{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Irving School","outOfStateSupporters":38.5,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9458402,"projectId":9381951,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has become a more organized and efficient place to learn! The moment students walked in and saw the bright new seat sacks hanging on their chairs, their excitement was undeniable. Several students immediately started placing their books and supplies inside, proudly showing off \"their own special space.\" It was such a joy to see how quickly they took ownership and felt a sense of responsibility.\r\n\r\nWe are already seeing the positive impact during lessons and transitions. Instead of searching for misplaced materials or crowding around supply bins, students can now grab what they need within seconds and stay focused on their learning. One of our favorite successes so far was during writing workshop — every student had quick access to their notebook, pencil, and writing tools, which helped them dive right into drafting without delays. These seat sacks have brought a calmer, more structured feel to our day, giving students more time to think, create, and collaborate.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, we're planning to build more student independence through upcoming classroom routines, such as rotating \"organization helpers\" who check that our learning spaces stay neat and ready to go. Your gift has made a lasting difference, and we are so grateful that you chose to invest in our students' success. Thank you for helping us stay organized and ready to learn each day!","fullyFundedDate":1757678461660,"projectUrl":"project/a-place-for-everything/9381951/","projectTitle":"A Place for Everything","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jameson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9458402_orig.jpg?crop=853,853,x0,y147&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1719767692243","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-jameson222"},{"teacherId":9458402,"projectId":9435857,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our new Chromebook charging cart and power strips are already making a tremendous difference in our classroom! What used to be a daily challenge—students searching for open outlets, untangling cords, and figuring out which devices were charged—is now quick, organized, and student-managed. This technology has helped us maximize learning time by keeping devices ready for reading, writing, research, and the digital tools we use every day.\r\n\r\nOne of the most exciting changes has been the boost in student independence. My second graders love being responsible for their own devices—they know exactly where to charge them, and they proudly make sure their Chromebook is ready for the next lesson. We've noticed a huge improvement in transitions and focus because students can log in and get started right away. It may seem like a simple change, but for young learners, having reliable access to technology opens doors to creativity, collaboration, and confidence.\r\n\r\nSeveral students who previously struggled with organization are now some of our most enthusiastic \"tech helpers,\" reminding classmates to plug in and helping manage our charging station. It has been incredible to see them take ownership and become leaders. Thank you for investing in tools that not only support academics, but empower students to grow their responsibility and pride in their learning. Our classroom truly runs better because of you!","fullyFundedDate":1757423386089,"projectUrl":"project/powering-up-our-learning/9435857/","projectTitle":"Powering Up Our Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jameson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9458402_orig.jpg?crop=853,853,x0,y147&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1719767692243","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-jameson222"},{"teacherId":3162984,"projectId":9520696,"letterContent":"Wow! We have a 3D printer! The students (and staff) are in love! It has been simply amazing to learn along side the students how to use the printer. Even neater is watching the printer work and seeing the result from the print. \r\n\r\nRecently we have used the printer to make a number of fidgets to be used at school. The students are always eager to come into STEM (whether it is their class time or not) to see what the latest fidget is and how well it printed. \r\n\r\nThe students that seem to be the most fascinated by the printer are the students that struggle with school. These students come in excited and go directly to the printer and become so very calm just watching the printer work. \r\n\r\nAll students have had so many questions. Some of the most common questions I hear are: How does the printer do this? and Can I take the model out once it is done printing?\r\n\r\nCurrently the students are designing their own 3D models on a digital platform and we will be printing them soon.","fullyFundedDate":1757501729898,"projectUrl":"project/stem-ideas-get-3d-printed/9520696/","projectTitle":"STEM Ideas Get 3D Printed!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Smith","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3162984_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1473970376771","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/holly-smith"},{"teacherId":3408325,"projectId":9688991,"letterContent":"All of the students were so excited on Halloween. Thanks to your generous donations we were able to provide 350 students with Book or Treat bags. Students had the opportunity to choose a book, a school approved treat and and pre sharpened pencil which was a treat for teachers and students. \r\n\r\nThis was the first annual book or treat that Irving Elementary School has hosted. Because of the great turnout and excitement the students showed, I am hoping to host this again next year. Thank you again for all of your suport.","fullyFundedDate":1760799747018,"projectUrl":"project/book-or-treat/9688991/","projectTitle":"Book or Treat","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Mastroianni","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3408325_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1605541486256","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-mastroianni"},{"teacherId":9159771,"projectId":9451446,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of the iPad to our classroom! Many of you use technology at home and might wonder how it helps students learn in school. The iPad has truly become a powerful tool for my students' literacy development. It allows them to listen to audiobooks, which makes reading more accessible and enjoyable—especially for those who struggle with traditional reading. They also use it to conduct their own literacy research, making learning more interactive and personalized.\r\n\r\nWhat excites my students most is the variety of audiobooks and apps available. They love choosing stories that interest them and exploring new words and ideas at their own pace. This freedom boosts their confidence and keeps them motivated to learn.\r\n\r\nSome students who previously found reading difficult have especially warmed to this technology. The audio support helps them follow along without frustration, and the instant feedback from literacy apps encourages them to keep improving. Seeing their progress firsthand has been inspiring for both them and me.\r\n\r\nYour generosity is making a real difference in their learning journey, and we are so grateful for your support!","fullyFundedDate":1757423287719,"projectUrl":"project/turn-the-page-digital-tools-for-reading/9451446/","projectTitle":"Turn the Page: Digital Tools for Reading Growth","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ellsworth","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9159771_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1721335637606","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9159771"},{"teacherId":9159771,"projectId":9450556,"letterContent":"I can't thank you enough for the amazing indoor recess games you donated to our classroom! When the boxes arrived filled with games such as Don't Break the Ice, Tic Tac Toe, Connect Four, Sorry, Memory, and Chutes and Ladders, my students were absolutely thrilled. The excitement in the room was contagious as they eagerly explored each game, asking questions and sharing stories about their favorite ones from home. It was such a joy to see them gather in small groups, smiling and laughing as they took turns and played together. These games quickly became a highlight of our day, turning indoor recess into a time full of fun, friendship, and teamwork.\r\n\r\nWhat touched me most was how these simple games created opportunities for students to connect in new ways. Some students who are usually shy found their voices as they strategized with classmates, while others practiced patience and sportsmanship as they waited for their turn. The games have become a wonderful way for everyone to build social skills, foster empathy, and enjoy peaceful moments away from screens. It's been heartwarming to witness the friendships growing stronger through these shared experiences, and the positive energy they bring back into our lessons is incredible.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, I plan to use games such as these not only during recess but also as part of our social-emotional learning activities. I want to guide my students in reflecting on teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills they practice while playing. These moments are so important for their overall growth, and your support is making it possible. Thank you for bringing so much joy and connection into our classroom. We are truly grateful to have you on this journey with us, and I can't wait to share more stories of how your kindness is shaping our days!","fullyFundedDate":1752671650069,"projectUrl":"project/lets-play-inside-games-for-indoor-rece/9450556/","projectTitle":"Let’s Play Inside: Games for Indoor Recess","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ellsworth","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9159771_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1721335637606","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9159771"},{"teacherId":9489769,"projectId":9761208,"letterContent":"We use our new classroom carpet multiple times each day, and it has quickly become one of our favorite spots in the room. Each morning, we gather together for our class meeting, and throughout the day we use it for read-aloud, small-group discussions, and collaborative learning activities. The carpet has provided a comfortable, inviting space where students can focus, share ideas, and learn from one another.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the new carpet, they absolutely loved it! Their faces lit up with excitement, and many of them immediately sat down and commented on how soft and cozy it felt compared to our old one. It instantly made our classroom feel more warm and welcoming.\r\n\r\nAs we continue our lessons this year, the carpet will remain at the center of our learning routines. Students will keep using it as a space for reading partners, group projects, and class discussions. It has truly become a place where learning and collaboration come alive every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1758901462433,"projectUrl":"project/learning-starts-here-a-new-carpet-for-o/9761208/","projectTitle":"Learning Starts Here: A New Carpet for Our Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Bahr","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9489769_orig.jpg?crop=1981,1981,x1566,y61&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1710036717665","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9489769"},{"teacherId":8066175,"projectId":9177185,"letterContent":"Your monetary donations have provided some of the most desired art supplies for my students and some of the supplies I, as their teacher, have most longed for to help meet the most frequent needs I notice among my students. The art supplies has allowed me to incorporate a variety of arts and crafts in connection to lessons with my students which also strengthens more skills than just academic. The \"golf\" pencils have allowed me to address concerns with pencil grip and hand writing. The abundance of supplies has allowed me to share with multiple classrooms who also had fine motor concerns with their students. I am always filled with such gratitude for those that care enough to go out of their way to donate to students and trust that their teachers are seeking supplies for the betterment of their overall education. Many many thanks!","fullyFundedDate":1750773718207,"projectUrl":"project/fine-arts-for-fine-motor/9177185/","projectTitle":"Fine Arts for Fine Motor","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Popel","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8066175_orig.jpg?crop=1280,1280,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1726679777175","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8066175"},{"teacherId":9275631,"projectId":9352135,"letterContent":"Adding new bookcases to your fifth-grade classroom had a noticeably positive impact on both the learning environment and the students' engagement with reading. With the increased storage space, books were no longer cramped or stacked haphazardly, making it easier for students to browse and select titles that piqued their interest. The bookcases brought a sense of organization and order to the room, transforming the reading area into a more inviting and accessible space. As a result, students began to show more enthusiasm for independent reading, often spending extra time exploring new genres and authors they hadn't noticed before.\r\n\r\nBeyond improving access to books, the new bookcases also contributed to a more focused and calm classroom atmosphere. With materials neatly stored and clearly visible, transitions between activities became smoother and more efficient. Students took greater responsibility for keeping the space tidy, showing pride in their learning environment. The visual appeal of the updated book area even inspired a few to recommend books to one another, sparking peer-to-peer learning and building a stronger reading culture within the class.","fullyFundedDate":1749140122046,"projectUrl":"project/new-classroom-new-look/9352135/","projectTitle":"New Classroom, New Look","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Stefanou","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9275631_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1694612392313","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9275631"},{"teacherId":9489769,"projectId":9128908,"letterContent":"The reading group book donations have greatly enriched classroom instruction by providing students with a wide variety of engaging texts to explore. With access to these new books, students are able to practice and strengthen their comprehension skills while actively engaging in meaningful discussions. The stories spark curiosity, encourage deeper thinking, and allow students to make connections, which supports their growth as confident and thoughtful readers. Having these books readily available ensures that every reading group has materials suited to their needs and interests, creating a more dynamic and enjoyable learning environment.\r\n\r\nAnother valuable aspect of these donations is the range of complexity and story types represented in the collection. Students are able to read both familiar and challenging texts that expand their vocabulary and improve their fluency. The variety of genres and topics captures student interest and keeps them motivated to read, whether they are diving into realistic fiction or adventure stories. This balance of accessibility and challenge helps build stamina and confidence while allowing to differentiate instruction to meet the diverse needs of all learners. Ultimately, the donated books are making reading groups more purposeful, engaging, and effective. Thank you so much for your help!","fullyFundedDate":1746785392704,"projectUrl":"project/engaging-and-exciting-novel-studies/9128908/","projectTitle":"Engaging and Exciting Novel Studies!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Bahr","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9489769_orig.jpg?crop=1981,1981,x1566,y61&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1710036717665","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9489769"},{"teacherId":9458402,"projectId":9224355,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous donations. With this I was able to provide my students with books to take home and enjoy over the summer. Many of these books were series that were introduced during our curriculum. Students fell in love with the characters and the plots. I knew I had to give my students more opportunities to read. \r\nThese books allowed my students to build decoding, fluency and comprehension skills all while reading books they enjoyed. Reading in our classroom is a joyful, daily experience. You'll often find students with a book at their seats, partner reading with a friend, or sharing their favorite part of a story during our snack/ free time. Our room is full of conversation, curiosity, and excitement around books!\r\n\r\nSome students who were once hesitant readers are now asking to read \"just one more page\" before moving on to the next activity. One student in particular has fallen in love with a series we recently received and now brings the book to recess! It's been so rewarding to watch confidence and interest grow thanks to these new texts. Thank you for helping bring that joy into our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1744245281564,"projectUrl":"project/read-relax-repeat/9224355/","projectTitle":"Read, Relax, Repeat","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jameson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9458402_orig.jpg?crop=853,853,x0,y147&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1719767692243","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-jameson222"},{"teacherId":7583722,"projectId":7342221,"letterContent":"For nearly 2 years, we have been able to use these resources with two 4th grade cohorts. These tools have been an invaluable asset when teaching about research, nonfiction text features, and of course, the United States. During this project, students were so excited to become \"experts\" on their own state. They familiarized themselves with all of the important features of each state and created their own presentation to present to their peers. We relied heavily on these books and resources to help the students learn how to research and retrieve information from nonfiction texts. For many students, this was the first major research project they experienced. These resources are in wonderful condition and the 4th grade team looks forward to using them year after year. Thank you again for your generosity!","fullyFundedDate":1687613888732,"projectUrl":"project/touring-the-us-in-4th-grade/7342221/","projectTitle":"Touring the U.S. in 4th Grade!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. DiCicco","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7583722_orig.jpg?crop=172,172,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755019185688","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7583722"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_43945","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":322,"numTeachers":34,"percentFrplEligible":91,"percentAsian":1,"percentBlack":22,"percentWhite":18,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":51,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"9.5:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":61.5,"schoolId":43945,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Irving School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Irving School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/connecticut/derby-public-schools/irving-school/43945"}