{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Danbury High School - Main Campus","outOfStateSupporters":42.6,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8670425,"projectId":9942897,"letterContent":"Your generosity in providing the Christmas ornament craft kits created an experience that went far beyond a simple seasonal activity. In a high school setting where schedules are packed and academic expectations are high, these kits gave us an opportunity to slow down, create, and connect—all while reinforcing important skills.\r\n\r\nWe used the ornament kits as part of a structured pre-break project focused on creativity, reflection, and goal-setting. Students were asked to design ornaments that represented either a personal accomplishment from this semester or a goal they have for the upcoming year. Before beginning, we discussed symbolism and visual storytelling—how colors, shapes, and small design choices can communicate meaning. Students sketched their ideas first, wrote a brief explanation of their concept, and then brought those ideas to life using the materials from the kits.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the ornament supplies laid out, the reaction was immediate surprise. High school students don't always expect hands-on creative projects, especially during a busy academic stretch. There were smiles, curious questions, and even a few students who initially claimed they \"weren't creative\"—only to become some of the most focused designers in the room. The atmosphere shifted in a positive way. Conversations were thoughtful. Students shared stories about their designs and explained the meaning behind their color choices or symbols. One student created an ornament divided into sections representing resilience, growth, and future plans; another designed one to symbolize balancing academics, athletics, and personal responsibilities. The pride they showed in their finished work was evident.\r\n\r\nBecause of these materials, I was able to accomplish something that can be difficult during the holiday season: maintain purposeful engagement while also honoring the emotional and social needs of students. The project incorporated writing, reflection, planning, and presentation skills in a way that felt meaningful rather than routine. Students practiced articulating their thoughts clearly, connecting personal experiences to broader goals, and engaging respectfully with peers during informal presentations.\r\n\r\nThe next steps for our students build directly on this experience. We are transitioning into a goal-setting and action-planning unit for the new semester. Students will revisit the written reflections they created alongside their ornaments and expand them into more detailed academic and personal growth plans. They will set measurable objectives, identify potential obstacles, and outline strategies for success. The ornaments now serve as visible reminders in our classroom—symbols of commitment and forward thinking.\r\n\r\nYour support made it possible to create a moment of balance during a demanding time of year. These ornament kits were not just crafts; they were tools for reflection, expression, and community-building. Thank you for giving our students the opportunity to pause, create something meaningful, and step into the new year with intention and confidence.","fullyFundedDate":1766424718778,"projectUrl":"project/we-love-christmas-crafts/9942897/","projectTitle":"We Love Christmas Crafts","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Turowski","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8670425_orig.jpg?crop=1440,1440,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1707142281395","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8670425"},{"teacherId":8670425,"projectId":9909601,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting our classroom. Even at the high school level, small incentives and shared experiences can make a meaningful difference in motivation, morale, and classroom culture—and that's exactly what your donations did.\r\n\r\n**Fun Friday Slime Incentive**\r\nThe slime kits were used as part of our Fun Friday incentive time. Students earned the opportunity through meeting academic deadlines, maintaining focus, and demonstrating positive behavior throughout the week. When they realized they had earned something hands-on and unexpected, the reaction was a mix of surprise and genuine excitement. For many of them, high school can feel academically intense, so having structured time to decompress while still staying in a supervised, goal-based environment was valuable. It gave them space to relax, connect appropriately with peers, and reset for the following week.\r\nNext steps: We are continuing to tie incentive activities to measurable goals—attendance, assignment completion, and class participation—while building student ownership through weekly progress reflections.\r\n\r\n**Oreo Motivation Moments**\r\nThe Oreos have been used as small, immediate recognition rewards. In high school, timely acknowledgment matters. Whether it's a student pushing through a difficult assignment, improving a test score, or contributing meaningfully to discussion, the ability to say, \"I see your effort,\" paired with a simple incentive has increased engagement. When students first saw that there were tangible rewards tied to effort, it sparked friendly competition and a noticeable boost in participation.\r\nNext steps: Students are currently tracking personal academic goals, and we are reinforcing incremental growth. The motivational snacks continue to support a culture where effort and improvement are recognized consistently.\r\n\r\n**Hot Chocolate Community Break**\r\nThe hot chocolate was a \"just because\" moment—but those moments are powerful at the secondary level. We shared it during a colder week as a brief community break. It shifted the tone of the room, encouraged conversation, and reminded students that our classroom is a supportive space. Several students commented that it made the day feel different—in a good way.\r\nNext steps: We're continuing to prioritize classroom climate alongside rigorous instruction, incorporating structured community-building opportunities that support collaboration and mutual respect.\r\n\r\nYour generosity helped create a balance between accountability and encouragement. In a high school setting where expectations are high, these moments of motivation and connection make a lasting impact. Thank you for investing in our students' success and well-being.","fullyFundedDate":1764726236153,"projectUrl":"project/some-crafts-and-some-food/9909601/","projectTitle":"Some Crafts and Some Food!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Turowski","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8670425_orig.jpg?crop=1440,1440,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1707142281395","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8670425"},{"teacherId":5051856,"projectId":9591952,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project and helping bring snacks and hygiene essentials into our classroom. Because of your generosity, students now know that if they come to class hungry, there is a granola bar waiting for them, and if they are caught off guard by a personal need, they can find pads or tampons without embarrassment or stress. I have already seen the difference this makes—students are more focused during lessons, more relaxed with their peers, and more willing to participate when their basic needs are met. These simple items have become powerful tools for learning, because they remove barriers and allow students to show up as their best selves.\r\n\r\nWhat means the most to me is the message your gift sends: \"You are supported here.\" My students work incredibly hard and bring so many strengths, along with real challenges, into our classroom each day. Knowing that they are cared for—not just as students, but as whole people—builds trust and a sense of belonging that carries into everything we do. Your kindness has helped create a classroom environment where dignity, comfort, and respect are part of everyday life. Thank you for believing in our students and in public education. Your support is felt daily, and we are truly grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1764726236418,"projectUrl":"project/supporting-student-wellness-with-snacks/9591952/","projectTitle":"Supporting Student Wellness with Snacks and Hygiene Essentials","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Clua","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5051856_orig.jpg?crop=500,500,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1714844042792","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5051856"},{"teacherId":5051856,"projectId":9377213,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for making our classroom vision a reality! With your generous support, we were able to add chart paper, pocket folders, and laminator pouches to our Spanish for Heritage Speakers classroom, and the impact has been immediate. Students are now able to collaborate more actively, moving around to contribute ideas on chart paper and sharing their thinking with peers. The pocket folders have helped them stay organized and take ownership of their learning, giving them a tangible way to track their growth in reading and writing Spanish. Laminated materials for group activities and learning stations have made lessons more engaging and interactive, while also allowing resources to be reused again and again.\r\n\r\nWhat excites me the most is seeing my students thrive in a space where their bilingual and bicultural identities are celebrated. They are proud to practice reading and writing in Spanish, and these new materials have made it easier for them to express their ideas, work collaboratively, and feel confident in their skills. Your support has not only provided tools for learning—it has helped create a classroom where students feel empowered to live Spanish every day. Thank you for investing in their growth, pride, and success; your generosity is felt in every lesson and every smile.","fullyFundedDate":1756112429229,"projectUrl":"project/hands-on-spanish-tools-for-active-learn/9377213/","projectTitle":"Hands-On Spanish: Tools for Active Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Clua","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5051856_orig.jpg?crop=500,500,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1714844042792","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5051856"},{"teacherId":6061921,"projectId":9641411,"letterContent":"I wanted to take a moment to sincerely thank you all for providing the classroom decorations for my high school seniors. Your generosity truly made a difference in creating a space that feels celebratory, warm, and special for them during such an important milestone year.\r\n\r\nSenior year is filled with big moments, lasting memories, and meaningful reflection. Because of your thoughtful contribution, our classroom now reflects the excitement and pride these students deserve as they prepare to take their next steps. The decorations have already sparked so many smiles and positive comments.\r\n\r\nThank you for supporting our students and helping make their final year a little more memorable. Your kindness and generosity are deeply appreciated.","fullyFundedDate":1764698855347,"projectUrl":"project/beautify-us/9641411/","projectTitle":"Beautify Us","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Reggiano","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6061921_orig.png?crop=562,562,x0,y59&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1677499071482","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mreggiano"},{"teacherId":8670425,"projectId":9642965,"letterContent":"Many of our donors are familiar with technology in the form of phones, tablets, or home devices, but in our classroom the AeroGarden hydroponic system transforms technology into a living science lab. Unlike a traditional soil garden, the AeroGarden uses water, nutrients, and built-in LED grow lights to create the perfect growing environment indoors. Students are able to observe germination, root development, and plant growth up close while also learning about plant biology, ecosystems, nutrition, and sustainability. The digital display allows them to monitor light cycles and nutrient schedules, helping them understand how environmental factors affect plant health. Instead of simply reading about life cycles in a textbook, they are collecting real data, making predictions, and seeing science unfold in real time.\r\n\r\nWhat excites students most about the new AeroGarden is how quickly they see results. Within days, tiny sprouts emerge, and within weeks they are harvesting herbs and lettuce they have grown themselves. The built-in lighting system feels high-tech and futuristic, which sparks curiosity and conversation about hydroponics and innovative farming methods. There is a strong sense of ownership and pride when students taste something they nurtured from seed to harvest—it makes learning tangible and delicious!\r\n\r\nSeveral students have especially warmed to this technology. Our hands-on learners thrive when they can physically check water levels, measure plant growth, and track progress in journals. Students who sometimes struggle with traditional assignments have shown remarkable focus and responsibility when caring for the garden. Even some of our quieter students have stepped into leadership roles, reminding the class when nutrients need to be added or eagerly explaining the growth process to visitors. The AeroGarden isn't just teaching science standards—it's building confidence, teamwork, and a deeper appreciation for how technology can solve real-world challenges.","fullyFundedDate":1763586152503,"projectUrl":"project/hydroponic-gardening-is-so-exciting/9642965/","projectTitle":"Hydroponic Gardening Is So Exciting!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Turowski","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8670425_orig.jpg?crop=1440,1440,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1707142281395","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8670425"},{"teacherId":8000795,"projectId":9434681,"letterContent":"As I begin my fifth year of teaching at a lively urban Title I high school, I continue to be inspired every day by the creativity, resilience, and incredible spirit my students bring into the art room. Many of my students are English Language Learners and Multilingual Learners, and for them, art serves as a universal language—one that transcends words and allows for meaningful self-expression, identity-building, and personal growth.\r\n\r\nOne of the most impactful projects in our classroom is our still-life drawing unit using white colored pencils on black paper. While the materials are simple, the results are powerful. Students develop essential artistic skills such as proportion, shading, perspective, and composition, all while experiencing the excitement of seeing their drawings emerge from the dark surface. This is my fifth year teaching this project, and each time I hear students say, \"I didn't think I could draw like this until now,\" I'm reminded just how transformative access to art can be.\r\n\r\nThanks to your generosity, students are able to fully engage in this project with the materials they need to succeed. White colored pencils, sharpeners, and black paper may seem small, but they create an inclusive and supportive learning environment—especially for students who may not have access to art supplies at home. Your support ensures that every student can participate, experiment, and feel proud of their work.","fullyFundedDate":1752056425943,"projectUrl":"project/art-that-shines-still-life-in-reverse/9434681/","projectTitle":"Art That Shines: Still Life in Reverse","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Mroczek","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8000795_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753220073622","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-mroczek"},{"teacherId":9310733,"projectId":9649207,"letterContent":"Since adding the Vertical Non-Permanent Whiteboards in our class the room has been busy with activity! The students were excited to see the new additions to the room and all of the teachers on the floor were jealous of how elevated they make the room look. It is now a part of our regular routine for students to gather in small groups around the whiteboards to share their ideas. They use the surfaces to write, draw, and model their ideas and collaborate on warm up activities, projects and even exit tickets.\r\nThe whiteboards quickly turn the room into a kinesthetic learning environment with stations and \"scavenger hunts\" because they are magnetic they hold up station cards and signs easily. Because the whiteboards are on a stand with wheels, they can be moved around and make the room different every day. Having the students up out of their seats literally has students thinking on their feet. The wipe off surfaces make anything that they write \"low stakes\" because they are so easy to wipe off and revise, so students aren't afraid of making \"mistakes\".","fullyFundedDate":1757519621862,"projectUrl":"project/vertical-non-permanent-surfaces/9649207/","projectTitle":"Vertical Non-Permanent Surfaces","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Caico","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9310733"},{"teacherId":6148566,"projectId":9476831,"letterContent":"My students have been using classroom resources in creative and meaningful ways. We recently finished reading \"La guerra de los yacarés,\" a short story by the Uruguayan writer Horacio Quiroga. While some students were able to read and understand the text with ease, others struggled with reading comprehension. To support all learners, I gave students the option to build characters from the story using play dough.\r\n\r\nThis hands-on activity helped reduce stress and anxiety while reading and also allowed students to process key details from the story in a more concrete way. As they shaped characters and scenes, students were able to visualize events, clarify meaning, and make stronger connections to new vocabulary.\r\n\r\nThe response was overwhelmingly positive. Even students who did not typically struggle with comprehension were eager to participate, and everyone benefited from the calming, tactile nature of the activity. What began as a strategy to support students' mental well-being ultimately became a powerful tool for deepening literary understanding and engagement.","fullyFundedDate":1758223705690,"projectUrl":"project/lets-play/9476831/","projectTitle":"Let's Play!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Crisóstomo-Lenz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6148566_orig.jpg?crop=720,720,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1579027314652","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6148566"},{"teacherId":9315043,"projectId":9548931,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous donation, my students now have access to snacks during math class, and it has made an immediate difference. We use snacks during longer lessons and problem-solving activities to help students stay focused, energized, and engaged.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the snacks, they were excited and grateful. A few shared that they hadn't eaten much earlier in the day, and it was clear how meaningful this support was for them. After snack time, students were more attentive, participated more in discussions, and showed greater perseverance when working through challenging math problems.\r\n\r\nYour donation has helped create a more supportive and equitable learning environment where students can focus on learning instead of hunger. As we move forward, my students will continue building math skills, confidence, and problem-solving strategies, and now with the energy they need to succeed.\r\n\r\nThank you for giving my students the fuel and encouragement to do their best every day.","fullyFundedDate":1758223936483,"projectUrl":"project/nourish-to-flourish-snacks-that-power-l/9548931/","projectTitle":"Nourish to Flourish: Snacks That Power Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Marwah","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9315043_orig.jpg?crop=739,739,x66,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754710339182","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9315043"},{"teacherId":9131951,"projectId":9506996,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support in funding supplies for my math classroom. Because of your kindness, my students now have access to new art supplies that allow them to demonstrate their understanding of math concepts in creative, visual ways. These tools have already made learning more engaging and meaningful for them.\r\n\r\nIn addition, the organizers purchased for my desk have greatly improved classroom organization, making it easier to manage materials and support students more efficiently. This has had a positive impact on our daily routines and helps create a more focused learning environment.\r\n\r\nYour generosity directly enhances my students' learning experience, and I am truly grateful for your investment in our classroom. Thank you for helping make math a more creative, organized, and inspiring place for my students.","fullyFundedDate":1757519621443,"projectUrl":"project/solving-for-success-supplies-for-math-m/9506996/","projectTitle":"Solving for Success: Supplies for Math Minds!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Thivierge","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9131951"},{"teacherId":8214068,"projectId":9599845,"letterContent":"On behalf of my entire high school class, I would like to extend our sincerest thanks to you for your incredible generosity and thoughtfulness. Your donations have made a meaningful difference in our classroom, and we are truly grateful for your support.\r\n\r\nFirst, thank you for the snacks you provided. They have been a wonderful and much-appreciated addition to our school days. It may seem small, but having access to snacks has made our classroom feel more welcoming and supportive, especially on busy or stressful days.\r\n\r\nWe are extremely thankful for the outlet tower. Technology is a huge aspect of my students' education, and having a reliable way to charge their devices is essential. The outlet tower has been incredibly helpful by allowing multiple students to charge laptops at the same time. It has improved organization, reduced distractions, and made our classroom more efficient and functional. \r\n\r\nAdditionally, we appreciate the lamination sheets. These materials have already proven to be very useful for both my students and myself. I am able to reuse important documents, create durable study materials, and protect instructional tools that we rely on throughout the year. Your donation has helped our classroom stay organized.","fullyFundedDate":1758223977880,"projectUrl":"project/back-to-basics/9599845/","projectTitle":"Back to Basics","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Schirmer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8214068_orig.jpg?crop=1242,1242,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1638380303100","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8214068"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_43442","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":3612,"numTeachers":200,"percentFrplEligible":71,"percentAsian":4,"percentBlack":7,"percentWhite":24,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":60,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"9 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":"18.1:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_SMALL"},"inStateSupporters":57.4,"schoolId":43442,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Danbury High School - Main Campus on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Danbury High School - Main Campus","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/connecticut/danbury-public-schools/danbury-high-school/43442"}