that maintaining a clean and safe space helps everyone focus better on their schoolwork without fear or distraction. This sense of security encourages students to be more present and engaged, which is the foundation for successful learning.\r\n\r\nOne of the most exciting impacts of this project is how it has allowed me to integrate health and wellness education directly into our lessons. For example, after discussing the science of germs and hygiene, students eagerly apply what they learn by practicing proper handwashing and cleaning their work areas. Recently, we conducted a science experiment comparing the effectiveness of different sanitizing methods, turning abstract health concepts into concrete, hands-on learning. This not only deepened their understanding of science but also empowered them to take charge of their own health.\r\n\r\nSeveral students, especially those with underlying health concerns or anxiety about illness, have responded positively to these safety measures. One student, who used to be hesitant about attending school during cold and flu season, now feels reassured and more confident because of the visible efforts we make to keep the classroom clean and safe. This emotional comfort translates directly into academic participation and social interaction, helping them overcome barriers to learning.\r\n\r\nYour support also helps me focus more on teaching and less on managing health-related disruptions. Having the right supplies on hand means fewer interruptions for cleaning or quarantining, allowing lessons to proceed smoothly. It also fosters a community of care where students learn the importance of responsibility and kindness—not just in the classroom but as a life skill.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we are planning to build on this foundation by exploring broader themes of wellness, community health, and empathy in our curriculum. We will invite health professionals to speak with students about personal care and safety practices, further connecting classroom learning with real-world applications. Your generosity has made all this possible and has shown my students that their health and education matter deeply.\r\n\r\nThank you again for your invaluable support. You are not only helping keep our classroom safe—you are empowering my students to learn, grow, and succeed with confidence. Your impact is felt in every healthy smile, focused lesson, and hopeful heart in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1758232258430,"projectUrl":"project/starting-the-year-off-right/9350947/","projectTitle":"Starting the Year Off Right","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Heidin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9871125_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1735774704213","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9871125"},{"teacherId":9871125,"projectId":9398618,"letterContent":"I am beyond grateful for your generous support of our Healthy and Safe School Year project. Your contribution has made an enormous difference in creating a classroom environment where my students feel secure, cared for, and ready to learn. As we navigate this school year, these resources have become essential in keeping our classroom clean, safe, and healthy—allowing students to focus on their education without worry.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials arrived, my students were immediately curious and excited. They saw new hand sanitizer stations, disinfectant wipes, tissues, and even some masks that help protect them and their classmates. One student shared, \"It feels good to know we're keeping each other safe.\" This simple moment highlighted how much these supplies mean—not just physically, but emotionally—helping students feel confident that their health matters to me and the entire school community. It has brought a sense of calm and normalcy in an otherwise uncertain time.\r\nWe use these resources every day in routines that have become second nature to my students. Before and after activities, students independently sanitize their hands and wipe down desks, learning responsibility and care for others. We've incorporated lessons on hygiene and health into our curriculum, helping students understand the importance of cleanliness for their well-being. Recently, we completed a science project focused on germs and hygiene, where students tracked the effectiveness of different cleaning methods in our classroom. Thanks to the supplies you provided, this hands-on project was possible and incredibly impactful. Watching my students engage so enthusiastically reinforced how vital these resources are to both their learning and their health.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, these materials will continue to support our classroom's safety and health goals. We are planning to expand our health lessons into a broader unit on community care and personal responsibility. This project has also made it easier for me to welcome guest speakers from our local health department to talk about wellness and safety. Your generosity is not only protecting students physically but also inspiring them to be caring and informed citizens.\r\n\r\nBecause of your kindness, my students can attend school each day with fewer worries about their health, allowing them to focus on growing academically and socially. I can't thank you enough for investing in our well-being and educational success. You have truly made a difference in our classroom, and we feel your support in every clean desk, every safe smile, and every moment of learning.","fullyFundedDate":1755002464022,"projectUrl":"project/healthy-and-safe-school-year/9398618/","projectTitle":"Healthy and Safe School Year","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Heidin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9871125_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1735774704213","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9871125"},{"teacherId":9871125,"projectId":9398192,"letterContent":"Thanks to your incredible generosity, our classroom is now more organized, efficient, and student-friendly than ever before! The storage bins, shelves, and organizational tools you helped fund have completely transformed how we manage our learning materials and supplies. When the items arrived, my students were immediately curious and excited. As we set everything up together, one student said, \"It feels like a real learning space now!\"—and I couldn't agree more.\r\n\r\nThese organization tools have made daily routines smoother and more productive. Students now know exactly where to find and return materials, which has encouraged responsibility and independence. Our classroom library has been reorganized so students can easily browse by reading level or interest, and our supplies for writing, math, and art are now clearly labeled and accessible. We recently completed a group project where students were able to gather everything they needed quickly, with no wasted time searching—just focused, joyful learning.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, these tools will continue to support every lesson, project, and activity we do. Because of you, our classroom isn't just tidier—it's a more inviting, calm, and engaging place to learn. Thank you for making that possible and for believing in the power of a well-organized space to support big learning and growing minds!","fullyFundedDate":1753039962984,"projectUrl":"project/organization-is-key/9398192/","projectTitle":"Organization is Key","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Heidin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9871125_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1735774704213","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9871125"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_96704","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":384,"numTeachers":29,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":85,"percentWhite":2,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":7,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"13.2:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":69.5,"schoolId":96704,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Chester Upland School of Arts on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Chester Upland School of Arts","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/pennsylvania/chester-upland-school-district/chester-upland-school-of-arts/96704"}