{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Empire Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":45.8,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":6326971,"projectId":10005367,"letterContent":"Thank you for your incredible generosity in supporting our classroom through DonorsChoose. Because of your kindness, my students now have access to high-quality headphones and collaborative whiteboards. These two tools have already made a powerful difference in how they learn, interact, and engage with content each day. As a Computer Science teacher and STEM Coordinator at our school, I strive to create meaningful, hands-on learning experiences where every student can actively participate. Your donation has helped remove barriers and opened new doors for all of my learners.\r\n\r\nThe new headphones have been a game changer for our classroom environment. Previously, many of our old headphones were uncomfortable, unreliable, or no longer functioning, which made it difficult for students to fully engage in digital learning activities. Now, with comfortable, working headphones, students can clearly hear instructions, coding tutorials, and interactive content without distraction. This has been especially impactful during our computer science lessons, where students are working with programs that require careful listening and focus. I've noticed an immediate increase in student independence and confidence. They are able to move through lessons at their own pace, replay directions when needed, and fully immerse themselves in their learning. The headphones have also helped create a calmer, more focused classroom environment, allowing all students to succeed.\r\n\r\nEqually exciting has been the addition of the whiteboards, which have transformed how students collaborate and share their thinking. My students were absolutely thrilled when the materials arrived. They could not wait to open the packages and begin using them! The whiteboards have quickly become one of their favorite tools. During lessons, students eagerly work in teams to plan algorithms, solve problems, sketch ideas, and explain their thinking to one another. This has strengthened both their communication skills and their ability to think critically. I have seen students who may not always feel confident speaking up in whole group settings light up when working with a partner on a whiteboard. The ability to quickly write, erase, and revise their ideas encourages a growth mindset and reinforces that learning is a process.\r\n\r\nThere are several students in particular who have especially benefited from these new resources. Some of my quieter learners, as well as students who need additional processing time, have found a new sense of confidence using the headphones. They can listen to instructions privately, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed, and engage more fully in their work. Additionally, students who thrive in collaborative settings have truly embraced the whiteboards. I've watched teams of students excitedly problem-solve together, celebrating when they figure something out and encouraging one another when they get stuck. One student who often struggles with focus has become deeply engaged during our collaborative tasks, eagerly contributing ideas and taking pride in helping their group succeed.\r\n\r\nYour support has not only provided materials, it has also created opportunities for deeper learning, stronger collaboration, and increased confidence for my students. These tools are helping to build essential skills in communication, problem-solving, and perseverance that will benefit them far beyond our classroom. Thank you for believing in my students and investing in their future. Your generosity is making a lasting impact, and we are so grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1768279307962,"projectUrl":"project/hear-it-think-it-show-it/10005367/","projectTitle":"Hear It. Think It. Show It.","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Wiggins","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6326971_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690326322783","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6326971"},{"teacherId":3602542,"projectId":10010866,"letterContent":"I want to thank you so much for the wonderful supplies of our classroom. The pictures show one of the projects we have done so far. We are currently in the middle of our second creativity project and the students are loving it. Getting these supplies have really helped bring creativity into not only our classroom but our kindergarten buddies classroom. The pictures show that the kindergarteners drew for us a creature. Then my gifted students needed to recreate that creature with the clay that we received from this project. You would think that this would be easy to do however my students had a very hard time not \"fixing\" the kindergarteners drawing. They continually wanted to change their creature. It was a great executive functioning skill to work through. After my students created the creature then the kindergarteners came back to join us by painting them. It was creativity at its finest. Thank you so much for donating these supplies to our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1768697617626,"projectUrl":"project/creativity-in-the-classroom/10010866/","projectTitle":"Creativity in the Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ciccarelli","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3602542_orig.png?crop=398,398,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1568741965870","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ciccarellichildren"},{"teacherId":321130,"projectId":10029543,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your kind donation of binders and journals! The students use their binders to organize their papers for each subject. Each subject has its own color; blue is for math, green for science, pink for reading and writing, yellow for social studies, and purple or lilac for social emotion learning.\r\n\r\nThe journals are so important for students to also organize their learning. With their journals, they have the opportunity to explore their writing as well as their world. They keep everything organized. They can create scientific illustrations, outline essays, practice writing stories and poems, write summaries, and so much more.\r\n\r\nAgain, with deepest thanks, we appreciate the donation that is facilitating student knowledge growth by allowing them to organize their thoughts and papers.","fullyFundedDate":1768687163372,"projectUrl":"project/second-grade-organization-tools/10029543/","projectTitle":"Second Grade Organization Tools","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. C.","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/321130"},{"teacherId":9375477,"projectId":10023515,"letterContent":"My students have already started using the new sensory items throughout the day, and the impact has been incredible to see. During our small group instruction, I introduced fidget tools and flexible seating options to help support focus and regulation. One moment that really stood out was during a reading activity—one of my students who typically struggles to stay engaged was able to sit and participate for the entire lesson while using a sensory tool. It was such a meaningful moment because it showed how these resources can remove barriers and help students access learning in a way that works best for them.\r\n\r\nWhen my students first saw the materials, their excitement was immediate. They were eager to explore and try everything, and it created a positive and welcoming energy in the classroom. More importantly, they quickly began to understand how these tools could help them. With guidance, they are learning to choose items that support their individual needs, whether that's calming their bodies, improving focus, or helping them stay seated during instruction. It has also opened the door for important conversations about self-regulation and understanding what their bodies need to be successful learners.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we will continue incorporating these sensory supports into our daily routines and lessons. As we move forward with our current units, especially in reading, communication, and social skills, students will be encouraged to independently select the tools that help them stay engaged and regulated. We are also working on building independence and self-awareness, so students can advocate for what they need. These resources are not just tools—they are helping create a classroom environment where every student feels supported, capable, and ready to learn","fullyFundedDate":1768635880219,"projectUrl":"project/help-special-education-students/10023515/","projectTitle":"Help Special Education Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Kelley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9375477"},{"teacherId":3624719,"projectId":6037404,"letterContent":"Dearest Donors, \r\nI am incredibly grateful for these resources and the positive impact they have had on my students and our learning environment. The addition of the wiggle stool, magnet tiles, electrical set, Legos, microscope, Zingo Word Bingo, building straws, and marble run have made a meaningful and lasting impact on my first-grade classroom. Flexible seating options such as the wiggle stool has given students the opportunity to move while learning, helping them stay focused, comfortable, and engaged. These materials have promoted collaboration as my students work together to plan, build, test, and revise their ideas. Through hands-on exploration, students are developing critical thinking, communication skills, and confidence as they learn how to share ideas, listen to others, and solve problems as a team.\r\n\r\nMany of these resources supported engineering and STEM learning by encouraging creativity, curiosity, and perseverance. Magnet tiles, Legos, building straws, electrical sets, and marble runs have allowed my students to experiment with design, balance, cause and effect, and problem-solving in meaningful ways. The microscope has inspired wonder and scientific inquiry, while Zingo Word Bingo has strengthened early literacy skills, especially supporting my English language learners by helping them grow their vocabulary in an engaging, supportive way. \r\n\r\nThe addition of hanging fake plants helps create a calm, inviting environment that feels safe and welcoming, supporting student focus and well-being. Together, these items have transformed the classroom into a space where learning is active, joyful, and deeply connected to student growth, and I am truly thankful for the opportunity to provide my students with these meaningful tools that enrich their learning every day.","fullyFundedDate":1638135523079,"projectUrl":"project/learning-tools-to-keep-young-minds-engag/6037404/","projectTitle":"Learning Tools to Keep Young Minds Engaged and Blossoming!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Marler","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3624719_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1490367809700","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3624719"},{"teacherId":8064540,"projectId":10010063,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students now have access to a wide range of materials that make learning about emotions, coping, and self-expression fun and engaging. Many of my students are still learning to identify feelings, regulate their bodies, and practice healthy ways to cope with stress. With books (including Spanish-language titles), games, and flipbooks, students are building emotional awareness, empathy, and communication skills in ways that feel safe and exciting. Reading and discussing these texts allows them to connect stories to their own experiences, practice social skills, and reflect on their feelings.\r\n\r\nThe sand painting light box has been a wonderful addition, helping students self-regulate, along with other fidgets. Sensory tools such as weighted lap pads, sensory jar supplies, and calming stuffed animals support students who need movement or sensory input to stay focused and grounded. The LCD drawing tablet has also been invaluable during group sessions, reducing paper waste while keeping students engaged and allowing them to express themselves creatively whenever they want to draw.\r\n\r\nThese resources have transformed my classroom and continue to expand my calm corner into a welcoming, safe space where students feel seen, supported, and empowered. They are learning to identify and manage emotions, practice coping strategies, and build social-emotional skills that they can carry into the classroom, at home, and beyond.","fullyFundedDate":1768313817149,"projectUrl":"project/social-emotional-tools-for-growing-minds/10010063/","projectTitle":"Social-Emotional Tools for Growing Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Patty","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8064540_orig.jpg?crop=971,971,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1700178003976","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8064540"},{"teacherId":8064540,"projectId":9596579,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students now have access to a wide range of tools that make learning about emotions, coping, and self-expression engaging and meaningful. When the materials first arrived, the students were excited! So many explored the fidgets and sensory items in our calm corner, while others immediately picked up the books and flipcharts to learn about emotions and coping strategies. It was wonderful to see their enthusiasm and engagement, and how the materials naturally sparked conversation about feelings, friendship, and mental health. \r\n\r\nWe have been using the sensory tools, visual supports, and hands-on activities to help students regulate their emotions, practice mindfulness, and build social-emotional skills. For example, during a group session, students used the Purrble calming toys while reading a book about managing anger. They then practiced coping strategies from the flip charts, shared their ideas with partners, and reflected on which strategies worked best for them. These activities give students practical skills they can use when faced with challenges in the classroom or at home.\r\n\r\nThe next steps for our students are to continue building on these skills with more guided lessons and independent practice. With your support, we are creating a safe, welcoming space where students feel seen, supported, and empowered, and where they can continue to grow emotionally, socially, and academically.","fullyFundedDate":1765228941637,"projectUrl":"project/emotions-regulation-tools/9596579/","projectTitle":"Emotions Regulation Tools","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Patty","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8064540_orig.jpg?crop=971,971,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1700178003976","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8064540"},{"teacherId":3602542,"projectId":9220269,"letterContent":"Sorry this is late. We have gotten so involved with our mystery unit that I forgot to let you know how it is going. They are enjoying the mysteries so much. Each time I give them chapters to read they want to read more. They have wonderful, meaningful discussions about who did it and how they know that. This has brought in such a new found love of reading for my students. They second part of our project was gifted books for the entire class. This book has really helped the students realize what being a gifted student is. It has also helped some of our parents know more about their gifted child. I can't thank you enough for your wonderful donations.","fullyFundedDate":1744385093947,"projectUrl":"project/reading-mysteries-and-more/9220269/","projectTitle":"Reading Mysteries and More","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ciccarelli","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3602542_orig.png?crop=398,398,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1568741965870","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ciccarellichildren"},{"teacherId":8064540,"projectId":8987041,"letterContent":"We are incredibly grateful for your generous support of our students. Thanks to your donations, our care closet has been successfully restocked with essential items. We have already begun distributing jackets, shirts, and other necessities to students in need—and the impact has been immediate and meaningful.\r\n\r\nYour kindness is helping us ensure that every student feels seen, supported, and prepared to thrive. The care closet is more than just a resource—it's a reflection of the compassion and community spirit that surrounds our school.\r\n\r\nThank you once again for making a difference. Your continued generosity is truly appreciated.","fullyFundedDate":1737574736976,"projectUrl":"project/supporting-students-with-winter-warmth/8987041/","projectTitle":"Supporting Students with Winter Warmth","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Patty","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8064540_orig.jpg?crop=971,971,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1700178003976","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8064540"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_54896","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":445,"numTeachers":38,"percentFrplEligible":91,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":21,"percentIndigenous":1,"percentLatinx":73,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"11.7:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_SMALL"},"inStateSupporters":54.2,"schoolId":54896,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Empire Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Empire Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/nevada/carson-city-school-district/empire-elementary-school/54896"}