{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Hilo Union Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":36.8,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":3285066,"projectId":9793948,"letterContent":"The transformation of our classroom has been nothing short of inspiring. By installing the vibrant Neon LED rope lights and the Boho rainbow wallpaper, we have successfully defined a professional \"studio zone\" that students are excited to step into every day. This environment has shifted the culture of our project; students no longer feel like they are just completing an assignment—they feel like they are hosting a high-end production. The aesthetic shift has given them the confidence to take their scripts and performances to the next level.\r\n\r\nBridging the Distance: Our Next Chapter\r\nWhile the studio looks incredible, the most exciting part of this project is the untapped potential of the Zoom BTA-2 Bluetooth Adapter. We are currently preparing to launch a new series of \"Remote Perspectives,\" and this adapter is the key.\r\n\r\nWe are eager to use the Bluetooth connectivity to call guests who can't make it to our school, from local experts to hopefully authors across the country.\r\n\r\nIn addition, we would like students to research community leaders they want to interview via phone, giving them the chance to practice professional communication and networking.\r\n\r\nFinally, we are excited to finally move away from clunky wires and recorded \"speakerphone\" clips, ensuring our remote guests sound just as clear as the students in the room.\r\n\r\nYour support has already changed the \"Atmosphere\" of our room, and now it is about to revolutionize our \"audio.\" By allowing us to bring the world into our studio wirelessly, you are helping my students realize that their voices—and the voices they choose to highlight—can reach far beyond our classroom walls.","fullyFundedDate":1761933673328,"projectUrl":"project/atmosphere-audio-creating-our-dream-p/9793948/","projectTitle":"Atmosphere & Audio: Creating Our Dream Podcast Space!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Okimoto","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3285066_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1452206687190","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msokimoto"},{"teacherId":9797917,"projectId":9756054,"letterContent":"If you could see the joy in my classroom! My students are absolutely thriving with the materials you so kindly provided. It has been incredible to watch them reach for the whiteboards to proudly showcase their math solutions and practice their spelling; there is a newfound confidence in the way they share their 'aha!' moments.\r\n\r\nThe oil pastels have opened a whole new world for them, offering a professional-grade creative outlet they rarely get to experience. Furthermore, the tactile math games have turned practice into play, making complex problem-solving feel like a rewarding adventure. Your generosity has done so much more than fill our shelves—it has tailored our classroom to exactly how my students learn best, sparking a level of engagement that is truly closing the gap for our young learners. We are so deeply grateful for your kindness.","fullyFundedDate":1758766251762,"projectUrl":"project/learning-in-a-new-light/9756054/","projectTitle":"Learning in a New Light","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Kubojiri","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9797917"},{"teacherId":9797917,"projectId":9778076,"letterContent":"The biggest win has been with my reluctant readers. I have a few students who did not want to read a book because they hadn't found a story that spoke to them. Seeing their eyes widen when they realize a character shares their same struggles or sense of humor is a total game-changer.\r\n\r\nOne student in particular, who often navigates the world with a lot of physical energy, found a deep connection to a story about personal boundaries. It provided a lightbulb moment for them, turning a complex social lesson into something relatable and clear. Thanks to your kindness, 'I have to read' has officially become 'I get to read!","fullyFundedDate":1759503466465,"projectUrl":"project/the-art-of-learning/9778076/","projectTitle":"The Art of Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Kubojiri","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9797917"},{"teacherId":6396866,"projectId":9901651,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our STEM project! With your generosity, my students were able to use the new supplies to build rubber band–powered cars. This hands-on activity has helped them explore concepts like motion, force, and simple engineering, while developing problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork skills.\r\n\r\nBecause of these materials, my students are not only learning themselves—they will also take on leadership roles at our upcoming Science Fair. They will guide other students through designing, building, and testing their own cars, teaching them the same STEM concepts and problem-solving strategies they practiced in class. This gives our students a chance to practice communication, collaboration, and mentorship while spreading excitement for STEM across the school.\r\n\r\nYour support has made all of this possible. Thanks to you, our students are gaining confidence, building real-world skills, and inspiring curiosity in others. We are so grateful for your generosity and for helping our classroom become a space where innovation and learning thrive!","fullyFundedDate":1763598499734,"projectUrl":"project/stem-leaders-in-the-making-lets-build/9901651/","projectTitle":"STEM Leaders in the Making: Let’s Build Together!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Kohagura","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6396866"},{"teacherId":8974669,"projectId":9270716,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom with a digital picture frame for our calm down corner. Middle school students may look grown, but they still carry big emotions—especially those with learning disabilities and executive functioning challenges. The digital frame has become an important self-regulation tool in our room. It displays photos of students' families, pets, achievements, and positive classroom moments, along with encouraging affirmations. When students begin to feel overwhelmed, frustrated with academic work, or disregulated after peer conflict, they can take a brief reset in the calm down corner. Seeing familiar, meaningful images helps them ground themselves, slow their breathing, and return to class more focused and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nWhat has been most exciting for students is that the technology makes the space feel modern and intentional rather than \"babyish,\" which is especially important for 6th graders. Instead of viewing the calm down corner as a place of punishment, they see it as a supportive tool they can independently use to manage stress and stay engaged in learning.\r\n\r\nA few students who struggle most with anxiety and emotional regulation have especially connected with this addition. For some, seeing a photo of a parent, sibling, or even a beloved pet during a tough moment has been enough to prevent a shutdown or escalation. It has helped bridge home and school in a developmentally appropriate way. Because of your generosity, our classroom became not only a place for academic growth, but also a space where students feel safe, valued, and emotionally supported. Thank you for making that possible.","fullyFundedDate":1755697729218,"projectUrl":"project/picture-peace-a-digital-frame-for-our-c/9270716/","projectTitle":"Picture Peace: a Digital Frame for Our Calm‑Down Corner","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Leite","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8974669"},{"teacherId":7824013,"projectId":9772338,"letterContent":"The students feel a surge of excitement and motivation to learn, thanks to the prizes and rewards they earn. This newfound enthusiasm transforms the classroom environment into a vibrant space where curiosity thrives. As they engage with the material, the prospect of earning tangible rewards—be it stickers, certificates, or even small tokens—fuels their desire to participate actively in discussions and complete assignments with diligence. The competitive spirit ignited by these incentives encourages collaboration among peers, as they share strategies and support one another in their quest for knowledge. \r\n\r\nMoreover, the rewards system fosters a sense of achievement, allowing students to set personal goals and strive to surpass them. Each prize serves not only as a recognition of their hard work but also as a reminder of their capabilities, reinforcing their self-esteem and confidence in their academic abilities. This positive reinforcement creates a feedback loop where the joy of learning becomes intertwined with the thrill of earning rewards, making education a more engaging and fulfilling experience. Ultimately, the combination of excitement and motivation leads to deeper learning, as students become more invested in their education and eager to explore new concepts and ideas.","fullyFundedDate":1759245568725,"projectUrl":"project/rewards-rewards-5-scenes/9772338/","projectTitle":"Rewards, Rewards, 5 Scenes!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Tanoue","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7824013_orig.jpg?crop=2735,2735,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1667261900320","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mstorrano"},{"teacherId":8165881,"projectId":9774795,"letterContent":"On behalf of my 5th-grade class at Hilo Union Elementary School, please accept our deepest Mahalo for your incredible generosity. Living and learning in the heart of Hilo, Hawaii, our students are learning and growing, and your support has provided them with the tools they need to channel that growth into academic excellence.\r\n\r\nThe addition of the clipboards and lap desks have completely transformed our classroom dynamic by turning every corner of the room into a functional workspace. In a 5th-grade environment where movement is key to engagement, the lap desks allow students to collaborate comfortably on the floor, while the clipboards provide them the freedom to take their learning \"on the go\"—whether they are conducting peer interviews or working on science observations. This newfound mobility has noticeably boosted student focus and agency, allowing our class to transition seamlessly between independent tasks and group projects. Because of your kindness, our students are no longer confined to traditional desks; they are thriving in a flexible, modern learning environment that honors their individual needs.\r\n\r\nWe are so grateful for your investment in our keiki and their future. Your support reminds our students that there is a wide community of people cheering for their success.","fullyFundedDate":1759450078841,"projectUrl":"project/clipboards-lap-desks-for-flexible-seat/9774795/","projectTitle":"Clipboards & Lap Desks for Flexible Seating for 5th Graders","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Rock","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8165881_orig.png?crop=367,367,x0,y6&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1646542479806","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8165881"},{"teacherId":6526383,"projectId":9978452,"letterContent":"Thank you very much for your kindness, generosity, and love for creativity. My students \r\ncan now see their imagination come alive through their active engagement and building with Legos. The LEGO bricks and LEGO table have helped my students to be creative and to showcase their LEGO masterpieces in the classroom for all to see and interact with. The cardstock paper has helped my students with painting, drawing, and a variety of other arts and crafts.\r\n\r\nMy students were in shock when they saw the Lego table. Their eyes were as huge as marbles, and their mouths were wide open. They clapped and cheered with joy. They were very thankful and happy.\r\n\r\nThese materials will help my students to be well-rounded and to develop academically, socially, and emotionally. It will also help increase their creativity in all academic areas. We are currently learning about space and the planets. My students will be using the Legos to create a space community. \r\n\r\nI am deeply humbled by your love and support. Mahalo!","fullyFundedDate":1767925371208,"projectUrl":"project/be-creative/9978452/","projectTitle":"Be Creative!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Haleamau","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6526383_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1562630677952","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6526383"},{"teacherId":7408216,"projectId":9776986,"letterContent":"Because of your support, our classroom has become a calmer and more flexible place to learn. We use the standing desk every day during independent work and small-group lessons. Students who need to move are now able to stand and stay focused while learning. The floor and table lamps help make the classroom feel warm and welcoming, especially during reading time. These changes have helped students stay focused for longer periods of time and feel more comfortable in class.\r\n\r\nWhen my students first saw the new materials, they were very excited. They noticed right away how different the classroom felt. Some students shared that the softer lighting helped them feel calm, while others were eager to use the standing desk. Since using these resources, I have noticed a positive change in students' attitudes. Students are more relaxed, more motivated, and better able to stay on task during lessons.\r\n\r\nRight now, students are using this improved space to work on reading, writing, and problem-solving skills. The flexible seating helps students choose what works best for them, which has increased their confidence and independence. Because of your generosity, my students now have a classroom that supports both their learning and their well-being. Thank you for making such a positive difference in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1759454731319,"projectUrl":"project/light-lift-and-learn/9776986/","projectTitle":"Light, Lift, and Learn","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Leite","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-leite"},{"teacherId":3285066,"projectId":9776901,"letterContent":"I am writing with a heart full of gratitude! Your generosity has officially transformed our classroom into a functioning media studio, and the energy in the room is electric.\r\n\r\nThe arrival of the PodTrak recorder, ergonomic office chairs, and memory cards has done more than just provide gear—it has validated my students' voices. The PodTrak makes them feel like pros, the comfortable seating allows for focused, relaxed interviews, and the extra storage ensures we never lose a great take.\r\n\r\nThe impact was immediate. Students are already busy honing their interviewing skills by capturing stories from teachers in our grade level. They are currently diving into the editing phase, learning how to polish their audio and sync video recordings into a finished product.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, my students are no longer just consuming media—they are creating it. You've given them the tools to share their perspectives and develop technical skills that will serve them for years to come. Thank you for investing in the next generation of storytellers!","fullyFundedDate":1759464796637,"projectUrl":"project/mic-drop-unleashing-creativity-with-a-c/9776901/","projectTitle":"Mic Drop: Unleashing Creativity With a Classroom Podcast","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Okimoto","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3285066_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1452206687190","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msokimoto"},{"teacherId":2794520,"projectId":9772597,"letterContent":"I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for your incredible generosity in supporting our classroom. My students attend a high-poverty school where resources are often stretched thin, and many of them rarely have the opportunity to receive special treats or brand-new toys. Your donation provided more than just \"stuff\"; it provided a sense of belonging and a tangible reminder that there are people in the world rooting for their success.\r\n\r\nThe excitement in the room was palpable when the boxes arrived. Because of you, our reward bin is now overflowing with Squishmallows, LEGO sets, slime kits, and high-interest books. These items have become powerful motivators for my students. I've seen a noticeable shift in engagement, as students are now working harder than ever to reach their academic and behavioral goals just for a chance to spend time building a LEGO masterpiece or choosing a new book to take home.\r\n\r\nBeyond the academic gains, these rewards provide a much-needed emotional lift. For a child who may be facing significant challenges outside of school, receiving a soft Squishmallow to squeeze or a fun container of slime offers a moment of pure joy and sensory relief. You have helped create a positive, celebratory atmosphere in our classroom where hard work is recognized and rewarded. Thank you for investing in my students' happiness and for showing them that their efforts truly matter.\r\n\r\nWith sincere thanks,","fullyFundedDate":1759457784083,"projectUrl":"project/give-my-students-rewards/9772597/","projectTitle":"Give My Students Rewards!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Miller","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2794520"},{"teacherId":3761005,"projectId":9774472,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation! When the students opened the boxes full of graduation caps they couldn't contain their excitement. They were surprised that they would be able to decorate their own graduation caps for their upcoming graduation ceremony!\r\n\r\nAs stated in the project, this will be the only graduation that some of our students get to experience in their lives, so making it as special as possible for them really makes all the difference.\r\n\r\nThey did not get to sneak a peek at their graduation gifts, but I know that they will be excited to receive their school supplies, fidgets, and knick knacks in their custom graduation gift bags.\r\n\r\nThank you again for funding this experience for my students. This will be a graduation they will remember for the rest of their lives thanks to your generosity and thoughtfulness.","fullyFundedDate":1759437310920,"projectUrl":"project/caps-off-to-the-grads/9774472/","projectTitle":"Caps Off to the Grads!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Morishita","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3761005_272x272.png?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1532385028451","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/g-morishita"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_50762","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":449,"numTeachers":30,"percentFrplEligible":74,"percentAsian":6,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":4,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":32,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 6","studentTeacherRatio":"15.0:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"TOWN","ncesMetroType":"TOWN_REMOTE"},"inStateSupporters":63.2,"schoolId":50762,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Hilo Union Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Hilo Union Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/hawaii/hawaii-school-district/hilo-union-elementary-school/50762"}