{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"George Whittell High School","outOfStateSupporters":25.0,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8110616,"projectId":9882946,"letterContent":"When the Lego Spike Prime kit and new board games arrived, my students could hardly contain their excitement. They crowded around the boxes, eager to open them and immediately imagining the robots and games they could create. Several students began sorting pieces and exploring the coding interface right away, while others started analyzing the new board games to identify mechanics they might incorporate into their own designs. Their enthusiasm showed just how meaningful these resources are in a classroom that rarely has access to advanced technology.\r\n\r\nWe've already put the materials to work in our current robotics and game design units. One group successfully built and programmed a robot that can navigate a simple maze, something they had never attempted before. Another group used one of the new strategy games as inspiration for a digital game prototype they are coding. The games have helped students better understand how rules, balance, and player experience shape a successful design, and the robotics kit has allowed them to test and refine their engineering ideas in real time.\r\n\r\nOur next steps involve students creating full game design documents for their app and board game concepts, followed by coding playable digital prototypes. On the robotics side, teams will move on to more advanced programming challenges, including using sensors to complete multi-step tasks. Thanks to this project, my students are not only learning STEM skills, they're building confidence, creativity, and excitement about possible future careers in computer science and engineering.","fullyFundedDate":1762796969809,"projectUrl":"project/building-skills-for-careers-in-game-desi/9882946/","projectTitle":"Building Skills for Careers in Game Design and Computer Science","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Hight","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8110616_orig.jpg?crop=2215,2215,x0,y494&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1727905303011","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/hight"},{"teacherId":9355095,"projectId":9198336,"letterContent":"Thank your for all your contributions. My students have been enjoying reading the new books and having various books that suit their wide ranging interests. We appreciate your generous support and we are so excited to have these books that are at their level.\r\n\r\nWe will continue to use these books for years to come. \r\n\r\nWe also have a great reading corner in our classroom where students can get comfy and enjoy their book. \r\n\r\nAgain, thanks for being so generous and supporting our students. These books are a great joy to us all..","fullyFundedDate":1748317259087,"projectUrl":"project/help-my-students-build-fluency-through-s/9198336/","projectTitle":"Help My Students Build Fluency Through Spanish Readers!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Nightingale","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9355095_orig.jpg?crop=647,647,x0,y137&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1717006036423","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9355095"},{"teacherId":8110616,"projectId":9719173,"letterContent":"When the new games arrived, my students were thrilled. They immediately began unpacking and organizing them, excited to see how families in our community would enjoy the additions. The students took pride in updating the catalog system and brainstorming ways to introduce the new games at our next family game night.\r\n\r\nWe are using the new games to teach students how to manage a community resource responsibly. They are tracking checkouts, maintaining inventory, and learning how to communicate effectively with families borrowing the games. These activities have strengthened their organizational and leadership skills while reinforcing the value of giving back.\r\n\r\nThe next step is for students to host another community game night to showcase the expanded library. They plan to teach families how to play the new games and gather feedback to guide future additions. Thanks to this project, students are growing as leaders while strengthening connections throughout our community.","fullyFundedDate":1759522671768,"projectUrl":"project/spreading-kindness-by-expanding-our-fami/9719173/","projectTitle":"Spreading Kindness by Expanding our Family Games Library","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Hight","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8110616_orig.jpg?crop=2215,2215,x0,y494&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1727905303011","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/hight"},{"teacherId":8110616,"projectId":9693585,"letterContent":"When the board games arrived, my students' excitement was immediate. They eagerly unwrapped the boxes, and before I even explained the lesson, they were asking questions about the rules and strategies. Their enthusiasm confirmed that these games would spark engagement and curiosity while providing opportunities for critical thinking and collaboration.\r\n\r\nWe've already begun using the games as inspiration for our computer science projects. Students are analyzing the mechanics, identifying what makes each game fun and challenging, and brainstorming ways to adapt those ideas into digital versions. One group is even sketching out a mobile app concept based on a board game they enjoyed, applying coding principles we've been learning in class.\r\n\r\nThe next step is for students to take their insights from playing and discussing these games and apply them to their own app and game design projects. They'll be working in small teams to design original games, combining creativity with coding skills. Thanks to your generosity, they now have concrete examples to draw from, making their projects richer and more inspired.","fullyFundedDate":1757532968193,"projectUrl":"project/learning-experiences-for-appgame-design/9693585/","projectTitle":"Learning Experiences for App/Game Design","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Hight","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8110616_orig.jpg?crop=2215,2215,x0,y494&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1727905303011","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/hight"},{"teacherId":8110616,"projectId":9623154,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting \"Board Games for Critical Thinking and Communication.\" When my students first walked in and saw the shelves stacked with new games, their faces lit up with excitement. Many of them immediately began asking, \"Can we try this one today?\" The joy and curiosity in that moment reminded me how powerful it is to give students resources that make learning feel both fun and meaningful.\r\n\r\nWe've already begun using the games as part of our teamwork and problem-solving lessons. For example, during a recent activity, students worked together on a strategy game that required them to communicate effectively, adjust plans, and rely on one another's strengths. It was amazing to watch students who are usually quiet step up with great ideas, while others learned to listen and adapt. The games have become a natural way for students to practice collaboration while sharpening critical thinking skills.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, I plan to integrate these games into small group rotations where students can apply skills we're learning in class to real-time challenges. Their enthusiasm shows me they're not only building academic and social skills, but also gaining confidence in working together toward shared goals. This project has truly enriched our classroom community, and none of it would have been possible without your generosity. Thank you for believing in my students and giving them the tools to thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1755706599204,"projectUrl":"project/board-games-for-critical-thinking-and-co/9623154/","projectTitle":"Board Games for Critical Thinking and Communication","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Hight","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8110616_orig.jpg?crop=2215,2215,x0,y494&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1727905303011","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/hight"},{"teacherId":8110616,"projectId":9326427,"letterContent":"The moment my students saw the LEGO sets and board games, their faces lit up with excitement and curiosity. They dove right in—some building complex structures, others challenging each other in strategy games that required logical thinking and collaboration. One standout project involved using LEGO bricks to model geometric shapes and calculate area and volume. Students worked in teams, testing ideas and revising their designs just like real engineers. These resources have become a regular part of our math and computer science lessons, giving students a hands-on way to explore patterns, algorithms, and problem-solving.\r\n\r\nNext, we're diving into a project where students will use LEGO to prototype simple machines tied to coding activities in our robotics unit. These materials are helping students make real-world connections and gain confidence in their STEM skills. Thanks to you, our classroom is now a hub of creativity, innovation, and joyful learning!","fullyFundedDate":1747149098760,"projectUrl":"project/fostering-critical-thinking-in-the-stem/9326427/","projectTitle":"Fostering Critical Thinking in the Stem Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Hight","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8110616_orig.jpg?crop=2215,2215,x0,y494&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1727905303011","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/hight"},{"teacherId":8110616,"projectId":9252752,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom has been transformed into a vibrant space for hands-on learning and creative problem-solving! When the LEGO sets and board games arrived, my students were beyond excited—some couldn't believe these were actually for them. They immediately began exploring, building, and playing, and it was amazing to see their critical thinking skills come alive in such an engaging way.\r\n\r\nIn one recent math lesson, students used LEGO bricks to model and solve geometry problems involving area and volume. They collaborated in small groups, discussing strategies and troubleshooting design flaws—exactly the kind of deep thinking and teamwork I hoped to foster. In computer science, students played logic-based board games that reinforced algorithmic thinking and sequential reasoning in a low-stakes, high-fun environment.\r\n\r\nThese resources are now a regular part of our classroom routine—used during lessons, early finisher time, and our weekly \"Innovation Hour.\" My students are more eager than ever to participate, and even reluctant learners are finding their spark through play-based problem-solving.\r\n\r\nNext, we'll be using LEGO sets to prototype simple machines in our math and CS crossover unit on robotics and mechanics. Students will apply both coding and engineering skills to design functioning models that solve real-world problems.\r\n\r\nYour donation didn't just provide supplies—it created opportunities. Thank you for believing in my students and helping them grow as learners, thinkers, and future innovators!","fullyFundedDate":1746466828425,"projectUrl":"project/giving-students-a-creative-outlet-for-cr/9252752/","projectTitle":"Giving Students a Creative Outlet for Critical Thinking","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Hight","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8110616_orig.jpg?crop=2215,2215,x0,y494&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1727905303011","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/hight"},{"teacherId":8110616,"projectId":9210595,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom has transformed into a more dynamic and welcoming space for learning and collaboration! When my students first saw the new LEGO sets, board games, posters, and bean bag chair, their eyes lit up with excitement. They couldn't believe these resources were just for them—one student even said, \"This feels like a real STEM lab now!\"\r\n\r\nWe've already put the LEGO sets to use in a math-meets-engineering challenge where students built bridges and structures to explore geometric concepts, ratios, and load-bearing design. During our computer science lessons, students use them to model basic logic gates and flowcharts before diving into code. The board games have been a huge hit during our weekly \"Critical Thinking Friday,\" where students rotate through games like chess, SET, and cooperative strategy games that boost logical reasoning and teamwork.\r\n\r\nThe posters have added color and meaning to our walls, reinforcing key vocabulary and sparking conversations about computer science careers and mathematical thinking. And the bean bag chair? It's become a favorite spot for students to work together, read quietly, or reset during a tough day.\r\n\r\nNext, students will be using the LEGO kits for a coding and robotics unit where they'll design and program their own interactive projects. These resources have not only deepened their engagement but have also made our classroom feel more like a creative, collaborative community. Your donation has created real joy and real learning—thank you for making this possible!","fullyFundedDate":1743532582416,"projectUrl":"project/creating-a-welcoming-critically-thinkin/9210595/","projectTitle":"Creating a Welcoming, Critically Thinking Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Hight","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8110616_orig.jpg?crop=2215,2215,x0,y494&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1727905303011","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/hight"},{"teacherId":8110616,"projectId":9153939,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students have been actively engaged with the new resources, and the impact has been incredible! The critical thinking board games have made history and social studies more interactive, allowing students to step into historical events, analyze decisions, and work collaboratively to solve challenges. In our math classroom, the workbooks have provided students with clear, accessible references, helping them break down complex concepts and strengthen their problem-solving skills.\r\n\r\nWhen my students first saw the materials, their excitement was immediate! They couldn't wait to open the board games, quickly diving into discussions, debating strategies, and making connections to our lessons. The math charts have become a daily tool, with students frequently referencing them to support their reasoning and build confidence in their work.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, we are incorporating these resources into ongoing projects. In social studies, students are using the board games to explore decision-making and historical perspectives, applying their knowledge in a hands-on way. In math, we are working on real-world problem-solving activities where students use the workbooks to help identify patterns, analyze data, and develop logical solutions.\r\n\r\nYour support has truly transformed our classroom into a more engaging, interactive space where students can think critically, collaborate, and grow. Thank you for investing in my students' learning and future!","fullyFundedDate":1742222907425,"projectUrl":"project/critical-thinking-and-math-skills-throug/9153939/","projectTitle":"Critical Thinking and Math Skills Through Engagement","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Hight","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8110616_orig.jpg?crop=2215,2215,x0,y494&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1727905303011","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/hight"},{"teacherId":8110616,"projectId":9062951,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students are actively engaging with the new resources, and the impact has been incredible! The critical thinking board games have transformed our social studies discussions, allowing students to analyze historical events in a fun and strategic way. In math, the visual charts have become essential tools, helping students grasp complex concepts with confidence.\r\n\r\nWhen my students first saw the new materials, their excitement was contagious! They immediately started exploring the games, eager to apply their reasoning skills and collaborate with classmates. The math charts have sparked insightful conversations, with students referencing them to solve problems and deepen their understanding.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, we're integrating these resources into interactive lessons that encourage problem-solving and decision-making. In social studies, students are using the board games to simulate historical scenarios and debate different perspectives. In math, they're applying their knowledge from the charts to tackle real-world problems.\r\n\r\nYour support has made learning more engaging and meaningful, and we can't thank you enough for investing in our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1741278646221,"projectUrl":"project/critical-thinking-in-the-classroom/9062951/","projectTitle":"Critical Thinking in the Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Hight","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8110616_orig.jpg?crop=2215,2215,x0,y494&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1727905303011","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/hight"},{"teacherId":8110616,"projectId":9053806,"letterContent":"Thanks to your incredible generosity, our students now have access to a Nintendo Switch and additional Joy-Con controllers, transforming our game development and e-sports activities. When the students first saw the new equipment, their excitement was contagious—cheers filled the room as they eagerly discussed how they could use it to create and explore.\r\n\r\nIn our game development unit, students are now using the Switch to analyze game mechanics, experiment with level design, and explore coding concepts through interactive tools. Our e-sports club has also expanded, allowing more students to participate in friendly competitions and teamwork-based challenges.\r\n\r\nOne standout moment was when a group of students collaborated to modify an existing game using the Switch's tools, applying problem-solving skills and creativity to make their own version. Seeing their ideas come to life was truly inspiring!\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we plan to integrate more programming activities, encouraging students to design their own mini-games while developing critical STEM skills. Your support has provided a gateway to hands-on learning and future career exploration. Thank you for making such a meaningful impact in our rural school—you have given our students opportunities they never thought possible!","fullyFundedDate":1736955740426,"projectUrl":"project/increasing-access-to-game-development/9053806/","projectTitle":"Increasing Access to Game Development","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Hight","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8110616_orig.jpg?crop=2215,2215,x0,y494&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1727905303011","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/hight"},{"teacherId":8110616,"projectId":8942755,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has been transformed into an engaging and welcoming space where students can collaborate, problem-solve, and explore STEM concepts in new and exciting ways. The bean bag chairs have created a comfortable environment where students feel at ease working in teams, discussing strategies, and tackling challenges together. Our new games have quickly become a favorite, helping students develop logical reasoning and critical thinking skills in a fun and interactive way.\r\n\r\nOne of the most memorable moments was when students first walked in and saw the updated space. Their eyes lit up with excitement as they rushed to test out the games and find their favorite new seating spots. One student exclaimed, \"This doesn't even feel like a classroom!\" Since then, our class discussions have been livelier, and students have shown more enthusiasm for problem-solving activities.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, we will integrate these resources into coding challenges, math puzzles, and collaborative STEM projects that encourage students to think critically and apply their knowledge creatively. Your support has made a lasting impact, giving these students a space where they feel inspired, valued, and motivated to learn. Thank you for believing in them and for making a real difference in their education!","fullyFundedDate":1736954057605,"projectUrl":"project/giving-students-a-critical-thinking-spac/8942755/","projectTitle":"Giving Students a Critical Thinking Space","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Hight","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8110616_orig.jpg?crop=2215,2215,x0,y494&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1727905303011","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/hight"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_83006","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":139,"numTeachers":16,"percentFrplEligible":25,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":64,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":27,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":"8.7:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":false,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"RURAL","ncesMetroType":"RURAL_FRINGE"},"inStateSupporters":75.0,"schoolId":83006,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about George Whittell High School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"George Whittell High School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/nevada/douglas-county-school-district/george-whittell-high-school/83006"}