{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"CREC Academy of International Studies (MLC)","outOfStateSupporters":54.1,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":3385191,"projectId":10263849,"letterContent":"Thank you again for your incredible generosity and support of our students. Because of your donations, our new 3D printer is already making an impact in our performing arts programs.\r\n\r\nThe very first project we created was a set of comedy and tragedy mask charms for our theatre seniors. These small symbols represent our rich tradition of theatre and the hard work and dedication our students brought to every rehearsal and performance. Our graduating seniors will add these charms to their graduation cords, giving them a meaningful keepsake that celebrates their accomplishments and the community they helped build during their time in our program.\r\n\r\nWhat made this project especially meaningful was that students were involved in the entire process. They explored Thingiverse for the design, learned about the printing process, and literally watched it print in my office as their idea became a tangible object they could hold in their hands. The excitement in the room was contagious as my kids gathered around the printer, eager to see the finished product emerge layer by layer. This is exactly the kind of opportunity your support has made possible. It has already become a source of inspiration, and we are only beginning to discover all the ways it can enrich our programs.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our students and investing in their success. Every time a kid uses this printer, they will be reminded that there are people they may never meet who believed in their potential and helped make opportunities like this possible. Your generosity is leaving a lasting mark on our school, and we are deeply grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1779496308908,"projectUrl":"project/3d-printing-in-music-theatre-moderni/10263849/","projectTitle":"3D Printing in Music & Theatre - Modernizing the Analog","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Campbell","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3385191_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1453742263397","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/campbellmlc"},{"teacherId":6109788,"projectId":9912871,"letterContent":"Having craft supplies through a DonorsChoose donation makes a huge difference for my 6th graders creating board games. Instead of just imagining their ideas, they can actually build and decorate them, which makes the project more exciting and meaningful. This project has impacted my students' academic growth by strengthening their critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills. It helps them think creatively, work together, and feel proud of what they've made. They made some pretty cool games and learned a ton in the process.\r\nThank you for your support!","fullyFundedDate":1767564477976,"projectUrl":"project/board-game-builders-a-steam-adventure/9912871/","projectTitle":"Board Game Builders: A STEAM Adventure","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Petroski","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6109788_orig.jpg?crop=2432,2432,x1330,y376&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1729702773799","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6109788"},{"teacherId":9813415,"projectId":9873186,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students have been able to engage with classroom content in a much more interactive and meaningful way using our new LCD writing tablets. These tools have quickly become a favorite in our classroom, allowing every student to actively participate without the pressure of speaking out loud or the waste of paper. They are much easier to use than whiteboards, as they are easier to clean up, pass out, and use as a whole. \r\n\r\nOne of the most impactful moments was during our review for the IB Paper 1 exam. Students used the LCD tablets as part of a fast-paced review game, where they responded to questions, analyzed political scenarios, and shared their thinking in real time. This not only increased engagement, but also allowed me to instantly assess understanding and address misconceptions on the spot.\r\n\r\nBeyond test prep, the tablets have supported collaboration, quick checks for understanding, and creative expression across lessons. Students are more willing to take risks, revise their thinking, and stay involved throughout the class period. They also just love the nostalgia of the boards from when they were younger!\r\n\r\nYour support has made our classroom more inclusive, interactive, and environmentally friendly. Thank you for helping create a space where all students can actively learn and succeed!","fullyFundedDate":1764387203137,"projectUrl":"project/lets-get-glowing-sparking-creativity-w/9873186/","projectTitle":"Let’s Get Glowing: Sparking Creativity with LCD Tablets","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lepak","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9813415_orig.jpg?crop=1333,1333,x0,y4&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742840542577","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9813415"},{"teacherId":9813415,"projectId":9207910,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support in helping provide a document camera for my Global Politics classroom. Your kindness has made an immediate and meaningful impact on my students' learning experience.\r\n\r\nWith this document camera, students can now clearly see primary sources, political cartoons, maps, charts, and student work as we analyze real-world global issues together. It allows us to slow down, annotate documents as a class, and engage in deeper discussions about power, development, conflict, and global decision-making. For many students, seeing material modeled visually makes complex political ideas far more accessible and less intimidating.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, my classroom is more interactive, inclusive, and engaging. You are helping students build the skills they need to think critically, recognize multiple perspectives, and communicate as informed global citizens. Your support goes far beyond equipment. You are investing in student voice, curiosity, and confidence.\r\n\r\nThank you again for believing in my students and for supporting public education. We are truly grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1746785395730,"projectUrl":"project/a-clearer-world-view-document-camera-fo/9207910/","projectTitle":"A Clearer World View: Document Camera for Engaged Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lepak","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9813415_orig.jpg?crop=1333,1333,x0,y4&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742840542577","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9813415"},{"teacherId":9813415,"projectId":9659874,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of board games for our classroom. Because of your support, my students now have access to engaging, screen-free activities like Clue and UNO that help create a balanced and focused learning environment.\r\n\r\nThese games provide students with meaningful opportunities to unplug from technology and interact face-to-face with their peers. They have been especially valuable during community-building time, after assessments, and on days when students need a mental break while still staying engaged and productive.\r\n\r\nHaving non-digital activities available helps students practice collaboration, communication, and patience in a relaxed setting. The games also contribute to a calmer classroom atmosphere and give students a healthy way to recharge without relying on screens.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has helped create a classroom space that values connection, balance, and student well-being. Thank you for investing in resources that support both learning and positive classroom culture. We truly appreciate your support.","fullyFundedDate":1762266309559,"projectUrl":"project/unplug-engage-board-games-for-brighte/9659874/","projectTitle":"Unplug & Engage: Board Games for Brighter Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lepak","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9813415_orig.jpg?crop=1333,1333,x0,y4&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742840542577","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9813415"},{"teacherId":9813415,"projectId":9485062,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of student essentials for our classroom. Because of your support, my students began the school year with the supplies they needed to feel prepared, confident, and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nThese essentials helped ensure that every student had access to basic materials from day one. Instead of worrying about missing supplies, students were able to focus on learning, participating, and building positive routines. This created a more equitable classroom where all students could start the year on equal footing.\r\n\r\nHaving these materials available also helped our classroom run more smoothly. Students were able to stay organized, complete their work, and take pride in their learning space. This support set a positive tone for the entire school year and helped students feel cared for and valued.\r\n\r\nYour generosity made a meaningful impact on both my students and me. Thank you for helping create a strong, supportive start to the school year and for investing in our classroom community. We are truly grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1756407521179,"projectUrl":"project/stocking-up-for-student-success/9485062/","projectTitle":"Stocking up for Student Success!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lepak","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9813415_orig.jpg?crop=1333,1333,x0,y4&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742840542577","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9813415"},{"teacherId":9813415,"projectId":9903651,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of cleaning supplies for our classroom. Because of you, my students now have access to hand sanitizer, Clorox wipes, air fresheners, and paper towels every day.\r\n\r\nThese supplies have made a real difference in our learning environment. Students are able to clean their desks and shared materials regularly, which helps keep everyone healthier and more comfortable. Having hand sanitizer readily available also helps students build good hygiene habits and take responsibility for their space.\r\n\r\nThe air fresheners and paper towels have helped create a classroom that feels clean, welcoming, and cared for. When students walk into a space that is well maintained, they feel safer and more ready to learn. This has helped improve focus, comfort, and overall classroom morale.\r\n\r\nYour support has taken a big worry off my plate and allowed me to focus more on teaching and supporting my students. Thank you for investing in their health, well-being, and success. We are truly grateful for your kindness","fullyFundedDate":1764692044891,"projectUrl":"project/clean-space-clear-minds-supplies-for-a/9903651/","projectTitle":"Clean Space, Clear Minds: Supplies for a Healthy, Clean Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lepak","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9813415_orig.jpg?crop=1333,1333,x0,y4&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742840542577","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9813415"},{"teacherId":1801089,"projectId":9469746,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our IB Sport, Exercise & Health Science classroom is in motion. With your support and matching donations, my students are bringing the concepts of biomechanics, physiology, and fitness training principles to life. Learning isn't stuck in the textbook.\r\n\r\nThanks to YOU, my students are analyzing the impact of movement and bringing theory to life during practical classroom activities and their IB Internal Assessment projects. Having pulse oximeters minimizes the time between completing a task and directly assessing heart rate. In the past, we would palpate at the radial or carotid artery. This method is beneficial for learning, but not always accurate in a lab setting - this is where your donations are so meaningful!\r\n\r\nAnd the skeleton? It was fun to see the big box arrive! My seniors unpacked and set it up, but it was my juniors who were most excited, as they were in our first unit, How We Move. It's always sad to see something \"go,\" but our old skeleton, \"Lee,\" was due for retirement due to missing bones and lost connective pieces that made some movements impossible. Our new skeleton (name to be determined!) provides hands-on opportunities to observe movement and understand how the structures of different joints in the body work.\r\n\r\nIn addition to the item pictures, we also received a height-measuring tool. The cool part about this is the easy setup and storage after use. Leaving it out is fun for students comparing heights, but it can be subject to damage - so thank you for this! In my senior class, a student is investigating the impact of height on agility using the Illinois Agility Test, while another is studying the impact of height on balance...and they are starting this project in a week, right after exams!\r\n\r\nOver the past decade, this course has become a launch pad for students as they consider future paths in college and beyond. Whether they are interested in kinesiology, physical therapy, athletic training, medicine, coaching, or health sciences, these resources offer hands-on learning through practical work with the basic tools of fitness and performance. They are gaining confidence not just in what they know, but in what they can pursue. And the best part, many of my students earn college credit for SEHS or apply it toward the IB Diploma, a prestigious academic achievement.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in my project and our class! Your support has helped turn curiosity into momentum and ideas into action—and with that, I hope you are singing the song, \"When I move, you move... just like that!\" 🎶","fullyFundedDate":1758900707634,"projectUrl":"project/when-i-move-you-move-just-like-that/9469746/","projectTitle":"When I Move, You Move, Just Like That!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Rowe","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1801089_orig.jpg?crop=2208,2208,x0,y294&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754455159629","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/rowesehs"},{"teacherId":6109788,"projectId":9848252,"letterContent":"We just finished out Balloon Power Car unit in my 9th grade Design class. It was such fun unit. The learning goals included practicing critical thinking and creative skills that are necessary for building a car run only on balloon power and creating the car that goes the fastest and furthest. It also included data collection, comparison and deep analysis. This unit was not only super fun, but the students experiences lots of frustration, trial and error and showed extreme perseverance. The amount of materials (balloons, axles, cardboard etc.) We went through so many of the materials provided by Donor's Choose. Balloons were popping everywhere! \r\n\r\nBy the end of the project, the students (based on the data we collected) determined that using the CD tires, metal axels, cardboard tubes and the medium size balloon proved to be the best combinations. The car the cars that went the fastest often ran into the wall before they were able to get very far. We were not able to determine if they would have gone a long distance due to alignment issues. The car that wen the furthest (pictured in one of the submitted photos, went almost 50 feet. The fastest car traveled 10 feet per second.\r\n\r\nI can't tell you how appreciate your support. This project was a huge success thanks to students hard work and your donations.","fullyFundedDate":1763577952958,"projectUrl":"project/full-steam-ahead-balloon-powered-car-de/9848252/","projectTitle":"Full STEAM Ahead: Balloon-Powered Car Design Challenge","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Petroski","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6109788_orig.jpg?crop=2432,2432,x1330,y376&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1729702773799","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6109788"},{"teacherId":3385191,"projectId":9528584,"letterContent":"WOW! Thank you for making our theatre dreams come true! Your generous support means our students are about to become total backstage rockstars with real carpentry tools in their hands. We are absolutely thrilled that you believed in our project! You didn't just fund a project; you opened up a whole new world where our students can build actual castles, city streets, living rooms, and whatever wild scenery their imaginations dream up. The excitement in our classroom is through the roof!\r\nEvery set piece they hammer together and every platform they construct will happen because YOU made it possible. These skills are going to stick with them forever, whether they end up on Broadway or building their own bookshelves at home. You've given them confidence, creativity, and the pure joy of making something amazing with their own two hands. Thank you for being such incredible champions of arts education and for showing these young people that their passions matter. You've made us one very happy theatre family!","fullyFundedDate":1754554526317,"projectUrl":"project/learn-to-build-build-to-learn/9528584/","projectTitle":"Learn to Build, Build to Learn!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Campbell","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3385191_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1453742263397","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/campbellmlc"},{"teacherId":6767372,"projectId":9760963,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous support of our classroom project, \"From Numbers to Nature.\" Your contribution has made an immediate and meaningful difference in the learning experiences of my students.\r\n\r\nBecause of your kindness, my students now have access to hands-on materials that help them connect mathematical concepts to the natural world. These resources have transformed our lessons—abstract ideas like patterns, ratios, population changes, and ecological relationships are now something students can touch, see, and explore.\r\n\r\nFor many of my learners, especially those who thrive with visual and tactile support, this project has opened new pathways to understanding. I watched students who once hesitated during math or science class suddenly light up as they modeled population growth with manipulatives, graphed real-world wildlife data, and used nature-based tools to explain phenomena they see in ecosystems around them. Students began asking deeper questions, taking ownership of their learning, and making connections across disciplines with confidence.\r\n\r\nOne of the most powerful outcomes has been the increase in engagement from students who often feel disconnected from traditional lessons. With these materials, they are not just learning content—they are seeing themselves as scientists, problem solvers, and curious thinkers who can make sense of real-world challenges. Your donation helped create a classroom environment where every learner has an entry point into complex ideas.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students and in the importance of hands-on, inclusive learning. Your generosity extends far beyond supplies; it has created joyful moments, empowered learners, and helped open doors to new ways of thinking. We are profoundly grateful for your support.\r\n\r\nWith appreciation,\r\nMrs. Caitlin Tenney","fullyFundedDate":1758915196813,"projectUrl":"project/from-numbers-to-nature-building-strong/9760963/","projectTitle":"“From Numbers to Nature: Building Stronger Scientists”","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Tenney","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6767372_orig.jpg?crop=720,720,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1566864436881","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6767372"},{"teacherId":944909,"projectId":9385388,"letterContent":"Thank you so much! Adding an extra station in our music lab is going to afford extra opportunities to many students going forward. We're getting the teacher station converted to a student station, which will already help my overbooked classes. Additionally, I will be able to have more students in each of my classes going forward which is an excellent result all the way around. \r\n\r\nMy students use our lab to learn about and create their own music. Music theory, listening, arrangement, and composition are all part of what we do. Your help has made even more of this possible! Thank you.","fullyFundedDate":1752586454666,"projectUrl":"project/the-building-of-a-music-lab-2025-26/9385388/","projectTitle":"The Building of a Music Lab 2025-26","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Ferguson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp944909_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1706898857784","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/944909"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_108511","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":null,"numTeachers":null,"percentFrplEligible":59,"percentAsian":4,"percentBlack":53,"percentWhite":31,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":8,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"US Census Data for the surrounding geographic area","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":1,"gradesServed":"Not specified","studentTeacherRatio":null,"demographicsDataSource":"Census ZCTA","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"UNCLASSIFIED","ncesMetroType":null},"inStateSupporters":45.9,"schoolId":108511,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about CREC Academy of International Studies (MLC) on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"CREC Academy of International Studies (MLC)","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/connecticut/-county-run-/crec-metropolitan-learning-center/108511"}