{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Hillcrest High School","outOfStateSupporters":33.2,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8839375,"projectId":10040533,"letterContent":"Thank you for showing up for my students in such a meaningful way. Because of you, what used to be a daily challenge, not having basic supplies, is no longer something that gets in the way of their learning.\r\n\r\nMy students are resilient, funny, and full of big ideas. They come in every day ready to try, even when life outside of school is heavy. What they needed was access. And now, because of your support, they have it.\r\n\r\nThe impact was immediate. Students are walking in, grabbing what they need, and getting to work. They're writing more, participating more, and turning in more complete assignments. They're more organized, more confident, and more willing to take academic risks because they're not worried about whether they have the tools to do the work.\r\n\r\nSomething as simple as having their own binder or not needing to borrow a pencil has shifted the energy in the room. We're spending less time scrambling and more time learning. More time building momentum. More time celebrating growth.\r\n\r\nYou didn't just donate supplies. You helped create a classroom where students feel prepared, capable, and supported. That matters more than I can fully put into words.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in them and believing in what they can do.","fullyFundedDate":1769638190714,"projectUrl":"project/the-basics-boutique-classroom-essential/10040533/","projectTitle":"The Basics Boutique: Classroom Essentials for Daily Success","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Holmes-Turner","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8839375_orig.jpg?crop=2048,2048,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1668124758986","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsaht"},{"teacherId":8839375,"projectId":10091474,"letterContent":"Because of you, something truly special happened.\r\n\r\nYour generosity didn't just provide materials; it created an opportunity for my students to lead with purpose, empathy, and intention. During a time when testing pressure is at its highest, my students stepped up to support others in a meaningful way.\r\n\r\nThey took ownership of this project from start to finish, learning about test anxiety, organizing materials, writing affirmation notes, and carefully assembling each wellness bag with care. They understood that every item included was more than just a supply it was a message of encouragement.\r\n\r\nWhat makes this project even more impactful is that we chose to extend that support beyond our own campus. Rather than using the wellness bags here at Hillcrest High School, my students made the decision to donate them to Benjamin Franklin Leadership Academy. We personally delivered the bags the day before their STAAR testing began, ensuring those students walked into their testing experience feeling supported, encouraged, and seen.\r\n\r\nThat moment meant everything. It shifted this from a classroom project to a true act of service.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students and for helping us create something bigger than ourselves. Your support allowed my students to not only grow as leaders but also make a real difference in the lives of others.","fullyFundedDate":1773423492023,"projectUrl":"project/supporting-minds-under-pressure-a-stude/10091474/","projectTitle":"Supporting Minds Under Pressure: A Student-Led School Wellness Project","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Holmes-Turner","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8839375_orig.jpg?crop=2048,2048,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1668124758986","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsaht"},{"teacherId":7031620,"projectId":10000986,"letterContent":"I want to give you my most heartfelt thanks for providing so many great snacks for my students and all students on our campus. I always find it moving that there are people and groups who are so willing to support public school classrooms in our quest to feed young bodies and minds.\r\n\r\nWe know from many many studies that student learning happens best when they aren't worried about things like hunger, thirst, and safety, and your support makes sure that at least these students aren't worried about hunger.","fullyFundedDate":1772550416756,"projectUrl":"project/snack-cabinet-refresh/10000986/","projectTitle":"Snack Cabinet Refresh","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Huntley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7031620_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1598715086727","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7031620"},{"teacherId":8839375,"projectId":9921579,"letterContent":"Because of you, our courtyard has officially become a place where students can breathe. When the materials arrived, my kids were SO excited. The giant games instantly pulled them in. They were circling around the oversized UNO and giant Jenga like it was a concert, laughing, calling friends over, and saying things like, \"Wait...we get to do this at school?!\" That moment alone reminded me why this project mattered so much. You didn't just buy equipment; you helped create a real mental reset space for teenagers who are carrying a lot.\r\n\r\nWe've been using the resources during our wellness activities and lunches to get students moving, connecting, and decompressing in a healthy way. The bumper balls and scooter boards have been a favorite, but what I've loved most is the way students naturally started working together. They were cheering each other on, making room for everyone, and even inviting students who were sitting alone to come play. I watched kids who normally keep to themselves smile, talk, and feel included. It was pure joy, and it was also peace, the kind that makes students feel lighter when they walk back into class.\r\n\r\nNext steps: we're keeping this going. We'll continue using these games for campus wellness days, small group SEL moments, and quick brain breaks when students need to reset. We're also tying the experience into our learning with reflections on stress, coping skills, and what it looks like to choose healthy outlets when life feels overwhelming. Thank you for investing in our students in such a real way. You gave them something every kid deserves: a safe space to play, connect, and just be.","fullyFundedDate":1765689497286,"projectUrl":"project/wellness-in-the-courtyard-play-peace-/9921579/","projectTitle":"Wellness in the Courtyard: Play, Peace & Connection","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Holmes-Turner","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8839375_orig.jpg?crop=2048,2048,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1668124758986","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsaht"},{"teacherId":6465080,"projectId":9771790,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our library now has a Glowforge, and it has completely transformed what learning looks like for our students. What used to be ideas sketched in notebooks are now tangible creations in their hands. Students are learning real world design skills like digital drafting, measurement, problem solving, and iterative thinking. They are using software to design with precision, testing prototypes, adjusting their work, and seeing firsthand how creativity connects with engineering and technology. The Glowforge has turned our library into a true makerspace where innovation feels accessible and exciting.\r\n\r\nWhat excites students most is seeing their designs come to life. The moment the laser begins cutting and engraving, you can feel the energy in the room. Students who may not always see themselves as \"academic\" are suddenly leading projects, helping peers troubleshoot, and proudly showcasing what they've made. One student who rarely spoke in class designed a custom keychain set inspired by his favorite game and has since been coming in every week to refine his skills. Your support has given our students confidence, creativity, and a space in the library where they feel empowered to build something real. Thank you for believing in them and investing in their potential.","fullyFundedDate":1761853638242,"projectUrl":"project/sparking-student-creativity-with-glowfor/9771790/","projectTitle":"Sparking Student Creativity with Glowforge","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Nina Canales","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6465080_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1708982931017","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ncanales"},{"teacherId":9679988,"projectId":9862464,"letterContent":"These snacks have been such a blessing to my students. I have had so many kids tell me how thankful they are to have the option to eat something that isn't just candy or chips. I can tell a huge difference in their energy and I feel good knowing I am giving them fuel, not just junk.\r\nYou have all made a huge impact on these kids daily lives. The fact that they know they have a consistent source of nutritious food makes a huge difference in their confidence and mood throughout the day. I know it gives each of them a sense of security that when they are running on empty they have a place to go to replenish. \r\nNone of this is possible without kind and generous people like YOU! You have made this a reality for my students and I know it is making a big difference in their daily lives.","fullyFundedDate":1761885406700,"projectUrl":"project/fuel-for-the-mind-healthy-snacks-for-hu/9862464/","projectTitle":"Fuel for the Mind: Healthy Snacks for Hungry Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lindemann","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9679988_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1729704586552","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9679988"},{"teacherId":7666706,"projectId":10032047,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our Senior Vision Board Workshop became more than an event, it became a moment of clarity and possibility for the Class of 2026.\r\nThanks to your fully funded support, every supply arrived ready and waiting, magazines, boards, markers, stickers, and the small details that turn intention into action. What unfolded was an afternoon filled with quiet focus, thoughtful conversation, and bursts of laughter as seniors paused to reflect on who they have been and who they are becoming.\r\nIn a world that often rushes them forward, this workshop gave students permission to slow down. They cut out dreams, pinned goals, and spoke aloud plans for college, careers, service, and personal growth. Some boards were bold and colorful, others simple and steady, but each one told a story of hope shaped by purpose. Many students shared that this was the first time they had truly visualized their future in a tangible way.\r\nYour support did more than purchase supplies, it created space. Space for reflection, confidence, and belief. You reminded our seniors that their dreams matter and that a community stands behind them as they prepare to take their next steps.\r\nOn behalf of the Class of 2026, thank you for investing in their vision and their future. Your generosity will stay with them long after the vision boards come down","fullyFundedDate":1769094006085,"projectUrl":"project/helping-seniors-visualize-their-future/10032047/","projectTitle":"Helping Seniors Visualize Their Future: Vision Board Workshop","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. McCarter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7666706_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1669922422849","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msmccarter01"},{"teacherId":7666706,"projectId":9932998,"letterContent":"Because of you, our December senior celebration became more than an event, it became a memory. Your generosity transformed an ordinary evening into a space filled with laughter, creativity, and connection as students designed their own ugly sweaters, shared cocoa and cookies, played games, and relaxed together during movie night. In the middle of a demanding school year, this moment of joy allowed our seniors to slow down, feel supported, and simply be present with one another.\r\n\r\nThe impact of your gift reaches beyond December. It strengthened our class community, lifted student spirits, and reminded them that people they may never meet care deeply about their well-being. As these seniors move closer to graduation and the next chapter of their lives, they will carry this experience with them; a reminder that generosity creates belonging, and that they are worthy of celebration. Because of you, our December senior celebration became more than an event, it became a memory. Your generosity transformed an ordinary evening into a space filled with laughter, creativity, and connection as students designed their own ugly sweaters, shared cocoa and cookies, played games, and relaxed together during movie night. In the middle of a demanding school year, this moment of joy allowed our seniors to slow down, feel supported, and simply be present with one another.","fullyFundedDate":1765047295098,"projectUrl":"project/holiday-cheer-for-senior-year-ugly-swea/9932998/","projectTitle":"Holiday Cheer for Senior Year: Ugly Sweaters, Cocoa, and Community","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. McCarter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7666706_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1669922422849","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msmccarter01"},{"teacherId":8839375,"projectId":10002321,"letterContent":"When these resources arrived, it felt like someone turned the volume down on stress in our room. We use them in a really intentional way, not as \"treats,\" but as tools that help students regulate, refocus, and rejoin learning with dignity. Along with the snacks, we also received a refrigerator and a microwave, which completely changed what \"support\" can look like in a real classroom. Now students can store items safely, keep things fresh, and warm up food when they need to. For some of my students, that is the difference between trying to learn while distracted by hunger, and actually being able to focus and participate.\r\n\r\nDuring independent work time, small groups, and testing days, students can grab a snack quietly and keep going. It has become part of our calm-down routine: pause, breathe, fuel, reset, then finish strong. One moment that sticks with me happened during a challenging assignment. A student who usually shuts down when they feel overwhelmed took a snack, sat back down, and said, \"Okay, I'm ready to try again.\" Another student asked if they could warm up their food, and after using the microwave, they came back to their seat looking calmer and more settled, like their body could finally stop \"asking\" for something their brain was trying to ignore. That is exactly what these resources made possible.\r\n\r\nTheir reaction when they first saw everything was pure relief and excitement. They were genuinely happy, but it was deeper than \"yay snacks.\" It was the kind of gratitude that says, \"You saw me.\" Students immediately started asking what the system would be, how often it would be available, and even how they could help keep it organized. A few of them offered to create labels and help restock because they wanted it to last. The refrigerator and microwave especially made them feel like the classroom was a place that could meet real needs, not just academic ones. It turned into a classroom community moment where students felt cared for, not judged, and that feeling changed the tone of the room.\r\n\r\nNext, we are using this renewed sense of comfort and stability to push forward with stronger learning routines. As we move into new lessons and bigger tasks, we are continuing to pair snacks with goal-setting and focus strategies, especially during longer work sessions and assessments. The goal is for students to build the habit of noticing what they need, meeting that need in a healthy way, and then returning to the work with confidence. Thanks to you, our classroom is not only more prepared, it is more peaceful and more functional. You did not just give us snacks; you helped us create a space where students can breathe, belong, and keep learning.","fullyFundedDate":1768489422879,"projectUrl":"project/calm-comfort-and-crunch-restocking-ou/10002321/","projectTitle":"Calm, Comfort, and Crunch: Restocking Our Classroom Snacks","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Holmes-Turner","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8839375_orig.jpg?crop=2048,2048,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1668124758986","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsaht"},{"teacherId":8839375,"projectId":9846889,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom truly transformed into a space full of color, energy, and celebration. When my students walked in and saw the balloon arch, the bright decorations, and all the materials laid out for them, their reactions were everything. There were smiles, laughter, and a lot of \"Wait... this is really for us?\" In that moment, it was clear that this project did exactly what it was supposed to do. It made them feel seen, valued, and appreciated.\r\nWe used the materials to create an end of year celebration that also gave students a chance to reflect. They decorated, put on their necklaces and wigs, took pictures, and shared what they were most proud of this year. Some talked about passing classes they once struggled in. Others shared how they balanced school, work, and family. Some were just proud that they made it through a tough year. What started as a fun, colorful setup turned into a really meaningful moment where students could celebrate themselves and each other.\r\nThis didn't just stay in that one day. You helped shift the energy in our classroom. My students are carrying that same pride into their final assignments and conversations. As we wrap up the year, we are building on that by having them reflect on their growth and think about what comes next. Because of you, they are not just finishing the year. They are finishing strong, with confidence and a reminder that their story matters.","fullyFundedDate":1767207706413,"projectUrl":"project/a-colorful-finale-ending-the-year-with/9846889/","projectTitle":"A Colorful Finale: Ending the Year with Joy","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Holmes-Turner","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8839375_orig.jpg?crop=2048,2048,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1668124758986","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsaht"},{"teacherId":8839375,"projectId":9921483,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our holiday movie nights have become a highlight our students will remember long after the season ends. We are using the popcorn supplies and slushie machine to host after-school movie nights where students gather to relax, connect, and enjoy time together in a safe and welcoming space. These evenings are more than just watching a movie. They are moments where students can unwind, laugh with friends, and feel a sense of belonging within our school community.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the popcorn machine, bags, and slushie setup, the excitement was immediate. Their faces lit up, conversations sparked, and the room filled with energy and anticipation. For many students, it was their first time experiencing something like this at school. What stood out most was not just the excitement over snacks, but the way students naturally gravitated toward one another, sharing flavors, talking about the movie, and enjoying being together.\r\n\r\nThese movie nights have helped strengthen relationships and improve classroom climate. Students returned to class more relaxed, engaged, and connected to one another. As we move forward, we plan to continue using these resources for future celebrations, incentive days, and community-building events that support student wellness and positive school culture. Because of you, our classroom is not just a place for learning, but a place where students feel seen, supported, and valued.\r\n\r\nThank you for giving our students an experience filled with comfort, joy, and lasting memories.","fullyFundedDate":1767211383983,"projectUrl":"project/popcorn-slushies-smiles-a-holiday-mo/9921483/","projectTitle":"Popcorn, Slushies & Smiles: A Holiday Movie Night Experience","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Holmes-Turner","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8839375_orig.jpg?crop=2048,2048,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1668124758986","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsaht"},{"teacherId":6465080,"projectId":9614091,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our podcast zone and helping bring professional quality microphones, microphone covers, and a webcam into our library. This technology has transformed how students engage with communication, storytelling, and digital literacy. Many of our students use technology daily at home, but this equipment allows them to experience how media tools are used intentionally in an educational setting to plan, revise, collaborate, and publish their ideas clearly and responsibly. Students are learning how to articulate their thoughts, listen actively, and refine their work through multiple takes, which builds confidence and critical thinking skills.\r\n\r\nWhat excites students most is how real the experience feels. The microphones make their voices sound clear and professional, and the webcam allows them to record video podcasts, interviews, and reflections that feel authentic and meaningful. Students are far more motivated to write scripts, practice speaking, and give peer feedback when they know their work sounds polished and looks professional. The microphone covers have also helped create a welcoming, shared space where students feel comfortable collaborating safely and respectfully.\r\n\r\nSeveral students who are typically quiet in the classroom have especially warmed to this technology. The podcast zone gives them a voice in a low-pressure environment, where they can record, re-record, and grow at their own pace. Others who are passionate about storytelling, media, or technology have stepped into leadership roles, helping peers learn how to use the equipment and offering creative ideas for episodes. Your generosity has not only provided tools, it has created opportunities for student voice, creativity, and confidence to thrive. Thank you for making that possible.","fullyFundedDate":1758856140663,"projectUrl":"project/mic-check-123-students-need-a-new-m/9614091/","projectTitle":"Mic Check-1,2,3! \"Students Need A New Microphone and HD Camera!\"","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Nina Canales","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6465080_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1708982931017","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ncanales"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_11769","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":1595,"numTeachers":73,"percentFrplEligible":84,"percentAsian":1,"percentBlack":16,"percentWhite":10,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":69,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"9 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":"21.8:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":66.8,"schoolId":11769,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Hillcrest High School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Hillcrest High School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/texas/dallas-independent-school-district/hillcrest-high-school/11769"}