{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Geraldine W Johnson School","outOfStateSupporters":50.0,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":4611676,"projectId":9875442,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your amazing generosity in funding our project, Warm Hearts, Warm Heads, Warm Hands! Because of you, my second-grade students now have cozy winter hats, mittens, neck warmers, and coats to keep them warm during these chilly days. When the boxes arrived, the classroom buzzed with excitement! Big smiles, happy cheers, and lots of \"Thank you!\" filled the room as students tried on their new winter gear and admired each other's cozy looks. It was truly a heartwarming moment we will never forget. I felt satisfied in knowing I did everything in my power to help my students get these much needed winter necessities. \r\n\r\nThese winter essentials have already made a huge difference in our daily routine. My students can now head outside for recess feeling warm, comfortable, and confident. They come back inside ready to learn, focused, happy, and energized, because they're no longer distracted by the cold. Recess has become a joyful time of play and connection, and that positivity carries right back into our classroom learning.\r\n\r\nThanks to you, my students can fully enjoy being kids while also thriving as learners. Your kindness has warmed more than just heads and hands, it has warmed hearts, too! We are incredibly grateful for your support and for believing in our students. Thank you for making such a meaningful and joyful impact on our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1765508256357,"projectUrl":"project/warm-hearts-warm-heads-warm-hands/9875442/","projectTitle":"Warm Hearts, Warm Heads, Warm Hands","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Angel Rodriguez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4611676_orig.png?crop=423,423,x7,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1667404637737","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/rodrigueza"},{"teacherId":115194,"projectId":9864520,"letterContent":"Thank you for the Scholastic News articles for my classroom. This helps bring current events to my students' attention through the use of colorful text and pictures. They love to look at the pictures and use them to make predictions as to what we will be reading about. \r\n\r\nIn these latest issues we have learned about city jobs and country jobs, owls and traditions. Scholastic News gives me the opportunity to touch upon many different subjects that we may not talk about in class without the use of the magazine.","fullyFundedDate":1763565574587,"projectUrl":"project/current-events-with-scholastic-news/9864520/","projectTitle":"Current Events with Scholastic News","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Skowronski","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp115194_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1516826108799","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mderubeis"},{"teacherId":8549267,"projectId":9644162,"letterContent":"From the moment the flexible seating arrived, our classroom transformed into a space where students felt comfortable, valued, and ready to learn. These new seating options are now a beloved part of our library and center time, giving students choices such as soft seating, floor cushions, and flexible work spots. One especially meaningful moment was watching a student who often struggles to stay focused curl up in a cozy seat with a book and read quietly for an extended time with confidence and pride. Flexible seating has created an environment where students can settle into learning in a way that works best for them.\r\nWhen the students first saw the new seating, their reactions were filled with pure joy and excitement. There were wide smiles, happy gasps, and thoughtful questions about when they could use each spot. Students immediately felt a sense of ownership and respect for the space. These seating choices have helped students feel calm and comfortable, which has led to deeper focus, better collaboration, and a stronger love for reading and learning during center rotations.\r\nThanks to our donors, the next steps for our students include using this flexible environment to strengthen reading stamina, collaborate during literacy and math centers, and engage more fully in independent and small‑group work. You didn't just provide seating—you helped create a welcoming space where students feel safe, supported, and motivated to learn. Thank you for giving my students a classroom that feels like a place they belong, grow, and thrive every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1758636577045,"projectUrl":"project/sit-wiggle-learn-flexible-fun-for-sec/9644162/","projectTitle":"Sit, Wiggle, Learn: Flexible Fun for Second Grade!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Hattani","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8549267_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1659018309336","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrshattani"},{"teacherId":8549267,"projectId":9644185,"letterContent":"From the moment these phonics center games arrived in our classroom, they breathed new life into our reading instruction. My second graders now use these games daily during literacy centers to practice phonics skills such as decoding, word building, vowel patterns, and spelling patterns in a hands‑on, engaging way. One especially meaningful moment was watching a small group of students cheer each other on as they successfully built and read words they once found challenging. The games sparked rich conversations about sounds and patterns, and students proudly explained their thinking to peers—something that doesn't always happen during traditional practice.\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, their excitement was immediate and heartfelt. Eyes lit up, hands flew into the air, and questions poured out: \"When do we get to play?\" and \"Can I try that one first?\" Students were eager to explore the colorful games, and even my more reluctant readers jumped right in. The playful, game‑based format reduced anxiety and replaced it with confidence and joy. Students felt successful, capable, and motivated—and those feelings carried into their independent reading and writing.\r\nThanks to our donors, the next steps for our class include using these phonics games to strengthen fluency and apply decoding skills to real texts. We will continue building word‑study routines that support differentiated instruction and help each student grow at their own pace. Your generosity allowed you to step into our classroom and be part of these meaningful learning moments. Thank you for giving my students the tools to grow, the confidence to keep trying, and the joy of discovering that learning to read can be fun.","fullyFundedDate":1758223691391,"projectUrl":"project/game-on-boosting-reading-skills-with-fu/9644185/","projectTitle":"Game On! Boosting Reading Skills With Fun Phonics","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Hattani","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8549267_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1659018309336","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrshattani"},{"teacherId":8549267,"projectId":9309972,"letterContent":"Thanks to this project, reading in our second‑grade classroom has become an exciting, shared experience that students eagerly look forward to. With Time for Kids and Scholastic News, my students are building essential early literacy skills such as identifying the main idea and details, learning new vocabulary, understanding nonfiction text features, and asking thoughtful questions about the world around them. These magazines have helped students learn how to read for information, not just for fun—skills that are crucial as they grow into confident, curious readers.\r\nReading in our classroom is now filled with discussion, discovery, and joy. Students gather on the rug to read articles together, stop to point out bold words, captions, and photographs, and excitedly raise their hands to share their thinking. We reread articles throughout the week—during whole‑group lessons, small groups, and even independent reading time—because the topics feel meaningful and real to them. These texts help students make connections between what they read and their own lives, turning reading into an active, engaging experience instead of a quiet, isolated task.\r\nMany students who once struggled to stay engaged during reading time are now among the most enthusiastic participants. Some of my reluctant readers feel proud knowing they can successfully read \"real\" magazines just like adults do. Others beam with excitement as they share facts they've learned at home or teach classmates something new from an article. Because of our donors, my students feel empowered as readers, confident in their voices, and excited to learn about the world one page at a time. Thank you for giving my class the gift of curiosity, conversation, and a love of reading that will last far beyond second grade.","fullyFundedDate":1750796712631,"projectUrl":"project/young-minds-big-headlines-fueling-seco/9309972/","projectTitle":"Young Minds, Big Headlines: Fueling Second Grade Curiosity","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Hattani","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8549267_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1659018309336","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrshattani"},{"teacherId":8549267,"projectId":9310261,"letterContent":"From the moment these math games and manipulatives arrived in our classroom, they transformed the way my students experience learning. What once felt challenging or intimidating now feels welcoming and exciting. During math centers, students eagerly choose games that allow them to touch, move, and see their thinking come to life. One especially powerful moment was watching a group of students encourage one another as they worked through a problem together—using manipulatives to explain their ideas with confidence and pride. These resources have created space for meaningful conversations, collaboration, and genuine understanding that goes far beyond worksheets.\r\nThe students' reactions when they first saw the materials were unforgettable. Their eyes lit up with excitement, and many immediately asked if they could start using them that day. For students who previously struggled or doubted themselves in math, these tools provided something even more important than practice—they provided hope. The hands-on nature of the games helped students realize that math is something they can do. Smiles replaced frustration, and confidence grew as students experienced success in ways that felt joyful and empowering.\r\nBecause of your generosity, this impact will continue long after today's lesson. Our next steps involve using these materials to deepen problem-solving skills, support small-group instruction, and meet students exactly where they are in their learning. You didn't just provide supplies—you opened doors for understanding, perseverance, and self-belief. Thank you for giving my students the opportunity to feel capable, excited, and proud of themselves as mathematicians. Your support has truly changed the heart of our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1753282428574,"projectUrl":"project/math-mania-tools-for-tiny-number-ninjas/9310261/","projectTitle":"Math Mania: Tools for Tiny Number Ninjas!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Hattani","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8549267_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1659018309336","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrshattani"},{"teacherId":9427122,"projectId":9493926,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous donation of a standing desk for our art classroom. This desk has already made a meaningful difference in how our learning space functions. It provides a flexible option for students who focus better while standing, need movement during lessons, or benefit from a more comfortable way to engage in their work. In a hands-on art environment, the standing desk supports creativity, collaboration, and accessibility for all learners.\r\n\r\nBeyond comfort, the standing desk has helped improve student engagement, independence, and self-regulation. Students are able to choose the workspace that best meets their needs, allowing them to stay focused and productive during longer art projects. Your thoughtful donation has enhanced our classroom environment and helped create a more inclusive space where students can thrive creatively. Thank you for investing in our students and their success.","fullyFundedDate":1757475870999,"projectUrl":"project/standing-desk-helps-the-rest/9493926/","projectTitle":"Standing Desk Helps the Rest","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Serrano","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9427122_orig.jpg?crop=1244,1244,x0,y617&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1704670099976","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/art-smart-mrs-serrano"},{"teacherId":9427122,"projectId":9521757,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous support of our ocean sculpture project. Because of your donation, students now have access to the materials they need to explore form, texture, and structure as they design ocean-inspired sculptures. From coral reefs to sea creatures, students are using these materials to experiment, problem-solve, and bring their creative visions to life. Even while the sculptures are still in progress, the excitement and gratitude in the classroom are unmistakable.\r\n\r\nThis project has given students the confidence to take creative risks and the patience to work through challenges as their ideas evolve. They are learning that meaningful art takes time, effort, and perseverance. Your support has made it possible for students to feel valued as artists and empowered to express their ideas in three-dimensional form. Thank you for investing in their creativity and helping their imaginations rise from concept to creation.","fullyFundedDate":1757423311947,"projectUrl":"project/creating-cardboard-sculptures/9521757/","projectTitle":"Creating Cardboard Sculptures","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Serrano","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9427122_orig.jpg?crop=1244,1244,x0,y617&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1704670099976","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/art-smart-mrs-serrano"},{"teacherId":9427122,"projectId":9713703,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, my students were able to fully engage in the collage-making process with the proper adhesive tools they needed to be successful. Having access to quality adhesive allowed students to confidently experiment with layering, placement, and texture without frustration. Instead of worrying about pieces falling apart, they focused on creativity, problem-solving, and bringing their ideas to life. For many of my students, this was their first time working on a mixed-media collage, and your support made that experience joyful and empowering.\r\n\r\nBeyond the artwork itself, this project helped students build patience, perseverance, and pride in their work. They learned that even small tools can make a big difference when it comes to expressing themselves and completing a project from start to finish. Seeing their collages come together boosted their confidence and reminded them that their ideas matter. Thank you for investing in my students, their creativity, and their belief in themselves—your kindness truly stuck with us.","fullyFundedDate":1758043627595,"projectUrl":"project/from-ideas-to-masterpieces-we-need-adhe/9713703/","projectTitle":"From Ideas to Masterpieces: We Need Adhesives","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Serrano","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9427122_orig.jpg?crop=1244,1244,x0,y617&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1704670099976","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/art-smart-mrs-serrano"},{"teacherId":8649892,"projectId":9649168,"letterContent":"With the help of your donations I have been able to provide my 7th and 8th grade students alternatives to phone usage during break times. One of the biggest shifts that I saw happen were students using the fidget stimulants as a way to soothe themselves and center their attention before the start of class. Additionally the yoga mats have been a useful tool in helping students unwind at the end of a long day. Whether that be by taking deep breaths or (for my male students) doing some push ups to blow off some extra steam. The students absolutely adore the legos and the stickers and were overjoyed to have these \"fun\" alternatives added to our room to brighten up the space. Wishing you happy holidays!","fullyFundedDate":1758202869016,"projectUrl":"project/de-centering-phones-re-centering-engage/9649168/","projectTitle":"De-Centering Phones: Re-Centering Engagement and School Community","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Beaumont","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8649892_orig.jpg?crop=3456,3456,x864,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1665352594777","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8649892"},{"teacherId":1944654,"projectId":9456177,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your kind donation to my classroom and supporting my students with special needs. My students are strong, dedicated, and energetic, hard workers. They are times when we are limited in the amount of resources that we have ready for us to use.\r\n\r\nSo when I created this down issues project, I created it with the attention that students can have the supplies materials. They need to be successful individuals to learn in a environment that is special to them.\r\n\r\nThank you so much for your kind donation and generosity during this holiday season.","fullyFundedDate":1763489873966,"projectUrl":"project/love-for-special-needs-students/9456177/","projectTitle":"Love for Special Needs Students","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Joseph M. Valentino","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1944654_orig.png?crop=1284,1284,x0,y749&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723309007274","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/joey-valentino"},{"teacherId":4611676,"projectId":9863517,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has been buzzing with excitement, creativity, and engineering energy! The moment my students saw the new Questioneers books and the bright yellow STEM bins, their eyes lit up. Many of them immediately recognized Ada Twist and Rosie Revere from read-alouds we've shared before, and they couldn't believe that they now had their own set to explore. One student hugged 'Ada Magnífica, Científica' and said, \"¡Mira, maestro! ¡Ahora puedo investigar como ella!\" Seeing their joy reminded me how powerful it is for children to see themselves in stories; and then bring those stories to life.\r\n\r\nWe got to use the bins for the very first time during our Rosie Revere activity, and it was unforgettable. After reading about Rosie's brave inventions, students worked in teams using the materials from the \"Rosie Bin\" to create their own flying contraptions. One group tested over ten versions before their design finally glided across the room, and the cheers that erupted made our whole class feel like a team of real engineers. With Ada Twist's bin, students became scientists, observing, recording, predicting, and proudly sharing their discoveries with their classmates. The hands-on STEM challenges have transformed reading time into an adventure where literacy and problem-solving go hand in hand.\r\n\r\nOur next steps are just as exciting. Students are choosing which Questioneer they want to \"become\" for an upcoming STEM showcase where they'll present an invention, experiment, or community project inspired by the character. They're already sketching ideas, writing plans, and brainstorming how to use the bins to bring their visions to life. Thanks to you, they feel empowered to ask big questions, take creative risks, and see themselves as thinkers, builders, and leaders. Your support didn't just fund materials, it helped build confidence, curiosity, and a classroom where every student believes their ideas matter. Thank you for making this possible.","fullyFundedDate":1762813849006,"projectUrl":"project/building-bright-brains-with-books-and-bi/9863517/","projectTitle":"Building Bright Brains with Books and Bins","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Angel Rodriguez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4611676_orig.png?crop=423,423,x7,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1667404637737","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/rodrigueza"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_96256","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":825,"numTeachers":51,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":1,"percentBlack":22,"percentWhite":5,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":66,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"16.2:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":50.0,"schoolId":96256,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Geraldine W Johnson School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Geraldine W Johnson School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/connecticut/bridgeport-public-schools/geraldine-w-johnson-school/96256"}