{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Hearst Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":37.0,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"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"},{"teacherId":8937203,"projectId":9257735,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our new cube chairs have transformed our therapy room into a more structured, inclusive, and engaging space for communication. When the students first walked in and saw the new chairs, their faces lit up! \r\n\r\nWe will use the chairs daily for group sessions, where students each have their own defined space to sit, focus, and engage. They've become the go-to surfaces for AAC devices and visuals, giving my students a consistent, accessible place to communicate from. \r\n\r\nThe flexibility of these chairs means I can easily adjust the setup for different groups and needs. They've helped my room feel calmer, more predictable, and most importantly, more empowering for students working on communication goals. \r\n\r\nYour donation created more than just a furniture upgrade, it created a foundation for communication and confidence to grow.","fullyFundedDate":1746785700504,"projectUrl":"project/a-seat-for-every-voice-supporting-commu/9257735/","projectTitle":"A Seat for Every Voice: Supporting Communication Through Flexible Seating","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":7978911,"projectId":8982853,"letterContent":"We are absolutely thrilled to share the incredible impact your generosity has had on our preschool students! Your contributions to our social-emotional learning project have truly transformed our classroom, providing us with invaluable resources that are helping our little learners grow into compassionate, self-aware individuals.\r\nThe new resources, especially the weighted lap bear, emotion friends, and fidget friends have become central to our daily routines. These materials truly benefit our young learners who require support with sensory input, self-awareness, and stress-management. \r\n\r\nYou should have seen their faces when they first saw the materials! There was an instant sense of wonder and curiosity, and they couldn't wait to get their hands on everything. It was clear that these materials resonated deeply with their innate desire to explore and understand the world around them, especially their own inner worlds.\r\n\r\nThank you again for empowering our students to develop crucial social-emotional skills. Your support is truly making a lasting difference in their lives, setting them up for success not just in preschool, but far beyond.","fullyFundedDate":1739369096429,"projectUrl":"project/social-emotional-learning-tools-for-tiny/8982853/","projectTitle":"Social Emotional Learning Tools for Tiny Minds, Big Feelings!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Anna","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7978911_orig.jpg?crop=2400,2400,x0,y400&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733979309679","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-annae"},{"teacherId":487043,"projectId":9044273,"letterContent":"I am beyond grateful for your support in funding our project, \"Building a Library to Inspire Middle School Minds.\" Thanks to your generosity, my students now have access to a diverse collection of books that spark curiosity, foster a love for reading, and provide much-needed representation of their experiences. Many of my students struggle with reading, and having engaging, high-interest books at their level has already made a difference in their enthusiasm for literacy. It is incredible to see students excitedly flipping through pages, eager to explore new stories, and even recommending books to their classmates. For some, this is the first time they've found a book that truly speaks to them, and that connection is invaluable. Your generosity has given my students the gift of literacy, imagination, and empowerment—thank you for making this possible!","fullyFundedDate":1739369092671,"projectUrl":"project/building-a-library-to-inspire-middle-sch/9044273/","projectTitle":"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":487043,"projectId":8519576,"letterContent":"I am so grateful for your kindness and generosity in supporting our classroom project, \"Print Possibilities: Enhancing Learning with a New Classroom Printer.\" Your contribution has made an immediate and meaningful impact on my students, and I cannot thank you enough!\r\n\r\nHaving access to a reliable classroom printer has been a game-changer for my students. Many of them have learning disabilities and benefit from visual supports, adapted worksheets, and printed step-by-step guides to help them access grade-level content. Now, I can create and print customized learning materials in real-time, ensuring that every student has what they need to succeed.\r\n\r\nOne of the most exciting things for my students is seeing their own work come to life on paper. Whether it's their personal narratives, illustrated vocabulary books, or problem-solving strategies, they now get to hold their learning in their hands. This has given them a new sense of ownership and pride in their work!\r\n\r\nOne student in particular, has been especially inspired by this new technology. They struggle with handwriting and often feel discouraged during written assignments. But now, with the ability to type and print their work, they have newfound confidence in sharing their ideas. The smile on their face when they handed in their first neatly printed assignment said it all—this printer has empowered them in a way that truly matters.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, my students now have the tools they need to learn, create, and thrive. Thank you for believing in them and in the power of accessible learning. Your generosity has made a lasting difference, and we are so grateful to have you as part of our learning journey!","fullyFundedDate":1730415214692,"projectUrl":"project/print-possibilities-enhancing-learning/8519576/","projectTitle":"Print Possibilities: Enhancing Learning with a New Classroom Printer","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":8988768,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students can now access snacks that help them stay focused and energized throughout the school day. Many of my students come to class hungry, and having a reliable supply of snacks has made a huge difference in their ability to engage and learn.\r\n\r\nThe first time I handed out the snacks, their reactions were priceless—big smiles, excited \"thank yous,\" and even a few happy dances! One student said, \"Now I won't be hungry before lunch!\" Moments like these remind me how essential it is to meet students' basic needs so they can thrive academically.\r\n\r\nWith your support, my students can now concentrate on their lessons instead of their empty stomachs. As we continue working on reading, math, and social skills, these snacks provide the fuel they need to keep going. Thank you for making such a meaningful impact in our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1735522492663,"projectUrl":"project/essential-nourishment/8988768/","projectTitle":"Essential Nourishment","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":8937203,"projectId":8685001,"letterContent":"Thanks to your incredible generosity, our speech therapy classroom is now a cozy, engaging space where learning feels like play! When the giant rug arrived, my students immediately sprawled out, giggling and exclaiming how soft and inviting it was. The Poke-a-Dot book quickly became a favorite. One little student was so excited, they proudly popped the buttons while practicing their words, repeating them with huge smiles and laughter. \r\n\r\nThe rug has become the go-to spot for group activities, one-on-one sessions, and story time. It gives us a soft, comfortable place where students feel safe to express themselves. The Poke-a-Dot book is perfect for little learners, helping them build vocabulary. We've been using it to expand student vocabulary, take turns, and practice sound imitation. The tactile, interactive design keeps students engaged while learning key language skills. \r\n\r\nNext, we plan to incorporate the rug and book into themed lessons, like exploring colors and animals. The cozy, fun environment makes every session feel special, and we're already seeing more participation and excitement. Thank you for making such a positive impact on my students' learning and confidence!","fullyFundedDate":1733247057261,"projectUrl":"project/cozy-book-nook-creating-a-comforting-sp/8685001/","projectTitle":"Cozy Book Nook: Creating a Comforting Speech Therapy Library","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":8349186,"projectId":8946966,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, having a printer in our classroom has been a game-changer for my special education students. This technology has allowed me to create and provide customized learning materials that directly align with each student's unique needs. Many of my students benefit from visual schedules, large-print assignments, and differentiated worksheets that are not available in standard textbooks or online resources. With immediate access to a printer, I can adapt lessons on the spot, ensuring my students remain engaged and supported without delay. This flexibility has helped foster a more inclusive, responsive, and effective learning environment.\r\n\r\nThe excitement and engagement from my students have been incredible to witness! One of my students, who previously struggled with motivation, now eagerly participates in lessons because he can see his progress visually through printed goal charts and personalized worksheets. Students love receiving colorful, printed certificates recognizing their achievements, which has significantly boosted their confidence. The ability to access materials that reflect their interests and needs has made learning more fun and relatable, creating a positive, student-centered classroom experience. Thank you for making this possible!","fullyFundedDate":1733260539945,"projectUrl":"project/access-to-modified-material/8946966/","projectTitle":"Access to Modified Material","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"}],"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":63.0,"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"}