{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"John Muir High School","outOfStateSupporters":40.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10078019,"projectId":9869658,"letterContent":"This project has changed the way my students experience reading. This year, we are pairing the graphic novel adaptations of Romeo and Juliet and The Odyssey with the original plays so that every student has full access to these important stories. What once felt intimidating is now something my students approach with confidence and curiosity.\r\n\r\nAs we read, students are developing essential skills without even realizing it. They are learning how to unpack complex themes like love, fate, courage, and perseverance. They are building vocabulary and strengthening comprehension by comparing modern dialogue in the graphic novels with the original language of Shakespeare and Homer. Most importantly, they are learning that difficult texts can be understood when they are given the right tools.\r\n\r\nOne student explained it best: \"It's been very helpful because we are able to understand Shakespearean language more clearly when we have the visuals to support our comprehension.\" That simple statement captures what is happening in our classroom every day.\r\n\r\nReading time now looks completely different. Students sit with both books open, moving back and forth between the original text and the graphic novel. They point to illustrations to make sense of scenes, reread important moments, and talk excitedly about characters and choices. Even students who once avoided reading are participating, discussing, and finishing entire scenes with pride.\r\n\r\nThe students who are benefiting the most are my English language learners, reluctant readers, and those with special learning needs. These books have given them a way into stories that once felt out of reach. I've watched students who used to shy away from reading aloud raise their hands to volunteer, and students who struggled to complete assignments finish full sections on their own. They are discovering that they can read, they can understand, and they do belong in the world of classic literature.\r\n\r\nThis project didn't just provide books. It gave my students confidence, connection, and a new belief in themselves as readers — and that impact will last far beyond this classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1764628738991,"projectUrl":"project/timeless-stories-visual-learning/9869658/","projectTitle":"Timeless Stories, Visual Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Howard","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10078019_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y123&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754419912221","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10078019"},{"teacherId":10078019,"projectId":9868923,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students have had the wonderful opportunity to experience The Hobbit: A Graphic Novel — and the impact on their learning and enthusiasm has been truly meaningful.\r\n\r\nMany of our donors love books (we do, too!), but what makes this project special is how these books are used in the classroom. We paired this graphic novel with our unit on journeys and how they teach us who we truly are. As students followed Bilbo Baggins's adventure, they didn't just read the story — they reflected on courage, personal growth, facing fears, and stepping beyond comfort zones. They made thoughtful connections between Bilbo's journey and their own lives, and many eagerly compared scenes from the book with the movie adaptations, which deepened their understanding and sparked rich discussions.\r\n\r\nIn our classroom, reading looks active and joyful. Students examine illustrations closely, discuss how images and words work together, annotate important moments, and collaborate in small groups to analyze characters and themes. The graphic novel format has been especially powerful for developing readers, English language learners, and students with special learning needs. The visuals support comprehension while still challenging students to think deeply about the text.\r\n\r\nSeveral students who once felt hesitant about reading are now among the most enthusiastic participants. One reluctant reader told me this was the first time a \"big book\" felt possible. Another student with learning challenges proudly shared insights about character growth during our discussions. Watching these students gain confidence and find their voices has been incredibly rewarding.\r\n\r\nYour support has given every learner — regardless of reading level — an inviting, inclusive entry into a literary classic. Because of you, my students didn't just read a book... they experienced a journey. And that is a gift they will carry with them.\r\n\r\nThank you for making this possible. 💙","fullyFundedDate":1762362031054,"projectUrl":"project/bringing-the-hobbit-to-life-through-grap/9868923/","projectTitle":"Bringing The Hobbit to Life Through Graphic Novels","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Howard","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10078019_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y123&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754419912221","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10078019"},{"teacherId":10236254,"projectId":9671649,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping our classroom get underglazes. The students were so excited when the underglazes got delivered. Earlier in the semester we researched four different masks from cultures around the world. We studied about Nigerian Igbo masks, Japanese Noh masks, Italian Commedia Dell'Arte masks, and Mexican Aztec masks. \r\n\r\nAfter researching and learning about these masks and cultures, every student chose one of the cultural masks they studied and made their own mask out of clay. Through their research the students were able to identify the major characteristics and important features of the type of mask they were making. The final step in our cultural mask project was using the underglazes you allowed us to purchase to paint and decorate their masks. The students were so happy that they could use underglazes to get every color and detail on their masks right and just the way they wanted.\r\n\r\nAfter glazing and firing the masks, we displayed them in the foyer of our school auditorium during our winter concert. The students were so proud and excited to show their masks to the school community. We will continue to use these underglazes on many other projects throughout the year.","fullyFundedDate":1758839635145,"projectUrl":"project/ceramics-a-ceremonial-masks/9671649/","projectTitle":"Ceramics A Ceremonial Masks","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Goodwell","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10236254"},{"teacherId":10078019,"projectId":9862743,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has transformed into a more organized, engaging, and supportive learning space. My students are currently taking their test on The Odyssey today, and the graphic novel edition you helped provide has made a tremendous difference. Many of my students shared that the visual format helped them understand the storyline, characters, and themes more clearly—something that can be challenging with such a complex text. Watching them flip confidently through their books during discussions was a moment of real pride.\r\n\r\nThe new cabinet has also been a game changer. Having a secure, dedicated place to store our class sets and materials has kept everything organized and protected, especially since I move between classrooms. It ensures that students always have what they need, and it helps us start class smoothly and with purpose.\r\n\r\nThe push pins you provided might seem like a small detail, but they've made a big impact. They've allowed me to post our vocabulary words, anchor charts, and visual references securely and neatly around the room. My students refer to these constantly—especially during our Odyssey review—and having them displayed has supported both comprehension and confidence.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw all the new materials, they were excited and genuinely appreciative. Many commented on how \"official\" and put-together the classroom felt. For students who often feel behind or overlooked, walking into a space that's clearly designed for their success matters deeply.\r\n\r\nNext, we'll continue building on their reading and writing skills as we transition from The Odyssey into our next unit. With these resources in place, my students can access what they need, stay organized, and stay focused—allowing them to take ownership of their progress. Your support made all of that possible, and we are so grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1762036031053,"projectUrl":"project/organized-inspired-and-ready-to-learn/9862743/","projectTitle":"Organized, Inspired, and Ready to Learn!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Howard","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10078019_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y123&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754419912221","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10078019"},{"teacherId":10078019,"projectId":9890762,"letterContent":"When we held our very first class last Tuesday, the impact of your generosity was immediate. Many of my students are already considered at-risk, and it meant so much to them that they each received their own spiral notebook and folder. They could see that I paid attention to the details—that I wanted them to have the same sense of ownership, structure, and readiness as any other student. You helped make that possible.\r\n\r\nWe've already begun using the new materials every day. The spiral notebooks are our space for warm-ups, reflections, and tracking growth, and students dove right in. One student even commented that it felt \"like a fresh start.\" Our folders are keeping handouts and assignments organized, which is huge for students who are working hard to rebuild habits and regain confidence.\r\n\r\nBehind the scenes, the folding wagon has been a lifesaver. Because I teach in a guest classroom and can't leave materials behind, I have to bring everything with me each day. The wagon has saved multiple trips back and forth to my car and allowed me to walk in fully prepared—classroom ready, organized, and truly \"rock and roll\" from the moment students arrive.\r\n\r\nThanks to you, our classroom environment feels intentional, supportive, and full of possibility. As we move forward with our current lessons and novel studies, students will continue using these tools daily—to read along with audiobooks, stay organized, and build the study habits they need to stay on track for graduation. Your contribution didn't just provide supplies; it sent a message to my students that they are worth investing in, and they feel it every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1763049833970,"projectUrl":"project/success-on-the-move-supporting-our-trav/9890762/","projectTitle":"Success on the Move: Supporting Our Traveling Credit Recovery Class","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Howard","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10078019_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y123&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754419912221","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10078019"},{"teacherId":9350332,"projectId":9607171,"letterContent":"As a librarian to our youth, I try my best to get into what the students want, and they LOVE horror. I selected these titles because I wanted a sampling of types of horror: a classic horror story (The Haunting of Hill House), a slasher-type murder horror (There's No Way I'd Die First), a ghost story (The Spirit Bares Its Teeth), and a vampire story (Immortal Dark). I tried to select diverse authors that represent the diverse population at Muir. So far we have read two books: There's No Way I'd Die First and The Haunting of Hill House. We meet once a month to discuss the books as a group--we have six members. We try to read one book a month, but sometimes have to allow ourselves more time.\r\n\r\nThe students enjoy discussing what they think is totally absurd and what feels real. It's a fun genre, and even I am enjoying it more than I thought I would (I'm not one for scary stories). Up next we have The Spirit Bares Its Teeth and Immortal Dark, which we'll read in the spring semester.\r\n\r\nThank you again for keeping our kids reading!","fullyFundedDate":1755601459675,"projectUrl":"project/launching-our-horror-book-club/9607171/","projectTitle":"Launching our Horror Book Club","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Issa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9350332_orig.jpg?crop=444,444,x179,y2&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755297694625","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9350332"},{"teacherId":9350332,"projectId":9606122,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting Muir's new Fantasy Book Club! We have a small group of dedicated readers (5) who ADORE fantasy and are excited to read the Legendborn Series! Students are reading the first book in the series and will move on to book 2: Bloodmarked in January. This book club finally found their groove and are planning to meet twice in December. Students are enjoying the books themes, magic, and romance!\r\n\r\nOne thing students are really getting into is the retelling of the Arthurian legend. They are making lots of connections with our real world society and the world created in the books. When we meet, I start us off with a simple question: \"What do you think about the book so far? Is there any particular scene or page that stands out?\" This gets us going pretty quickly. It's interesting to hear where students overlap in thoughts and where they each notice different things. So far it's been super fun!\r\n\r\nThank you again for your support! You are keeping kids reading!","fullyFundedDate":1755450476747,"projectUrl":"project/fantasy-book-club/9606122/","projectTitle":"Fantasy Book Club","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Issa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9350332_orig.jpg?crop=444,444,x179,y2&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755297694625","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9350332"},{"teacherId":9350332,"projectId":9606967,"letterContent":"Our Manga Book Club is thriving! We have ten students from all grade levels (9th-12th) participating! Four out of the ten students are returners, who started Manga Book club two years ago, but last year we were unexpectedly interrupted by the Eaton Fire. This fall, we meet once a month and read two volumes of Jujutsu Kaisen per month. The students participating have such a love for Manga and this series in particular. Many of them are thrilled to have six books at a time. They were so excited and couldn't believe they got to keep all six throughout the semester. Their faces lit up and they immediately began combing through the pages. When we meet, they bring all six volumes, not just the two being discussed. This is all thanks to your generosity!\r\n\r\nWe will finish with Volumes 5&6 in our last meeting of the year this December. We have been meeting once a month starting in October. Each meeting is filled with lively discussion about the characters. They love it so much, I might need to write another Donors Choose campaign so that we can continue reading next semester! Thank you again for your generous support!","fullyFundedDate":1755589349602,"projectUrl":"project/revamping-our-manga-book-club/9606967/","projectTitle":"Revamping our Manga Book Club","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Issa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9350332_orig.jpg?crop=444,444,x179,y2&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755297694625","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9350332"},{"teacherId":10078019,"projectId":9706669,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students now have access to graphic novel adaptations of classic literature that once felt out of reach. These books have completely changed the atmosphere in our classroom—students who used to shy away from long texts are now leaning in, eager to discuss the storylines, artwork, and themes. The visuals have become a bridge to comprehension, giving my striving readers and SPED/EL students the confidence to engage deeply with complex texts.\r\n\r\nRight now, we're especially excited because we're about to dive into Frankenstein just in time for the Halloween season! The graphic novel format has everyone buzzing with anticipation—students are already making predictions about the story and connecting it to questions about identity, morality, and what it means to be human. It's a perfect blend of spooky fun and deep thinking.\r\n\r\nIn our reading lessons, students practice skills like analyzing tone through visual cues, identifying literary themes, and comparing the adaptation to the original text. Small groups work together to annotate panels, discuss symbolism, and trace character development. Reading has become an active, collaborative process instead of a solitary challenge.\r\n\r\nThese books have brought equity and excitement into our classroom. Every student can hold their own copy, follow along confidently, and participate in meaningful discussions. Thank you for helping us create an inclusive, engaging, and inspiring reading experience—just in time for a perfectly literary Halloween.","fullyFundedDate":1757866379660,"projectUrl":"project/making-classics-accessible-for-all-learn/9706669/","projectTitle":"Making Classics Accessible for All Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Howard","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10078019_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y123&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754419912221","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10078019"},{"teacherId":10078019,"projectId":9712637,"letterContent":"When the new resources arrived, my students' faces lit up with joy and excitement. They couldn't wait to try out everything—especially the cozy \"tortilla blankets.\" Seeing them wrapped up like little burritos during independent reading time is honestly one of the cutest sights ever. The blankets have become a comforting part of our routine, helping students feel warm, safe, and ready to learn, even on the coldest mornings.\r\n\r\nThe quiet fidgets have been a huge help, too. Students use them to calm their nerves and focus during lessons, and I've noticed a big improvement in their ability to stay engaged. The tissue boxes have also made a surprisingly big difference—no more rough paper towels! Students can take care of themselves comfortably, which helps them feel respected and cared for.\r\n\r\nOne moment that stands out happened during our morning circle. A student who had been especially withdrawn since the Eaton fire wrapped up in a tortilla blanket, held a worry stone, and volunteered to share their writing for the first time in weeks. The whole class smiled and encouraged them—it was such a powerful moment of healing and connection.\r\n\r\nAs we continue our creative writing unit, my students are expressing their thoughts and emotions more openly than ever before. Your generosity gave them not only comfort but also the confidence to grow, create, and connect again. Thank you for helping make our classroom a warm and nurturing space—one tortilla blanket at a time.","fullyFundedDate":1758568803466,"projectUrl":"project/urgent-classroom-needs-tissues-fidgets/9712637/","projectTitle":"Urgent Classroom Needs: Tissues, Fidgets, & Blankets","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Howard","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10078019_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y123&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754419912221","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10078019"},{"teacherId":10078019,"projectId":9649010,"letterContent":"The new books have completely transformed the energy in our classroom. There's a constant buzz of excitement around the library now—students are recommending titles to each other, trading books, and even forming mini book clubs during lunch and advisory. The shelves that once sat half-empty are now alive with color, culture, and curiosity.\r\n\r\nThe most popular books by far have been the manga series and the sports-themed novels. Students can't get enough of Blue Lock, My Hero Academia, and One Piece—they're reading during passing periods, swapping volumes, and even debating favorite characters. The sports stories like Furia and Barely Missing Everything have struck a chord too, especially with students who love soccer and find inspiration in stories of determination and teamwork. These titles have become powerful tools for connection, motivation, and joy.\r\n\r\nWith this new collection, we've been able to introduce lessons about identity, empathy, and voice. Through Elizabeth Acevedo's novels, students explore poetry and self-expression. The manga series have opened new doors for visual literacy, as students analyze plot, dialogue, and art style with enthusiasm and insight.\r\n\r\nReading time in our classroom is now one of the happiest parts of the day. You'll see students curled up with their favorite manga, leaning over to share a funny panel, or quietly reading a sports novel and nodding along to a character's journey. One student who had never finished a book before proudly told me, \"I actually stayed up late reading Blue Lock—I couldn't put it down!\"\r\n\r\nThanks to your generosity, every student has found something that speaks to them. The library you helped build has become a place of excitement, belonging, and discovery—where even the most reluctant readers have found their \"just-right\" book.","fullyFundedDate":1757690918861,"projectUrl":"project/just-right-books-rebuilding-our-classro/9649010/","projectTitle":"Just-Right Books: Rebuilding Our Classroom Library Post Eaton Fire","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Howard","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10078019_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y123&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754419912221","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10078019"},{"teacherId":10078019,"projectId":9647184,"letterContent":"Thank you for helping me create a classroom where learning isn't silent or passive—but active, visible, and shared by every student. Your generosity turned ordinary lessons into moments of connection, clarity, and confidence.\r\n\r\nWith the dry erase paddles, reusable sleeves, markers, and erasers you provided, every student now has a voice in the room—whether or not they feel comfortable raising their hand. During lessons, I can ask a question and instantly see 30 answers lifted in the air. I don't have to guess who understands and who is struggling—I can see it in real time. This has completely changed the way I teach. Instead of waiting until homework or a quiz to uncover misconceptions, I can reteach right in the moment, or push students to deepen their thinking when they're ready.\r\n\r\nThe digital timers have helped our classroom run smoothly—keeping group work focused and transitions calm. The desk organizer means everything is ready to go, so no learning time is wasted. And with the presenter remote, I can move around the room while teaching, checking student work and guiding conversations without being tied to my desk or computer.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, I'm not just teaching lessons—I'm responding to students. I'm adjusting instruction in real time, celebrating their thinking, and making sure no one gets left behind. You didn't just give us supplies—you gave us immediacy, clarity, and connection.","fullyFundedDate":1756178249719,"projectUrl":"project/instant-feedback-tools-to-check-for-und/9647184/","projectTitle":"Instant Feedback: Tools to Check for Understanding","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Howard","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10078019_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y123&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754419912221","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10078019"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_27544","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":1133,"numTeachers":46,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":2,"percentBlack":22,"percentWhite":8,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":62,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"9 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":"24.6:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":59.7,"schoolId":27544,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about John Muir High School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"John Muir High School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/pasadena-unified-school-district/john-muir-high-school/27544"}