{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":46.4,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":3533555,"projectId":10103560,"letterContent":"Middle school math can often feel like a collection of invisible rules and flat shapes on a page. But thanks to your gift of 3Doodler pens and filament, my students are literally pulling those concepts off the paper and holding them in their hands. You've turned \"I don't get it\" into \"I just built it!\"\r\n\r\nInstead of just looking at a drawing of a cube or a tetrahedron, students used the 3Doodlers to trace 2D \"nets\" on their desks and then \"weld\" the edges together to pull them into 3D shapes.\r\n\r\nThe Reaction: One student, who usually struggles with spatial reasoning, gasped when his flat triangles became a pyramid. \"It's like the math is popping out at me!\" he shouted.\r\n\r\nThe Lesson: They weren't just memorizing definitions; they were calculating vertices, edges, and faces by actually touching and counting them on a model they created themselves.","fullyFundedDate":1771445123691,"projectUrl":"project/3d-doodlers-and-design/10103560/","projectTitle":"3d Doodlers and Design","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. H","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3533555_orig.jpg?crop=225,225,x73,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1741806957030","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/misterhscigui"},{"teacherId":9792309,"projectId":9909416,"letterContent":"Thank you so very, very much for supporting my classroom!!! I have received all of the flexible seating from this project, and it all sees heavy use every school day!\r\n\r\nMy students were super excited to see the new seating! They eagerly tried all the different options and found their favorites. All of my students utilize the flex seating some, if not all, of the time they are in my classroom. These seating choices have made a meaningful difference in our classroom environment.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, my students are more comfortable and engaged, and enjoy their time in my classroom more. They appreciate having the ability to choose the seating that works best for them. I've noticed improved focus, more productivity, more engagement, and a boost in students' overall spirits. The classroom feels warmer, more alive, and more supportive of the students.\r\n\r\nYour generosity made this awesomeness possible!!! Your contribution makes a difference in my classroom every day. Thank you, thank you, thank youuuuu!!!","fullyFundedDate":1764454808080,"projectUrl":"project/fidget-and-focus/9909416/","projectTitle":"Fidget and Focus","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Fernando","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9792309"},{"teacherId":3278050,"projectId":10105066,"letterContent":"Our class was very excited to receive the batteries, lights, simple circuit materials, a marble run, decals for decoration, night lights to help our room glow, and storage tools to organize everything. These new resources have helped bring our science lessons to life. Students are using the circuit materials to build and test simple circuits while learning about electricity, energy flow, and how different components work together. One memorable moment was when a group of students successfully lit their first bulb using a battery and wires. They were so proud and immediately started experimenting with different ways to connect their circuits.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the students were full of excitement and curiosity. Many of them had never built a circuit before, so seeing the lights turn on through their own work was very exciting. The marble run has also been a big hit, allowing students to explore motion, gravity, and problem-solving as they design different paths for the marbles. The decals and night lights have helped make our classroom feel brighter, more welcoming, and inspiring for learning.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, students will continue using these materials to deepen their understanding of science and engineering. Our next steps include designing small projects such as lighting a model house, creating simple switches for circuits, and experimenting with new marble run designs. These activities help students practice creativity, teamwork, and critical thinking while applying what they learn. We are so grateful to our donors for helping create a fun, engaging, and glowing learning environment for our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1771622072324,"projectUrl":"project/stem-starts-here-hands-on-tools-for-fut/10105066/","projectTitle":"STEM Starts Here: Hands-On Tools for Future Innovators","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Newbill","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3278050"},{"teacherId":3301390,"projectId":9874018,"letterContent":"It is awesome to now be able to provide students with a more tangible way to think about various health concepts, from a fork to remind them that life often requires careful consideration of choices to be happy with the outcomes, to a key to represent specific knowledge or skills needed in order to deal with different types of challenges or a feather to demonstrate that even though we may have many responsibilities, we can feel light and burden free because we are managing our lives well.\r\n\r\nAs we start each new unit, the symbols are shared as a way to introduce students to the big ideas. Students are excited to see what item will be used and they are more motivated to learn the concepts because in doing so they will be able to earn the symbols. At the end of the unit, they are again shown the symbol and given an opportunity to discuss its meaning for them personally which helps to solidify the concepts in their minds and increase the likelihood they will remember them so they can apply them as needed throughout their lives. Students are looking forward to the award day at end of the semester when they will receive the various symbolic items they have earned.","fullyFundedDate":1765414021400,"projectUrl":"project/symbols-to-represent-health-concepts/9874018/","projectTitle":"Symbols to Represent Health Concepts","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Gauna","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3301390_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1461474739762","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3301390"},{"teacherId":4853669,"projectId":10055322,"letterContent":"The 'unboxing' has been the best part of each morning for our class. When the boxes arrive, the class was buzzing with excitement. There is a sense of pride in our classroom and my students and I are truly grateful for your donation. Our class is planning on reading Holes for 4th quarter because we will be taking time to also do SBA. Reading gives our brains a little break and continues to be essential to increasing our appreciation of reading. Now that we have these resources, our next step is to use them effectively. My students are also happy knowing that they can come to our class for a snack when they don't have. This gives a lot of students piece of mind knowing that they don't have to worry about their hunger. We appreciate you very much.","fullyFundedDate":1771030270039,"projectUrl":"project/that-time-again/10055322/","projectTitle":"That Time Again","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Kamanuwai","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4853669_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1595486374822","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4853669"},{"teacherId":9157413,"projectId":10103879,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project, \"Keeping Us in the Game: New and Improved Esports Equipment.\"\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, our team now has reliable controllers and a comfortable, supportive gaming chair. These may sound like small upgrades, but for my students, they have changed the entire experience of being on an esports team. Having a controller with stick drift or broken buttons can ruin the experience for studets. Having available backups will ensure the program continues to run slowly. Now, they can practice and compete without worrying that their gear will hold them back.\r\n\r\nThe new gaming chair has made a big difference as well. Having comfortable seating helps make sure students can compete to the best of their ability.","fullyFundedDate":1771470900237,"projectUrl":"project/keeping-us-in-the-game-new-and-improved/10103879/","projectTitle":"Keeping Us in the Game: New and Improved Esports Equipment","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Seefeldt","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9157413"},{"teacherId":9428763,"projectId":9771952,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, my students have been able to enjoy nutritious snacks like fruit snacks, biscuits, and other treats during our class time. These snacks have made a meaningful difference in our daily routine. Many of my students come to class hungry, and having these resources readily available has helped them stay focused, energized, and ready to learn—especially during longer computer-based lessons. We use the snacks during designated break times and as small incentives for completing assignments, demonstrating positive behavior, or helping classmates. One special moment that stood out was seeing students light up when they realized they could earn a snack for finishing a challenging computer project—they were motivated, engaged, and proud of their accomplishments.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the snacks, their reactions were priceless. They were excited and incredibly grateful. Several students immediately said, \"Thank you!\" and asked how they could earn one. It created a positive classroom atmosphere and reinforced the idea that hard work pays off. The snacks have also helped build a sense of community in our classroom, as students cheer each other on and celebrate small successes together.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, we will continue using these snacks to support our current technology-based projects and reinforce positive classroom behaviors. Our next steps include completing collaborative computer assignments and strengthening digital literacy skills. Thanks to your support, my students can focus more on learning and less on hunger. Your generosity has truly made a direct and lasting impact in our classroom, and we are so thankful for your investment in their success.","fullyFundedDate":1759194632592,"projectUrl":"project/smart-snacks-for-hungry-minds-and-happy/9771952/","projectTitle":"Smart Snacks for Hungry Minds and Happy Hearts","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Avila","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9428763_orig.jpg?crop=959,959,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1704934430354","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9428763"},{"teacherId":9428769,"projectId":9772086,"letterContent":"One thing I've learned as a teacher is this: it's hard to think clearly when you're hungry. This project helped remove that barrier for my students.\r\n\r\nThe snacks you provided have quietly but powerfully supported our learning environment. Instead of students trying to push through rumbling stomachs or low energy in the middle of a lesson, they now have access to a quick boost that helps them reset and refocus. It has made a noticeable difference during longer math blocks, test prep days, and small-group rotations.\r\n\r\nWhat I love most is how it has strengthened our classroom community. We treat our snack station with respect — students take only what they need, say thank you, and understand that these were provided by generous people who believe in them. That awareness alone builds gratitude and responsibility.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, I've been able to extend learning time, offer after-school help without worrying about students feeling drained, and create a space where students feel cared for beyond academics. When students feel supported physically, they show up stronger mentally.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping fuel not just their bodies, but their confidence and perseverance. Your kindness truly feeds both brains and hearts in our classroom. 💛","fullyFundedDate":1759428416720,"projectUrl":"project/brains-games-and-yummy-gains/9772086/","projectTitle":"Brains, Games, and Yummy Gains!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Reyel","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9428769_orig.jpg?crop=2048,2048,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1704770110453","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9428769"},{"teacherId":9428769,"projectId":9676339,"letterContent":"I truly wish you could have been in the room when everything arrived. My students' faces said it all — excitement, curiosity, and that special kind of joy that comes from knowing someone out there cares about them and their learning.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, our classroom now has tools that support both learning and motivation in meaningful ways.\r\n\r\nFrom the new stapler and paper cutter that help us prepare organized projects, to the math games and tangram puzzles that bring concepts to life, every item has already become part of our daily routine. Even the snack packs have made a difference — they help keep students energized and focused, especially during longer lessons and review days.\r\n\r\nThe math resources, like the Division Tower game and tangram puzzles, have been especially impactful. Students are practicing problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork in a hands-on way. Instead of simply completing worksheets, they are collaborating, strategizing, and explaining their thinking to one another. It's been wonderful to see students who may feel unsure about math light up when learning feels like play.\r\n\r\nThe classroom tools have also made our space more efficient and student-centered. Students are independently preparing materials for projects, organizing their work, and taking pride in creating neat, polished final products. These small tools build big confidence.\r\n\r\nNext, we'll continue incorporating the math games into small-group rotations and enrichment time. We're also using the tangram puzzles as part of a geometry and spatial reasoning mini-unit, connecting hands-on exploration to academic vocabulary and written explanations.\r\n\r\nThank you for being part of our classroom story. Your support goes far beyond supplies — it creates opportunities, confidence, and moments my students will remember. 💙","fullyFundedDate":1758757672849,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-success-creating-a-conducive/9676339/","projectTitle":"Empowering Success: Creating a Conducive Learning Environment for Our Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Reyel","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9428769_orig.jpg?crop=2048,2048,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1704770110453","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9428769"},{"teacherId":9428769,"projectId":9303945,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom has truly transformed — not just physically, but in mindset and responsibility.\r\n\r\nWhen the supplies arrived — the Swiffer mops, Clorox disinfecting wipes, broom and dustpan sets, scrapers, and cleaning refills — my students were SO excited. You would think we opened a box of new tech gadgets! Instead, they saw something even more powerful: tools that showed them their learning space matters.\r\n\r\nThe very first day we used the materials, we launched what we now call our \"Clean Team Challenge.\" Students were assigned rotating classroom jobs — sweepers, desk sanitizers, supply organizers, and floor monitors. Using the Swiffer 2-in-1 dry and wet mops, students cleaned up after a hands-on math activity where manipulatives had been scattered across the floor. They proudly wiped down desks with the Clorox wipes after group work and made sure our reading corner stayed tidy.\r\n\r\nOne specific moment that stood out: after using the Febreze lavender-scented mopping cloths for the first time, one student said, \"Miss, it smells like we're in a brand-new classroom!\" Another student told me, \"It feels better to learn when it's clean.\" That right there showed me this project was about more than cleaning — it was about pride and ownership.\r\n\r\nWe are now using these supplies daily. Instead of me doing all the upkeep, students take responsibility for maintaining their environment. It has reduced distractions, increased focus, and even strengthened teamwork. They've learned that a productive classroom doesn't just happen — it's built and maintained together.\r\n\r\nWhat's next?\r\nWe are integrating this into our classroom economy and responsibility system. Students earn points for teamwork and care of materials, which connects directly to our personal finance and real-world responsibility lessons. We're also planning a \"Before and After\" data project where students will collect data on time spent cleaning versus time saved during transitions — tying cleanliness directly into efficiency and math skills!\r\n\r\nBecause of you, my students are learning life skills beyond academics: responsibility, collaboration, and pride in their shared space.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in not just a cleaner classroom — but a brighter, more empowered group of learners. We are so grateful for your support! 💛","fullyFundedDate":1756731485395,"projectUrl":"project/from-mess-to-success-keeping-our-classr/9303945/","projectTitle":"From Mess to Success: Keeping Our Classroom Clean and Bright!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Reyel","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9428769_orig.jpg?crop=2048,2048,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1704770110453","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9428769"},{"teacherId":2338935,"projectId":9899025,"letterContent":"This has been one of the most rewarding art projects of my art teaching career. We spent approximately 6 weeks from start to finish. When we began the project, I only had written instructions to go by. There were many firsts and many adjustments along the way. Using the spray foam was exciting for the students. They loved spraying it out onto the foil, and they were blown away when the students saw how it expanded when it dried. This donation gave us the spray foam, but there were many other steps to the finished products you see in the photos. Students had to think critically about their foam forms and choose to carve away parts of them to enhance the shape and contours. Once the forms were mounted to the bases, students used plaster wrap to give the foam more stability and then finished with a few layers of papier-mache. Then, students had to create a color scheme plan in their sketchbooks. Finally, the layers of paint were applied and finished with interesting mark-making details like lines and dots. In the end, we have a unique and colorful abstract coral garden that will be displayed at our student art show in May.","fullyFundedDate":1763668680110,"projectUrl":"project/making-organic-shape-sculptures/9899025/","projectTitle":"Making Organic Shape Sculptures","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Frasier","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2338935_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723396323606","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/leslie-frasier"},{"teacherId":9343605,"projectId":9773251,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for bringing our \"Printer, Supplies, and a Clean Space for Learning!\" project to life. Having a printer right here in our space has been a total game-changer, giving me the convenience to print out what I need the second a student or staff member needs it. I've already put it to work creating bright, fun flyers to promote our afterschool activities.\r\n\r\nBeyond the tech, the cleaning and organizational supplies have transformed our room into a much more professional and welcoming environment. With so many students coming through these doors every afternoon, staying on top of the mess is a constant battle, but having the right tools makes it easy to keep things sanitized and tidy. Your generosity hasn't just provided us with \"stuff\"—it has provided the infrastructure we need to run a high-quality program where students feel proud to spend their time.","fullyFundedDate":1759201272311,"projectUrl":"project/printer-supplies-and-a-clean-space-fo/9773251/","projectTitle":"\"Printer, Supplies, and a Clean Space for Learning!\"","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Bragg","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9343605"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_69801","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":826,"numTeachers":62,"percentFrplEligible":48,"percentAsian":25,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":7,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":20,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"13.3:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"TOWN","ncesMetroType":"TOWN_REMOTE"},"inStateSupporters":53.6,"schoolId":69801,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/hawaii/kapaa-kauai-waimea-school-district/chiefess-kamakahelei-mid-school/69801"}
Join the 261 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School is
a town public school
in Lihue, Hawaii that is part of Kapaa-Kauai-Waimea School District.
It serves 826 students
in grades 6 - 8 with a student/teacher ratio of 13.3:1.
Its teachers have had 312 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Share and help support Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School
Boost support for this school! Share this page with friends, family, alumni, and fellow supporters. Every connection helps teachers get the supplies they need and shows how much your community cares about its students.
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for public school teachers.
Every donation funds real needs — pencils, books, lab equipment, art supplies, and more — helping students learn and thrive. We ship supplies directly to the school, and you'll see exactly where each dollar goes.
of students receive free or reduced price lunch
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
Source: the National Center for Education Statistics
45%
of students are Black, Latino, Native
American, or Asian
Data about school demographics comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. The numbers in this chart may not add up to 100% because of limitations in the available data.
Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Mar 21, 2026
DonorsChoose makes it easy for anyone to help a teacher in need, moving us closer to a nation where students
in every community have the tools and experiences they need for a great education.
Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School
$261,786
raised using DonorsChoose
312
projects
funded
80
teachers
funded
261
donors
39
projects
for
basic supplies
70
projects for
technology
12
projects for
books
23
projects
for
art supplies
Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School has received support from
140 individuals from Hawaii and
121 individuals out-of-state.