{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Cowles Montessori School","outOfStateSupporters":14.0,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9057239,"projectId":9512096,"letterContent":"The Systems of the Phyla project has completely transformed how we approach life science in our classroom. As soon as the materials arrived, students were drawn in by the vibrant visuals and the hands-on, tactile nature of the work. They were fascinated by how each phylum could be explored system by system—circulatory, digestive, reproductive, and more—using real scientific vocabulary and Montessori-aligned materials.\r\n\r\nWe've used the comparative anatomy cards to launch student-led research projects, partner discussions, and presentations. The control charts have been especially helpful in guiding students to see patterns and make connections between seemingly different organisms. One student commented, \"I never realized how much humans and worms actually have in common.\"\r\n\r\nThis project has deepened not just our understanding of biology—it has expanded curiosity, sparked questions, and encouraged critical thinking. Students are no longer just learning about animal systems from a textbook—they're interacting with the material and forming their own conclusions. Thank you for helping bring high-quality, engaging STEM learning into our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1754353877502,"projectUrl":"project/systems-of-the-phyla-comparative-anatom/9512096/","projectTitle":"Systems of the Phyla: Comparative Anatomy for Curious Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Prochaska","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9057239_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1685669485833","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mariahprochaska"},{"teacherId":9057239,"projectId":9511180,"letterContent":"The Real Tools for Real-World Learning project has had an incredible impact on my students. From the moment the materials arrived, they were excited to work with real, functional tools that mirror the work of adults. Whether organizing supplies, using kitchen tools, or managing classroom cleaning routines, students immediately stepped up with confidence and pride.\r\n\r\nThese tools have helped foster independence, responsibility, and practical problem-solving. Students are learning not only how to take care of their environment, but also how to plan, collaborate, and follow through on meaningful tasks. One student said, \"It feels like we're trusted to do real things, not just pretend.\" That sense of trust and purpose has transformed the tone of our classroom.\r\n\r\nThank you for giving my students the opportunity to engage in purposeful, hands-on learning. Your support is helping them grow into capable, confident individuals who see themselves as contributors to their classroom and their community.","fullyFundedDate":1755302140110,"projectUrl":"project/real-tools-for-real-world-learning/9511180/","projectTitle":"Real Tools for Real-World Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Prochaska","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9057239_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1685669485833","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mariahprochaska"},{"teacherId":9057239,"projectId":9509539,"letterContent":"The Back to Basics project gave my students exactly what they needed to start the year feeling prepared, focused, and supported. When the new supplies arrived—pencils, notebooks, folders, and organizers—students were excited to have access to materials they could truly call their own. It immediately set a tone of readiness and respect for learning.\r\n\r\nThese everyday essentials are used across every subject, helping students stay organized, engaged, and confident in their work. Whether they're taking notes during a lesson or collaborating on a group project, they now have the tools they need without hesitation or worry.\r\n\r\nThank you for providing the foundation for a successful school year. Your support helped us meet basic needs so we could focus on what matters most: learning and growing together.","fullyFundedDate":1753791399258,"projectUrl":"project/back-to-basics/9509539/","projectTitle":"Back to Basics","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Prochaska","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9057239_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1685669485833","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mariahprochaska"},{"teacherId":9057239,"projectId":9760972,"letterContent":"The Shifting Plates, Shifting Minds project has brought an exciting, hands-on energy to our earth science lessons. When the materials arrived, students were immediately intrigued by the visuals and couldn't wait to explore how tectonic plates move, collide, and shape the Earth's surface. One student exclaimed, \"I didn't know science could feel like solving a puzzle!\"\r\n\r\nWe've used these materials to study plate boundaries, volcanic activity, and landform creation. Students work in small groups to build models, sequence events, and explain real-world phenomena using proper scientific vocabulary. These resources have helped make abstract earth science concepts concrete and accessible, especially for visual and kinesthetic learners.\r\n\r\nThanks to your support, my students are not only learning scientific content—they're thinking like scientists. They ask deeper questions, test ideas collaboratively, and make connections between classroom learning and natural events they see in the world around them. Your donation has sparked lasting curiosity and empowered young learners to understand the Earth in powerful new ways.","fullyFundedDate":1761089878638,"projectUrl":"project/shifting-plates-shifting-minds-earth-s/9760972/","projectTitle":"Shifting Plates, Shifting Minds: Earth Science for Growing Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Prochaska","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9057239_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1685669485833","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mariahprochaska"},{"teacherId":9057239,"projectId":8881985,"letterContent":"The Headphones for Focused Learning project has made an immediate and meaningful difference in our classroom. As soon as the headphones arrived, students were excited to have their own pairs and take responsibility for using them respectfully. They were especially grateful for the chance to work independently without distractions during reading, research, and digital learning activities.\r\n\r\nNow, students can access individualized learning platforms, watch instructional videos, and listen to audiobooks without disrupting others. One student shared, \"It's so much easier to concentrate now that I don't hear everything else going on.\" These headphones have created a calmer, more focused environment where learners can thrive at their own pace.\r\n\r\nThanks to your support, our classroom feels more equipped, more inclusive, and more learner-centered. Your donation didn't just provide headphones—it helped give every student the space they need to focus and succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1739568759671,"projectUrl":"project/headphones-for-focused-learning/8881985/","projectTitle":"Headphones for Focused Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Prochaska","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9057239_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1685669485833","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mariahprochaska"},{"teacherId":9057239,"projectId":8474914,"letterContent":"The Growing Creativity Project has brought so much life and joy into our classroom. Students were excited the moment the materials arrived—they immediately began planning how they would use the new supplies for both hands-on art and caring for our classroom plants. It was amazing to see students blending creativity with responsibility in such meaningful ways.\r\n\r\nOur classroom now includes a calm space where students care for plants, sketch observations, and create art inspired by the natural world. Whether they're using the materials to draw, paint, repot, or journal, students are more engaged, focused, and proud of their work. One student said, \"I love that we get to grow things and make things—it's like the classroom is alive.\"\r\n\r\nThis project has helped foster independence, attention to detail, and creative expression. Thank you for helping us build a learning environment where students can grow academically, artistically, and emotionally. Your generosity is helping creativity take root—literally and figuratively.","fullyFundedDate":1722301497543,"projectUrl":"project/the-growing-creativity-project/8474914/","projectTitle":"The Growing Creativity Project","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Prochaska","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9057239_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1685669485833","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mariahprochaska"},{"teacherId":9057239,"projectId":9509684,"letterContent":"When the materials from our Clean, Calm, and Capable project arrived, my students immediately took ownership of them with pride. They were eager to learn how to use the natural cleaning supplies, microfiber cloths, and gentle routines to care for their classroom environment. One student even said, \"It feels like our space is more grown up now.\"\r\n\r\nWe've incorporated daily cleaning and reset routines into our Practical Life work, giving students structure, independence, and a sense of responsibility. With labeled supplies and simple tools they can use on their own, students now take initiative to wipe down tables, clean up after themselves, and collaborate to keep our shared space peaceful and orderly.\r\n\r\nThis project has transformed our classroom culture. Students feel more capable, and the environment feels calmer and more intentional. Thank you for helping us create a space that's not only clean—but student-led and full of pride.","fullyFundedDate":1755708599698,"projectUrl":"project/clean-calm-and-capable/9509684/","projectTitle":"Clean, Calm, and Capable","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Prochaska","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9057239_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1685669485833","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mariahprochaska"},{"teacherId":8909239,"projectId":9659103,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for all the materials you provided for our classroom. The children's excitement grew each time a new order arrived, and each delivery sparked new conversations and curiosity.\r\n\r\nOur science shelf went from nothing to something truly special. It has been incredible to watch the students explore, observe, and ask thoughtful questions as they interact with the materials. They are experimenting, making predictions, and eagerly sharing their discoveries with one another. Most importantly, they are naturally making connections and realizing that science is all around them—in their everyday experiences, their environment, and their play.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has transformed our classroom and helped foster a love of learning and exploration. We are deeply grateful for your support.\r\n\r\nWith sincere appreciation,","fullyFundedDate":1757809653120,"projectUrl":"project/science-in-our-hands/9659103/","projectTitle":"Science in Our Hands!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Hayes","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8909239_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755728970992","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8909239"},{"teacherId":9583058,"projectId":9718255,"letterContent":"When the materials arrived, my students were immediately excited to explore them. Their eyes lit up as they passed around the new tape measures, timers, and thermometers, eager to begin measuring anything they could find in the classroom. We started with a hands-on \"Measurement Stations Day,\" where students rotated between weighing classroom objects, timing simple tasks, and recording indoor and outdoor temperatures.\r\n\r\nOne of the most memorable moments came when a group used the balance scale for the first time. They gasped as they watched the scale tip and worked together to figure out how many cubes balanced a block. That sense of discovery is exactly what these tools create—students learning through experimentation, discussion, and real-world application.\r\n\r\nNext, we'll be moving into a project where students track changes in temperature, plant growth, and elapsed time over several weeks. These resources allow us to collect real data, graph our findings, and make meaningful comparisons. Thanks to your generosity, my students are building confidence with measurement and developing skills that will support them across all STEM learning. Your support has truly made our classroom a more engaging and hands-on place to learn.","fullyFundedDate":1762265389073,"projectUrl":"project/measuring-our-world-hands-on-tools-for/9718255/","projectTitle":"Measuring Our World: Hands-On Tools for Young Scientists","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Schoenfelder","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9583058_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1720201975412","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9583058"},{"teacherId":9583058,"projectId":9663090,"letterContent":"My students are so excited to watch caterpillars transform into butterflies right in our classroom. Seeing the life cycle happen before their eyes will give them a deeper understanding than any picture in a textbook ever could. The books about butterflies and pollinators will also keep their curiosity alive, and many students are eager to read and share new facts with their classmates.\r\n\r\nThese resources make it possible for me to teach life cycles in a hands-on, engaging way. The butterfly models help students visualize each stage and allow them to compare what they will see in real life with scientific models. The books support both science and literacy, giving students opportunities to practice reading while learning about the important role pollinators play in our world.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, my students are gaining not only knowledge but also a sense of wonder and responsibility for the natural world. This project connects science, reading, and critical thinking in a meaningful way. Thank you for making this memorable learning experience possible—it will have a lasting impact on their education and their love of discovery.","fullyFundedDate":1757806413282,"projectUrl":"project/butterfly-life-cycle-experience/9663090/","projectTitle":"Butterfly Life Cycle Experience","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Schoenfelder","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9583058_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1720201975412","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9583058"},{"teacherId":9746977,"projectId":9418432,"letterContent":"My students are so thrilled to have new books. Since getting them into our classroom library, our reading time has been quite productive. I have many young students who are loving the Diary of A Wimpy Kid, The Piggy and Elephant chapter books and all the new leveled readers in the non-fiction category. It is a joy to see the kids receive so many new books, as this doesn't happen very often. \r\n\r\nThe children will learn how to take care of these books. We have a classroom library that is well taken care of. These books will live in our room for many years I'm sure. Thank you for helping my students get excited about books. \r\n\r\nI am grateful for the people I know and do not know who have contributed to this project. This has truly been heartwarming. Thank you for your help in encouraging my students to be stronger, more interested readers.","fullyFundedDate":1753899776926,"projectUrl":"project/new-books-to-read/9418432/","projectTitle":"New Books to Read!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ashley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9746977_orig.jpg?crop=2640,2640,x0,y484&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1750215078980","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9746977"},{"teacherId":9583058,"projectId":9383967,"letterContent":"When our incubator and chick resources arrived, the excitement in our classroom was incredible! Students immediately gathered around the life cycle model and books, making predictions about what we'll see in the coming weeks. They were amazed to learn that we'll get to witness each stage of development in real time.\r\n\r\nA favorite moment was when one student whispered, \"We're really going to be scientists!\" as we set up the incubator together. These materials are giving my students a hands-on way to connect reading, science, and curiosity.\r\n\r\nOur next steps are tracking the daily changes in the eggs, recording observations in science journals, and comparing what we see with what we're learning from the books. Thanks to your generosity, my students will soon get to celebrate the arrival of our very own chicks!","fullyFundedDate":1750253505464,"projectUrl":"project/hatching-chicks/9383967/","projectTitle":"Hatching Chicks","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Schoenfelder","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9583058_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1720201975412","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9583058"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_60038","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":392,"numTeachers":23,"percentFrplEligible":16,"percentAsian":2,"percentBlack":1,"percentWhite":77,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":8,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"17.0:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":false,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":86.0,"schoolId":60038,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Cowles Montessori School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Cowles Montessori School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/iowa/des-moines-public-schools/cowles-elementary-school/60038"}