{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Detroit Innovation Academy","outOfStateSupporters":45.5,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":5878469,"projectId":10174456,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous support of our classroom! Because of you, my first-grade students now have access to engaging, predictable books that are helping them grow into confident readers.\r\n\r\nThese books have made a huge difference in our daily learning. The repetition and familiar patterns help students recognize words, build fluency, and improve comprehension. Many of my students who once felt unsure about reading are now excited to participate and read aloud with confidence.\r\n\r\nThe joy these books bring is truly special. My classroom is now filled with laughter, engagement, and a love for reading. Students look forward to reading time, and they are eager to share stories with their peers. They are not only learning important literacy skills, but they are also developing a lifelong love of books.\r\n\r\nYour support has also helped ensure that all of my students, regardless of background, have access to high-quality reading materials. You are helping to create equal opportunities for success.\r\n\r\nThank you for making a lasting impact on my students' learning and confidence. Your generosity means so much","fullyFundedDate":1775078192498,"projectUrl":"project/laugh-read-repeat-predictable-books/10174456/","projectTitle":"“Laugh, Read, Repeat: Predictable Books for Powerful Readers”","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jamie Young","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5878469_orig.png?crop=271,271,x0,y126&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1676989375633","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jyoung823"},{"teacherId":5878469,"projectId":10089004,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom has been transformed into a vibrant space where learning truly comes alive. The materials you provided through the \"Bright Colors, Big Ideas in First Grade\" project have made an immediate and meaningful impact on my students.\r\n\r\nWith fresh supplies like crayons, markers, and engaging learning tools, my students are more excited than ever to participate. Something as simple as having their own bright, new materials has boosted their confidence and pride in their work. They are eager to write, draw, and share their ideas, which has strengthened both their creativity and academic skills.\r\n\r\nThese resources have also allowed me to create more interactive and hands-on lessons. Students are now fully engaged during literacy and math centers, collaborating with one another, and thinking more deeply. I have seen growth not only in their academic abilities, but also in their independence and willingness to take risks in their learning.\r\n\r\nMany of my students come from backgrounds where access to school supplies is limited. Because of you, they now have the tools they need to feel successful and included. Your support has helped create an equitable learning environment where every child has the opportunity to shine.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, you have reminded my students that there are people who care about them and believe in their future. That feeling alone is powerful and lasting.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in my students and helping us turn bright colors into even brighter ideas!","fullyFundedDate":1775078189071,"projectUrl":"project/bright-colors-big-ideas-in-first-grade/10089004/","projectTitle":"Bright Colors, Big Ideas in First Grade","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jamie Young","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5878469_orig.png?crop=271,271,x0,y126&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1676989375633","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jyoung823"},{"teacherId":5878469,"projectId":10135740,"letterContent":"This project has made a meaningful impact on both the learning and engagement of my first grade students. With these hands-on literacy tools and essential supplies, students are more actively involved in their learning and better able to build foundational skills.\r\n\r\nThe Touch & Read Vowel Sounds Match and Sight-Word Sentence Match activities have strengthened students' phonics and reading skills. By touching, matching, and reading words, students are making stronger connections between sounds and text. I have seen growth in their ability to decode words, recognize sight words, and read sentences with greater confidence. Students who once struggled are now more willing to participate and take risks.\r\n\r\nThe dry erase markers have increased engagement during lessons. Every student can now respond using their own whiteboard, allowing for full participation and quick checks for understanding. This has made instruction more interactive and effective across subjects.\r\n\r\nThe Crayola crayons ensure that all students have access to quality materials for coloring and writing tasks. This supports fine motor development and helps students take pride in their work.\r\n\r\nOverall, these materials have created a more engaging, supportive classroom where students feel confident and excited to learn. As a Title I classroom, this project has helped provide equitable access to the tools my students need to succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1773870559602,"projectUrl":"project/batty-about-reading-building-fluency-wi/10135740/","projectTitle":"Batty About Reading: Building Fluency With Nonfiction","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jamie Young","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5878469_orig.png?crop=271,271,x0,y126&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1676989375633","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jyoung823"},{"teacherId":5878469,"projectId":10154315,"letterContent":"This project has made a meaningful and lasting impact on my first grade classroom by strengthening early literacy skills, increasing student engagement, and building confidence in young learners.\r\n\r\nThe Learn to Read Levels A–B books have been especially powerful in helping my students develop foundational reading skills. These books provide beginning readers with texts that are appropriate for their level, allowing them to practice decoding, build fluency, and recognize high-frequency \"heart words.\" Before having access to these books, many students felt frustrated when reading because the material was too difficult. Now, they are excited to pick up books they can successfully read. I have seen a noticeable increase in student confidence, participation, and willingness to read independently and aloud. Students who once hesitated are now eager to share their reading with peers and teachers.\r\n\r\nThe MAGNA-TILES microMAGS letter set has transformed how students engage with phonics and word-building activities. Instead of simply writing words on paper, students are now able to physically build and manipulate letters to form words. This hands-on approach has made learning more interactive and meaningful. Students are more engaged during small group instruction and centers, and they are better able to understand letter-sound relationships. I have observed improved retention of phonics skills, as well as increased collaboration among students as they work together to build and read words.","fullyFundedDate":1773842986298,"projectUrl":"project/groovy-readers-pete-the-cat-comes-to-fi/10154315/","projectTitle":"Groovy Readers: Pete the Cat Comes to First Grade!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jamie Young","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5878469_orig.png?crop=271,271,x0,y126&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1676989375633","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jyoung823"},{"teacherId":5878469,"projectId":9959498,"letterContent":"During reading instruction, colorful charts and materials support phonics, sight words, vocabulary, and comprehension skills. Students are able to clearly see patterns, examples, and strategies displayed around the room. Having student work showcased on bright paper has also boosted confidence and pride. Students light up when they see their work displayed, and it encourages them to put forth their best effort. This sense of ownership helps build a positive classroom culture where learning is celebrated.\r\n\r\nIn math, the impact has been just as meaningful. Bright visuals are used to model number bonds, math strategies, and problem-solving steps. Color helps students organize their thinking and distinguish between different parts of a problem. For students who need visual support, these materials make abstract math concepts more concrete and accessible. I've seen increased participation, stronger explanations, and greater willingness to try challenging problems.","fullyFundedDate":1767647055255,"projectUrl":"project/bright-colors-bright-minds-in-the-class/9959498/","projectTitle":"Bright Colors, Bright Minds in the Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jamie Young","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5878469_orig.png?crop=271,271,x0,y126&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1676989375633","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jyoung823"},{"teacherId":5878469,"projectId":10060568,"letterContent":"Learning to read is one of the most important milestones in a child's educational journey, and first grade is a pivotal year in building the skills and confidence that set the foundation for lifelong learning. Thanks to the generosity of donors, my students now have access to engaging reading materials and literacy tools that are making a powerful difference in our classroom. These resources have truly created a big impact for our little readers.\r\nBeyond skill development, this project has helped create a positive reading culture in our classroom. Students celebrate their progress, encourage one another, and see reading as something to enjoy rather than avoid. Many students now choose to read during free time and express pride in their growth. This shift in mindset is just as important as academic improvement.","fullyFundedDate":1769812174550,"projectUrl":"project/little-readers-big-impact/10060568/","projectTitle":"Little Readers, Big Impact","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jamie Young","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5878469_orig.png?crop=271,271,x0,y126&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1676989375633","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jyoung823"},{"teacherId":5878469,"projectId":9875446,"letterContent":"Through this project, students learned that science is not just something you read about in a book—it is something you do. Using forensic tools and materials, students explored fingerprints, observations, patterns, and evidence collection. These activities supported critical thinking and problem-solving as students analyzed clues, made predictions, and explained their reasoning. Even my most reluctant learners were eager to participate because the lessons felt purposeful and exciting.\r\n\r\nThis project also allowed for differentiation and inclusion. Students with varying learning needs were able to access the content through hands-on exploration, visuals, and discussion. Every student had a role, and every student felt successful. The excitement and sense of ownership carried over into other subjects, creating a classroom culture rooted in curiosity and teamwork.","fullyFundedDate":1763673660917,"projectUrl":"project/first-grade-detectives-solving-mysterie/9875446/","projectTitle":"First Grade Detectives: Solving Mysteries Through Forensic Science!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jamie Young","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5878469_orig.png?crop=271,271,x0,y126&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1676989375633","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jyoung823"},{"teacherId":5878469,"projectId":9929422,"letterContent":"During our math block, students use manipulatives to build number sense, practice addition and subtraction, and explore patterns and place value. They work through problems by explaining their thinking, testing strategies, and learning from mistakes. I have noticed a significant increase in math conversations among students. They are more willing to share their ideas, ask questions, and help one another. These discussions show that students are developing deeper understanding, not just memorizing answers.\r\n\r\nBecause of donor support, my classroom is now a place where math feels exciting, engaging, and achievable. These hands-on learning tools are not just supplies—they are building blocks for confident, capable math thinkers. Thank you for investing in my students and helping them build the skills, confidence, and love for math that will support them far beyond the classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1764865900610,"projectUrl":"project/building-strong-math-thinkers-through-ha/9929422/","projectTitle":"Building Strong Math Thinkers Through Hands-On Learning!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jamie Young","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5878469_orig.png?crop=271,271,x0,y126&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1676989375633","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jyoung823"},{"teacherId":5878469,"projectId":9839969,"letterContent":"First grade is a crucial year for building confidence, independence, and a love for learning. Thanks to the generosity of donors, my students now have engaging new center activities that have transformed our reading and math blocks into meaningful, hands-on learning experiences. These materials have helped create a classroom where students feel excited, capable, and proud of their progress\r\n\r\n\r\nBecause of donor support, my classroom is now a place where learning feels joyful and empowering. These center activities are more than supplies—they are tools that help students grow academically and shine with confidence. Thank you for helping make first grade a place where students truly grow and glow.","fullyFundedDate":1762281110716,"projectUrl":"project/making-first-grade-a-place-to-grow-and-g/9839969/","projectTitle":"Making First Grade a Place to Grow and Glow!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jamie Young","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5878469_orig.png?crop=271,271,x0,y126&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1676989375633","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jyoung823"},{"teacherId":5878469,"projectId":9795653,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support and The Allstate Foundation, my students are blossoming into confident and capable readers! The new literacy materials have transformed our classroom into a space where every child feels empowered to explore, read aloud, and share their thinking with pride. With engaging books, hands-on phonics tools, and interactive reading activities, my students' decoding and comprehension skills have grown tremendously.\r\n\r\nBecause of this project, I was able to provide targeted small-group instruction and build a stronger foundation in phonemic awareness and fluency. My once-reluctant readers are now eager to participate, read with expression, and celebrate their progress. The Allstate Foundation's support truly helped my students find their voices—both as readers and as learners—and reminded them that when a community invests in their growth, anything is possible.","fullyFundedDate":1761751105365,"projectUrl":"project/little-readers-big-voices-building-lit/9795653/","projectTitle":"Little Readers, Big Voices: Building Literacy and Confidence!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jamie Young","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5878469_orig.png?crop=271,271,x0,y126&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1676989375633","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jyoung823"},{"teacherId":5878469,"projectId":9440429,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, my little learners are excited to write, read, and share their ideas every day! The magnetic sentence strips and colorful dry erase markers have turned our literacy lessons into fun, hands-on learning experiences. Students are eager to practice building sentences, spelling words, and expressing their thoughts with confidence. Your donation has made writing engaging and joyful while helping each child grow stronger in their reading and writing skills. You've truly made a lasting impact on their love for learning—thank you!","fullyFundedDate":1754393981161,"projectUrl":"project/write-on-little-learners/9440429/","projectTitle":"Write On, Little Learners!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jamie Young","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5878469_orig.png?crop=271,271,x0,y126&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1676989375633","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jyoung823"},{"teacherId":5878469,"projectId":9526150,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, my little learners are excited to write, read, and share their ideas every day! The magnetic sentence strips and colorful dry erase markers have turned our literacy lessons into fun, hands-on learning experiences. Students are eager to practice building sentences, spelling words, and expressing their thoughts with confidence. Your donation has made writing engaging and joyful while helping each child grow stronger in their reading and writing skills. You've truly made a lasting impact on their love for learning—thank you!","fullyFundedDate":1755633356737,"projectUrl":"project/write-create-and-explore/9526150/","projectTitle":"Write, Create, and Explore!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jamie Young","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5878469_orig.png?crop=271,271,x0,y126&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1676989375633","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jyoung823"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_104822","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":335,"numTeachers":13,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":98,"percentWhite":0,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":1,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"25.8:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":54.5,"schoolId":104822,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Detroit Innovation Academy on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Detroit Innovation Academy","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/michigan/michigan-department-of-education/detroit-innovation-academy/104822"}
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About this school
Detroit Innovation Academy is
an urban public school
in Detroit, Michigan that is part of Michigan Department of Education.
It serves 335 students
in grades K - 8 with a student/teacher ratio of 25.8:1.
Its teachers have had 23 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
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.
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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
99%
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.
Detroit Innovation Academy Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Apr 8, 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.
Detroit Innovation Academy
$7,478
raised using DonorsChoose
23
projects
funded
6
teachers
funded
55
donors
3
projects
for
basic supplies
2
projects for
technology
6
projects for
books
4
projects
for
art supplies
Detroit Innovation Academy has received support from
30 individuals from Michigan and
25 individuals out-of-state.