{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Kainalu Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":22.9,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":7943929,"projectId":9781287,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for donating to support my student's, and helping to make their learning and functioning in the classroom a multi-sensory experience.\r\n\r\nThe great low tech items including the noise cancelling headphones, weighted puppy lap pad, band on the chair, vestibular rocking toys, vibration ball, massager and several other adaptive items have been very helpful. My student's now are sitting and attending to task in the classroom for longer periods of time.\r\n\r\nAlso, my lower functioning student is tolerating the water mat, light up and auditory toys making his transition into preschool a sensory learning experience. \r\n\r\nThe fidgets are also very supportive for many of my student's tactile and movement sensory needs. These are improving their attention and focus to task by keeping them in their seats while completing their work. \r\n\r\nThank you again for all your support, and donation's to my Sensory Strategies that Improve Functioning and Learning in the School a successful project!","fullyFundedDate":1759602344789,"projectUrl":"project/sensory-strategies-that-improve-function/9781287/","projectTitle":"Sensory Strategies that Improve Functioning and Learning in the School","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Robison","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7943929"},{"teacherId":7943929,"projectId":8221962,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has been transformed in meaningful and lasting ways. The new Cricut machine and iPad keyboard have immediately become powerful tools that support both student learning and daily instruction.\r\n\r\nStudents are using the keyboard to build essential typing and written-expression skills, which is especially impactful for learners who struggle with handwriting or fine motor fatigue. Being able to type their work has increased their independence, confidence, and willingness to engage in writing tasks. Several students who previously avoided writing are now eager to participate, proudly completing assignments and seeing themselves as capable learners.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the new materials, they were excited and curious. The keyboard felt \"official\" to them—like real tools used by adults—which instantly boosted their motivation. The Cricut sparked creativity and enthusiasm, as students realized they could design, create, and personalize materials rather than just consume them.\r\n\r\nFrom an instructional standpoint, the keyboard allows me to efficiently document student progress and therapy notes in real time, ensuring accurate, timely support for each child. This directly improves the quality of services students receive.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, students will continue to develop typing fluency as part of their ongoing academic and functional skill goals. The Cricut will be used to create customized learning materials, visual supports, fine-motor activities, and student projects that align with current lessons and individual needs. These tools will continue to support student growth well beyond this school year.\r\n\r\nThank you for giving our students access to resources that promote independence, creativity, and confidence. Your support has made a lasting impact in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1708299597590,"projectUrl":"project/increase-the-students-independence-usin/8221962/","projectTitle":"Increase the Student's Independence Using Sensory Regulation Tools!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Robison","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7943929"},{"teacherId":2090896,"projectId":9772542,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation to my project. Our students were absolutely thrilled when the new resources arrived! The excitement in the room was immediate .\r\nWe are currently using the materials as part of a hands-on project where students are working collaboratively to design and create their own costumes for our upcoming program. One memorable moment was watching a group of students who don't usually work together successfully problem-solve and encourage each other. The new resources gave them the tools — and the confidence — to take ownership of their learning in a whole new way.\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, they were eager to explore and immediately began asking thoughtful questions. Next, students will be deepening their learning by applying what they've discovered to a culminating project. They will refine their designs, test their ideas, reflect on their results, and share their work with classmates. We are also building in opportunities for student presentations so they can practice explaining their thinking and celebrating their progress.","fullyFundedDate":1759452045437,"projectUrl":"project/the-show-must-go-on/9772542/","projectTitle":"The Show Must Go On!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Caldeira","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp2090896_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1535323452035","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2090896"},{"teacherId":9090158,"projectId":8202347,"letterContent":"There is a specific kind of magic that happens when a child gets their hands into the soil for the first time. This term, our classroom was transformed into a living, breathing laboratory. Through our recent botanical project, our students didn't just learn about biology from a textbook; they became caretakers, observers, and eventually, the proud providers of something beautiful. This journey allowed them to truly develop their \"green thumbs,\" but more importantly, it taught them the quiet, rewarding discipline of nurturing another living thing.\r\n\r\nFrom the very first day, the energy in the room shifted. What started as a simple lesson on seeds and soil quickly evolved into a daily ritual of care. Our students were tasked with making consistent, thoughtful observations. They learned to look closely at the details—the way a stem leans toward the light, the subtle change in the color of the soil when it's thirsty, and the triumphant moment a tiny sprout finally breaks the surface. They weren't just \"growing plants\"; they were practicing the art of paying attention. They learned that growth isn't something you can hurry; it's something you must earn through steady, proper care.\r\n\r\nThe success of this project was made possible by the generous materials we received. Having the right pots, high-quality soil, and healthy seeds gave our students a sense of professional pride. They treated their workspace with respect because they knew they were working on something significant. Because of these resources, every single student was able to see their hard work come to fruition. Watching them realize that their personal effort—their watering schedule, their placement of the pot, their patience—directly resulted in a thriving plant was a highlight of our school year.\r\n\r\nAs the weeks went by, it became clear that this project wasn't just about the science of photosynthesis or root systems. It was about intentionality. We intentionally timed the growth cycle so that the plants would be ready to go home for Mother's Day. This added a beautiful layer of motivation to their work. The students weren't just growing a plant for a grade; they were growing a gift for the most \"awe-inspiring\" people in their lives.\r\n\r\nWhen the day finally came to take the plants home, the classroom was filled with a sense of accomplishment that you simply can't get from a standard writing assignment. These weren't just last-minute gifts picked up from a store. These were gifts \"from the heart\"—living proof of the time, effort, and love the students had invested over many weeks. They were able to hand their mothers a piece of their own dedication.\r\n\r\nThis project proved that when we give students the right tools and a meaningful purpose, they rise to the occasion every time. They walked away with more than just a \"green thumb\"; they walked away with the understanding that the most meaningful things in life—whether they are plants or relationships—require time, effort, and a gentle hand. We are so incredibly proud of the work they put in and the love they shared. This experience reminded us all that while we were teaching the students how to grow plants, they were actually showing us how much they were growing themselves.","fullyFundedDate":1708141926441,"projectUrl":"project/let-it-grow/8202347/","projectTitle":"Let It Grow!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lopez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9090158_orig.png?crop=398,398,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1704481762134","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9090158"},{"teacherId":8821048,"projectId":9782782,"letterContent":"Although I was unable to acquire the mini fridge due to shipping issues, the other classroom supplies such as water table smocks, sand/water table tools, finger painting paper, etc. were very well received by our excited preschoolers! It was like Christmas when we unpacked the new supplies as the students cheered with glee. The water table smocks were perfect to keep their clothes dry while exploring the water play toys. They also work well for managing how many students can play at the center. We added the funnels and measuring tools to the sand table to increase engagement and to promote higher thinking. Other sensory items that we included from the Donors Choose donation was finger painting paper! The students loved creating art and mixing vibrant colors with their whole hands. \r\n I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Donors Choose for making these experiences possible and for making core memories at school for these earliest learners.","fullyFundedDate":1759610329860,"projectUrl":"project/mini-fridge-and-classroom-supplies-for-p/9782782/","projectTitle":"Mini Fridge and Classroom Supplies for Preschool","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Tracy","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8821048_orig.jpg?crop=1951,1952,x0,y39&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1667089209183","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8821048"},{"teacherId":2330898,"projectId":9459222,"letterContent":"I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for your incredible generosity in providing our classroom with new books, art supplies, sensory bins, pillows, and organizational tools. When the packages first arrived, my students were filled with excitement over the boxes as we opened the colorful chair pouches and plush calming corner pillows. One student immediately dove into a sensory bin and explored the textures. These resources have instantly transformed our space into a more organized, tactile, and comforting environment where every child feels they have the tools they need to succeed.\r\nCurrently, we are using the art supplies to kick off our \"100 Days of School\" unit. Just yesterday, I watched a group of students use the new craypaas and paper to create their displays. I love seeing the kids feel comfortable learning and reading with their friends in the reading nook or taking a quiet moment to focus their thoughts in the calming corner. Seeing them take pride in their new chair pouches—where they now keep their favorite \"just-right\" books—has been a highlight of my year. Our next step is to use the sensory bins as inspiration for descriptive writing workshops, helping the students translate physical sensations into vivid adjectives for their stories.\r\n\r\nThank you for being such a vital part of our learning journey!","fullyFundedDate":1761938908791,"projectUrl":"project/organized-calm-and-ready-to-learn/9459222/","projectTitle":"Organized, Calm and Ready to Learn!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Molinaro","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2330898_orig.jpg?crop=180,180,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1752290112997","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mia-molinaro"},{"teacherId":9455608,"projectId":9784225,"letterContent":"I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for the generous donations you have made to our classroom. Your support means the world to us, but more importantly, it means the world to the students.\r\n\r\nI wanted to give you an update on the impact these items are having. I am thrilled to report that the new materials are being used well and loved daily. They have seamlessly become part of our daily rhythm, and the students treat them with such excitement and care.\r\n\r\nBeyond the fun, serious learning is happening. Because of your gifts, I am seeing students:\r\n\r\nEngage more deeply during lesson times.\r\n\r\nFind new ways to self-regulate and stay calm.\r\n\r\nMaster new skills through hands-on practice.\r\n\r\nYou haven't just donated \"things\"—you have provided the tools our students need to access their education in the way that works best for them. Thank you for believing in their potential.","fullyFundedDate":1764626280968,"projectUrl":"project/building-foundational-skills-a-multi-se/9784225/","projectTitle":"Building Foundational Skills: A Multi-Sensory Special Education Project","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. RJ","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9455608_orig.jpg?crop=1331,1331,x204,y491&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1759434841892","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9455608"},{"teacherId":10243190,"projectId":9777647,"letterContent":"The students were beyond excited when the materials arrived! They immediately wanted to explore the games and asked when they could start using them. Many students recognized the sight words and math tools right away and felt proud to show what they already knew. The excitement carried into our lessons, and students were highly motivated to participate and stay focused. We are using the new resources every day during small group instruction and learning centers. The organization cart has been a game-changer for our classroom routines; students can now independently access math games, reading materials, and supplies, which saves instructional time and builds responsibility. During small group reading, students use the POP sight word games and Splash reading games to practice decoding, fluency, and comprehension in a fun, hands-on way. I've seen students who are typically hesitant to read become more engaged and willing to take risks during these games. My students will continue using these resources during targeted small groups to strengthen foundational reading and math skills. In reading, we will focus on increasing sight word automaticity and applying those skills to connected text. In math, students will use the games to build number sense, practice strategies, and explain their thinking with peers. As students become more independent with the materials, they will also begin choosing games that best support their learning goals, helping them take ownership of their progress.","fullyFundedDate":1759759575693,"projectUrl":"project/first-grade-learning-and-fun/9777647/","projectTitle":"First Grade Learning and Fun!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Goldwitz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10243190"},{"teacherId":9165273,"projectId":9777405,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting my classroom and my students. When the materials arrived, my first graders were beyond excited. They immediately wanted to touch everything and try it out. The linking cubes have already become a favorite during math time as students build numbers, create patterns, and work together to solve problems. I have students who usually hesitate to participate jumping right in because the learning feels hands on and manageable. The magnetic letter boards have been especially helpful during writing time, giving students a way to practice letter formation while building confidence and fine motor strength.\r\n\r\nThe organization bins have made a big difference in our daily routines. Students can now find and return materials on their own, which has helped our classroom feel calmer and more student driven. The healthy snacks have also been a meaningful support, especially for students who struggle to focus when they are hungry. Something as simple as a snack has helped create a more regulated and ready to learn classroom.\r\n\r\nNext, we will continue using these resources as we build number sense in math and strengthen handwriting and early writing skills. Most importantly, your support is helping my students grow in confidence, independence, and self belief. You gave my class more than supplies, you helped make our classroom a place where every child feels supported and capable. Thank you for being part of our learning journey.","fullyFundedDate":1759545343485,"projectUrl":"project/building-bright-futures-hands-on-learni/9777405/","projectTitle":"Building Bright Futures: Hands-On Learning for Every Child","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Shoemaker","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9165273_orig.jpg?crop=432,432,x1,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1705625784863","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9165273"},{"teacherId":7930425,"projectId":9790764,"letterContent":"I would like to express my deepest gratitude for your generous contribution to my project. Your support has provided me with the essential materials needed to bridge the gap between standard curriculum and the diverse, individual needs of the students and teachers I serve.\r\n\r\nThe impact of your gift:\r\nWith the arrival of these items, we are able to move away from \"one-size-fits-all\" instruction. Specifically, your donation enables me to:\r\n-Create tailored learning aids: I can produce tactile, visual, and interactive mateirals that cater to specific learning styles, ensuring every student can engage with the lesson.\r\n-Empower educators: I can give teachers high-quality resources necessary to differentiate their instruction, reducing burnout and increasing classroom efficiency.\r\n-Foster independence: By providing students with tools designed specifically for their unique abilities, we can help them to build confidence and take ownership of their learning journey.\r\n\r\nYour belief in the importance of inclusive education means the world to me. I am already seeing students' success and teachers' appreciation as they interact with these new materials.","fullyFundedDate":1760753210945,"projectUrl":"project/interactive-inclusive-learning-custom/9790764/","projectTitle":"Interactive & Inclusive Learning: Custom Tools for Every Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Galmiche","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7930425"},{"teacherId":9338327,"projectId":9774348,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting our classroom and helping provide these resources. They are used every day and have made a clear difference in student focus and engagement.\r\n\r\nThe wobble stools are used all the time! They allow students who need movement to stay focused and seated longer, especially during reading and writing. The snacks are earned through Live School points, which encourages responsibility and helps students stay energized and focused throughout the day.\r\n\r\nThe books are used for First Chapter Fridays, a routine students look forward to each week. Reading the first chapter of different books has helped spark interest in new genres and increased independent reading.\r\n\r\nStudents were excited and grateful when they first saw the materials, and these resources continue to support our classroom in practical, meaningful ways.","fullyFundedDate":1759457014998,"projectUrl":"project/flexible-seating-and-healthy-snacks-for/9774348/","projectTitle":"Flexible Seating and Healthy Snacks for Student Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Odo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9338327"},{"teacherId":2066143,"projectId":9774496,"letterContent":"The materials you have donated to my classroom have been life changing. The chair wobblers help the students get their wiggles out while still being about to stay on task. This is a huge win as my class is full of 27 energetic 5th graders. \r\n\r\nIn addition, the putty has been a hit. Many students have reported that it helps them focus better. The sensory stickers are also calming for them. \r\n\r\nAs for the snacks, students love using their LiveSchool points to purchase snacks when they need a boost. All these items are so very appreciated!","fullyFundedDate":1759433909192,"projectUrl":"project/nurture-our-bodies-and-minds/9774496/","projectTitle":"Nurture Our Bodies and Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. McAngus","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2066143_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1628009666458","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsmcangus"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_50937","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":559,"numTeachers":27,"percentFrplEligible":17,"percentAsian":3,"percentBlack":1,"percentWhite":43,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":16,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 6","studentTeacherRatio":"20.7:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":77.1,"schoolId":50937,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Kainalu Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Kainalu Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/hawaii/windward-school-district/kainalu-elementary-school/50937"}