{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Ernest Bowen DeSilva Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":50.0,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":5400109,"projectId":10110861,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting our EdVenture Guitar program. Your donation made a real difference for our students.\r\n\r\nOne of the most exciting parts of teaching guitar is watching students stick with something that does not come easy at first. Learning chords, switching finger positions, keeping a steady rhythm, and playing in front of other people can all be frustrating in the beginning. Even so, our students kept trying. They encouraged each other, celebrated progress, and steadily improved throughout the year.\r\n\r\nThe EVH 5150III 1x12 cabinet really helped our electric guitar and live sound setup. It gave students a clearer sound at a volume that worked well both in the classroom and when we performed live for the school at our culminating showcase. That may seem like a small thing, but it mattered. When students could actually hear what they were playing, they were better able to stay on beat, catch mistakes, and make adjustments. It also helped during small-group practice and short performances, where students got to experience playing together.\r\n\r\nThe D'Addario EJ16 strings also made a big difference. Fresh strings helped keep our guitars sounding better, staying in tune, and feeling more playable for students. That was especially important for beginners, since old strings and hard-to-play guitars can make learning even more frustrating. Having guitars in better shape helped students focus more on learning and less on fighting the instrument.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, students had access to equipment that helped them be more successful. More importantly, they gained confidence, kept practicing, and got to enjoy making music together. This equipment will also help our program continue to grow in the future, giving more students the chance to experience the joy of playing guitar.\r\n\r\nThank you again for supporting our students and this program.","fullyFundedDate":1773702896338,"projectUrl":"project/student-soundstage-live-sound-for-our-g/10110861/","projectTitle":"Student Soundstage: Live Sound for Our Guitar Program","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Curry","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5400109_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1646413042476","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/christophercurry"},{"teacherId":5400109,"projectId":10105841,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting our EdVenture Guitar program. Your donation made a real difference for our students.\r\n\r\nOne of the most exciting parts of teaching guitar is watching students stick with something that does not come easy at first. Learning chords, switching finger positions, keeping a steady rhythm, and playing in front of other people can all be frustrating in the beginning. Even so, our students kept trying. They encouraged each other, celebrated progress, and steadily improved throughout the year.\r\n\r\nThe EVH 5150III 1x12 cabinet really helped our electric guitar and live sound setup. It gave students a clearer sound at a volume that worked well both in the classroom and when we performed live for the school at our culminating showcase. That may seem like a small thing, but it mattered. When students could actually hear what they were playing, they were better able to stay on beat, catch mistakes, and make adjustments. It also helped during small-group practice and short performances, where students got to experience playing together.\r\n\r\nThe D'Addario EJ16 strings also made a big difference. Fresh strings helped keep our guitars sounding better, staying in tune, and feeling more playable for students. That was especially important for beginners, since old strings and hard-to-play guitars can make learning even more frustrating. Having guitars in better shape helped students focus more on learning and less on fighting the instrument.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, students had access to equipment that helped them be more successful. More importantly, they gained confidence, kept practicing, and got to enjoy making music together. This equipment will also help our program continue to grow in the future, giving more students the chance to experience the joy of playing guitar.\r\n\r\nThank you again for supporting our students and this program.","fullyFundedDate":1771606152785,"projectUrl":"project/student-soundstage-beginner-electric-gu/10105841/","projectTitle":"Student Soundstage: Beginner Electric Guitar Gear","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Curry","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5400109_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1646413042476","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/christophercurry"},{"teacherId":6740239,"projectId":9774173,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous donation! Your kind act has granted our classroom access to creating memories that we print to use in our memory books. We took pictures of science projects, ELA skits performed, excursions, holiday events, and much more. \r\nEach year, I am lucky to present individual memory books that students have been so appreciative of. Students have come back to my class and shared with me how they look back at their memories of 3rd grade. This is truly possible by your donations and kindness to support education.","fullyFundedDate":1759363222359,"projectUrl":"project/world-of-color/9774173/","projectTitle":"World of Color","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Maikui","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6740239_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1704783807615","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6740239"},{"teacherId":9372683,"projectId":9777618,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom Engineering Carnival Project. Because of your generosity, our students had the opportunity to see their ideas come to life. Many of them couldn't wait to use the ChompSaw and shared that they felt like real builders and engineers when designing and creating their own carnival games. At first, some students were nervous to use the tools and take on the challenge, but over time they gained confidence in themselves and their abilities. It has been incredible to watch them grow and take pride in their work.\r\n\r\nThroughout this experience, students have also learned important life skills like safety, patience, and teamwork. They are practicing slowing down, following procedures, and helping one another solve problems. Our next steps are to test their designs, make improvements, and then share their games with students from other classes during our classroom carnival. Thank you again for giving our students this special and memorable learning experience. We truly appreciate your support!","fullyFundedDate":1759491434655,"projectUrl":"project/cardboard-carnival-build-solve-play/9777618/","projectTitle":"Cardboard Carnival: Build, Solve, Play!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Sumitani","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9372683"},{"teacherId":5400109,"projectId":9772362,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, this project has already made a huge difference in our guitar program. Students began using the new gear right away during Edventure Guitar, plugging in through headphones to practice quietly, experiment with effects, and build confidence. One of the biggest moments came when our students used this setup to perform Christmas songs at our Quarter 2 Winter Assembly and later at our PTA Showcase in the evening. Being able to rehearse with the same equipment they would use on stage helped them feel prepared, focused, and proud of their work.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the pedals, they were excited — but what stood out most was how seriously they treated them. They knew they were using professional-quality tools, and it raised their expectations for themselves. Students took ownership of tuning, setting up their sound, and helping each other troubleshoot. Watching beginners and second-year students work side by side, sharing tips and encouraging each other, showed just how much confidence this equipment has helped build.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, students are continuing to use this setup to prepare for future performances and small-group practice sessions. We are now working on ensemble playing, learning how to balance sound, and developing short performance pieces. Some students are beginning to explore songwriting and recording through our mixer and PA system. Thanks to your support, this isn't just a class anymore — it feels like a real music program. You've helped give my students skills, confidence, and a love for music that will stay with them long after this year.","fullyFundedDate":1759198901113,"projectUrl":"project/plug-in-and-play-quiet-practice-for-you/9772362/","projectTitle":"Plug In and Play: Quiet Practice for Young Musicians","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Curry","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5400109_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1646413042476","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/christophercurry"},{"teacherId":7938207,"projectId":9773569,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support of my project, my special education students are benefiting every day from resources that truly meet their individual needs. I use these materials during one-on-one instruction and small-group lessons, where students are able to work at their own pace and gain confidence in a supportive environment. The math manipulatives have been especially powerful during small-group fraction lessons, allowing students to physically build and compare fractions instead of just seeing them on paper. Tools like visual timers, sensory supports, and flexible seating help students stay regulated and focused, making learning more accessible and meaningful.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, their reactions were filled with excitement and curiosity. Several students eagerly asked to try the new tools right away, while others carefully explored them and shared how the seating or sensory items made them feel calmer and more comfortable. One student who often struggles to stay engaged during math was able to remain focused longer than usual while using the manipulatives, proudly completing problems they would have previously avoided. Moments like these remind me how powerful the right resources can be for learners who need extra support.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, these materials will continue to be an essential part of our daily instruction. Students will use the math tools to deepen their understanding of fractions and problem-solving, while the social-emotional supports will help them practice identifying and managing their feelings. Because of you, my students have a classroom space where they feel supported, capable, and ready to grow, academically and emotionally. Thank you for helping make this possible.","fullyFundedDate":1759448044174,"projectUrl":"project/from-fractions-to-feelings-supporting-t/9773569/","projectTitle":"From Fractions to Feelings: Supporting the Whole Child","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Nelson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7938207_orig.jpg?crop=540,540,x690,y908&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1627935299381","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7938207"},{"teacherId":1050016,"projectId":9774857,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous gift of whiteboards and supplies, which have already transformed our classroom into a true \"thinking classroom.\" My students are using the boards to work collaboratively at vertical surfaces, share strategies, and explain their reasoning with one another. Students are able to excitedly compare their models, corrected misconceptions, and built deeper understanding together. The mobility and visibility of the boards allowed every student to be active, engaged, and proud of their thinking, and it has brought a new level of energy to our learning environment.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, their faces lit up. Their enthusiasm has only grown as they've realized how these boards help them communicate, collaborate, and take ownership of their ideas. Our next steps involve using the whiteboards to support small-group problem-solving routines as we continue exploring new concepts. Your support has empowered them to think boldly and work together, and we are so grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1759447051748,"projectUrl":"project/building-thinking-students-and-classroom/9774857/","projectTitle":"Building Thinking Students and Classrooms","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Doolittle","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1050016_orig.jpg?crop=242,242,x0,y19&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1771474934818","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1050016"},{"teacherId":7938207,"projectId":9152965,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our school garden is now a vibrant learning space filled with flourishing taro, watermelons, and pumpkins! From the moment our students first saw the plants growing, their excitement was contagious. Many of them rushed to point out which seeds they had planted, amazed that their small efforts had turned into something so big and alive.\r\n\r\nThe garden has quickly become an extension of our school. Students are using it to explore plant life cycles, measure growth, and even write creative stories inspired by their plants. Recently, our class marveled at the first ripening watermelons, with one student proudly declaring, \"We grew this ourselves!\" Moments like these highlight how hands-on experiences spark joy and deepen learning.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, our students are already planning a harvest celebration where they will share taro recipes and reflect on everything they've learned. None of this would have been possible without your kindness. Thank you for sowing seeds of knowledge that will continue to grow in both our garden and our students' hearts.","fullyFundedDate":1741661995871,"projectUrl":"project/sowing-seeds-of-knowledge-in-our-school/9152965/","projectTitle":"Sowing Seeds of Knowledge in Our School Garden","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Nelson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7938207_orig.jpg?crop=540,540,x690,y908&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1627935299381","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7938207"},{"teacherId":9372683,"projectId":9168395,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support in helping bring history to life in our classroom! Because of you, my students have had the chance to explore American history in meaningful, hands-on ways. They were especially excited to handle the replica compass and colonial toys—making real-world connections to what they're learning.\r\n\r\nThis project has truly transformed our classroom during social studies. Students are more engaged, focused, and excited. They look forward to our lessons, and their curiosity has grown as they interact with materials that make history feel real. The flexible seating has been a huge hit—students love having the choice of where to learn comfortably—and the mini pencils and fun erasers have turned notetaking into something they actually look forward to!","fullyFundedDate":1742169773575,"projectUrl":"project/real-artifacts-for-young-historians/9168395/","projectTitle":"Real Artifacts for Young Historians","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Sumitani","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9372683"},{"teacherId":1050016,"projectId":9163371,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for all your support and helping to fund my project. With your donation I was able to provide my students with so many different classroom incentives to motivate students to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. One of the biggest take aways was our ticket store where students could choose prizes in exchange for tickets they earn for completing work and meeting behavior expectations. \r\n\r\nYour donation also contributed to our classroom printer and ink. We were able to print so many resources that we used in instruction and to display our work on our class bulletin boards and around our classroom.\r\n\r\nThank you again for your generous support! You helped make our classroom a place the students love.","fullyFundedDate":1742089922973,"projectUrl":"project/student-incentives-and-classroom-ink/9163371/","projectTitle":"Student Incentives and Classroom Ink","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Doolittle","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1050016_orig.jpg?crop=242,242,x0,y19&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1771474934818","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1050016"},{"teacherId":6096587,"projectId":9161604,"letterContent":"Your generosity has made a tremendous impact on our students. Our second grade class is working very hard on our annual Ho'olaulea dance to perform on May 20th at the Edith Kanakaole Stadium. All of our keikis parents and friends will be in attendance on that special day. Each grade level has benefitted from your generous donation as the speaker is used by all grades to support our practicing. This donation has allowed us to continue the traditions our for keiki and our community. It also supports our Hawaiian culture as well as our core values as we continue to strive for excellence.","fullyFundedDate":1742074891536,"projectUrl":"project/sharing-the-hawaiian-culture-through-son/9161604/","projectTitle":"Sharing the Hawaiian Culture Through Song and Dance","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Kodama","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp6096587_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1543361643826","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6096587"},{"teacherId":5400109,"projectId":6252907,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom aquarium has become a daily part of student learning and classroom life. Students help care for the tank by checking water levels, observing fish behavior, and making sure the plants and environment stay healthy. It has become a natural gathering point in the room — whether students are taking a quick brain break, using it as inspiration for writing, or connecting it to our science lessons. One of my favorite moments is watching students explain the tank to visitors, proudly pointing out the plants, fish, and how the system works.\r\n\r\nWhen the tank was first set up, students were immediately amazed. Many had never seen a planted aquarium before, and they were excited to watch it come to life. They asked thoughtful questions, made predictions about plant growth and fish behavior, and quickly took ownership of \"their\" tank. It created a sense of responsibility and pride — this wasn't just something in the classroom, it was something they helped maintain and protect.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, we continue to use the aquarium as a hands-on learning tool across subjects. Students connect it to science units on ecosystems and life cycles, use it as a writing and observation tool, and practice careful data collection through journaling and sketching. We are also working on deeper lessons about environmental balance, water quality, and animal care. Thanks to your support, this aquarium is not just decoration — it's a living classroom resource that continues to spark curiosity, responsibility, and engagement every day.","fullyFundedDate":1646514860239,"projectUrl":"project/a-vibrant-and-hands-on-classroom-aquariu/6252907/","projectTitle":"A Vibrant and Hands-on Classroom Aquarium","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Curry","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5400109_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1646413042476","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/christophercurry"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_50758","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":423,"numTeachers":25,"percentFrplEligible":28,"percentAsian":13,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":11,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":22,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 6","studentTeacherRatio":"16.9:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"TOWN","ncesMetroType":"TOWN_REMOTE"},"inStateSupporters":50.0,"schoolId":50758,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Ernest Bowen DeSilva Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Ernest Bowen DeSilva Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/hawaii/hawaii-school-district/ernest-b-desilva-elementary-school/50758"}