{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Lee A Tolbert Community Academy","outOfStateSupporters":50.8,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":7201152,"projectId":9473288,"letterContent":"Thanks so much for the contributions to my first grade classroom needs. I work in a Title One school and most of the students come from low income backgrounds. These supplies will help us throughout the school year. First graders are forever losing supplies and breaking supplies. This is why we are always in need of different materials. We always need construction paper for various art projects. We always need dry erase makers work writing sight words and sentences. Thanks so much for making our year easier!!","fullyFundedDate":1755874279693,"projectUrl":"project/first-grade-basic-needs/9473288/","projectTitle":"First Grade Basic Needs","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Johnson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7201152_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1610849561405","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7201152"},{"teacherId":7201152,"projectId":9568697,"letterContent":"My students were so excited to open up the boxes with their new social emotional learning books. We are learning about different food groups and how they help us solve problems in everyday life. The John Jory books are very exciting for the the kids. We have read the Sour Grape, The Smart Cookie, The Good Egg, and The Big Cheese. These books are on display in our classroom. \r\nStudents can relate the characters to their real life experience. We have read the books and completed book reports and drew pictures and sentences about different characters. The Social Emotional Learning book teaches us different life skills. I just enjoy reading these books over and over to my students.","fullyFundedDate":1755734368906,"projectUrl":"project/social-emotional-learning/9568697/","projectTitle":"Social Emotional Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Johnson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7201152_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1610849561405","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7201152"},{"teacherId":8542676,"projectId":9335800,"letterContent":"When our new dry erase boards, markers, and erasers arrived, my students and I immediately put them to work during our math lesson on place value. Instead of working strictly from worksheets, students used their individual boards to build numbers, show regrouping, and explain their thinking to partners. One of my favorite moments was watching a student who usually struggles with confidence proudly hold up their board saying, \"I finally get it!\" These resources have turned our lessons into hands-on learning experiences where every child can engage, erase, try again, and grow.\r\nThe students' reactions when they first saw the materials were priceless. Their faces lit up, and several of them excitedly whispered, \"Are these for us?\" They couldn't wait to dive in and start practicing. Many students immediately began drawing number models, writing their names in bubble letters, or testing out every color marker. The joy and excitement in the room made it clear that something as simple as a new set of dry erase supplies can make learning feel fresh, special, and fun.\r\nNow that we have these materials, our next steps include using them for daily math review, small-group instruction, and literacy centers. Students will use their boards to practice spelling patterns, solve word problems, and show quick checks for understanding during lessons. These tools allow me to instantly see who needs support and who is ready to move on. Thanks to our donors, my students can engage more deeply, take academic risks, and build confidence as learners each day.","fullyFundedDate":1747082112538,"projectUrl":"project/write-it-and-wipe/9335800/","projectTitle":"Write it and Wipe","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Isaacs","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8542676_orig.jpg?crop=750,750,x0,y130&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1660092201256","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8542676"},{"teacherId":8542676,"projectId":9301939,"letterContent":"The use of headphones in the classroom has had a significant and measurable impact on both testing performance and daily classwork. Providing students with access to quality headphones has created an environment that supports focus, individualized learning, and equal access to instructional materials. The implementation of headphones has not only improved academic performance but has also contributed to student engagement, confidence, and overall classroom efficiency.\r\nDuring testing, headphones played an essential role in creating a calm and focused atmosphere. Many of the online testing platforms include audio components such as text-to-speech, directions, or read-aloud features. By allowing students to listen to passages, questions, or instructions privately through headphones, we ensured that every student could fully access the content without distraction. This was particularly beneficial for students who require accommodations under individualized education plans (IEPs) or 504 plans. With headphones, they were able to use read-aloud features independently, maintaining both privacy and dignity while receiving the support they needed. As a result, students demonstrated greater confidence and independence during assessments.\r\nHeadphones also helped minimize environmental distractions. In a busy classroom setting, background noise can often interfere with concentration. When students wore headphones, they were able to block out unnecessary noise and focus solely on their tasks. This was especially helpful during state testing or classroom assessments, where focus and comprehension are critical. Teachers noticed that students remained on task longer, and testing sessions ran more smoothly with fewer interruptions. The calm and quiet testing environment benefited everyone, allowing for more accurate assessment results that reflected true student understanding rather than test anxiety or distractions.\r\nBeyond testing, headphones became a valuable tool for everyday classwork. Many learning programs and online platforms—such as reading comprehension tools, phonics games, math practice apps, and interactive science lessons—include audio and video features. With headphones, students were able to engage in these programs simultaneously without disturbing their peers. This made it possible for teachers to differentiate instruction more effectively, as students could work at their own pace and on their own level. For example, one student might listen to a story at a slower speed for comprehension support while another student completed enrichment activities with more advanced content—all within the same classroom space.","fullyFundedDate":1746699575462,"projectUrl":"project/listening-to-learn-the-role-of-headphon/9301939/","projectTitle":"Listening to Learn: The Role of Headphones in Reading Success","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Isaacs","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8542676_orig.jpg?crop=750,750,x0,y130&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1660092201256","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8542676"},{"teacherId":6021529,"projectId":8645871,"letterContent":"When the new resources arrived, it felt like a celebration in our classroom! The students were absolutely thrilled eyes wide, smiles everywhere, and a chorus of \"Whoa!\" and \"Can we use this today?\" echoed around the room. It was a moment of pure joy and curiosity.\r\n\r\nWe've been using the materials to dive into a hands-on project exploring ecosystems. With the new science kits and visual aids, students were able to build mini habitats, observe interactions between organisms, and even simulate environmental changes. One student said, \"This is like being a real scientist!\" and that's exactly the kind of engagement we hoped for.\r\n\r\nThanks to your generosity, our classroom has transformed into a space where learning feels like discovery. The next steps for our students include presenting their ecosystem models to the class and writing reflections on how human actions impact the environment. These resources didn't just support a lesson they sparked a journey of inquiry and imagination.","fullyFundedDate":1724083801569,"projectUrl":"project/rhythms-of-excellence-empowering-our-dr/8645871/","projectTitle":"Rhythms of Excellence: Empowering Our Drumline for Success","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Gill","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6021529"},{"teacherId":6623362,"projectId":9229701,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your kindness and generosity in funding our classroom project! Because of your support, we now have essential supplies like tissues, disinfectant spray, wipes, and hand sanitizer to help keep our classroom clean and healthy.\r\nYour contribution helps create a safe learning environment where my students can focus on learning instead of germs! The kids are already noticing how fresh and organized our room feels, and we're so grateful to have these items ready for the season ahead.\r\nYour generosity truly makes a difference every day. Thank you for caring about our students' well-being and for supporting teachers like me who strive to make the classroom a comfortable and welcoming place for all.","fullyFundedDate":1746786959758,"projectUrl":"project/keep-our-classroom-clean-and-healthy/9229701/","projectTitle":"Keep Our Classroom Clean and Healthy!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Mason","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6623362_orig.jpg?crop=2400,2400,x0,y40&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1638372211758","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsmason115"},{"teacherId":9872139,"projectId":9286708,"letterContent":"The resources provided were excellent and really enhanced the learning experience. The students effectively utilized them in small groups and at various centers. The markers were particularly advantageous for writing on dry-erase boards, and their size was ideal for our activities. Additionally, the lamination pouches worked perfectly in my center, helping to protect and extend the lifespan of the materials. It was wonderful to see the students' excitement when they first encountered the new materials; their enthusiasm really contributed to a positive classroom environment.","fullyFundedDate":1747141888556,"projectUrl":"project/creativity-is-to-express/9286708/","projectTitle":"Creativity is to Express","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jones","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9872139_orig.jpg?crop=1991,1991,x324,y262&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1743290863245","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9872139"},{"teacherId":9169014,"projectId":9053387,"letterContent":"Dear Donors,\r\n\r\nThanks to your generosity, my students and I have been able to use the new resources in meaningful and exciting ways. The moment the supplies arrived, their eyes lit up—they couldn't wait to dive in! One student exclaimed, \"It feels like Christmas in our classroom!\"\r\n\r\nWe've already put the materials to work. For example, during a recent sensory activity, students used the flexible seating and hands-on tools to help regulate their emotions and stay engaged in their learning. One student who usually struggles to remain focused was able to sit in a wobble chair and complete a reading activity from start to finish without interruption. It was such a proud moment for both of us.\r\n\r\nThe resources have also opened the door for more creative projects. We are currently working on a collaborative writing project where students use new supplies to create storyboards and illustrations that bring their writing to life. The tools are helping them express themselves in ways they couldn't before.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, our next steps are to build on this momentum by launching a unit focused on teamwork and problem-solving. Students will use these resources to complete group projects, where they'll not only practice academic skills but also learn the importance of collaboration and communication.\r\n\r\nYour gift has truly transformed our classroom environment, making it more supportive, engaging, and inclusive. My students feel seen, valued, and excited about learning every day—and that is because of you.\r\n\r\nWith heartfelt gratitude,\r\nJacqueline Hughes","fullyFundedDate":1742901497307,"projectUrl":"project/creating-a-calm-and-focused-learning-en/9053387/","projectTitle":"\"Creating a Calm and Focused Learning Environment\"","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Hughes","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9169014_orig.jpg?crop=872,873,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733340299104","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9169014"},{"teacherId":9011923,"projectId":7953052,"letterContent":"Because of you, our gym transformed from \"make-do\" to \"let's go.\" The new equipment let me build a real circuit—agility ladders, cones, resistance bands, jump ropes, and fresh basketballs—so every student moves with purpose instead of waiting in lines. One of my favorite moments came from an 8th-grader who usually hangs back. She picked up the jump rope with the rainbow handles, whispered \"I'm gonna try,\" and counted out loud to twenty without stopping. Her classmates exploded with cheers and she went right back for round two. That spark—confidence through movement—is exactly what you funded.\r\n\r\nThe first day the carts rolled out, eyes got huge and hands shot up to volunteer. Students immediately asked, \"Can we try the ladder?\" \"Can I be timer?\" \"Coach, watch my footwork!\" Even my first-graders took ownership, helping set up stations and put equipment away like pros. The fresh materials didn't just make class more fun; they made it feel safe, inclusive, and structured, which matters a lot in our community school.\r\n\r\nNext up, students are setting personal fitness goals and tracking progress in simple \"move logs\" (how long they work, what skills they practiced, and how they felt). Our 7th and 8th graders will rotate as \"student coaches,\" leading warm-ups and giving peers positive feedback. We're building toward a mini \"Fitness Showcase,\" where classes design a five-station circuit for staff to try. Your gift created momentum we can measure—in skills, in smiles, and in the way students now say, \"Coach, when's circuit day?\" Thank you for investing in their health, confidence, and leadership.","fullyFundedDate":1706886252858,"projectUrl":"project/fitness-and-fun/7953052/","projectTitle":"Fitness and Fun","teacherDisplayName":"Coach Mac","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9011923_orig.png?crop=600,600,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1682443530395","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9011923"},{"teacherId":9783926,"projectId":8933501,"letterContent":"My First Graders were so Excited about their Air Dry Clay Project! I taught them about Blue Birds and Cardinals. We discussed the Importance of birds in the Environment. The student's each picked the bird they wanted to make.\r\n The class watched a short video about working with the clay to form their own clay bird. They had fun working with the red or blue clay to form it into one larger ball of clay for the body and one smaller ball of clay for the head. I taught them how to mold the eyes and beak of their bird with their fingers and carving tools. They did an amazing job! \r\nThere was so much love and excitement in the student's faces! I loved how engaged my students were and how they stayed focused to finish their project. They asked for very little help, and made this project their \"Own .\" They were so Proud of What They Accomplished. The Birds Each Had their Own Personality~ They are so Cute! There were Lots of Sweet Smiles, Happy Faces and Pictures! Thank you for Sharing the Love of Art With My First Graders!","fullyFundedDate":1741099905809,"projectUrl":"project/creativity-and-love-for-art/8933501/","projectTitle":"Creativity and Love for Art","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hoke","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9783926"},{"teacherId":6623362,"projectId":9259350,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support in helping bring essential tech tools to our classroom! Because of you, my students now have access to headphones, earphones, a keyboard, and interactive pointers that are making a real difference in their daily learning.\r\n\r\nThese tools have helped us create a focused and engaging environment. Students are better able to concentrate during digital lessons, work independently, and participate in group activities with confidence. One of their favorite additions has been the pointers they feel like little teachers during read-alouds and presentations!\r\n\r\nYour donation has truly enhanced our classroom experience. Thank you for investing in my students and helping them grow with the tools they need to succeed!","fullyFundedDate":1746698842778,"projectUrl":"project/tech-tools-to-help-first-graders-focus-a/9259350/","projectTitle":"Tech Tools to Help First Graders Focus and Learn!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Mason","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6623362_orig.jpg?crop=2400,2400,x0,y40&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1638372211758","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsmason115"},{"teacherId":6623362,"projectId":9221707,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support! We recently used the materials during our Field Day to help build teamwork and create a cohesive class spirit. The students were so excited to see everything—they immediately felt special and proud to be part of something together.\r\n\r\nThe new resources added a fun and unified touch to our day. It was amazing to see the students working together, cheering each other on, and showing real team spirit. Your donation helped make that possible, and we are so grateful!\r\n\r\nWith appreciation,\r\nMrs. Mason","fullyFundedDate":1746786918389,"projectUrl":"project/tie-dye-teamwork-building-community-thr/9221707/","projectTitle":"Tie-Dye Teamwork: Building Community Through Creativity","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Mason","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6623362_orig.jpg?crop=2400,2400,x0,y40&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1638372211758","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsmason115"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_68701","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":382,"numTeachers":38,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":92,"percentWhite":0,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":3,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"10.1:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":49.2,"schoolId":68701,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Lee A Tolbert Community Academy on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Lee A Tolbert Community Academy","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/missouri/missouri-department-of-education/lee-a-tolbert-community-academy/68701"}