{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Edward Williams Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":32.1,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":2816217,"projectId":10061602,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity and support of our classroom calm corner project. Your kindness has already made a meaningful impact on my students and our classroom community, and I am truly grateful for your investment in their emotional well-being and success.\r\n\r\nThe calm corner materials have quickly become an important part of our daily classroom routine. Students are already using the sensory tools, calming supports, and flexible seating to help regulate their emotions when they begin to feel overwhelmed, anxious, frustrated, or overstimulated. Instead of struggling through difficult emotions, students now have a safe and supportive space where they can pause, reset, and return to learning more focused and prepared to succeed.\r\n\r\nIn our special education classroom, many students are still learning how to identify their feelings and use appropriate coping strategies independently. These materials are helping teach those critical lifelong skills in a positive and supportive way. Students are learning that it is okay to ask for support, take a break when needed, and use tools to help calm their minds and bodies. Over time, this has already begun reducing classroom disruptions and increasing student confidence and independence.\r\n\r\nOne of the most meaningful impacts has been seeing students independently choose strategies from the calm corner before reaching a point of frustration. The calming visuals, sensory supports, and structured environment are helping students feel emotionally safe, understood, and supported throughout the school day. When students feel regulated and secure, they are better able to participate in instruction, engage with peers, and work toward their academic and IEP goals.\r\n\r\nYour generosity is helping create more than just a classroom space—it is helping build a classroom community where students feel valued, supported, and capable of success. The skills they are developing through these supports will benefit them not only academically, but socially and emotionally for years to come.\r\n\r\nThank you again for believing in our students and helping provide them with the tools they need to thrive both inside and outside the classroom. Your support truly makes a difference every single day.\r\n\r\nWith heartfelt appreciation,\r\n\r\nMrs. Ohannessian and Class","fullyFundedDate":1777578490987,"projectUrl":"project/calm-corner-support-for-title-i-special/10061602/","projectTitle":"Calm Corner Support for Title I Special Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ohannessian","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2816217_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1767056842805","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mshoros"},{"teacherId":2816217,"projectId":10130567,"letterContent":"Here's a more casual, personal version you can add onto your DonorsChoose impact letter:\r\n\r\nThank you again so much for supporting this project. I truly started using everything immediately! The rolling storage cart has honestly become one of the most-used items in our classroom already. I organized all of our reading intervention materials, phonics activities, decodable readers, science supplies, and small group resources into the drawers so students and staff can access them quickly throughout the day.\r\n\r\nHaving everything organized in one place has made transitions smoother and has helped me spend more time teaching instead of searching for materials. My students are also becoming more independent because they know exactly where to find the tools and activities they need during centers and small-group instruction.\r\n\r\nThe Science of Reading course has already started impacting my instruction as well. I have been able to use new strategies and ideas right away during reading lessons, especially when working on phonemic awareness, decoding, and fluency skills with my struggling readers. As a special education teacher in a Title I school, opportunities like this help me better support students who need intensive and explicit instruction the most.\r\n\r\nYour generosity is going to impact my classroom for years to come, not just this school year. I am so excited to continue sharing my course journey and the positive changes it brings to my students and classroom. Thank you for believing in my students, my classroom, and my growth as an educator!","fullyFundedDate":1778007520608,"projectUrl":"project/strengthening-literacy-instruction-org/10130567/","projectTitle":"Strengthening Literacy Instruction & Organizing for Student Success","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ohannessian","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2816217_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1767056842805","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mshoros"},{"teacherId":4294679,"projectId":8115697,"letterContent":"Thank You!\r\n\r\nYour generosity is helping transform our classroom into a warm and inviting space where students can truly fall in love with reading.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, we are creating a cozy reading nook with bean bag chairs—a place where students can feel comfortable, relaxed, and excited to open a book. For many of them, this will be the first time they have a special space dedicated just to reading.\r\n\r\nYour donation is also helping us build essential literacy skills. With the use of rings and laminated word cards, students will be able to collect, practice, and take pride in the new words they learn as they grow as readers. These tools will support both their classroom learning and their practice at home.\r\n\r\nYou are not just providing materials—you are helping foster confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of reading. Thank you for making a lasting impact on our students' learning journey.","fullyFundedDate":1713723712541,"projectUrl":"project/today-a-reader-tomorrow-a-leader/8115697/","projectTitle":"Today a Reader, Tomorrow a Leader!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Fortuna","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4294679_orig.png?crop=398,398,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1623865577005","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4294679"},{"teacherId":4294679,"projectId":9812893,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our Diary of a Wimpy Kid project. Because of your donation, our students had access to books that truly captured their interest and made reading something they look forward to each day.\r\n\r\nThis project has had a powerful impact on our classroom. Students who were once hesitant readers are now excited to pick up a book, share favorite moments, and talk about characters as if they are real friends. The humor and relatable stories helped draw them in, but more importantly, it encouraged deeper thinking and stronger comprehension skills. Students are making connections, discussing themes, and understanding stories in a more meaningful way.\r\n\r\nYour support has helped us build a classroom full of enthusiastic readers who feel confident and motivated. You didn't just provide books—you helped spark a love of reading that will continue to grow.\r\n\r\nThank you for making such a meaningful difference in our students' learning journey.","fullyFundedDate":1760927793794,"projectUrl":"project/diary-of-a-5th-grade-reader/9812893/","projectTitle":"Diary of a 5th Grade Reader","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Fortuna","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4294679_orig.png?crop=398,398,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1623865577005","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4294679"},{"teacherId":9016115,"projectId":9256230,"letterContent":"Our project, generously supported by Ripple, had a powerful impact on my students' learning. The AILIHEN Kids Headphones allowed students to fully engage in online lessons and independent learning without distractions, helping improve their focus and comprehension. With the Crayola colored pencils, Elmer's glue sticks, and sturdy cardstock, students were able to express their creativity through detailed projects and hands-on activities that strengthened both their understanding and confidence.\r\nBecause of these materials, I was able to create a more interactive and student-centered classroom where scholars could collaborate, create, and take pride in their work. The laminating sheets also allowed us to preserve student work and create reusable learning tools that we will continue to use throughout the year. Thanks to Ripple's generosity, my students now have the resources they need to thrive academically and creatively every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1746470560123,"projectUrl":"project/colorful-creations-and-quiet-concentrati/9256230/","projectTitle":"Colorful Creations and Quiet Concentration","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Simon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9016115_orig.jpg?crop=480,480,x0,y9&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1694263472627","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9016115"},{"teacherId":3900083,"projectId":10184606,"letterContent":"We are incredibly grateful for your generosity in fully funding our PBIS School Store project. Because of your support, our students now have access to exciting and meaningful rewards such as stress balls, Wicked dolls, fidget spinners, and Owala cups. These items may seem simple, but to our students, they represent recognition, accomplishment, and pride in their positive choices.\r\n\r\nSince receiving these materials, we have seen a noticeable shift in our school culture. Students are more motivated than ever to earn PAWS points by demonstrating responsibility, kindness, and self-control. They are setting goals, saving their points, and encouraging one another to make positive decisions. The excitement around the school store is real, and it has created a sense of joy and anticipation throughout the building.\r\n\r\nWhat makes this impact even more meaningful is who our students are. They are resilient, hardworking, and full of potential. Many face challenges outside of school, yet they continue to show up and give their best each day. Your generosity has given us the opportunity to celebrate those efforts in a tangible way that builds confidence and reinforces positive behavior.\r\n\r\nThis project has helped us create an environment where students feel seen, valued, and supported. It has strengthened our PBIS program and brought our school community closer together through encouragement and recognition.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our students and investing in their growth. Your support is making a lasting difference, and we are truly appreciative of the impact you have had on our school community.","fullyFundedDate":1775656049386,"projectUrl":"project/rewarding-positive-choices/10184606/","projectTitle":"Rewarding Positive Choices","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. LeFever","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3900083_orig.png?crop=537,537,x211,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1589197212305","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/tlefever"},{"teacherId":2816217,"projectId":10130570,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding our LEGO STEM kits! Because of your generosity, my students now have access to hands-on, meaningful learning experiences that are already making a powerful difference in our classroom.\r\n\r\nI teach an incredible group of special needs scholars at a Title I school, where many students face both academic and social challenges. These materials are helping us grow in so many ways. Through building, designing, and experimenting, my students are strengthening their STEM skills while also developing communication and collaboration.\r\n\r\nYour donation is helping us practice the Five Cs every day: Critical Thinking, Creativity, Collaboration, Communication, and Citizenship. Students are working together, sharing ideas, solving problems, and learning how to support one another as a team. It's truly amazing to watch their confidence grow as their ideas come to life.\r\n\r\nThese LEGO STEM kits are more than just materials—they are tools that are opening doors for my students. They are becoming a permanent part of our classroom, allowing for continued exploration, independence, and joy in learning.\r\n\r\nThis project would not have been possible without your kindness and support. Thank you for believing in my students and investing in their future.","fullyFundedDate":1774461287282,"projectUrl":"project/lego-stem-kits-for-special-needs-scholar/10130570/","projectTitle":"LEGO STEM Kits for Special Needs Scholars!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ohannessian","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2816217_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1767056842805","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mshoros"},{"teacherId":3900083,"projectId":10042055,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, Positive Choices, Positive Rewards is now fully funded, and our students are beyond excited. They can't wait to log into our new virtual PBIS store and begin redeeming their earned points for prizes they have worked so hard to earn. Every click represents a positive choice, a moment of self-control, and a step toward becoming a responsible and respectful member of our school community.\r\n\r\nThis project has transformed how students see their behavior. Instead of focusing on mistakes, they are now motivated by growth, effort, and positive reinforcement. The PBIS store has created a culture where students cheer one another on, celebrate good decisions, and feel proud of their accomplishments.\r\n\r\nYour support did more than purchase prizes. It helped build confidence, encourage accountability, and create an environment where positivity is seen, felt, and rewarded every single day. Thank you for investing in our students and helping them believe that their choices truly matter.","fullyFundedDate":1769007978472,"projectUrl":"project/prizes-for-our-wildcats/10042055/","projectTitle":"Prizes for Our Wildcats","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. LeFever","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3900083_orig.png?crop=537,537,x211,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1589197212305","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/tlefever"},{"teacherId":3900083,"projectId":10041951,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our students now have access to take-home snacks and pantry items that provide comfort, stability, and nourishment beyond the classroom. For students experiencing food insecurity, knowing they have food to take home reduces anxiety and allows them to focus more fully on learning.\r\n\r\nWhen these items became available, students responded with gratitude and relief. Having access to non-perishable foods for evenings and weekends helps meet an essential need that often goes unseen. This support allows students to come to school more focused, energized, and ready to engage.\r\n\r\nOur students are resilient and hardworking, but hunger can make learning feel overwhelming. By addressing this basic need, we are removing a major barrier to academic success. Teachers have noticed improved concentration, attendance, and overall engagement when students feel secure about their needs being met.\r\n\r\nThis project does more than provide food. It sends a clear message to our students that they are seen, cared for, and supported as whole individuals. Your generosity helps create a school environment rooted in compassion, dignity, and equity, ensuring students have what they need to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1769018527971,"projectUrl":"project/snacks-pantry-support-for-our-students/10041951/","projectTitle":"Snacks & Pantry Support for Our Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. LeFever","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3900083_orig.png?crop=537,537,x211,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1589197212305","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/tlefever"},{"teacherId":3900083,"projectId":10038768,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our students are experiencing care in a very real and meaningful way. The items from this project, warm coats, sturdy sneakers, non-perishable food, and essential toiletries, have already begun to make a difference in our school community.\r\n\r\nMany of our students in the Mount Vernon City School District face challenges related to housing instability and limited access to basic necessities. Some arrive at school hungry, cold, or wearing shoes that are worn beyond use. Having these essential items available allows us to respond quickly and discreetly, ensuring students receive support with dignity and respect.\r\n\r\nThe impact goes beyond meeting physical needs. When students are warm, nourished, and comfortable, they are better able to focus in class, participate confidently, and engage with their peers. Attendance improves, distractions decrease, and students feel a stronger sense of belonging and care within their school.\r\n\r\nThis project also sends a powerful message to our students: they are seen, valued, and supported. Your support helps remove barriers that interfere with learning and creates an environment where students can show up each day ready to grow, succeed, and believe in their potential. Thank you for investing in our students and helping them move forward with confidence and hope.","fullyFundedDate":1768790879513,"projectUrl":"project/supporting-our-students-basic-needs/10038768/","projectTitle":"Supporting Our Students’ Basic Needs","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. LeFever","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3900083_orig.png?crop=537,537,x211,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1589197212305","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/tlefever"},{"teacherId":4376821,"projectId":9948759,"letterContent":"My students truly enjoy using the tactile materials provided through DonorsChoose. I use sand, playdough, and molding clay during phonics instruction to give students a hands-on way to practice letters, sounds, and building words. Since receiving these resources, I have seen greater engagement during phonics, and more students are excited and interested in participating in their learning. These materials make lessons more meaningful and accessible, especially for young learners who learn best through touch and movement. I have also noticed improvement in their phonics skills and confidence. This project has made a positive difference in both student motivation and academic growth.","fullyFundedDate":1765163434897,"projectUrl":"project/read-build-create-sensory-tools-for-s/9948759/","projectTitle":"Read, Build, Create! Sensory Tools for Super Readers","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Lowe","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4376821_orig.png?crop=611,611,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1630001873227","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4376821"},{"teacherId":2816217,"projectId":10073843,"letterContent":"We extend our sincere gratitude for your generous support in funding our digital portfolio project. Your investment in our classroom has already begun to make a meaningful and lasting impact on our students.\r\n\r\nAs soon as the document scanner arrived, we eagerly began putting it to use. Our students immediately started scanning their work, carefully selecting pieces they are proud of and organizing them into personalized digital portfolios. It has been incredible to watch their excitement as they see their efforts come to life in a new and meaningful way.\r\n\r\nIn our special education classroom within a Title I school district, opportunities like this are truly transformative. Many of our students benefit greatly from being able to visually track their growth and celebrate their accomplishments. By creating digital portfolios, students are not only preserving their hard work, but also building a sense of pride, ownership, and confidence in their learning.\r\n\r\nThese portfolios will be saved onto individual flash drives, allowing each student to carry a collection of their achievements with them throughout their academic journey. This will serve as a powerful tool for IEP meetings, parent conferences, and future planning, while also giving students a tangible way to showcase their progress and capabilities.\r\n\r\nYour generosity is an investment in our students' futures. You have provided them with the opportunity to see their growth, tell their stories, and recognize their own success. That is a gift that extends far beyond the classroom.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our students and for helping to create something so meaningful. Your support truly makes a difference, and we are incredibly grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1773428398234,"projectUrl":"project/digital-portfolios-preserving-and-celeb/10073843/","projectTitle":"Digital Portfolios: Preserving and Celebrating Student Work","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ohannessian","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2816217_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1767056842805","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mshoros"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_23283","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":400,"numTeachers":30,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":74,"percentWhite":2,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":20,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":1,"gradesServed":"Pre-K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"13.3:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":67.9,"schoolId":23283,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Edward Williams Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Edward Williams Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/new-york/mount-vernon-city-school-district/edward-williams-elementary-school/23283"}