{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Chester Upland School of Arts","outOfStateSupporters":31.2,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10293717,"projectId":9852060,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous donation, our classroom has become a more supportive, comfortable, and healthy learning environment for my students. The donated snacks have made an immediate difference, students now know they have access to food when they are still hungry after lunch or need a quick snack break to refocus. Instead of worrying about hunger, they can concentrate on learning, and it has noticeably improved their engagement and behavior throughout the day.\r\nWhen the students first saw the snack cabinet, they were genuinely excited and relieved. Several students shared how happy they felt knowing they wouldn't have to sit through lessons feeling hungry. It has also helped build independence, as they know when and how to appropriately get what they need.\r\nThe hand sanitizer has been especially valuable during flu season. Students use it regularly throughout the day, helping us keep germs at bay and maintain a healthier classroom overall. This simple resource has given both students and families peace of mind.\r\nThe teacher mobile chart has transformed the way I teach. I am now able to move freely around the classroom while keeping my computer accessible and connected to the smart board. This allows me to interact more closely with students, provide immediate support, and model lessons more effectively, all while having a safe, designated place for my computer.\r\nMoving forward, these resources will continue to support our daily lessons by keeping students focused, healthy, and ready to learn. Your generosity has truly given you a peek into our classroom, and your support is felt every single day. Thank you for making such a meaningful impact on my students and our learning community.","fullyFundedDate":1761406134363,"projectUrl":"project/heartfelt-supportive/9852060/","projectTitle":"Heartfelt & Supportive","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hamilton","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10293717_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1761951841459","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10293717"},{"teacherId":9871125,"projectId":9745621,"letterContent":"Thanks to this project, my students now have access to books that truly meet them where they are as readers and learners. These new texts introduce and strengthen essential literacy skills such as vocabulary development, reading comprehension, fluency, and making text-to-self and text-to-world connections. Many of the books also support social-emotional learning, helping students recognize emotions, build empathy, and see themselves reflected in stories—something that is especially important for students who have experienced challenges or trauma.\r\n\r\nReading in our classroom is an active and engaging experience. Students read independently, in small groups, and during whole-class read-alouds. You'll often see students discussing characters, predicting what might happen next, or excitedly sharing a favorite part of a story with a classmate. The availability of high-interest books has helped create a calm, welcoming reading environment where students feel safe to take risks and grow as readers.","fullyFundedDate":1761843078580,"projectUrl":"project/building-brilliance-1-book-1-prize-at/9745621/","projectTitle":"Building Brilliance: 1 Book & 1 Prize at a Time","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":9981180,"projectId":9575188,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity our new health and physical education equipment has completely transformed how my students learn and move in class. We are actively using the Sportime Inclusive PE Equipment Activity Pack, the adapted steeplecourse set scooter boards and sliding boards to create lessons that focus on fitness teamwork and inclusion. One powerful moment was during a fitness circuit lesson where students rotated through stations using the adapted steeplecourse sitting scooter boards and sliding boards with safety handles. These activities allowed all students regardless of ability level to participate fully while building strength balance and coordination.\r\nWhen the students first saw the equipment their reactions were pure excitement. Many students immediately asked when they could try everything and several commented that it felt like a real gym experience. The colorful scooter boards and inclusive design sparked curiosity and confidence especially for students who sometimes feel hesitant during physical activities. Seeing equipment that was clearly designed for safety and accessibility helped students feel supported and eager to participate.\r\nBecause of your support the next steps in our health and PE lessons involve applying these tools to skill building and cooperative challenges. Students are currently working on goal setting related to physical fitness and healthy movement using the scooter boards and adapted equipment to track progress practice teamwork and reflect on personal growth. Your contribution has helped create an engaging inclusive environment where every student feels capable active and motivated to develop lifelong healthy habits.","fullyFundedDate":1758304058583,"projectUrl":"project/from-classroom-to-champions-empowering/9575188/","projectTitle":"From Classroom to Champions: Empowering Students Through Fitness","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Granberry","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9981180"},{"teacherId":9981180,"projectId":9585527,"letterContent":"We are using the new resources to bring movement music and creativity together in meaningful ways during our dance and performance lessons. Students have been exploring rhythm and coordination using the Toca Freestyle II rope tuned djembe which has been especially powerful during warm ups and group activities where students create movement patterns to live drumming. A standout classroom moment was a collaborative dance project where students used tap shoes to practice timing footwork and body control while incorporating props such as reversible dance skirts bandanas pom poms and hats to express different styles and cultures. The LED black lights gloves and visual accessories helped transform our space into an engaging performance environment allowing students to connect movement with creativity and confidence.\r\nWhen students first saw the materials their excitement was immediate and contagious. They were amazed by the instruments costumes and lighting and could not wait to try everything. Many students felt empowered seeing professional style dance shoes and performance props which made them take pride in their learning and view themselves as real performers. Students who are usually more reserved became more willing to participate take risks and express themselves through movement.\r\nBecause of your support the next steps for students include developing a short performance piece that combines rhythm movement and visual design. Students will work in small groups to choreograph routines select costumes or props design masks and reflect on how music and movement support physical health coordination and self expression. This project will conclude with a small in class showcase where students demonstrate what they have learned and celebrate creativity teamwork and growth made possible through your generosity.","fullyFundedDate":1758232564643,"projectUrl":"project/the-movement-box/9585527/","projectTitle":"The Movement Box","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Granberry","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9981180"},{"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":7053676,"projectId":9853185,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your incredibly generous donation of snacks, fidgets, and classroom rewards for my students. Items such as slime, fun pencils, and other engaging incentives have already made a meaningful impact in our classroom. Your kindness and thoughtfulness are truly appreciated by both myself and my students.\r\n\r\nThese materials play an important role in promoting positive behavior and creating a supportive, motivating learning environment. The snacks help ensure students are focused and ready to learn, while the fidgets and rewards provide effective tools for encouragement, self-regulation, and positive reinforcement. They allow us to celebrate good choices, effort, and growth in ways that are both fun and meaningful for the students.\r\n\r\nWe are extremely grateful for your support and generosity. Donations like yours help create a classroom where students feel valued, motivated, and excited to do their best each day. Thank you again for investing in our students and contributing to their success.","fullyFundedDate":1761830614600,"projectUrl":"project/positive-behavior-classroom/9853185/","projectTitle":"Positive Behavior 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":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"}],"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":68.8,"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"}