{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Lincoln Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":46.1,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10270528,"projectId":9732943,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom project. Your generosity has made a visible difference for our students, and I'm grateful you took part.\r\n\r\nWe're using the new resources every day: students use the headphones for focused listening during short instructional videos, which helps those who need quieter spaces to concentrate. The coloring materials are part of our literacy-building stations — students create illustrated story maps after listening to read-alouds, then use those maps when writing their own endings. We've also started a simple portfolio system: selected work samples, reflections, and teacher notes go into folders so students can track growth and practice critical-thinking skills around reading and writing.\r\n\r\nA specific moment I'll share: during a recent lesson, small groups listened to a multicultural folktale through the headphones, then worked together to color a sequence chart that showed cause and effect in the story. One student who is usually shy excitedly explained how the character's choices led to the ending — and then chose to try a longer writing response for the portfolio. That confidence-building moment came directly from having the materials and a structured routine that supports focused listening and discussion.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the new supplies, they were clearly thrilled — there were smiles and eager questions about how we'd use everything. That initial excitement quickly turned into purposeful work: better attention during videos, more thoughtful illustrations, and more thoughtful peer conversations about text.\r\n\r\nNext steps: we'll continue building on this unit by having students prepare a short multimedia presentation for their portfolios. They'll listen to a new set of audio passages, take notes, create a visual sequence or character map with the coloring supplies, and then write and record a brief reflection. This will deepen their critical thinking about characters and plot while giving them opportunities to practice speaking, listening, and written expression.\r\n\r\nThank you again for helping our classroom. Your support is already shaping meaningful learning experiences for our students.","fullyFundedDate":1764718597839,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-essentials-for-a-healthy-and-c/9732943/","projectTitle":"Classroom Essentials for a Healthy and Creative Learning Environment","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Milone","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10270528_orig.jpg?crop=1440,1440,x0,y96&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1758305692804","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10270528"},{"teacherId":9332294,"projectId":9277567,"letterContent":"I want to express my deepest gratitude for your generous support of our DonorsChoose project, \"Bouncing Into Recess Joy.\" Because of your kindness, our students are now enjoying brand-new soccer balls, footballs, kickballs, and basketballs — and the impact has been immediate and inspiring.\r\n\r\nThe moment the equipment arrived, , the playground came alive with organized games, teamwork, and the joyful noise of kids being active and having fun. These balls are more than just equipment — they are tools for building confidence, encouraging cooperation, and promoting physical and emotional health. Whether it's a group of students learning how to pass a soccer ball, tossing a football with newfound skill, or organizing a friendly game of kickball, your donation has created countless moments of connection, laughter, and growth.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in the power of play. Your generosity has made a tangible difference in our school community, and we are so lucky to have supporters like you.","fullyFundedDate":1750865848699,"projectUrl":"project/bouncing-into-recess-joy/9277567/","projectTitle":"Bouncing Into Recess Joy!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Fuger","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9332294_orig.jpg?crop=277,277,x2,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1714072730844","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9332294"},{"teacherId":9332294,"projectId":9296910,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our classroom through DonorsChoose. Because of your kindness, we were able to add beautiful, sturdy new bookshelves to our learning space—and the impact has gone far beyond simple storage.\r\n\r\nThese shelves have helped transform our classroom into a welcoming and organized environment where books are not only more accessible, but also more inviting. Students now walk in and immediately see a space that reflects care, thoughtfulness, and pride. The new shelves have allowed us to display a greater variety of books, making it easier for students to explore genres, discover new favorites, and take ownership of their reading choices.\r\n\r\nWhat once felt like a series of mismatched odds and ends- is now a beautiful focal point in our room. It's more than just furniture; it's a statement to my students that their learning and their space matter.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping us create a classroom that is both functional and beautiful. Your support has made a lasting difference, and we are truly grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1746787007408,"projectUrl":"project/from-floor-to-shelf-organizing-our-clas/9296910/","projectTitle":"From Floor to Shelf: Organizing Our Classroom Library","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Fuger","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9332294_orig.jpg?crop=277,277,x2,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1714072730844","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9332294"},{"teacherId":9332294,"projectId":9252442,"letterContent":"I want to extend a heartfelt thank you for your generous support of our DonorsChoose project, \"Gear Up For Recess Fun and Games!\" Thanks to your kindness, our students now have jump ropes, flag football flags, kickball bases, a storage bag, and a ball pump—all the essentials to make recess more active, fun, and organized.\r\n\r\nSince receiving this equipment, recess has transformed into a time filled with laughter, teamwork, and healthy activity. Students are excited to challenge themselves with jump ropes, organize flag football games, and play kickball with proper bases—making every game feel more official and engaging. The storage bag keeps everything neat and accessible, and the ball pump ensures that our equipment is always ready to go.\r\n\r\nYour donation is more than just providing supplies; it's creating opportunities for our students to build physical skills, develop friendships, and experience the joy of play. These moments on the playground help nurture confidence, cooperation, and a positive school community.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in the importance of recess and active play. Your generosity has made a meaningful difference in our students' school experience, and we are incredibly grateful for your support.","fullyFundedDate":1751580079796,"projectUrl":"project/gear-up-for-recess-fun-and-games/9252442/","projectTitle":"Gear Up for Recess Fun and Games!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Fuger","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9332294_orig.jpg?crop=277,277,x2,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1714072730844","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9332294"},{"teacherId":9332294,"projectId":9204462,"letterContent":"I want to extend my heartfelt thanks for your generous support of our classroom through DonorsChoose. Because of your contribution, we were able to bring a variety of engaging, high-quality graphic novels into the hands of our middle school students—and the impact has been incredible.\r\n\r\nFor many of my students, reading can feel like a challenge rather than a joy. But the arrival of these graphic novels has completely transformed the atmosphere in our classroom. Suddenly, students who once struggled to finish a chapter are now devouring books cover to cover. The visual storytelling, relatable characters, and exciting plots have pulled in even the most reluctant readers, helping them build confidence, comprehension skills, and a genuine love for reading.\r\n\r\nNone of this would have been possible without your kindness and support. Thank you for believing in the power of books, and in the potential of every student in our classroom. Your generosity has truly made a lasting difference.","fullyFundedDate":1746660852844,"projectUrl":"project/graphic-novels-for-engaged-middle-school/9204462/","projectTitle":"Graphic Novels for Engaged Middle School Readers","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Fuger","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9332294_orig.jpg?crop=277,277,x2,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1714072730844","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9332294"},{"teacherId":9967303,"projectId":9173203,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for the wonderful donation of headphones to our classroom! My students absolutely love being able to listen to music while working on projects, which helps them stay focused and motivated. This week, they've also been using the headphones during baseline testing, which has made the experience more enjoyable and comfortable for everyone.\r\n\r\nWe especially appreciate how colorful the headphones are — it makes them easy to spot when those silly kids try to sneak them out of the room! Your thoughtful gift has truly brightened our classroom and enhanced our learning environment. We are very grateful for your generosity!","fullyFundedDate":1746564316009,"projectUrl":"project/ears-to-success-transforming-education/9173203/","projectTitle":"Ears to Success: Transforming Education Through Audio","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Heindl","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9967303_orig.jpg?crop=437,437,x489,y581&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1741976385195","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9967303"},{"teacherId":9967303,"projectId":9173885,"letterContent":"My students have absolutely loved the stress balls, using them both for fun games and as a helpful tool to calm down when needed. These little sensory aids have become a go-to resource during moments of high energy or stress, allowing students to refocus and feel more comfortable in the classroom. It's been wonderful to see how much joy and calm they bring to the students throughout the day.\r\n\r\nEvery class also loves the vines hanging on my wall, especially with the glowing LED sign that adds a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Several students even ask to sit right next to the vines because they enjoy touching them, which helps them feel more grounded and relaxed. This thoughtful addition has created a soothing environment that supports their emotional well-being.\r\n\r\nMy students and I are incredibly grateful for all the wonderful gifts you provided. Your generosity has made our classroom a more engaging, comforting, and enjoyable place to learn. Thank you so much for your kindness and support!","fullyFundedDate":1742418714376,"projectUrl":"project/feelings-in-focus-understanding-ourselv/9173885/","projectTitle":"Feelings in Focus: Understanding Ourselves and Others","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Heindl","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9967303_orig.jpg?crop=437,437,x489,y581&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1741976385195","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9967303"},{"teacherId":9967303,"projectId":9159948,"letterContent":"The clear white bins have made a significant impact on organizing our student and teacher closet. With everything neatly stored and visible, both teachers and students can easily find the materials they need without wasting time searching. This simple yet effective organization method has created a more efficient and pleasant environment for everyone involved.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, the mints have been a delightful treat for the students, especially during this week's baseline testing. They really appreciate having a small reward to boost their focus and morale. The power strip has proven invaluable as well, being used every class period to charge Chromebooks. This ensures that students can keep their devices powered throughout the entire day, supporting their learning seamlessly. The laminating sheets were especially useful at the start of the school year, allowing me to preserve important materials for long-term use. We are truly grateful for your generous donation and the positive difference it has made in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1744032833475,"projectUrl":"project/focus-and-flourish-tools-for-a-thriving/9159948/","projectTitle":"Focus and Flourish: Tools for a Thriving Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Heindl","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9967303_orig.jpg?crop=437,437,x489,y581&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1741976385195","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9967303"},{"teacherId":9811693,"projectId":8895155,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our \"Headphones for Focus\" project! The headphones have made a remarkable difference in our math lessons, helping students concentrate and engage more deeply with the material. With the headphones, students can listen to instructional videos, math explanations, and audio-based practice exercises without being distracted by the noise of the classroom. This has allowed them to focus on understanding key math concepts, especially when working on independent practice or during small-group instruction.\r\n\r\nWhat excites our students the most is the ability to hear math lessons more clearly and without distraction. Many of them are now more eager to dive into math problems because the headphones create a quiet, personalized space for them to learn at their own pace. One student who struggles with staying focused in noisy environments has expressed how the headphones allow her to concentrate better, saying they \"help me hear the steps clearly and get the problem right.\" It's incredible to see how these headphones are boosting confidence and helping students overcome challenges in math.\r\n\r\nThanks to your generous support, we're able to create an environment where every student has the tools they need to succeed in math. We're excited to continue using the headphones to help our students strengthen their math skills and build a love for learning.","fullyFundedDate":1731510956044,"projectUrl":"project/headphones-for-focus-amplifying-learnin/8895155/","projectTitle":"Headphones for Focus: Amplifying Learning in a Quiet Space","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Sprayberry","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9811693_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1729563152117","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/sprayberry"},{"teacherId":9811693,"projectId":8895113,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support of our \"Fidget Your Way to Success\" project, our students are experiencing a remarkable transformation in their focus and engagement in the classroom. The new resources, including fidget tools and sensory objects, have made a significant impact on how students approach their work. During a recent lesson on problem-solving strategies, we used the fidget cubes and spinners to help students stay focused while brainstorming solutions to complex math problems. It was incredible to see how these tools gave students the physical outlet they needed to concentrate better, resulting in a more productive and positive classroom environment.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, their excitement was contagious. They couldn't wait to try out the fidget tools, and there was an immediate sense of empowerment as they discovered how these small objects helped them channel their energy and maintain focus. One student remarked, \"It's like I can think more clearly now!\"—a testament to the effectiveness of the tools in creating a calming and supportive space for learning. The success of this project has not only helped students with attention and focus, but it has also fostered a sense of pride and ownership over their learning process.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we plan to continue using the fidget tools to enhance our classroom routines and foster a deeper understanding of self-regulation. In an upcoming writing project, students will use the tools to help them stay engaged as they draft and revise their essays, and we'll be closely tracking their progress. Thanks to your support, our classroom is a more focused and dynamic space, and we are excited to see how these resources will continue to benefit our students in the weeks and months to come.","fullyFundedDate":1731510956251,"projectUrl":"project/fidget-your-way-to-success-enhancing-cl/8895113/","projectTitle":"Fidget Your Way to Success: Enhancing Classroom Focus","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Sprayberry","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9811693_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1729563152117","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/sprayberry"},{"teacherId":9332294,"projectId":8955903,"letterContent":"Thank you for providing my students with a wider variety of fidgets! They were so excited to receive them and have already used them frequently. They are always excited to be able to pick a new fidget to try out. I can see a change in my students behavior when they are able to use their fidgets. They help them stay focused and can help calm a student that is feeling overwhelmed, upset, or on edge about something else. It has also helped those that just need something to do with their hands while they work. All of my students are truly benefiting from receiving the fidgets and we can not even begin to thank you enough for your generous support.\r\n\r\nWith gratitude,\r\nMrs. Fuger","fullyFundedDate":1741099902308,"projectUrl":"project/calm-minds-focused-futures-fidgets-and/8955903/","projectTitle":"Calm Minds, Focused Futures: Fidgets and Stress Relief for Success","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Fuger","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9332294_orig.jpg?crop=277,277,x2,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1714072730844","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9332294"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_27955","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":690,"numTeachers":48,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":5,"percentBlack":41,"percentWhite":20,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":23,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"14.4:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":53.9,"schoolId":27955,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Lincoln Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Lincoln Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/illinois/rockford-public-schools-district-205/lincoln-middle-school/27955"}