{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Martin Luther King Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":25.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":7600687,"projectId":7026920,"letterContent":"Thanks to the new art supplies and incentives, our kindergarten Mandarin Immersion classroom has become even more creative and engaging. One exciting moment was during a Mandarin-themed art project: students painted scenes from a story we read together, practicing new vocabulary as they added details. Having access to markers, crayons, and special papers allowed every student to express themselves fully and feel proud of their work.\r\n\r\nHow did your students react when they first saw the materials?\r\nThey were overjoyed! Their faces lit up as they explored the new colors, papers, and tools. Many immediately wanted to start creating, while others excitedly shared ideas about what they could make. The incentives also motivated them to stay engaged and celebrate their efforts.\r\n\r\nYour donors got a little peek into your classroom by contributing to your project, and we know that they'd love to learn more. What are the next steps for your students on a current classroom lesson or project?\r\nNext, students will continue using the supplies to create art that connects to our Mandarin lessons—illustrating vocabulary words, making collaborative classroom posters, and completing creative projects tied to our stories and themes. Incentives will help encourage participation, teamwork, and pride in their accomplishments, supporting both learning and community building in the classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1669095608163,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-supplies-art-materials-incen/7026920/","projectTitle":"Classroom Supplies, Art Materials, Incentives for Kids in Mandarin Immersion","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Law","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7600687_orig.jpg?crop=4284,4284,x913,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1764890452675","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7600687"},{"teacherId":5878649,"projectId":9897196,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our classroom project. The new Who Would Win? books have already created a wave of excitement in our room, and they are helping my first graders grow as readers in powerful ways.\r\n\r\nThese texts introduce important early literacy skills, including comparing and contrasting, identifying key details, and making predictions. Because the series uses clear nonfiction features, my students are also learning how to read captions, examine diagrams, and use text clues to build understanding. The accessible language and engaging facts allow even developing readers to feel successful.\r\n\r\nReading in our classroom now feels like a true community experience. During partner reading time, students sit together with their matching copies and take turns reading aloud. They practice fluency, help each other sound out tricky words, and pause to talk about animal traits or surprising facts. The room fills with lively discussions as students share evidence from the text to support their ideas about which animal might win a matchup.\r\n\r\nSeveral students who were once hesitant to pick up a book now go straight to this series during independent reading. One student in particular has started finishing a book and immediately choosing another from the set, eager to learn more about different animals. Seeing that confidence grow has been a joy.\r\n\r\nYour kindness has made these moments possible. Thank you for giving my students books that spark curiosity, inspire conversations, and help them grow into enthusiastic readers. Your support has made a meaningful difference.","fullyFundedDate":1763607540596,"projectUrl":"project/engaging-high-interest-books-for-young-r/9897196/","projectTitle":"Engaging High-Interest Books for Young Readers","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Maalaea","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5878649_orig.jpg?crop=1158,1158,x0,y100&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1693016660006","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mg503"},{"teacherId":5878649,"projectId":8838212,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity and support of our classroom project. Because of you, my students now have the comfortable and dependable chairs they truly deserve. These new chairs have already made a meaningful difference in our learning environment. They are comfortable for young learners, easy for the students to move and lift, and provide the stability our old chairs were missing.\r\n\r\nBefore your gift, our classroom furniture was uneven, uncomfortable, and not suited for the needs of today's learners. Now, my students have ergonomic chairs that are the right size for first graders and allow them to focus on their work without distraction. They no longer struggle with chairs that rock or lean, and they are feeling more confident and supported throughout the day.\r\n\r\nMy students and I are so appreciative of your kindness. Thank you for helping us create the appropriate learning environment they deserve. Your support means more than you know, and we are grateful every single day for the difference you have made.","fullyFundedDate":1733267891533,"projectUrl":"project/creating-a-comfortable-space-with-ergono/8838212/","projectTitle":"Creating a Comfortable Space with Ergonomic Chairs","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Maalaea","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5878649_orig.jpg?crop=1158,1158,x0,y100&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1693016660006","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mg503"},{"teacherId":5878649,"projectId":8960658,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your incredible support of our classroom project. Living in Portland, Oregon means our students experience many rainy days, and without a covered outdoor play area, indoor recess is a frequent part of our routine. Your generosity has made a meaningful difference for our students during these times and beyond.\r\n\r\nUnstructured play is an essential part of childhood development. It is during recess that students collaborate, use their imagination, and engage in creative problem-solving. Because of your contribution, my students now have access to a variety of hands-on materials that invite them to explore, design, build, and play together. These resources help them develop teamwork, communication skills, and confidence in their own ideas.\r\n\r\nThe magnetic tiles you helped fund will be used not only during indoor recess, but also during STEM activities and free-choice time throughout the school year. They provide countless opportunities for students to think critically, experiment with structures, and engage in open-ended learning.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in the power of play and creativity. Your kindness has brought joy, inspiration, and meaningful learning experiences into our classroom. We are truly grateful for your support.","fullyFundedDate":1736897959542,"projectUrl":"project/building-an-engaging-and-collaborative-i/8960658/","projectTitle":"Building an Engaging and Collaborative Indoor Recess","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Maalaea","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5878649_orig.jpg?crop=1158,1158,x0,y100&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1693016660006","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mg503"},{"teacherId":5878649,"projectId":8965039,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support and for providing the hygiene items we requested. My first graders and I are truly grateful for your kindness.\r\n\r\nYour contribution of tissues, disinfecting wipes, hand soap, paper towels, Ziploc bags, and band-aids will make a tremendous difference in our classroom. These everyday essentials help us keep our space clean, healthy, and safe, something especially important for young learners who love to explore, create, and work together.\r\n\r\nMy students are inquisitive, creative, and eager to learn, and your support ensures they can focus on what they do best without the worry of germs or messes getting in the way. Because of you, we can maintain a classroom environment that supports their curiosity and collaborative spirit.\r\n\r\nWe appreciate your generosity more than words can express. Thank you for helping our classroom stay clean, cared for, and ready for learning each day.","fullyFundedDate":1734755808108,"projectUrl":"project/keeping-a-clean-and-germ-free-classroom/8965039/","projectTitle":"Keeping a Clean and Germ-Free Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Maalaea","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5878649_orig.jpg?crop=1158,1158,x0,y100&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1693016660006","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mg503"},{"teacherId":3072308,"projectId":9130323,"letterContent":"Thank you for donating to our project for snacks. Students were so happy to see all of the options in our snack bin. In 5th grade, these children are working so hard and using so much energy to learn about division, gravity, comparing characters, using textual evidence, and so much more. They get hungry doing all of this work! Having snacks on hand that can hold them over between breakfast and lunch has been so beneficial for their learning. I cannot thank you all enough. Your kindness and generosity are very appreciated.","fullyFundedDate":1742584445545,"projectUrl":"project/snacks-to-sustain/9130323/","projectTitle":"Snacks to Sustain","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Jones","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3072308_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1660087673459","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jjones3"},{"teacherId":407367,"projectId":9393701,"letterContent":"Dear Board of Directors,\r\nI'm writing to express my sincere gratitude for your support in providing a generous donation of board games for our elementary school. Your contribution has had a significant impact on our students, providing them with valuable opportunities for learning, growth, and fun.\r\n\r\nThe games have been a huge hit! They are used daily during recess, in our after-school program, and as a reward for students who finish their work early. The benefits of this simple addition to our school are already apparent. Our students are developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills as they strategize and navigate the rules of each game. They are also building essential social skills, learning to collaborate, communicate, and handle both wins and losses with sportsmanship. We've also noticed an increase in positive interactions between students from different grade levels as they come together to play.\r\n\r\nYour support has not only enriched our students' educational experience but has also fostered a stronger, more connected school community. Thank you for your commitment to our school and for investing in the future of our students.","fullyFundedDate":1749836241604,"projectUrl":"project/board-game-bonding/9393701/","projectTitle":"Board Game Bonding","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Seidel","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/407367"},{"teacherId":407367,"projectId":9375338,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation to my classroom project, \"Board Games for Inside Recess.\" Your kindness has a direct and meaningful impact on my students' daily lives.\r\n\r\nI teach at Dr MLK Jr, and a common challenge we face is finding engaging, meaningful activities for students during rainy days or when the weather is too cold for outdoor play. Because of your support, our inside recess now looks completely different.\r\n\r\nInstead of just sitting at their desks, my students can now gather in small groups to play a variety of board games. It's more than just a fun break—they are building crucial skills. I've already seen students working together to learn new games, practicing teamwork, and developing problem-solving abilities. It's also a wonderful way for them to practice good sportsmanship and interact positively with their peers.\r\n\r\nThe games have transformed our classroom atmosphere, turning a potentially difficult time into one filled with laughter, collaboration, and learning. I'm incredibly grateful for your belief in our students and for helping to create a more joyful and productive environment for them.\r\n\r\nThank you again for your generosity and for being a champion for our students.\r\n\r\nSincerely,","fullyFundedDate":1748967648370,"projectUrl":"project/board-game-bonding/9375338/","projectTitle":"Board Game Bonding","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Seidel","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/407367"},{"teacherId":6523373,"projectId":8981741,"letterContent":"The different materials that our students received from this project were put to good use. Whether on our indoor recess days or Fun Fridays or free time, these materials allowed them to get creative, collaborate, and just have fun in each other's company. Some could sometimes choose to build and create independently while some consistently worked together to rebuild every time they accessed these materials. It was so fun to see and it is all thanks to our wonderful donors for bringing this project into our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1733267891751,"projectUrl":"project/rainy-day-games-that-build-class-communi/8981741/","projectTitle":"Rainy Day Games That Build Class Community","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Tran","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6523373_orig.jpg?crop=1829,1829,x107,y107&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1637703754186","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6523373"},{"teacherId":6502849,"projectId":8967857,"letterContent":"I want to extend my deepest gratitude to everyone in the community who contributed to our classroom library by donating diverse books. Your generosity has brought stories into our classroom that reflect the rich backgrounds, cultures, and identities of my students. Each book serves as a mirror and a window—allowing students to see themselves represented and to explore the lives and experiences of others. Your support not only enhances our collection but also sends a powerful message to my students that their stories matter and that learning is enriched when everyone is included.\r\n\r\nHaving a library filled with diverse characters and voices has had a profound impact on our classroom environment. Students are more engaged, curious, and empathetic as they connect with characters who look like them or come from different walks of life. These books spark meaningful conversations, promote understanding, and encourage critical thinking. Most importantly, they help every student feel seen, valued, and inspired. Thank you for helping us build a space where all students can grow academically and personally through inclusive and empowering literature.","fullyFundedDate":1733252255569,"projectUrl":"project/books-are-windows-and-mirrors-pt-3/8967857/","projectTitle":"Books Are Windows and Mirrors Pt. 3","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Bre","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6502849_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723666031568","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6502849"},{"teacherId":1585832,"projectId":9054050,"letterContent":"This Year of the Snake, our school had the wonderful opportunity to honor Lunar New Year in a way that was joyful, meaningful, and deeply engaging for our students—and your support made it all possible.\r\n\r\nThroughout the building, red paper lanterns and decorations brightened our classrooms and brought a festive energy. One of the highlights were classroom visits with our principal, who shared stories about the traditions of Lunar New Year and the qualities of the Snake—wisdom and calm strength. Students were especially excited to receive red envelopes with golden (chocolate) coins, a small but memorable way to take part in this cultural tradition.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping us create an experience that students will remember and learn from. Your generosity helped bring Lunar New Year to life in our school in such a meaningful way.","fullyFundedDate":1737754468800,"projectUrl":"project/learning-about-and-celebrating-lunar-new/9054050/","projectTitle":"Learning About and Celebrating Lunar New Year!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Thomas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1585832_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1449725970000","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mst503"},{"teacherId":8428841,"projectId":8678777,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your donation to fund four new desks for my class! Our previous desks were old, and not functional for many of my students. These desks have been a game changer for students who like to have movement during class time and who prefer to stand. They also love being able to write their work on their desks during our phonics instruction! \r\n\r\nSupport like yours goes a long ways to helping students feel successful in my classroom. My students really appreciate having options for seating that match their needs. They were so excited to receive these desks! I appreciate your support in helping all of my students succeed!","fullyFundedDate":1732733695439,"projectUrl":"project/desks-for-optimal-learning/8678777/","projectTitle":"Desks for Optimal Learning!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Moog","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8428841_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1651856135542","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8428841"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_88245","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":312,"numTeachers":30,"percentFrplEligible":65,"percentAsian":5,"percentBlack":26,"percentWhite":31,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":19,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"10.4:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":74.7,"schoolId":88245,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Martin Luther King Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Martin Luther King Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/oregon/portland-public-schools/king-elementary-school/88245"}
Join the 968 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Martin Luther King Elementary School is
an urban public school
in Portland, Oregon that is part of Portland Public Schools.
It serves 312 students
in grades K - 5 with a student/teacher ratio of 10.4:1.
Its teachers have had 405 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Boost support for our school's classrooms. Share this page with friends and family who want to make a difference. If you're a teacher, sign up to get started!
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. Each classroom request for funding was created by a classroom teacher and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
of students receive free or reduced price lunch
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
Source: the National Center for Education Statistics
50%
of students are Black, Latino, Native
American, or Asian
Data about school demographics comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. The numbers in this chart may not add up to 100% because of limitations in the available data.
Martin Luther King Elementary School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Dec 4, 2025
DonorsChoose makes it easy for anyone to help a teacher in need, moving us closer to a nation where students
in every community have the tools and experiences they need for a great education.
Martin Luther King Elementary School
$209,338
raised using DonorsChoose
405
projects
funded
40
teachers
funded
968
donors
59
projects
for
basic supplies
49
projects for
technology
55
projects for
books
31
projects
for
art supplies
Martin Luther King Elementary School has received support from
723 individuals from Oregon and
245 individuals out-of-state.