{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Manuel J Cortez Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":51.9,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":2718954,"projectId":9988206,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our classroom. Because of your contributions, our students now have access to essential supplies like markers, paper, and other materials that have already made a meaningful difference in our daily learning. We are using these new resources every day to build phonics and spelling skills, giving students hands-on opportunities to practice writing letters, sounding out words, and reinforcing important patterns. One moment that stood out was watching a normally quiet student eagerly participate in a phonics activity, confidently writing and reading words aloud; something they had previously been hesitant to do.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the excitement in the room was immediate and contagious. Students were thrilled to have fresh, high-quality supplies they could use themselves, and it sparked a renewed sense of pride and enthusiasm for their learning. Simple things like choosing their own marker colors or having enough paper to fully practice their skills made a big impact on their engagement and confidence.\r\n\r\nAs we continue building strong reading foundation skills, these materials are helping strengthen students' phonics, decoding, and spelling abilities through consistent, hands-on practice. This work is directly supporting our goal of sending students to the next grade level reading on level. Your generosity has not only provided supplies but has also empowered our students to grow as confident readers and learners. Thank you for being an important part of their success.","fullyFundedDate":1768110532197,"projectUrl":"project/reading-center-project/9988206/","projectTitle":"Reading Center Project","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Palacios","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2718954"},{"teacherId":7471521,"projectId":10017649,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our classroom. Because of you, my students now have access to learn-to-type keyboards, flexible seating, and headphones that have truly transformed how they experience computer science. The technology is helping students build essential typing and coding skills in a way that feels accessible and engaging. With headphones, they can clearly follow along with instructional videos and interactive programs at their own pace, which increases independence and understanding. The specialized keyboards are especially helpful for learners as they develop proper typing habits, setting a strong foundation for future academic success.\r\n\r\nWhat excites students most is the combination of comfort and choice. Flexible seating has given them a sense of ownership over their learning environment, allowing them to focus in ways that work best for them. I've seen students who previously struggled to stay engaged become more motivated and confident, especially when using the headphones to immerse themselves in lessons without distractions. Some of my quieter or easily overwhelmed students have especially benefited, they are more willing to participate, take risks, and persist through challenges. Your support has made our classroom more inclusive, focused, and inspiring, and I am deeply grateful for the difference you've made.","fullyFundedDate":1768528396456,"projectUrl":"project/helping-students-get-comfortable-with-co/10017649/","projectTitle":"Helping Students Get Comfortable With Coding & Typing","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Adamson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7471521_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1694241567306","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7471521"},{"teacherId":7471521,"projectId":9929919,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity and support of our classroom! Because of you, my students now have exciting coding games, STEM books, and creative prizes that have truly transformed our learning environment. We use these items as rewards during our weekly coding challenges and mini-hackathons, where students work hard to solve problems, debug programs, and collaborate with their peers. One of my favorite moments was during a recent coding contest when a student who usually hesitates to participate stayed fully engaged the entire time, determined to earn a prize. When students first saw the materials, their faces lit up with excitement, they immediately began asking questions, sharing ideas, and eagerly jumping into their work.\r\n\r\nThese prizes have had a powerful impact on student motivation and effort. I've seen students take more risks, persist through challenges, and put in extra effort to improve their coding skills. The rewards are not just about winning, they represent accomplishment, growth, and pride in their work. As we move forward, students will continue using these incentives during larger projects, including designing their own games and participating in collaborative coding showcases. Your support has helped create a positive, engaging classroom culture where every student feels encouraged to try their best and believe in their ability to succeed. Thank you for making such a meaningful difference in their learning journey!","fullyFundedDate":1766324324492,"projectUrl":"project/level-up-learning-coding-prizes-to-powe/9929919/","projectTitle":"Level Up Learning: Coding Prizes to Power Student Creativity!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Adamson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7471521_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1694241567306","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7471521"},{"teacherId":8576594,"projectId":9988142,"letterContent":"Here's a polished impact statement you can use or adapt:\r\n\r\n---\r\n\r\nThanks to your generosity, our classroom has been transformed in ways that truly matter for student learning. We've been using these new resources daily, and they've already become an essential part of our lessons. One standout moment was during a recent project where students worked collaboratively using the materials to solve real-world problems. I watched as they engaged more deeply, asked thoughtful questions, and supported one another in ways that weren't possible before.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the new materials, their excitement was immediate and contagious. There were gasps, big smiles, and so many eager hands ready to jump in and explore. For many of them, having access to these kinds of resources made them feel valued and inspired—it showed them that others believe in their success.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, we're now able to take our learning even further. Our next steps include building on these skills through more advanced projects, where students will apply what they've learned in creative and meaningful ways. They're especially excited to continue exploring, experimenting, and growing with tools that make learning more engaging and accessible.\r\n\r\nThank you for giving our students opportunities they will carry with them far beyond the classroom. Your impact is seen every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1768150770835,"projectUrl":"project/comfy-comfort-that-helps-students-flour/9988142/","projectTitle":"Comfy: Comfort That Helps Students Flourish","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. REMEDIOS","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8576594_orig.jpg?crop=1290,1290,x0,y202&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1699400482919","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8576594"},{"teacherId":10406102,"projectId":10028081,"letterContent":"Thank you again for making our project, \"STEM learning through hands-on technology,\" a reality! Your generosity has had an immediate and exciting impact on our classroom.\r\n\r\nWhen I first revealed the HoverAir X1 Pro drone to my students, the room filled with gasps, cheers, and so many questions. Many of them had never seen a drone up close before, let alone had the chance to use one. They were instantly engaged and eager to learn how it worked.\r\n\r\nWe've already begun using the drone in meaningful ways. One of our favorite projects so far has been an aerial mapping activity. Students worked in teams to plan flight paths, predict distances, and then capture footage of our school grounds. Using the recorded videos (thanks to the microSD card you provided!), they analyzed shapes, measured distances, and created simple maps from a bird's-eye view. It was incredible to watch them connect math, science, and technology all in one experience.\r\n\r\nBeyond academics, I've seen a huge boost in confidence and collaboration. Students are taking turns piloting, problem-solving together, and discussing how to improve their results. Even some of my quieter students have stepped into leadership roles during these activities.\r\n\r\nThis project has turned learning into something active, exciting, and memorable. You didn't just provide equipment—you gave my students a new way to see and understand their world.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in their curiosity and growth. Your support truly lifted our learning to new heights!","fullyFundedDate":1768688637065,"projectUrl":"project/engaging-stem-learning-with-aerial-explo/10028081/","projectTitle":"Engaging STEM Learning with Aerial Exploration and Classroom Creativity","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Sochol","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10406102"},{"teacherId":9349767,"projectId":10021828,"letterContent":"Thank you again for your amazing donations to such a great group of kids. My students have been able to use these amazing resources and countless projects and for tools to aid them in their education! They created shooting stars with all their goals for testing season in 5th grade. They were so excited to use their new markers.\r\nMy 5th grade class was also met with great snacks for their tests. They began SBAC testing and enjoyed their fruit snacks and veggie straws!\r\nTo prepare for testing season, we used our huge notebook dry erase magnet paper to model writing. They used their new composition notebooks for creative writing, informative and opinion writing, too. Thanks to you, we expect to do very well this testing season!","fullyFundedDate":1768676306687,"projectUrl":"project/essentials-for-learning-in-5th-grade/10021828/","projectTitle":"Essentials for Learning in 5th Grade","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Caballero","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9349767_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1767846636449","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9349767"},{"teacherId":4868607,"projectId":10005887,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting Kindergarten Students' Productivity in Action Using Manipulatives. Your generosity has already made a meaningful difference in our classroom. Because of you, my students now have access to hands‑on tools that help them build foundational reading and math skills and problem‑solving skills in ways that feel engaging, playful, and empowering.\r\n\r\nThese manipulatives are more than materials—they are opportunities. I've watched students who once hesitated with numbers suddenly light up as they build, sort, count, and explain their thinking with confidence. Your support has created a learning environment where every child can explore concepts at their own pace, collaborate with peers, and experience success through active learning.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in the power of early education and for investing in our young learners. Your kindness is shaping their academic journey in both Reading and Math and giving them tools they will carry far beyond kindergarten.","fullyFundedDate":1768186803321,"projectUrl":"project/kindergarten-students-productivity-in-a/10005887/","projectTitle":"Kindergarten Students' Productivity in Action Using Manipulatives","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Zamora","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4868607"},{"teacherId":8576016,"projectId":10007606,"letterContent":"Your generosity has made a meaningful difference in our classroom, and I am so grateful for your support of our \"Warm Snacks, Small Rewards, and Big Motivation for Fourth Graders\" project.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, our classroom has become a space where students feel both cared for and motivated. We use the snacks during independent work time and small group activities, especially in the afternoons when energy tends to dip. A simple snack break has turned into a moment of connection and encouragement—students refuel, refocus, and return to their work with renewed energy. The small rewards have also been incredibly effective in recognizing effort, positive behavior, and perseverance. Whether it's completing a challenging assignment or showing kindness to a classmate, students now feel seen and celebrated.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, their faces lit up with excitement. There was a genuine sense of joy and appreciation—some couldn't believe that people they've never met cared enough to support them. One moment that stood out was when a student, after earning a small reward, said, \"This makes me want to try even harder tomorrow.\" That kind of motivation is exactly what your support has inspired.\r\n\r\nMore than just snacks and rewards, you've helped create an environment where students feel valued, motivated, and eager to learn. Thank you for being part of our classroom journey and for making a lasting impact on our fourth graders.","fullyFundedDate":1768185604129,"projectUrl":"project/warm-snacks-small-rewards-and-big-moti/10007606/","projectTitle":"Warm Snacks, Small Rewards, and Big Motivation for Fourth Graders","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Michael Cabatingan","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8576016_orig.jpg?crop=2188,2188,x547,y282&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1704659978193","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8576016"},{"teacherId":9360319,"projectId":10018159,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous support of our first-grade classroom at Manuel Cortez Elementary School. Because of you, our students now have wireless headphones, wireless mice, an automatic sharpener, headset hooks, and a movable whiteboard—tools that have greatly improved our learning environment.\r\n\r\nThese resources have strengthened student focus and engagement. Headphones reduce distractions during digital lessons, while wireless mice help students navigate technology with confidence. The automatic sharpener saves time, and headset hooks keep our classroom organized and teach responsibility. The movable whiteboard enables flexible, interactive instruction that keeps students actively engaged.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has helped our students become more focused, confident, and excited to learn each day. Thank you for investing in their success and future.","fullyFundedDate":1768531687830,"projectUrl":"project/learning-and-focus-with-tech/10018159/","projectTitle":"Learning and Focus with Tech","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Carreon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9360319"},{"teacherId":9349319,"projectId":10017994,"letterContent":"I cannot thank you enough for supporting \"Little Hands, Big Skills for Pre-K.\" When the boxes arrived, my students were absolutely elective. One of my students literally jumped for joy, shouting, \"Is this all for us?\" Seeing their eyes light up as we unpacked the new fine motor tools and sensory materials was a moment I'll never forget.\r\nWe have already integrated these resources into our daily \"Discovery Centers.\" Currently, the children are using the new manipulatives to strengthen their grip and coordination, which is a vital precursor to writing. Just yesterday, I watched a student who usually struggles with focus spend fifteen minutes straight working through a task with the new materials, beaming with pride when they finished. Our next step is using these tools to practice forming the first letters of their names. Your generosity hasn't just provided \"things\"; it has provided the confidence these little learners need to succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1768532934520,"projectUrl":"project/little-hands-big-skills-for-pre-k/10017994/","projectTitle":"Little Hands, Big Skills for Pre-K","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Razon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9349319_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1699277948046","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9349319"},{"teacherId":130835,"projectId":9995096,"letterContent":"Thank you, thank you, and thank you for \"Somewhere Over The Rainbow Art Supplies.\" They have made such an impact in my classroom. The minute I showed the classroom students all the art supplies you have provided for us, they just couldn't stop talking about all the projects they were going to do! They were coming up with such creative art ideas. \r\n\r\nThe next question was...\"When can we start using the art supplies?\" I switched around my lesson plans and said, \"Right Now!\" I'm sure the whole school heard the roar with their excitement. The students have created water color paintings of nature, made friendship bracelets, formed their names with play dough, worked with pastels, and created a self portrait on canvas. These art supplies have created experiences and memories that will last a lifetime.","fullyFundedDate":1768166123317,"projectUrl":"project/somewhere-over-the-rainbow-art-activitie/9995096/","projectTitle":"Somewhere over the Rainbow Art Activities","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Mathre","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp130835_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1459718851956","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/130835"},{"teacherId":9352220,"projectId":9996774,"letterContent":"Greetings of peace!\r\n\r\nMe and my class is so thankful for the support you gave us. Me and my students were enjoying so much using the materials like the pens that they used for highlighting a sentence in a passage for them to use as an evidence in answering a question. Using their paddle board in answering questions instead of calling only one student. In this way all students has a chance to show their answers and be recognized. The bean bag that serves as a comfort space for them whenever they need to have a littler break from seating with their groups. The sharpener that helps us sharpen the pencils easily and it is really on tyime because we broke the one we had in our class. The white board eraser and magnets that gave the students colorful view on the board. Lastly I am thankful for the laminator and the laminating film for it gaves me easy way in making the material a beautiful and can last longer that students are using as we have our learning here.\r\nThank you so much for the support.","fullyFundedDate":1768318730122,"projectUrl":"project/color-them-brightly-with-pens-and-learn/9996774/","projectTitle":"Color Them Brightly With Pens and Learn Light","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. CABATAN","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9352220"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_67091","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":661,"numTeachers":51,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":1,"percentBlack":23,"percentWhite":3,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":68,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"13.0:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":48.1,"schoolId":67091,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Manuel J Cortez Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Manuel J Cortez Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/nevada/clark-county-school-district/manuel-j-cortez-elementary-school/67091"}