{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Goodrell Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":33.0,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10028461,"projectId":9474311,"letterContent":"We are incredibly grateful for your generous support of our project to provide saxophone mouthpieces for our beginning band students. Thanks to you, our young musicians now have the tools they need to start their musical journey with confidence and excitement.\r\n\r\nAt our Title I school, many students face challenges that can limit their access to quality instruments and accessories. Your donation has helped remove one of those barriers, giving every student—regardless of background—the opportunity to participate fully in band and discover the joy of making music.\r\n\r\nThese mouthpieces are more than just equipment; they are keys to opportunity. They will help our students develop proper technique, feel proud of their progress, and experience the teamwork and discipline that come with being part of a band.\r\nThank you for believing in our students and investing in their future. Your kindness will echo through every note they play.","fullyFundedDate":1754523537233,"projectUrl":"project/sound-it-out-saxophone-mouthpieces-for/9474311/","projectTitle":"Sound It Out: Saxophone Mouthpieces for Beginning Musicians","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Clark-Sindler","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10028461_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1750944128530","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10028461"},{"teacherId":9565759,"projectId":9713483,"letterContent":"When our new fidgets and snacks arrived, my students could hardly contain their excitement! They immediately started exploring the different textures and designs of the fidgets and couldn't wait to pick out their favorite snack. It was incredible to see how quickly these small additions made a big difference in their focus, energy, and confidence.\r\n\r\nNow, students are able to grab a fidget quietly when they feel restless or distracted, and enjoy a quick snack when they need a little boost to stay focused during lessons and discussions. One student even said, \"These help my brain calm down so I can listen better—and the snacks keep me from getting grumpy when I'm hungry!\"\r\n\r\nWe've incorporated both into our daily routines—students can use fidgets during independent reading, small group work, and tests to manage stress, while snacks help keep them fueled and ready to learn throughout the day. The atmosphere in our classroom feels calmer, more focused, and more positive. Students who used to struggle with staying on task are now participating more confidently and feeling more supported.\r\n\r\nThanks to your generosity, my students have the tools—and the fuel—they need to self-regulate and succeed. Our next step is continuing to build these positive habits of focus, self-awareness, and community as we move into new lessons and projects.","fullyFundedDate":1758031635679,"projectUrl":"project/fueling-focus-snacks-and-fidgets-for-ou/9713483/","projectTitle":"Fueling Focus: Snacks and Fidgets for Our Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Small","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9565759_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1727054787760","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9565759"},{"teacherId":9565759,"projectId":9846312,"letterContent":"When our new fidgets arrived, my students could hardly contain their excitement! They immediately started exploring the different textures and designs, and it was incredible to see how quickly these small tools made a big difference in their focus and confidence.\r\n\r\nNow, students are able to grab a fidget quietly when they feel restless or distracted, which helps them stay engaged during lessons and discussions. One student even said, \"These help my brain calm down so I can listen better,\" which perfectly sums up the goal of this project.\r\n\r\nWe've incorporated the fidgets into our daily routines—students can use them during independent reading, small group work, and even during tests to help manage stress. The atmosphere in our classroom feels calmer and more focused, and students who used to struggle with staying on task are now participating more confidently.\r\n\r\nThanks to your generosity, my students have the tools they need to self-regulate and succeed. Our next step is continuing to build these positive habits of focus and self-awareness as we move into new lessons and projects.","fullyFundedDate":1762266414132,"projectUrl":"project/fidgets-for-focus/9846312/","projectTitle":"Fidgets for Focus","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Small","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9565759_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1727054787760","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9565759"},{"teacherId":9565759,"projectId":9374068,"letterContent":"The new social justice books have completely changed the way my students see reading — and the world around them. Before, many of our classroom books didn't reflect my students' lives or the issues they care about. Now, they're reading stories that help them understand empathy, fairness, and the power of standing up for what's right.\r\n\r\nThese books have sparked deep discussions about equality, kindness, and how small actions can create big change. My students are thinking critically, asking thoughtful questions, and connecting what they read to what they see in their own communities. It's amazing to watch them recognize their own voices in the pages of these stories.\r\n\r\nOne student who used to say they \"didn't like reading\" couldn't put down a book about a young activist. They told me it made them realize that \"kids can make a difference too.\" That moment alone showed how powerful representation and relevance in literature can be.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, my students now have access to books that inspire them to think, care, and take action. You've helped them see that stories aren't just words on a page — they're tools for understanding the world and finding their place in it. Thank you for giving them that gift.","fullyFundedDate":1748170093831,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-young-voices-through-social-j/9374068/","projectTitle":"Empowering Young Voices Through Social Justice Literature","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Small","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9565759_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1727054787760","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9565759"},{"teacherId":9565759,"projectId":9322741,"letterContent":"Our new 3D printer has completely transformed how my students think about learning, creating, and problem-solving! Before, design ideas stayed on paper — now, my students can bring those ideas to life right in our classroom.\r\n\r\nThe 3D printer helps students connect what they learn in science, math, and engineering to the real world. They design prototypes, test ideas, and see how small changes can improve their creations. It's hands-on learning at its best — and they're so excited every time they hear the printer start up!\r\n\r\nThe most exciting part for my students is seeing their digital designs turn into real, physical objects. Whether it's printing models for a science project, creating custom game pieces, or designing keychains with positive messages, every print sparks creativity and curiosity.\r\n\r\nOne student who was usually quiet in class has really come alive with this project. They've taken the lead in helping classmates design and print their own projects, proudly teaching others how to adjust models or fix errors. It's been amazing to see how this technology builds confidence, collaboration, and excitement for learning.\r\n\r\nThanks to this 3D printer and the filament you helped fund, my students now see themselves as creators, engineers, and innovators. You've given them the chance to imagine, design, and build — and that's an experience that will stay with them for years to come.","fullyFundedDate":1746785785854,"projectUrl":"project/print-the-past-hands-on-history-and-lit/9322741/","projectTitle":"Print the Past: Hands-On History and Literacy","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Small","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9565759_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1727054787760","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9565759"},{"teacherId":10028461,"projectId":9434647,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting our classroom through DonorsChoose. Your generous gift of cello and bass bows has already begun to make a meaningful impact on our students—especially those in our Title I school, where resources are often limited but dreams are limitless.\r\n\r\nThese bows are more than just tools for playing music. They are instruments of opportunity. For many of our students, this is their first experience with orchestral music. Having access to quality equipment allows them to participate fully, without feeling held back by worn or inadequate materials. It levels the playing field and gives every child a chance to shine.\r\n\r\nYour support also fosters independence. With reliable bows in hand, students can practice confidently at home and take ownership of their musical growth. They're learning discipline, self-expression, and the joy of creating something beautiful—all skills that will serve them far beyond the music room.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our students and helping us build a program where every child has the chance to succeed. Your gift is helping us create not just musicians, but confident, capable young people.","fullyFundedDate":1752586453781,"projectUrl":"project/better-bows-for-bigger-sound-supporting/9434647/","projectTitle":"Better Bows for Bigger Sound: Supporting Our Cellists and Bassists","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Clark-Sindler","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10028461_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1750944128530","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10028461"},{"teacherId":2047834,"projectId":9341213,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom! The four new stools have been such a wonderful addition to our learning space. My students were so excited when they first saw them — they immediately began experimenting with the different ways the stools could rotate and flip. It was like watching curiosity and engagement come alive right before my eyes.\r\n\r\nWe now use the stools daily during reading groups and fluency practice. Students take turns using them during partner reading and group discussions, and I've noticed a real difference in their focus and participation. The movement and flexibility allow students who need to fidget to stay seated and attentive, and the variety of seating signals that it's time for collaboration and active learning.\r\n\r\nOne moment that stood out was during a recent fluency practice session. Two students who often struggle to stay on task volunteered to use the new stools. They stayed focused the entire time, encouraging each other and even asking to read another passage! It's clear that the stools are not just seating—they're tools that help students engage their minds and bodies in learning.\r\n\r\nOur next goal is to continue building student-centered learning routines where collaboration feels natural and exciting. The stools have created a new sense of ownership and energy in our classroom, and we can't wait to keep growing together.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our students and for giving them a classroom environment where movement, comfort, and learning go hand in hand.","fullyFundedDate":1757071301548,"projectUrl":"project/perky-perchers/9341213/","projectTitle":"Perky Perchers","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Darr","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2047834_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1720395054251","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2047834"},{"teacherId":10028461,"projectId":9426525,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our Title I middle school orchestra students now have access to individual violin tuners—an essential tool that has transformed both their learning experience and musical independence. With these tuners, students no longer have to wait for teacher assistance to tune their instruments, allowing for increased learning time during rehearsals and practice sessions.\r\n\r\nThis simple yet powerful resource has empowered our young musicians to take ownership of their instruments and their progress. The ability to tune independently has boosted their confidence and fostered a deeper sense of responsibility. In a school where resources are limited and every minute counts, your donation has made a lasting impact on our students' musical journey.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping us create a more equitable and enriching environment for our orchestra program!","fullyFundedDate":1752586446720,"projectUrl":"project/staying-in-tune-helping-our-violinists/9426525/","projectTitle":"Staying in Tune: Helping Our Violinists Find Their Sound","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Clark-Sindler","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10028461_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1750944128530","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10028461"},{"teacherId":3155777,"projectId":9733920,"letterContent":"What a lovely day it is when I am able to open a box of brand-new books to share with our Project LIT readers! These books are so beautiful too, with sprayed edges. This may be the first time we've gotten books with sprayed edges for our readers; those are all the rage right now in publishing!\r\n\r\nDonors, I'm so grateful to you. Our group of readers is small, but we have a plan to increase membership. I hope the thank yous we're sending your way bring a smile to your face. There may not be a ton of them, but they were written with a lot of love. I can't wait for them to opt into Impossible Creatures as our text!","fullyFundedDate":1759250398855,"projectUrl":"project/the-impossible-creatures-in-project-lit/9733920/","projectTitle":"The Impossible Creatures in Project LIT","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. V. Robinson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3155777_orig.jpg?crop=732,732,x17,y200&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1556374156918","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/v-robinson"},{"teacherId":3155777,"projectId":9733836,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for these amazing puzzle supplies. Not pictured are the sticker sheets and the puzzle roll to store a puzzle in, but look at all of the other goodies!\r\n\r\nI checked in with the club leader a few days ago when I dropped materials off for her. She was very excited and began to describe all of the ways that she thought the different students in the club would use the supplies. I know she is very excited to show off the sticker puzzles for students. She even mentioned requesting a few more of them based on student interests and to create a bulletin board!\r\n\r\nDonors, I'm so grateful to you for the support you provide. Beginning these clubs has been a labor of love this year, but they are sparking so much joy for our students and for the teacher-leaders of them. YOU are bringing joy to our building. Mil gracias!","fullyFundedDate":1759426818028,"projectUrl":"project/putting-it-all-together/9733836/","projectTitle":"Putting It All Together","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. V. Robinson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3155777_orig.jpg?crop=732,732,x17,y200&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1556374156918","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/v-robinson"},{"teacherId":3155777,"projectId":9393624,"letterContent":"I just opened five, FIVE, amazing boxes full of books and they are so beautiful! I sat in my office briefly this morning to unpack them all and find them homes on the Project LIT shelves. Looking at them is a thing of beauty. It will be exciting to share the news with learners when we next come together!\r\n\r\nAt our last meeting for Project LIT, I only had one student able to make it, but she came up with a FANTASTIC plan to grow our readership! She decided to select our next read early (we are currently reading Ghost by Reynolds) and advertise the selection specifically. This is different than in year's past when we met as a club and picked our next selection as we finished discussion on one. I am excited to see what this change brings.\r\n\r\nDonors, I'm so thankful for you. I get to hang out with these great learners weekly, discussing literature and watching their minds grow. You're a part of that alongside us and I appreciate your support. The DonorsChoose community continually astounds me with its generosity.","fullyFundedDate":1758819205019,"projectUrl":"project/project-lit-rides-the-57-bus/9393624/","projectTitle":"Project LIT Rides \"The 57 Bus\"","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. V. Robinson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3155777_orig.jpg?crop=732,732,x17,y200&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1556374156918","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/v-robinson"},{"teacherId":3155777,"projectId":9393658,"letterContent":"I just opened five, FIVE, amazing boxes full of books and they are so beautiful! I sat in my office briefly this morning to unpack them all and find them homes on the Project LIT shelves. Looking at them is a thing of beauty. It will be exciting to share the news with learners when we next come together!\r\n\r\nAt our last meeting for Project LIT, I only had one student able to make it, but she came up with a FANTASTIC plan to grow our readership! She decided to select our next read early (we are currently reading Ghost by Reynolds) and advertise the selection specifically. This is different than in year's past when we met as a club and picked our next selection as we finished discussion on one. I am excited to see what this change brings.\r\n\r\nDonors, I'm so thankful for you. I get to hang out with these great learners weekly, discussing literature and watching their minds grow. You're a part of that alongside us and I appreciate your support. The DonorsChoose community continually astounds me with its generosity.","fullyFundedDate":1758819205501,"projectUrl":"project/warrior-girl-unearthed-in-project-lit/9393658/","projectTitle":"Warrior Girl Unearthed in Project LIT","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. V. Robinson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3155777_orig.jpg?crop=732,732,x17,y200&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1556374156918","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/v-robinson"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_51886","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":511,"numTeachers":42,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":5,"percentBlack":21,"percentWhite":34,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":31,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"12.2:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":67.0,"schoolId":51886,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Goodrell Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Goodrell Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/iowa/des-moines-public-schools/goodrell-middle-school/51886"}