{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"James Simons Montessori School","outOfStateSupporters":31.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":7908210,"projectId":9530518,"letterContent":"Using Dr. Rudine Bishop's words that books provide \"mirrors and windows\", we believe this book will allow our students a chance to reflect, discuss and support each other in the historically disadvantaged members of our society. When students do not see themselves in books, a message is sent that their personhood isn't as legitimate, they are a sidebar, they don't have stories to tell. When students do see themselves, they are celebrated, acknowledged and become part of the narrative/community. We need both windows and mirrors in order to grow in our opinions of others as well, experience life outside of our own confines, and celebrate the communities we are a part of.\r\n\r\nOur middle school population is primarily children of color. Book publishers have historically not provided mirrors to my students and in the removal of books like the one we have chosen, further ignore issues that have long gone undiscussed and ignored students' questions and place for discussion.","fullyFundedDate":1755175456779,"projectUrl":"project/pictures-are-worth-1000-words/9530518/","projectTitle":"Pictures ARE worth 1000 words","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Rosie Herold","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7908210_orig.jpg?crop=1284,1284,x0,y252&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1628184042496","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7908210"},{"teacherId":7908210,"projectId":9650322,"letterContent":"Using Dr. Rudine Bishop's words that books provide \"mirrors and windows\", we believe this book will allow our students a chance to reflect, discuss and support each other in the historically disadvantaged members of our society. When students do not see themselves in books, a message is sent that their personhood isn't as legitimate, they are a sidebar, they don't have stories to tell. When students do see themselves, they are celebrated, acknowledged and become part of the narrative/community. We need both windows and mirrors in order to grow in our opinions of others as well, experience life outside of our own confines, and celebrate the communities we are a part of.\r\n\r\nOur middle school population is primarily children of color. Book publishers have historically not provided mirrors to my students and in the removal of books like the one we have chosen, further ignore issues that have long gone undiscussed and ignored students' questions and place for discussion.","fullyFundedDate":1756400751646,"projectUrl":"project/history-comes-alive-with-graphic-novels/9650322/","projectTitle":"History Comes Alive with Graphic Novels","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Rosie Herold","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7908210_orig.jpg?crop=1284,1284,x0,y252&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1628184042496","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7908210"},{"teacherId":2349685,"projectId":9394702,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation! Your support has made a tremendous impact on our classroom and our students' learning experiences. With the novels you provided, my students are exploring complex and important topics related to water scarcity, environmental justice, and the inequities that continue to affect communities around the world. These books have opened up a world of learning for them, allowing them not only to gain knowledge but also to develop empathy and critical thinking skills as they consider real-world challenges.\r\n\r\nSince receiving the novels, we have already begun incorporating them into our reading, research, and presentation projects. Students are not only reading the texts, but they are also analyzing the content, asking questions, and connecting what they learn to broader social and environmental issues. They are exploring the causes and consequences of water scarcity, investigating how access to clean water differs across countries and communities, and discussing the social, economic, and political factors that contribute to inequities. It has been inspiring to watch them grapple with these topics and develop their own perspectives.\r\n\r\nIn addition to reading and discussion, students are engaging in research projects that allow them to dive deeper into specific aspects of water scarcity and equity. They are learning how to locate credible sources, synthesize information, and present their findings in ways that are informative and engaging. Many students have chosen to create presentations, posters, and multimedia projects to share what they've learned with their classmates. Through these activities, they are developing not only academic skills but also communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills — all of which are essential for lifelong learning and responsible citizenship.\r\n\r\nYour donation has also helped to foster a culture of curiosity and motivation in the classroom. Students are excited to read and learn, and they are more engaged than ever in exploring important social and environmental issues. The novels have provided a springboard for discussions about justice, equity, and the role that each of us can play in making the world a better place. It is remarkable to see how literature can inspire students to think critically about real-world problems and consider ways they might contribute to solutions in their own communities.\r\n\r\nI cannot overstate how much your generosity has enriched our classroom. These novels are not just books on a shelf; they are tools for learning, empathy, and empowerment. Because of your support, my students are developing a deeper understanding of global issues, learning to ask thoughtful questions, and practicing the skills necessary to communicate their ideas effectively. They are growing as learners and as engaged citizens, and that growth would not be possible without your contribution.\r\n\r\nThank you again for your thoughtful and meaningful donation. Your support has truly made a difference in our students' educational journey, and we are so grateful for your generosity. We look forward to continuing our exploration of these important topics and sharing our discoveries with others.","fullyFundedDate":1755175456763,"projectUrl":"project/a-long-walk-to-action-learning-through/9394702/","projectTitle":"A Long Walk to Action: Learning Through Literature","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Smith","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2349685_orig.png?crop=945,945,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1660495312180","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2349685"},{"teacherId":9975486,"projectId":9206801,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donations to my DonorsChoose project. Your support has truly transformed our classroom into a comfortable and inviting learning environment. With your help, we've been able to promote collaboration and instill a sense of calmness, which has led to increased teamwork and better behavior among students. The positive relationships that have blossomed in our classroom are a testament to your kindness, and I am incredibly grateful for your commitment to our students' success. Thank you for making a difference!","fullyFundedDate":1744904834075,"projectUrl":"project/montessori-classroom-furnishings/9206801/","projectTitle":"Montessori Classroom Furnishings","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Holcomb","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9975486"},{"teacherId":5439127,"projectId":9478942,"letterContent":"Thank you for giving us the supplies we needed to learn and grow this year. Having pencils, paper, tissues, and especially erasers has made such a difference for us. When we can write right on our desks with the expo markers, it feels fun and safe to share our answers. We are more likely to try because if we make a mistake, we can just erase it and try again. That helps us stay engaged and keeps us from being afraid of getting something wrong.\r\n\r\nThese materials have made our classroom feel more comfortable and prepared. When we have what we need, we can focus on learning instead of worrying about missing supplies. Our teacher is able to keep lessons moving smoothly, and we can all participate more. Your kindness has helped us learn through both our successes and our mistakes, and that's how we truly grow.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in us and giving us the tools to keep learning.\r\n\r\nWith gratitude,\r\nOur Class","fullyFundedDate":1757423319352,"projectUrl":"project/tools-for-thinking-indoors-and-out/9478942/","projectTitle":"Tools for Thinking, Indoors and Out!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jones","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msjones1"},{"teacherId":7908210,"projectId":9150746,"letterContent":"Design Thinking is a methodology used by designers to help them solve complex problems and create solutions & products that meet people's needs. It's solution-based thinking that starts with a general goal, not just a specific problem to help create broader ideas. This opportunity needs to be introduced and cultivated in our children to broaden their life-long goals and equip them with 21st Century skills! \r\n\r\nIn the library makerspace we are purposeful in our use of technology, so students are not consumers, but creators. We expand our research skills with online research databases, online evaluation techniques, 3D modeling and block coding to name a few things. Kids are drawn to robots and enjoy using them, so we use their fascination to \"sneak\" in tech, content area curriculum, and 21st century soft skills (problem solving, critical thinking, etc). With essential, relevant and enduring questions our children find new purpose at school, are able to use their voice and in my space are given unlimited choice to showcase their knowledge and talents.\r\n\r\nThe robots awarded through Donor's Choose will allow our dreams, learning and innovation to come to a reality. These tools give students the opportunity to explore the world, enhances their understanding of our roles/gifts and invites them to discovering their place in it .","fullyFundedDate":1744032810398,"projectUrl":"project/the-future-is-robo-bright/9150746/","projectTitle":"The Future Is Robo-bright!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Rosie Herold","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7908210_orig.jpg?crop=1284,1284,x0,y252&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1628184042496","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7908210"},{"teacherId":1554189,"projectId":9109666,"letterContent":"On behalf of my students and myself, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you for your generous donation through DonorsChoose. Because of your support, we now have a set of buzzers that will elevate our Book Battle and Social Studies Bowl to an entirely new level of engagement and excitement.\r\n\r\nThese buzzers have already begun to transform our competitions. Instead of simply answering questions in a traditional format, students now experience the thrill of quick recall and fast-paced learning, which keeps them motivated and eager to participate. The addition of this interactive element has not only increased their enthusiasm but also sharpened their critical thinking and teamwork skills.\r\n\r\nFor many of our students, these academic competitions are more than just games—they are opportunities to develop confidence, collaboration, and a love for learning. Your generosity has provided them with a resource that enhances their educational journey and makes learning both fun and meaningful. The smiles, laughter, and friendly competition made possible by your kindness are immeasurable.\r\n\r\nThank you again for believing in our students and investing in their growth. Your support has made a tangible impact, and we are deeply grateful. We can't wait to share our success stories with you as we put these buzzers to great use!","fullyFundedDate":1739575432549,"projectUrl":"project/buzzing-with-excitement-classroom-buzze/9109666/","projectTitle":"Buzzing with Excitement: Classroom Buzzers to Simulate Academic Competitions","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Savage","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1554189_orig.jpg?crop=398,398,x100,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1582899708440","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1554189"},{"teacherId":7908210,"projectId":9106969,"letterContent":"I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for your generous donation to our project. Your support truly makes a difference!\r\n\r\nPet books are incredibly popular in our library, loved by both children and adults alike. They are engaging reads that fly off the shelves and invite readers to dive back into their stories time and time again. For reluctant or struggling readers, books about animals are particularly beneficial. They are appealing to our students and often introduce the skill of reading nonfiction in a fun way. The combination of cute animals and non fiction features makes the reading experience approachable and \"cool,\" allowing these students to immerse themselves in the narrative without feeling overwhelmed by the number of pages.","fullyFundedDate":1739838908361,"projectUrl":"project/embrace-the-pawcibilities/9106969/","projectTitle":"Embrace the PAWcibilities","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Rosie Herold","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7908210_orig.jpg?crop=1284,1284,x0,y252&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1628184042496","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7908210"},{"teacherId":7908210,"projectId":8927837,"letterContent":"Graphic novels are incredibly popular in our library, loved by both children and adults alike. They are engaging reads that fly off the shelves and invite readers to dive back into their stories time and time again. For reluctant or struggling readers, graphic novels are particularly beneficial. The combination of panels and art makes the reading experience approachable and \"cool,\" allowing these students to immerse themselves in the narrative without feeling overwhelmed by the number of pages.\r\n\r\nUsing Dr. Rudine Bishop's words that books provide \"mirrors and windows\", we believe this book will allow our students a chance to reflect, discuss and support each other in the historically disadvantaged members of our society. When students do not see themselves in books, a message is sent that their personhood isn't as legitimate, they are a sidebar, they don't have stories to tell. When students do see themselves, they are celebrated, acknowledged and become part of the narrative/community. We need both windows and mirrors in order to grow in our opinions of others as well, experience life outside of our own confines, and celebrate the communities we are a part of.","fullyFundedDate":1736866508957,"projectUrl":"project/pictures-are-worth-a-1000-words/8927837/","projectTitle":"Pictures Are Worth a 1000 Words","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Rosie Herold","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7908210_orig.jpg?crop=1284,1284,x0,y252&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1628184042496","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7908210"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_6215","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":392,"numTeachers":23,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":1,"percentBlack":30,"percentWhite":56,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":6,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"17.0:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":68.7,"schoolId":6215,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about James Simons Montessori School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"James Simons Montessori School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/south-carolina/charleston-county-school-district/james-simons-elementary-school/6215"}