{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Learning Way Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":24.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":5061333,"projectId":9867056,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous donation, my fourth graders have been able to step back in time to experience the American Revolution in a hands-on, unforgettable way. With our new books, students have explored the voices and choices that shaped our nation's history. We've discussed big ideas like freedom, courage, and perspective — analyzing how Patriots and Loyalists saw the world differently. The quills and parchment brought writing to life, allowing students to compose letters from the viewpoint of colonists debating independence. Even something as simple as tasting tea during our \"Tea Tax Debate\" helped students connect emotionally to the history they were reading.\r\n\r\nIn our classroom, reading isn't a quiet, passive activity — it's interactive and alive. Students work together in small groups to annotate primary sources, read historical fiction aloud, and compare real historical events to the characters' experiences in our books. We've been building not only comprehension skills, but also empathy and critical thinking. The excitement in the room when students make connections between their readings and our tea party simulation is truly something special.\r\n\r\nOne of my favorite moments was when a student who normally struggles with reading stood up during our \"Colonial Voices\" activity and passionately read his letter aloud as a blacksmith supporting independence. His classmates cheered, and his confidence grew instantly. These are the moments your donation has made possible — moments that make history come alive and inspire lifelong readers. Thank you for believing in my students and helping make learning meaningful, memorable, and magical!","fullyFundedDate":1762816301366,"projectUrl":"project/revolution-in-the-room-bringing-the-ame/9867056/","projectTitle":"Revolution in the Room: Bringing the American Revolution to Life","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Lewis","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5061333_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1515257479636","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5061333"},{"teacherId":5061333,"projectId":9867033,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping bring new life to my classroom printer! Having a reliable toner cartridge might seem like a small thing, but it makes a huge difference in how efficiently I can support my students. Now, I can print small group materials, reading passages, anchor charts, and parent communication right when they're needed—no waiting, no interruptions, and no running to the office for copies.\r\n\r\nThis toner has made it possible for me to provide individualized learning resources in real time. When a student needs extra practice or a challenge, I can print it instantly and keep learning momentum going. My students love seeing their names on personalized worksheets and colorful materials—they feel proud knowing the work was made just for them.\r\n\r\nYour generosity keeps our classroom running smoothly and helps me create a more organized, engaging, and responsive learning environment. Thank you for investing in my students' success in such a practical and powerful way!","fullyFundedDate":1762457123405,"projectUrl":"project/printing-bright-futures/9867033/","projectTitle":"Printing Bright Futures","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Lewis","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5061333_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1515257479636","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5061333"},{"teacherId":5061333,"projectId":9623909,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting my students with something so simple, yet so powerful—pencils and sweet rewards! In our Title I school, even small items make a huge difference. The fresh pack of pencils ensures every student has the tools they need to participate confidently in class. No one has to worry about not being prepared anymore—everyone can focus on learning.\r\n\r\nThe candy has brought a lot of smiles and motivation to our classroom! Tootsie Roll Pops, Hershey Kisses, and mints are used as small rewards for effort, kindness, and academic growth. Whether it's a student mastering a reading goal or showing great teamwork, these treats celebrate their hard work in a tangible way. It's incredible how a simple piece of candy can boost confidence and create a positive learning environment.\r\n\r\nOne of my students even said, \"I worked extra hard today because I really wanted to earn a Tootsie Pop!\" Thank you for helping me keep spirits high, pencils sharp, and motivation strong. Your generosity helps me celebrate my students in meaningful ways every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1761846662569,"projectUrl":"project/sugar-and-success-motivating-students-w/9623909/","projectTitle":"Sugar and Success: Motivating Students with Candy","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Lewis","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5061333_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1515257479636","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5061333"},{"teacherId":5061333,"projectId":9623868,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my small group instruction area has come to life! The Expo markers and bright Astrobrights cardstock have transformed lessons into hands-on, interactive experiences that keep my students engaged and excited to learn. We use the markers daily during reading and writing practice—students love coming to the table and showing their thinking on whiteboards. The colorful cardstock makes task cards, center activities, and visuals stand out, helping all learners (especially my visual learners and English learners) stay focused and motivated.\r\n\r\nThe new ink and paper holder have made organization and preparation so much smoother. Having materials printed, sorted, and ready to go means I can spend more time teaching and less time scrambling for supplies. My students notice the difference—they love the fresh, colorful activities that make learning feel special and fun.\r\n\r\nOne of my small groups even calls our table \"the VIP table\" now because everything looks so bright and inviting. Thank you for helping me create a space where students not only learn but want to learn. Your kindness has made an immediate and lasting impact in our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1761846662898,"projectUrl":"project/small-groups-big-learning/9623868/","projectTitle":"Small Groups, Big Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Lewis","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5061333_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1515257479636","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5061333"},{"teacherId":5061333,"projectId":9623705,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom is more organized, focused, and engaging than ever before! The laminating sheets and paper have allowed me to create durable centers, anchor charts, and student reference tools that can be used all year long. My students love using the laminated task cards and games during small groups — they feel like \"real teachers\" when they get to use dry-erase markers to show their thinking and wipe it clean for the next group.\r\n\r\nThe headphones have been a game-changer for my students' learning. Many of my 4th graders are English learners or working below grade level, and having individual headphones allows them to focus during reading fluency practice and online programs like Lexia and Edmentum. For the first time, they can learn at their own pace without background distractions. It's amazing to see their confidence grow as they master skills independently.\r\n\r\nOne of my quietest students has really flourished since receiving the headphones — she told me she finally feels \"smart and calm\" when working on her reading goals. Small moments like that remind me how powerful these tools truly are. Thank you for believing in my students and helping make our classroom a place where learning feels exciting and achievable for everyone!","fullyFundedDate":1761846662061,"projectUrl":"project/paper-laminating-and-listening-power/9623705/","projectTitle":"Paper, Laminating, and Listening Power","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Lewis","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5061333_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1515257479636","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5061333"},{"teacherId":1111781,"projectId":9497826,"letterContent":"On behalf of our elementary school library, we sincerely thank you for donating the clear book bins. These bins have made a wonderful difference by allowing our students to see the book covers instead of just the spines. It is exciting to see our student choose different books than they would normally choose since they can now see the covers. This has sparked greater curiosity and excitement for reading among our young learners. \r\n\r\nYour thoughtful contribution supports our mission to foster a love of reading and learning. We are truly grateful for your kindness and generosity.","fullyFundedDate":1755727000390,"projectUrl":"project/transparency-in-action-clear-book-bins/9497826/","projectTitle":"Transparency in Action: Clear Book Bins for Easy Access","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Thomas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1111781_orig.jpg?crop=2590,2590,x0,y231&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733407309495","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1111781"},{"teacherId":1111781,"projectId":9619539,"letterContent":"We are deeply grateful for your generous gift of colorful curtains and curtain rods to our library. The students and staff members have been extremely excited to see the curtains. Several times a day, I hear the phrase \"I really like the curtains.\" Your thoughtful contribution has helped to transform our space into a warm, inviting, and calming atmosphere where visitors can relax, focus, and enjoy their time. The vibrant colors bring life and comfort to our reading areas, making the library a true haven for learning and reflection. Thank you for your kindness and support in enriching our community's experience. Your generosity truly makes a difference.","fullyFundedDate":1755724053009,"projectUrl":"project/creating-calm-with-colorful-curtains/9619539/","projectTitle":"Creating Calm With Colorful Curtains","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Thomas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1111781_orig.jpg?crop=2590,2590,x0,y231&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733407309495","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1111781"},{"teacherId":1111781,"projectId":9488386,"letterContent":"Our students are extremely excited to have new STEM materials. Once a month I allow students to have a STEM day in the library. Some months I give specific tasks to accomplish, other months I allow them to create freely. Earlier in September, I allowed the students to create freely and they made fantastic creations. The magnetic tiles, pixel art, and building blocks were the most used. With the magnetic tiles students created castles and multi-tiered buildings. Students used their math skills to create art when using the pixel art.\r\n\r\n All the students truly seemed to enjoy using the new materials, and have already asked when the next STEM day is. I cannot wait to let them use the materials again. Thank you again for your generous donation.","fullyFundedDate":1754245943992,"projectUrl":"project/stem-sparks-igniting-curiosity-through/9488386/","projectTitle":"STEM Sparks: Igniting Curiosity Through Play","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Thomas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1111781_orig.jpg?crop=2590,2590,x0,y231&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733407309495","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1111781"},{"teacherId":1111781,"projectId":9475637,"letterContent":"We are deeply grateful for your generous donation of clear book bins to our school library. Your thoughtful contribution has already made a remarkable impact on the way our students engage with books and has enhanced the overall learning environment in ways that truly matter.\r\n\r\nThe students love being able to see the front covers of the books. During the first week of checkout, many previously unused books were already checked out, which shows that seeing the front covers truly makes a difference. Thank you again.","fullyFundedDate":1754171840661,"projectUrl":"project/clear-choice-boosting-student-engagemen/9475637/","projectTitle":"Clear Choice: Boosting Student Engagement Through Transparent Book Bins","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Thomas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1111781_orig.jpg?crop=2590,2590,x0,y231&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733407309495","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1111781"},{"teacherId":9567562,"projectId":9118208,"letterContent":"I wanted to take a moment to sincerely thank you for your generous donation to our project, Focused Learning Environment with Sensory Seating and Timers. Your support is truly appreciated, and it means the world to me and my students.\r\n\r\nThanks to you, we now have sensory seating and timers that are already making a big difference in the classroom. These resources help create an environment where all of our learners can focus and thrive. I have already seen students using the new seating arrangements to self-regulate and stay engaged, and the timers are perfect for helping them manage their time effectively.\r\n\r\nYour generosity is not only enhancing their learning experience, but also showing them that there are people who care deeply about their education and well-being. This thoughtful gift will have a lasting impact on their academic journey, and for that, we are so grateful.\r\n\r\nThank you again for believing in the potential of my students and supporting this important project.","fullyFundedDate":1740443242854,"projectUrl":"project/focused-learning-environment-with-sensor/9118208/","projectTitle":"Focused Learning Environment with Sensory Seating and Timers","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Farley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9567562_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1719072118830","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9567562"},{"teacherId":1111781,"projectId":8962536,"letterContent":"The clear acrylic bins and storage supplies have been amazing. The storage bins have been a life saver for large floor puzzles whose boxes were one their last life. The puzzles are now neatly labeled and can easily be taken on and off the shelf, without falling out, to complete. \r\n The clear acrylic bins for books are a real game changer though for the students. The books that have been placed in the clear bins are rarely on the shelves anymore. The students like to be able to flip through the books and see the cover rather than taking out the book and having to put it back in with the spine out the traditional way. \r\n I feel that our school will definitely be purchasing more of the clear bins, and possibly other storage options for students to use. Thank you again for your donation.","fullyFundedDate":1735492599987,"projectUrl":"project/clear-organization-streamlined-storage/8962536/","projectTitle":"Clear Organization: Streamlined Storage for Books and Materials","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Thomas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1111781_orig.jpg?crop=2590,2590,x0,y231&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733407309495","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1111781"},{"teacherId":9567562,"projectId":8460953,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our \"Hands-on STEM\" project! Your donations have made an incredible impact on our 4th-grade students by providing the materials and tools they need to explore science, technology, engineering, and math in a hands-on way. Because of you, our students can now engage in experiments and activities that ignite curiosity, deepen understanding, and build critical thinking skills. Seeing their excitement when working on STEM challenges has been inspiring. They are learning not just from books but by doing, creating, and problem-solving together.\r\n\r\nYour kindness and commitment to education are helping to shape future scientists, engineers, and innovators. By giving our students the opportunity to explore STEM concepts in an interactive way, you are helping to cultivate a love for learning that will stay with them for years to come. Thank you for believing in our project and for empowering our classroom. We are truly grateful for your support!","fullyFundedDate":1725456519609,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-future-innovators-with-hands-/8460953/","projectTitle":"Empowering Future Innovators with Hands-On STEM Projects","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Farley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9567562_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1719072118830","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9567562"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_98316","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":675,"numTeachers":40,"percentFrplEligible":86,"percentAsian":1,"percentBlack":9,"percentWhite":39,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":41,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"16.9:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"TOWN","ncesMetroType":"TOWN_DISTANT"},"inStateSupporters":75.7,"schoolId":98316,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Learning Way Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Learning Way Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/tennessee/bedford-county-school-district/learning-way-elementary-school/98316"}
Join the 107 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Learning Way Elementary School is
a town public school
in Shelbyville, Tennessee that is part of Bedford County School District.
It serves 675 students
in grades Pre-K - 5 with a student/teacher ratio of 16.9:1.
Its teachers have had 53 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
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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
51%
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.
Learning Way Elementary School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Dec 5, 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.
Learning Way Elementary School
$22,048
raised using DonorsChoose
53
projects
funded
21
teachers
funded
107
donors
4
projects
for
basic supplies
6
projects for
technology
6
projects for
books
1
project
for
art supplies
Learning Way Elementary School has received support from
81 individuals from Tennessee and
26 individuals out-of-state.