{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Harris Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":25.0,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8641337,"projectId":10062892,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has been transformed into an engaging, supportive, and hands-on learning environment where every student can thrive.\r\n\r\nOur students use the building sets, magnetic blocks, LEGO kits, and marble runs daily to explore problem-solving and teamwork. One of the most exciting moments was watching a group of students collaborate to design a marble run—testing, adjusting, and celebrating together when it finally worked. These activities have not only strengthened their critical thinking skills but also encouraged communication and perseverance.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials were first introduced, the excitement was immediate. Students were eager to explore, create, and share their ideas. Even those who typically hesitate to participate became more engaged and confident when given these hands-on opportunities.\r\n\r\nThe sensory tools—like slime, motion timers, and the sand and water table—have made a huge impact on student regulation. We've seen students independently choose these tools to calm their bodies and refocus, allowing them to return to learning more successfully. The cozy corner canopy and feelings chart have also created a safe space for students to express their emotions and build social-emotional skills in a meaningful way.\r\n\r\nOur science growing kits have sparked curiosity and wonder, with students asking questions, making observations, and taking pride in caring for their plants. Meanwhile, the bulletin board and laminating supplies have helped us create a structured and visually supportive classroom environment that students rely on every day.\r\n\r\nSnacks have ensured that students stay focused and energized, while cleaning supplies help us maintain a safe and healthy space for everyone.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, we plan to build on this momentum by incorporating more collaborative STEM challenges, expanding our social-emotional learning routines, and continuing hands-on science explorations. Your support has made a lasting impact—not just on our classroom, but on our students' confidence, independence, and love of learning.\r\n\r\nThank you for making this possible!","fullyFundedDate":1769651474098,"projectUrl":"project/play-build-and-grow-in-our-classroom/10062892/","projectTitle":"Play, Build, and Grow in Our Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Nicastro","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8641337"},{"teacherId":8644891,"projectId":9855209,"letterContent":"It is truly difficult to put into words just how meaningful your generosity has been to our classroom. The impact you have made reaches far beyond the physical supplies you provided; it has shaped the daily experiences, confidence, and success of every student in our room. As a classroom family, we are deeply grateful for your kindness and willingness to support our learning environment in such a powerful way.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, our students now have consistent access to the materials they need to fully engage in their education. What may seem like simple supplies on the surface has, in reality, removed barriers that can often stand in the way of learning. When students no longer have to worry about whether they have the right tools, they are able to focus their energy on understanding concepts, participating in discussions, and growing academically. That shift alone has made a remarkable difference in our classroom.\r\n\r\nWe have been able to use the items you provided every single day, and they have quickly become an essential part of our routine. Whether it's completing assignments, participating in group work, or staying organized, these supplies support our students in ways that promote both independence and confidence. Students are able to transition between tasks more smoothly, remain engaged for longer periods of time, and take pride in their work because they have everything they need readily available.\r\n\r\nBeyond academics, your contribution has also helped create a positive and welcoming classroom environment. When students feel prepared, they feel capable—and that feeling carries over into their attitude toward school. We have seen an increase in motivation, participation, and overall happiness among our students. They come to class ready to learn, knowing they are supported and set up for success. That sense of readiness has been invaluable.\r\n\r\nAnother powerful outcome of your generosity is the sense of equity it brings to our classroom. Every student now has equal access to the tools necessary to succeed, which fosters a stronger sense of community and belonging. No one feels left out or unprepared. Instead, our classroom operates as a unified team, where everyone is equipped to do their best. This has strengthened not only academic performance but also the relationships between students.\r\n\r\nYour support has also allowed us to focus more on creativity and deeper learning. With the right materials at our fingertips, we can engage in more hands-on activities, collaborative projects, and meaningful practice that enhances understanding. Students are not just completing work—they are experiencing learning in a more interactive and impactful way. That kind of environment is something every educator strives to create, and your generosity has helped make it possible.\r\n\r\nAs a teacher, I have seen firsthand how much of a difference this has made. It allows me to spend more time teaching, guiding, and connecting with students rather than worrying about shortages or limitations. It has given me the ability to plan lessons with confidence, knowing my students will have what they need to be successful. That peace of mind is something I am incredibly thankful for.\r\n\r\nPerhaps most importantly, your generosity has shown our students the power of kindness and giving. They understand that someone took the time to support them, even without knowing them personally. That lesson is something they will carry with them far beyond the classroom. It has sparked conversations about gratitude, empathy, and the importance of helping others—values that are just as important as any academic skill we teach.\r\n\r\nPlease know that your contribution has not gone unnoticed. It has made a lasting impression on both myself and my students. The difference you have made is something we will remember and appreciate for years to come. Your generosity has created opportunities, built confidence, and supported growth in ways that are truly meaningful.\r\n\r\nOn behalf of our entire classroom, thank you for believing in our students and investing in their success. Your kindness is making a real difference in schools, and we are incredibly fortunate to have benefited from your support.","fullyFundedDate":1769177937356,"projectUrl":"project/basic-essentials-help-spark-interest-in/9855209/","projectTitle":"Basic Essentials Help Spark Interest in a Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Cordova","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8644891_orig.png?crop=1200,1200,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1775754646397","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8644891"},{"teacherId":8372457,"projectId":10057590,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for contributing to our classroom! We have been using the supplies to help us with creating materials to learn from, along with play! We are a play-based program, so we incorporate a lot of social, academic, and functional skills when we use these items. The stickers also help us develop our fine motor skills!\r\n\r\nHaving access to the materials also will help us learn about our natural habitat in Arizona and the many wonders of the desert! This will be our theme unit for April/May, so it will be a fun time.","fullyFundedDate":1769397316185,"projectUrl":"project/preschool-special-needs-classroom-stock-/10057590/","projectTitle":"Preschool Special Needs Classroom Stock-Up","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Henley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8372457_orig.jpg?crop=2921,2921,x0,y77&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1665522534387","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8372457"},{"teacherId":2410095,"projectId":10061326,"letterContent":"On behalf of the students and staff at Harris Elementary, thank you for your generous donation of games and materials to support our Harris Hawks. Your kindness will have a lasting impact on our students as they continue to develop important life skills that will help them grow both in and beyond the classroom. 🎲🧩\r\n\r\nThese games are already being used regularly by students of all ages to strengthen social and emotional skills such as teamwork, communication, patience, problem-solving, and resilience. For some of our students, this is their first opportunity to experience board games and collaborative play, making your gift even more meaningful. Through these shared experiences, students are learning how to take turns, manage emotions, work together, and celebrate one another's success. 🤝\r\n\r\nWe are truly grateful for your support of our school community. Your generosity is helping our Hawks build confidence, connection, and essential life skills that will benefit them for years to come. 💙🖤","fullyFundedDate":1769564948377,"projectUrl":"project/working-on-life-skills-one-game-at-a-tim/10061326/","projectTitle":"Working on Life Skills One Game at a Time","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Laserna","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp2410095_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1480723691230","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2410095"},{"teacherId":8359099,"projectId":9788339,"letterContent":"When my students walked into the classroom for the first time after I installed the cloud light covers, they were immediately in awe—pointing them out and sharing their excitement with each other. They love that the covers still allow light to come through while softening the brightness so it's no longer overwhelming.\r\n\r\nSoon after, they noticed the light scent of lavender and spotted the diffuser. They commented on how calming it is and appreciated that the scent isn't too strong. Some students even suggested earning the opportunity to choose the diffuser color, which has turned into a simple and effective classroom management tool for me!","fullyFundedDate":1769177931924,"projectUrl":"project/a-calm-classroom-enourages-great-learnin/9788339/","projectTitle":"A Calm Classroom Enourages Great Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Dunlap","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8359099_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1661316191322","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8359099"},{"teacherId":8644891,"projectId":9039391,"letterContent":"It is difficult to fully capture in words the depth of our gratitude for your kindness and support, but please know that your generosity has made a meaningful and lasting impact on our 6th grade classroom. Because of you, our students have been given opportunities that extend far beyond basic supplies—you have helped create an environment where learning can truly thrive.\r\n\r\nBefore your support, like many classrooms, we faced challenges in ensuring that every student had consistent access to the tools they needed to succeed. While we always do our best to adapt and make do, there is a significant difference between getting by and being fully equipped for success. Your donations have bridged that gap in a powerful way. From notebooks and pencils to organizational tools and learning resources, each item has played a role in supporting our students academically and emotionally.\r\n\r\nOne of the most noticeable changes has been in student confidence. When students have their own supplies and know they are prepared, they walk into the classroom with a different mindset. They are more focused, more willing to participate, and more motivated to complete their work. Something as simple as having the right materials readily available removes stress and allows them to concentrate on what truly matters—learning, growing, and challenging themselves.\r\n\r\nIn addition, your generosity has helped create a stronger sense of community within our classroom. Our students often refer to our class as a \"family,\" and your support has reinforced that feeling. Everyone has what they need, and there is a shared sense of pride in taking care of our classroom space and materials. This sense of belonging is especially important at the middle school level, where students are continuing to develop their identities and confidence.\r\n\r\nWe use many of the supplies you provided every single day. Whether it's during math lessons, group projects, writing assignments, or independent work time, your contributions are constantly in use. These tools help keep students organized, engaged, and on track. They also allow us to incorporate more hands-on and interactive learning experiences, which are critical for maintaining student interest and deepening understanding.\r\n\r\nAnother important impact of your donations is the reduction of inequity among students. In any classroom, students come from a variety of backgrounds and circumstances. Your generosity ensures that all students, regardless of their situation, have equal access to the materials they need. This not only supports academic success but also promotes fairness and dignity for every child in our classroom.\r\n\r\nBeyond academics, your support has positively influenced student behavior and classroom culture. When students feel supported and prepared, they are less frustrated and more willing to engage positively with their peers and teachers. This has helped create a calmer, more productive classroom environment where everyone can focus on learning and growing together.\r\n\r\nAs a teacher, your generosity has also allowed me to focus more on instruction and less on worrying about resources. Instead of spending time trying to find ways to stretch limited supplies, I can dedicate my energy to planning meaningful lessons, supporting individual students, and creating engaging learning experiences. This ultimately benefits every student in our classroom.\r\n\r\nIt is also important to recognize the lasting impact of your support. The skills, habits, and confidence our students are developing this year will carry with them into future grades and beyond. By ensuring they have what they need now, you are helping to build a strong foundation for their continued success.\r\n\r\nPlease know that your kindness does not go unnoticed. Our students are aware that there are people who care about their education and are willing to invest in their future. This realization alone is incredibly powerful. It teaches them the value of generosity, community, and gratitude—lessons that extend far beyond the classroom.\r\n\r\nOn behalf of our entire class, I want to extend our heartfelt thanks. Your support has made a difference not just in what we have, but in how we learn, how we feel, and how we grow together each day. We are truly grateful for your generosity and the positive impact you have had on our classroom family.","fullyFundedDate":1739373222152,"projectUrl":"project/using-your-hands-to-build-everlasting-me/9039391/","projectTitle":"Using Your Hands to Build Everlasting Memories in the Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Cordova","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8644891_orig.png?crop=1200,1200,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1775754646397","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8644891"},{"teacherId":8359099,"projectId":9745674,"letterContent":"I want to extend my gratitude for your generous donation to purchase books and treats for our Battle of the Books students. Having an additional set of Battle Books has enabled more students to read the same titles simultaneously. We had our first Battle in October, and it was amazing watching the teams collaborate to answer the questions. They were so excited to get a piece of candy after the Battle, too! \r\n\r\nWe have two more Battles before the winning team gets to pick a book from the Battle to keep. They were excited to hear about that opportunity. Thank you once again for your kindness and support. I truly appreciate your contribution to fostering a love of reading in students.","fullyFundedDate":1758861198819,"projectUrl":"project/ready-set-battle-of-the-books/9745674/","projectTitle":"Ready, Set, Battle of the Books!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Dunlap","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8359099_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1661316191322","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8359099"},{"teacherId":8372457,"projectId":9581263,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for contributing to our classroom! We are enjoying the new materials. The kids have LOVED the play garage with the emergency vehicles, and this has been great for all levels of learners, from teaching simple cause/effect to helping with fine motor skills as they learn to use the key to lock and unlock the garage doors. \r\n\r\nAnother hit was the theraputty! Even the kids who don't usually like such textures really enjoyed playing with this stuff. It so helps them develop that essential hand strength that they need to learn fine motor skills, such as coloring, writing, drawing, and painting. \r\n\r\nThe organization station has been a game changer for me and my staff! We used to have a series of cardboard holders that were constantly falling down and taking up too much space. Now we have a clean, organized system that has supported the new students we've received so far this year--we are now up to 12 students total! \r\n\r\nAdditionally, our desert unit is planned for April/May this year, so I'm looking forward to using those materials then. I think the kids will love learning about the environment they live in!\r\n\r\nThank you again. I could not do my job as effectively without the support of donors like you.","fullyFundedDate":1757529975372,"projectUrl":"project/preschool-fun-learning/9581263/","projectTitle":"Preschool Fun & Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Henley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8372457_orig.jpg?crop=2921,2921,x0,y77&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1665522534387","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8372457"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_55808","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":381,"numTeachers":33,"percentFrplEligible":58,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":11,"percentWhite":31,"percentIndigenous":2,"percentLatinx":46,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 6","studentTeacherRatio":"11.5:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":75.0,"schoolId":55808,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Harris Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Harris Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/arizona/gilbert-public-schools/harris-elementary-school/55808"}
Join the 92 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Harris Elementary School is
an urban public school
in Mesa, Arizona that is part of Gilbert Public Schools.
It serves 381 students
in grades Pre-K - 6 with a student/teacher ratio of 11.5:1.
Its teachers have had 107 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Boost support for this school! Share this page with friends, family, alumni, and fellow supporters. Every connection helps teachers get the supplies they need and shows how much your community cares about its students.
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for public school teachers.
Every donation funds real needs — pencils, books, lab equipment, art supplies, and more — helping students learn and thrive. We ship supplies directly to the school, and you'll see exactly where each dollar goes.
of students receive free or reduced price lunch
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
Source: the National Center for Education Statistics
59%
of students are Black, Latino, Native
American, or Asian
Data about school demographics comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. The numbers in this chart may not add up to 100% because of limitations in the available data.
Harris Elementary School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Apr 29, 2026
DonorsChoose makes it easy for anyone to help a teacher in need, moving us closer to a nation where students
in every community have the tools and experiences they need for a great education.
Harris Elementary School
$75,828
raised using DonorsChoose
107
projects
funded
51
teachers
funded
92
donors
18
projects
for
basic supplies
6
projects for
technology
19
projects for
books
Harris Elementary School has received support from
69 individuals from Arizona and
23 individuals out-of-state.