{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Hearst Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":37.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"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"},{"teacherId":8937203,"projectId":9545606,"letterContent":"Thanks to this project, I am able to use engaging, high quality digital resources from TPT to better meet each student's unique communication needs. These technology-based materials mirror tools students use at home, making learning feel familiar and motivating. Interactive games, visuals, and AAC supports have increased participation, especially for students who were previously hesitant. Many students are more confident, communicative, and excited to practice their skills during therapy sessions!","fullyFundedDate":1758420648026,"projectUrl":"project/supporting-communication-through-creativ/9545606/","projectTitle":"Supporting Communication Through Creative Resources","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"},{"teacherId":114730,"projectId":9504260,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support Learning Together through play Your kindness made a meaningful difference in our third graders' daily learning and in the community we have built together.\r\n\r\nBecause of your donation, my students experienced a new level of collaboration, respectful communication, and teamwork. The board games became more than just a fun activity—they created a culture of cooperation. Students who were once hesitant to work with peers began partnering confidently, taking turns, problem-solving together, and encouraging one another. This shift carried over into our academic work as well. I saw improvements in focus, perseverance, and strategic thinking during math, reading, and writing tasks.\r\n\r\nAcademically, the games helped students practice important skills in a hands-on, low-stress way. They strengthened number sense, reading comprehension, vocabulary, and logical reasoning without even realizing they were learning. Students who normally shy away from challenges became more willing to take risks and try new strategies after practicing them during gameplay.\r\n\r\nAs a teacher, I was able to accomplish so much more because of the materials you provided. I used the board games during small-group instruction, morning meetings, brain breaks, and even as part of social-emotional learning lessons. They allowed me to design meaningful, cooperative activities that supported both academic growth and relationship-building. I could differentiate more effectively, offer interactive review sessions, and create a classroom environment where learning felt joyful and shared.\r\n\r\nThank you, for investing in my students and believing in the power of play. You helped transform our classroom into a place where collaboration thrives and learning feels exciting. My students and I are truly grateful for your generosity.","fullyFundedDate":1755708528136,"projectUrl":"project/learning-together-through-play/9504260/","projectTitle":"Learning Together Through Play","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Nolan","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp114730_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753633212863","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mskdnolan"},{"teacherId":487043,"projectId":9041787,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom now has nutritious snacks that are making a visible difference in my students' daily learning. This project might seem simple—providing food—but it has addressed a critical need for my middle school students, many of whom face food insecurity. By offering granola bars, fruit cups, trail mix, crackers, and juice boxes, you've helped remove hunger as a barrier to learning.\r\n\r\nBefore this project, many students arrived to class hungry or lost focus as the day went on. Hunger made it difficult for them to concentrate, stay engaged, and regulate their emotions. Now, when a student needs a boost, they can grab a snack and quickly re-engage with the lesson. I've seen students' energy and focus improve almost immediately, which is especially important for those who already face academic challenges.\r\n\r\nBeyond meeting a physical need, these snacks have created a stronger sense of care and community in our classroom. Students know their well-being matters, which builds trust and helps them feel safe to take academic risks. One student who used to sit quietly and avoid participation is now volunteering answers and engaging more with peers. Having consistent access to food has boosted his confidence and willingness to learn.\r\n\r\nThe snacks have also become part of our classroom routine. I use short \"brain break\" snack times to check in with students individually, offering encouragement or support. These moments strengthen relationships and help create a positive classroom culture where students feel valued and supported.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has gone beyond simply providing food—it has given my students the chance to focus on their education without the constant distraction of hunger. You've helped make our classroom a more equitable, inclusive space where every student can participate fully. \r\n\r\nOn behalf of my students and our school community, thank you for believing in them and investing in their success. Your kindness fuels not just their bodies, but also their motivation, confidence, and hope for the future.","fullyFundedDate":1746718878452,"projectUrl":"project/fueling-success-nutritious-snacks-for-m/9041787/","projectTitle":"Fueling Success: Nutritious Snacks for 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":487043,"projectId":9120700,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students now have access to high-quality guided notes, anchor charts, and differentiated activities that are making a visible difference in their learning. These resources break down complex concepts into smaller, manageable steps, which is especially important for my students with cognitive impairments, autism, and learning disabilities. The guided notes keep them engaged during lessons and give them a clear roadmap for what they are learning. The anchor charts serve as constant visual reminders, helping students recall strategies and key information without feeling overwhelmed.\r\n\r\nWhat excites my students the most is the variety of interactive and visually appealing activities from Teachers Pay Teachers. They love having materials that meet them at their level, whether it's a colorful graphic organizer in social science or a hands-on math task that lets them practice a skill step-by-step. One student, who often shut down during whole-group lessons, now participates eagerly because the differentiated activities give him a way to show his understanding without feeling frustrated. Another student beams with pride when she can follow along with the guided notes and answer questions independently—something she struggled with before.\r\n\r\nYour support has not only provided tools for learning but has also built my students' confidence. They are taking more ownership of their work, staying engaged longer, and feeling proud of their progress. You have made our classroom more inclusive, structured, and supportive, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunities you've given my students to shine.","fullyFundedDate":1745846916568,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-every-learner-supplemental-r/9120700/","projectTitle":"Empowering Every Learner: Supplemental Resources for Special Education","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"}],"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","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"}