{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Elementary School 16","outOfStateSupporters":46.7,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":192891,"projectId":9553643,"letterContent":"On behalf of our Dual Language class, thank you so much for your generous donation of storage containers for our students. Your thoughtful gift has already made a big difference in our classroom.\r\n\r\nFor our young first graders, staying organized can be a challenge as they learn new routines and responsibilities. The storage containers have made organization much easier for them and help keep their books and belongings neat and tidy. Having a special place for their materials supports their independence and helps our classroom run more smoothly each day.\r\n\r\nYour kindness truly supports both their learning and their growth. We are so grateful for your generosity and for thinking of our students.","fullyFundedDate":1763669861400,"projectUrl":"project/first-graders-get-organized-like-pros/9553643/","projectTitle":"First Graders Get Organized Like Pros!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Del Arca","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp192891_272x272.png?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1526506214860","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/192891"},{"teacherId":7528109,"projectId":9845915,"letterContent":"Because of your generous donation of guitars, our music program has experienced incredible growth this year. Your support has done far more than provide instruments. It has opened doors for students to discover their creativity, build confidence, and develop a true passion for music.\r\n\r\nWith more guitars available, we were able to welcome new students into the program and expand our rehearsals and performance opportunities. What began as a small group of interested learners quickly grew into a dedicated ensemble of committed young musicians. Students who had never held a guitar before are now confidently playing full pieces together.\r\n\r\nThanks to you, we recently presented a successful performance that showcased just how far the program has come. Families, friends, and community members filled the room, and our students performed with pride and professionalism. The applause they received was a direct reflection of the opportunity your generosity made possible.\r\n\r\nWe are also excited to share that, for the first time, our guitar ensemble will be competing this year. This milestone would not have been achievable without the foundation your donation helped us build. Your investment has not only strengthened our program today but has positioned us for even greater accomplishments ahead.\r\n\r\nOn behalf of our students and staff, thank you for believing in the power of music education. Your support is making a lasting impact in the lives of young musicians.","fullyFundedDate":1761934214383,"projectUrl":"project/strumming-toward-success-building-a-gui/9845915/","projectTitle":"Strumming Toward Success: Building a Guitar Program for All","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Q","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7528109"},{"teacherId":5174012,"projectId":10042328,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students are benefiting from these resources in meaningful ways every single day. The snacks have helped ensure students are able to stay focused and energized throughout the school day, especially during after school hours Having snacks readily available has reduced distractions and allowed students to fully engage in lessons without worrying about hunger.\r\n\r\nWhen the items arrived, students were genuinely excited and grateful. Many were surprised and happy to see that people outside of our classroom cared enough to support not only their learning but also their well-being. The cleaning supplies also made a big impression, students immediately noticed how clean and welcoming our classroom felt, and several even offered to help keep the space tidy.\r\n\r\nWith the vacuum and mop, we're able to maintain a cleaner, healthier classroom environment, which has made a positive difference in how students take pride in their space. Moving forward, students will continue learning responsibility and teamwork by helping care for our classroom while staying nourished and ready to learn. Your support has created a more comfortable, focused, and supportive environment for my students, and we are incredibly thankful for your kindness.","fullyFundedDate":1768850709386,"projectUrl":"project/snacks-and-safe-spaces-for-growing-learn/10042328/","projectTitle":"Snacks and Safe Spaces for Growing Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Sagain","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5174012_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1554591567854","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5174012"},{"teacherId":8151106,"projectId":10040056,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our classroom. Your donation of cleaning supplies and classroom materials has made a meaningful difference for my students and me.\r\n\r\nBecause of your kindness, our classroom is a cleaner, safer, and more welcoming space where students can focus on learning without distractions. The cleaning supplies help us maintain a healthy environment, while the classroom supplies ensure that every student has the tools they need to participate, create, and succeed each day. These resources may seem small, but they have a big impact on our daily routines and overall learning experience.\r\n\r\nYour support also teaches my students an important lesson—that there are people in the community who care about their education and well-being. They feel valued and motivated knowing others believe in them and their potential.\r\n\r\nWe are incredibly thankful for your generosity and for choosing to invest in our classroom. Your donation truly makes a difference, and we are so grateful for your support.","fullyFundedDate":1769257336455,"projectUrl":"project/germs-away-learning-stay/10040056/","projectTitle":"Germs Away! Learning Stay!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Arroyo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8151106_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1768961827119","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8151106"},{"teacherId":3908843,"projectId":9733347,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for our subscription to Scholastic Storyworks! The kids look forward to receiving their monthly reads! When we read, it's so nice to have actual color copies of these texts! The articles are always interesting!\r\nSome of the skills we learn are learning how to analyze graphs and charts. We also learn how to determine main idea, key details, and summarize text!\r\nMoving forward, we will continue using Donors Choose to request text that is beneficial for our kids. Not only do they enjoy the articles, it also helps them with state testing!","fullyFundedDate":1762448313995,"projectUrl":"project/scholastic-storyworks/9733347/","projectTitle":"Scholastic Storyworks","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Romanelli","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3908843_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1758815864208","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3908843"},{"teacherId":9979353,"projectId":9556487,"letterContent":"We are using the new whiteboard and math games during small group instruction to support hands-on learning. One special moment was seeing students take turns solving problems on the whiteboard and confidently explaining their thinking to classmates. Even students who are usually quiet were excited to participate.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, they were thrilled. They couldn't wait to use the whiteboard and immediately asked which math games we would play. Their excitement showed how valued these resources are.\r\n\r\n Our next steps include continuing to build math skills through small group lessons and engaging games that strengthen problem-solving and confidence. Your support is making learning joyful and meaningful every day.","fullyFundedDate":1764729879630,"projectUrl":"project/tools-for-future-mathematicians/9556487/","projectTitle":"Tools for Future Mathematicians","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Sanchez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9979353_orig.jpg?crop=1875,1875,x0,y125&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1758801290724","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9979353"},{"teacherId":5103864,"projectId":9879676,"letterContent":"I would like to take a moment to sincerely thank you for all the materials and supplies that my students and I have been fortunate to use in our classroom. The Touch & Read Phonics Word Match Set for Beginning Readers, aligned with the Science of Reading, has been especially helpful during both whole-class and small-group instruction.\r\n\r\nThe Educational Science Club Hydroponics Kit has given students the exciting opportunity to learn how to grow plants—without using soil. In addition, the Science Jumbo Magnifiers encourage students to closely observe the world around them. These science materials have been incredibly useful, allowing my students to fully engage in observing, writing, and drawing activities.","fullyFundedDate":1762621922983,"projectUrl":"project/building-future-scientists-with-generati/9879676/","projectTitle":"Building Future Scientists with Generation Genius!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Tineo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5103864_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1518118237616","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5103864"},{"teacherId":5103864,"projectId":9921875,"letterContent":"Thank you for helping make my students feel appreciated and joyful during the holiday season. Your generosity truly made a difference, and my students were so excited to receive their presents.\r\n\r\nThe LCD Writing Tablet Drawing Boards have quickly become favorite tools in our classroom. They encourage creativity while supporting writing and drawing practice in a fun, engaging way. My students also absolutely love the plush dog stuffed animals—they are soft, cuddly, and provide comfort, especially during quiet moments.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, our classroom is filled with meaningful learning opportunities. The Crayola Crayons are now a staple during classroom centers and free drawing time, helping students express their ideas through art. The Scratch Notebooks and Scratch Drawing Notebooks are also making a big impact, as students are strengthening their reading and writing skills while practicing high-frequency words found in children's books.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students and for supporting our classroom. Your kindness helps create a positive learning environment where my students feel valued, supported, and excited to learn every day.","fullyFundedDate":1765995605825,"projectUrl":"project/surprise-for-young-learners/9921875/","projectTitle":"Surprise for Young Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Tineo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5103864_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1518118237616","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5103864"},{"teacherId":5103864,"projectId":9556518,"letterContent":"I want to take a moment to sincerely thank you for all the materials and resources that my students and I have been able to use in our classroom. Books are always a necessity, and thanks to your support, my students are learning to read and write new words every day. The Plastic 2 Pocket Folders you provided have also been wonderful tools to keep students' writing activities and drawing exercises organized.\r\n\r\nThe Learning Resources Adjustable Chart Stand (Pocket Chart Stand) has been especially helpful in teaching my students to recognize and master essential sight words, which is an important step in learning to read. Additionally, the AILIHEN Kids Headphones have become a valuable resource during our daily classroom centers.\r\n\r\nThanks to the Primary Journal Grades K–2 Writing Journals, my students are improving their ability to read and write high-frequency words that appear often in children's literature.\r\n\r\nThank you again for supporting our classroom and for helping my students grow and succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1760446587166,"projectUrl":"project/new-school-year-new-tools-for-learning/9556518/","projectTitle":"New School Year, New Tools for Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Tineo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5103864_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1518118237616","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5103864"},{"teacherId":5898770,"projectId":7039179,"letterContent":"The Zen Den has become a meaningful support for students who need a moment to reset when the classroom environment feels busy or overwhelming. Students use the space to practice self-regulation with the comfort-based materials provided, helping them calm their bodies and refocus before returning to learning.\r\n\r\n When students first saw the Zen Den, they were excited and curious, and several shared how comforting it felt to know there was a safe space available to them. Students quickly learned how to use the area appropriately and now take ownership in respecting both the space and each other's needs.\r\n\r\n Because of the Zen Den, transitions back into lessons are smoother, and students are more prepared to engage in small-group work and collaborative activities. As we continue with hands-on lessons and group projects, this space will remain an important tool in helping students build self-regulation skills that support both academic learning and emotional growth.","fullyFundedDate":1675904144846,"projectUrl":"project/creating-our-zen-zone/7039179/","projectTitle":"Creating Our Zen Zone","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Tyrell","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5898770_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1539143383858","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5898770"},{"teacherId":5898770,"projectId":6160462,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students now have the supplies they need to take shared ownership of a clean, safe learning environment. We use these materials daily to sanitize desks, learning tools, and high-touch areas before and after lessons, small-group instruction, and transitions. Cleanliness isn't treated as an afterthought; it's built into our routines, which helps students stay focused, healthy, and ready to learn.\r\nWhen the supplies arrived, students were genuinely excited and curious. They immediately asked how they could help and proudly volunteered to take on classroom jobs related to cleaning and organization. That moment mattered, and it showed them that their space is worth caring for and that they play an important role in keeping it safe for everyone.\r\n These resources have also supported important social-emotional learning. Students are practicing responsibility, teamwork, and respect for shared spaces. They've learned that taking care of their classroom is part of taking care of one another.\r\n Thank you for helping us keep our classroom squeaky clean and ready for learning every day.","fullyFundedDate":1646408793112,"projectUrl":"project/keeping-it-squeaky-clean/6160462/","projectTitle":"Keeping It Squeaky Clean","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Tyrell","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5898770_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1539143383858","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5898770"},{"teacherId":9989090,"projectId":9223082,"letterContent":"This project has been incredibly impactful for my students, especially as I began the year with limited classroom supplies. With the donated folders, pencils, markers, dry erase boards, and snacks, I've been able to create a more organized, engaging, and supportive learning environment. These resources have helped my students stay prepared, participate more actively, and feel motivated throughout the day. The added materials have also allowed me to design more interactive lessons that spark creativity and build confidence. I am truly grateful for the generosity that made it possible to give my students the tools they need to learn, grow, and succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1749215573099,"projectUrl":"project/the-power-of-resources-unlocking-each-s/9223082/","projectTitle":"The Power of Resources: Unlocking Each Student's Full Potential","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ruberte","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9989090"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_109516","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":840,"numTeachers":51,"percentFrplEligible":59,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":5,"percentWhite":2,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":92,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"16.5:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":53.3,"schoolId":109516,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Elementary School 16 on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Elementary School 16","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/new-jersey/paterson-public-schools/elementary-school-16/109516"}
Join the 1,276 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Elementary School 16 is
a suburban public school
in Paterson, New Jersey that is part of Paterson Public Schools.
It serves 840 students
in grades Pre-K - 8 with a student/teacher ratio of 16.5:1.
Its teachers have had 762 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.
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for public school teachers.
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
97%
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.
Elementary School 16 Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Feb 19, 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.
Elementary School 16
$356,888
raised using DonorsChoose
762
projects
funded
72
teachers
funded
1,276
donors
84
projects
for
basic supplies
109
projects for
technology
96
projects for
books
110
projects
for
art supplies
Elementary School 16 has received support from
680 individuals from New Jersey and
596 individuals out-of-state.