{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Hearst Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":37.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":487043,"projectId":10062909,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for gifting our classroom a document camera. This technology helps my students see each step clearly as I model reading, writing, and math tasks in real time. Instead of only hearing directions, students can watch me annotate text, solve problems, complete graphic organizers, and write responses. They are also excited to place their own work under the camera and share their thinking with classmates. This has been especially helpful for students who need visual support, repeated modeling, and extra guidance. Your gift has made learning more accessible, engaging, and confidence-building for my students every day.","fullyFundedDate":1777978363313,"projectUrl":"project/document-this/10062909/","projectTitle":"Document This!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Natalie Episcopo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp487043_orig.png?crop=651,651,x650,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1652718829431","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/natalie"},{"teacherId":8349186,"projectId":10062700,"letterContent":"I want to extend my deepest gratitude for your generous support. Since the snacks arrived, the energy in our classroom has shifted noticeably. We have been using these resources during our mid-morning transition a time when focus usually begins to dip. Now, instead of restless energy or complaints of being hungry, my students are able to settle in and dive back into their work. One specific moment that stood out was during a particularly challenging math block last Tuesday. A few students were visibly frustrated with a new concept, but after a quick \"brain fuel\" break, the atmosphere calmed, and they were able to tackle the problems with renewed persistence.\r\n\r\nWhen I told students that I was able to get this project funded, they were absolutely thrilled. Their eyes lit up as they had a genuine sense of being \"seen\" and cared for by people they haven't even met. One student asked, \"Someone just sent these to us because they wanted to help?\" It was a powerful lesson in community and kindness that went far beyond the nutritional value of the food itself. They feel supported, which has made our classroom feel like an even safer space to learn and grow.","fullyFundedDate":1778514778759,"projectUrl":"project/because-hungry-students-cant-learn/10062700/","projectTitle":"Because Hungry Students Can’t Learn","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Babiarz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8349186_orig.png?crop=541,541,x56,y32&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1747057649717","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8349186"},{"teacherId":487043,"projectId":10003545,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your incredible generosity in providing our classroom with a Teachers Pay Teachers gift card! Because of your support, I am now able to purchase highly specialized resources specifically designed for middle school students with diverse learning needs.\r\n\r\nIn a Special Education setting, a \"one size fits all\" curriculum rarely works. Your gift allows me to download adapted materials—such as visual task boxes, social stories for teenagers, and modified academic units—that meet my students exactly where they are. These resources provide the visual structure and clarity my students need to build independence and master new skills.\r\n\r\nSeeing the \"lightbulb\" moments when a student finally understands a concept because the material was presented in a way they could grasp is the greatest reward. You have provided the keys to unlock that understanding. We are so grateful for your investment in our classroom and our students' futures!","fullyFundedDate":1769177168045,"projectUrl":"project/gift-card-resources-for-middle-school/10003545/","projectTitle":"Gift Card Resources for Middle School!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Natalie Episcopo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp487043_orig.png?crop=651,651,x650,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1652718829431","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/natalie"},{"teacherId":5108328,"projectId":9891879,"letterContent":"Our classroom has been transformed by the addition of these privacy dividers, which have allowed us to create a dedicated sanctuary for emotional regulation. When the materials first arrived, the students were a bit puzzled, but their confusion quickly turned into genuine excitement once I demonstrated how the dividers could create a personal \"reset\" zone. We took the time to model exactly how to use the space effectively, and every student was eager to practice stepping into this new, quiet area. It has already become an essential part of our daily routine, giving students the agency to manage their feelings in a dignified, private way.\r\n\r\nThe impact was immediate and heartening. For example, one of my students recently became quite upset when a peer didn't want to play with them. Instead of the situation escalating, the student proactively asked to use the calm-down area. They set up the dividers to create a private bubble, where they practiced deep breathing exercises and took a moment to themselves. When they emerged, they were still processing their emotions but felt calm enough to rejoin the group and continue playing—a huge win for their social-emotional growth!\r\n\r\nCurrently, our class is focused on a unit about identifying \"comfortable\" versus \"uncomfortable\" feelings. We are learning that while all feelings are valid, we need healthy strategies to navigate the difficult ones. These dividers serve as a tangible, physical strategy in this lesson, providing the \"where\" and the \"how\" for students to move through their discomfort. Having this designated space ensures that my students don't just learn about emotional regulation in theory, but actually have the tools to practice it in real-time.\r\n\r\nThank you again for your contribution to my project \"Little Bodies, Big Emotions.\" Without it, all this wouldn't have been possible. You are truly greatly appreciated!","fullyFundedDate":1769177197443,"projectUrl":"project/little-bodies-big-emotions/9891879/","projectTitle":"Little Bodies, Big Emotions","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Aguilera","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5108328_orig.jpg?crop=1434,1434,x1010,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1557198750705","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/maria-aguilera"},{"teacherId":8349186,"projectId":9873225,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding the iPad for our classroom. This technology has already had a meaningful impact on my students' learning by giving them access to modified curriculum and accommodations tailored to their individual needs. Many of my students learn at different levels, and the iPad allows them to interact with lessons, complete assignments, and practice skills in ways that meet them where they are. Features such as text-to-speech, visual supports, and interactive apps make learning more accessible and engaging for all students.\r\nWhat excites my students most is how interactive and responsive the iPad is. They enjoy using it to complete assignments, play educational games that reinforce skills, and receive immediate feedback, which helps them feel confident and motivated. Students are especially engaged when they can work independently while still accessing supports that help them succeed. The iPad has quickly become a tool they enjoy using, rather than seeing as just another piece of classroom equipment.\r\nSeveral students have particularly warmed to this technology, especially those who need additional accommodations or struggle with traditional instructional materials. The iPad allows them to participate fully in lessons, stay organized, and demonstrate their understanding in ways that were previously difficult. Because of your generosity, my students have a resource that not only supports learning but also builds independence, confidence, and engagement. Thank you for making this possible for our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1769177188063,"projectUrl":"project/making-learning-accessible-for-all-throu/9873225/","projectTitle":"Making Learning Accessible for All Through Technology","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Babiarz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8349186_orig.png?crop=541,541,x56,y32&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1747057649717","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8349186"},{"teacherId":487043,"projectId":9460850,"letterContent":"Your generous donatios have truly fueled our classroom! My 7th graders were ecstatic when the snacks arrived, cheering as we stocked our \"Energy Station.\" This project has transformed our social studies block; instead of struggling with midday hunger, students are focused on our colonial history projects. One student said, \"I can actually think now!\" because they weren't distracted by an empty stomach. Next, we'll use this newfound focus to finish our regional brochures. Thank you for providing the nutrition they need to succeed!","fullyFundedDate":1758222228388,"projectUrl":"project/fueling-minds-nutritious-snacks-for-mid/9460850/","projectTitle":"Fueling Minds: Nutritious Snacks for Middle Schoolers","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Natalie Episcopo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp487043_orig.png?crop=651,651,x650,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1652718829431","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/natalie"},{"teacherId":487043,"projectId":9580239,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting \"Clues in the Text!\" As a special education teacher, I see how hard my 7th graders work to bridge their reading gaps. These Lakeshore materials—focusing on summarizing, making inferences, and comparing texts—are perfect for their 3rd-4th grade levels. Having hands-on tools makes \"detective skills\" like contrasting and finding evidence feel like a win rather than a struggle. You have given my amazing students the tools, the practice, and the pride to become truly confident, independent readers. We are so grateful!","fullyFundedDate":1764727844784,"projectUrl":"project/clues-in-the-text-growing-confident-rea/9580239/","projectTitle":"Clues in the Text: Growing Confident Readers","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Natalie Episcopo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp487043_orig.png?crop=651,651,x650,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1652718829431","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/natalie"},{"teacherId":8349186,"projectId":9576630,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting my classroom through the Teachers Pay Teachers gift card. This resource has had a direct and meaningful impact on my students' learning. Teachers Pay Teachers allows me to access high-quality, teacher-created digital and printable materials that are aligned to standards while also being adaptable to my students' individual needs. I've been able to use these resources to provide targeted instruction, differentiated practice, and engaging lessons that meet students where they are academically.\r\nWhat excites my students most about these materials is how interactive and accessible they are. Many of the resources include visuals, hands-on activities, digital components, and clear step-by-step directions that make learning feel achievable and engaging. Students are more motivated when lessons feel personalized and when they can interact with content in ways that make sense to them. The variety of activities has helped keep lessons fresh and engaging, which has increased participation and focus.\r\nSeveral students have especially benefited from these resources, particularly those who need additional supports or modifications. Students who struggle with reading, attention, or processing information have shown increased confidence when using materials designed specifically for differentiated instruction. Because of this gift card, I was able to quickly access resources that support IEP goals, reinforce key skills, and provide multiple opportunities for success. Thank you for investing in tools that directly support student growth, confidence, and meaningful learning in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1762266321852,"projectUrl":"project/bridging-the-gap-sped-resources-for-suc/9576630/","projectTitle":"Bridging the Gap: SPED Resources for Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Babiarz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8349186_orig.png?crop=541,541,x56,y32&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1747057649717","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8349186"},{"teacherId":8349186,"projectId":9112690,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding the sensory lights for my classroom. These resources, including the lap light and additional calming light tools, have already made a meaningful difference for my students. We use the lights during small group instruction, independent work time, and regulation breaks to help students stay calm, focused, and ready to learn. One powerful moment was seeing a student who typically struggles to remain seated use the lap light during reading time and stay engaged for the entire lesson. The lights have become an important support that helps students feel safe, comfortable, and able to access learning.\r\nWhen my students first saw the sensory lights, they were excited and curious. Many immediately noticed how calming the lights felt and asked when they could use them during class. Over time, students have learned how to use the lights appropriately as a tool to help their bodies and minds stay regulated. Instead of being a distraction, the lights have helped reduce anxiety, increase focus, and support positive behavior throughout the day.\r\nThe next steps for my students involve continuing to build independence and self-regulation skills. As we work on current academic goals, students are learning to recognize when they need sensory supports and how to use them responsibly to support learning. These resources allow my students to fully participate in lessons, engage with peers, and make academic progress in an environment that meets their individual needs. Thank you for giving my students tools that support both their learning and well-being.","fullyFundedDate":1746785292645,"projectUrl":"project/calm-and-focus-sensory-lighting-for-stu/9112690/","projectTitle":"Calm and Focus: Sensory Lighting for Student Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Babiarz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8349186_orig.png?crop=541,541,x56,y32&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1747057649717","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8349186"},{"teacherId":8349186,"projectId":9031187,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding our classroom iPad. Your generosity has already made a meaningful impact on my students and the way they learn each day. In our classroom, the iPad is used as an instructional tool that helps make learning more accessible, engaging, and individualized. It allows students to interact with lessons through educational apps, visual supports, and hands-on practice that meets them at their specific learning levels. For many of my students, especially those who receive special education services, this technology helps break down barriers and makes learning feel more manageable and motivating.\r\nWhat excites my students most about the iPad is how interactive and responsive it is. They are able to practice skills through touch, sound, and visuals, which keeps them engaged and focused longer than traditional materials alone. Students light up when they are able to receive immediate feedback, hear instructions read aloud, or demonstrate their understanding in new ways. The iPad has quickly become a tool they view as empowering rather than intimidating.\r\nSeveral students have especially thrived with this new technology. Students who struggle with reading, writing, or attention have shown increased confidence and independence when using the iPad to access content and complete tasks. It has allowed them to participate more fully in lessons and experience success in ways that were previously difficult. Because of you, my students have access to a resource that supports their learning, builds confidence, and helps them reach their full potential. Thank you for believing in my students and investing in their success.","fullyFundedDate":1739369092916,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-learning-with-technology/9031187/","projectTitle":"Empowering Learning with Technology","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Babiarz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8349186_orig.png?crop=541,541,x56,y32&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1747057649717","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8349186"},{"teacherId":487043,"projectId":9360257,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your incredible generosity in funding our project, \"Help Continue Building a Library to Inspire Middle School Minds.\" As a special education teacher, I am constantly looking for ways to bridge the gap between a student's reading level and their intellectual curiosity. Your support has provided my students with a literal \"window to the world\" that they wouldn't have had otherwise.\r\n\r\nIn a special education setting, reading isn't just about decoding words; it's about building confidence. With these new texts, I've been able to introduce critical skills like inferencing and perspective-taking. Many of these books utilize high-interest, low-readability formats or graphic novels that allow my students to master complex literary themes—such as character motivation and internal conflict—without being overwhelmed by dense blocks of text. We aren't just practicing phonics; we are having deep, sophisticated discussions about resilience and empathy that mirror the high-level thinking of their general education peers.\r\n\r\nOn a typical day, \"reading\" in our classroom is a vibrant, multi-sensory experience. You'll see some students tucked into cozy corners with audiobooks following along in their new hardcovers, while others work in small groups to \"dissect\" a chapter using visual organizers. Because these books are new and culturally relevant, the energy has shifted from \"I have to read\" to \"I want to see what happens next.\" The library has become the heart of our room—a place where students now gravitate the moment they finish their assignments.\r\n\r\nI've seen a remarkable transformation in a few of my students who previously struggled with \"reading anxiety.\" One student in particular, who has historically avoided books due to dyslexia, has already finished three of the new titles. Seeing him carry a book around with pride—rather than hiding it in his desk—is a testament to the power of having the right books available. Another group of students has started their own informal \"book club\" during lunch, debating plot points with a level of enthusiasm I haven't seen in years. These books aren't just sitting on shelves; they are being lived in, loved, and learned from every single day.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students and for recognizing that every mind, regardless of its learning style, deserves to be inspired.","fullyFundedDate":1752272342437,"projectUrl":"project/help-continue-building-a-library-to-insp/9360257/","projectTitle":"Help Continue Building a Library to Inspire Middle School Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Natalie Episcopo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp487043_orig.png?crop=651,651,x650,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1652718829431","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/natalie"},{"teacherId":8937203,"projectId":9797203,"letterContent":"This project has had a powerful impact on student learning by giving each child a personalized, organized workbook that supports reflection, motivation, and growth. Using school technology such as laminating and binding tools allows me to create durable, professional materials that students can use daily. Students are especially excited to see their progress collected in one place, and many proudly share their workbooks with family. Students who benefit from visual structure, routine, and tangible feedback have shown increased confidence, engagement, and ownership of their learning.","fullyFundedDate":1764598858492,"projectUrl":"project/creating-personalized-workbooks-for-spee/9797203/","projectTitle":"Creating Personalized Workbooks for Speech Therapy Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Alyssa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8937203_orig.jpg?crop=378,378,x19,y1&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1692643308958","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8937203"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_5758","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":298,"numTeachers":22,"percentFrplEligible":85,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":31,"percentWhite":2,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":64,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":0,"gradesServed":"Pre-K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"13.5:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":62.7,"schoolId":5758,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Hearst Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Hearst Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/illinois/chicago-public-school-district-299/hearst-elementary-school/5758"}