{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Kainalu Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":22.9,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9179794,"projectId":10109106,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting my first project. With Growing towards our GLOs, I was able to stock my classroom store so students could actually make purchases with their LiveSchool points! It's so fun to see how motivated they are to earn points. I have had students even staying after school to take care of the classroom with me. \r\nStudents seem to love the snacks the most - and it seems they often come to school hungry, so it's nice that they can actually purchase something when they need it! They also used their liveschool points to buy things from the store for their kindergarten buddies! I love the opportunity for them to exercise generosity with their earnings!! Thank you again for making this possible!","fullyFundedDate":1771712812305,"projectUrl":"project/growing-towards-our-glos-keep-shining-w/10109106/","projectTitle":"Growing Towards Our GLOs! Keep Shining With PBIS!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Hanlon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9179794"},{"teacherId":7401462,"projectId":9773078,"letterContent":"The new resources have transformed our \"Classroom Store.\" The Squishmallows, fidgets, and snacks are the crown jewels of our classroom store, and the students are more motivated than ever to earn LiveSchool points through positive behavior and academic effort.\r\n\r\nOne standout moment involves the automatic pencil sharpener. It might seem like a small tool, but it has become a coveted \"Classroom Job.\" Students use the new sharpener to get the whole room ready for any leftover pencils. It's turned a mundane chore into a leadership opportunity.\r\n\r\nWhen the boxes arrived, the room felt like Christmas morning. There were audible gasps when they saw the stadium seats—the \"cool factor\" of having flexible seating. However, the snacks definitely won the \"most popular\" award. Since my students are very food-motivated, seeing a stocked pantry of treats created an immediate sense of excitement and a \"we can do this\" attitude.\r\n\r\nNow that the excitement has settled into a routine, we are using these items to fuel our current Math and Life Skills unit on Budgeting. 1) Students are currently tracking their \"earnings\" to save up for the high-ticket items, 2) We are using the pouches to create \"Grab-and-Go\" kits. These keep their individual supplies organized so we can transition from our desks to other classes without losing five minutes to \"where is my pencil?\" and 3) Our next step is a \"Long-Term Savings\" project where students must decide whether to spend their points on immediate snacks or save up for a week of \"VIP Seating\" in the new chairs.","fullyFundedDate":1759446542363,"projectUrl":"project/the-happy-classroom-project/9773078/","projectTitle":"The Happy Classroom Project","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Bali","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7401462_orig.jpg?crop=960,960,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1596837442015","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7401462"},{"teacherId":8103659,"projectId":9746182,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for the photography and digital gallery station supplies! This setup has revolutionized how we document student work, and I am incredibly impressed by how quickly our upper elementary students have mastered the equipment. They are already taking pride in professionally capturing and uploading their own masterpieces to our digital gallery.\r\n\r\nYour generosity is also paving the way for future innovation; I plan to use this exact station as a launchpad for our upcoming animation projects. By providing the tools for stable, well-lit environments, you've given our students the perfect stage to bring their stories to life. Thank you for investing in our vision and our young artists!","fullyFundedDate":1759608416755,"projectUrl":"project/capture-the-creativity/9746182/","projectTitle":"Capture the Creativity!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Rivera","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8103659_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1632856362796","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8103659"},{"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"}],"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"}