{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Marion Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":42.1,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10238619,"projectId":9821335,"letterContent":"A Brighter, More Engaging Classroom—Thanks to You!\r\n\r\nThanks to your incredible generosity, our classroom has been transformed into a space that truly inspires curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning! The new STEM kits and library organization materials have made such a meaningful impact on both our daily routines and our students' excitement for hands-on exploration.\r\n\r\nWhen the boxes first arrived, the students were beyond thrilled. They couldn't wait to unpack the STEM materials and dive right into building, designing, and experimenting. One group immediately began constructing bridges with the \"I Can Do\" STEM kits, eagerly testing how much weight their designs could hold. The room was buzzing with collaboration, problem-solving, and plenty of \"aha!\" moments. It's been amazing to see how these materials encourage teamwork and real-world thinking in a way that's both fun and deeply engaging.\r\n\r\nOur classroom library makeover has also made a big difference! With the new bins and organizational supplies, our books are now easier to find and beautifully displayed. Students are spending more time browsing and discovering new titles that match their interests. The organized space has made independent reading time calmer, more inviting, and more student-led.\r\n\r\nOne of my favorite moments so far was watching a group of students finish their STEM activity, clean up their materials, and then naturally transition to reading about engineering and inventions from our refreshed library shelves. It was the perfect blend of hands-on learning and reading curiosity—exactly what I hoped these resources would inspire!\r\n\r\nNext, my students will be using the STEM kits to complete a series of \"Mini Maker Challenges,\" where they'll design and build projects that connect to our current science and math lessons. The library continues to support their learning by giving them access to books that deepen their understanding and spark new ideas.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has not only brightened our classroom—it's empowered my students to see themselves as readers, thinkers, and creators. Thank you for helping us build a space where learning truly comes to life!","fullyFundedDate":1760735624463,"projectUrl":"project/building-a-brighter-classroom-stem-reso/9821335/","projectTitle":"Building a Brighter Classroom: STEM Resources and Library Makeover","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. McCarthy","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10238619_orig.jpg?crop=703,703,x0,y7&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1756866802300","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10238619"},{"teacherId":10238619,"projectId":9720543,"letterContent":"Indoor Fun and Learning—All Thanks to You!\r\n\r\nBecause of your generous donations, our classroom has been filled with laughter, teamwork, and creativity! The new indoor games and sensory materials have completely transformed how we spend our indoor recess and brain break times. What used to be quiet, unstructured time is now full of cooperative play, problem-solving, and joyful engagement.\r\n\r\nWhen the boxes arrived, my students could hardly contain their excitement—they immediately gathered around, eager to see what was inside. The moment we unpacked the games, their faces lit up with pure joy. One student exclaimed, \"This is better than Christmas!\" It was such a heartwarming reminder of how something as simple as new materials can mean so much.\r\n\r\nWe're using the new games not only for indoor recess, but also during our learning centers to build teamwork and critical thinking skills. The sensory items have been especially impactful for students who need calming tools during transitions or busy parts of the day. These resources have helped create a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone.\r\n\r\nA special classroom moment came during our first \"Team Challenge Friday,\" where students worked together to complete a series of problem-solving games using the new materials. Watching them collaborate, cheer each other on, and use communication skills we've been practicing was incredible—true learning through play!\r\n\r\nNext, we're integrating some of the sensory and game materials into our STEM and social-emotional learning lessons. My students will continue to explore how play can strengthen focus, teamwork, and creativity.\r\n\r\nThank you for making our classroom a brighter, happier place to play, learn, and grow—no matter the weather outside!","fullyFundedDate":1758900702590,"projectUrl":"project/play-learn-and-growindoor-fun-for-our/9720543/","projectTitle":"Play, Learn, and Grow—Indoor Fun for Our Students!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. McCarthy","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10238619_orig.jpg?crop=703,703,x0,y7&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1756866802300","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10238619"},{"teacherId":10238619,"projectId":9676033,"letterContent":"Our Classroom is Shining—Thanks to You!\r\n\r\nYour generous donations have truly transformed our classroom! The new whiteboards have become a daily favorite—students love using them during math rotations to show their work, play math games, and collaborate in small groups. It's amazing how something so simple can make practice feel so exciting and interactive!\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, my students' faces lit up. They couldn't wait to open the boxes and start using their new supplies. The whiteboards quickly turned into a tool for creativity and confidence—students who were once hesitant to share their answers now proudly hold up their boards for all to see.\r\n\r\nThe cleaning supplies have also been a huge help. Having wipes, sprays, and organizers means our classroom stays fresh and ready for learning every day. Students have even taken ownership in keeping their workspace tidy—something that helps our math lessons run smoothly and our classroom feel calm and inviting.\r\n\r\nThe small prizes have been a fun and motivating way to celebrate effort and perseverance. Whether it's mastering multiplication facts or completing a challenging math puzzle, students look forward to earning a little reward for their hard work.\r\n\r\nNext, we're using these resources as part of our \"Math Mystery Challenges,\" where students work in teams to solve real-world problems using whiteboards and cooperative strategies. Your support made this hands-on, engaging learning possible—and we're so grateful!\r\n\r\nThank you for helping make our math time clean, creative, and full of smiles!","fullyFundedDate":1757224674143,"projectUrl":"project/clean-and-creative-math-practice/9676033/","projectTitle":"Clean and Creative Math Practice!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. McCarthy","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10238619_orig.jpg?crop=703,703,x0,y7&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1756866802300","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10238619"},{"teacherId":10078533,"projectId":9461358,"letterContent":"I want to extend my heartfelt thanks for the generous donations made to our classroom. The new drawers, stools, flexible seating, markers, and various supplies have made a remarkable difference in our daily learning environment. Your support has not only provided much needed resources, but it has also brought a renewed sense of excitement and comfort to our classroom community.\r\n\r\nThe flexible seating and stools have given students more freedom to choose where and how they work best, leading to improved focus and engagement. The new storage drawers have helped keep our space organized and efficient, allowing us to spend more time learning and less time searching for materials. The markers and other supplies have sparked creativity and enthusiasm during lessons and projects, making our classroom a more vibrant and dynamic place to learn.\r\n\r\nYour kindness and investment in our students' education is deeply appreciated. Every item you've contributed has had a positive impact, and the students are thrilled with their enhanced learning environment. Thank you for believing in our classroom and helping to make it a space where students feel supported, inspired, and ready to succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1757423961686,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-setup/9461358/","projectTitle":"Classroom Setup","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Cantrell","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10078533_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1752443964258","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10078533"},{"teacherId":713960,"projectId":9458729,"letterContent":"My 2nd graders love our new rug! It instantly became a preferred spot in the classroom. We use it daily: for partner reading, independent work, whole group lessons, and even quick brain breaks. It's cozy, bright, and makes our classroom feel like a real home for learning. \r\nUpon learning that it was purchased by family, friends, and others who wanted to support their learning space, multiple students asked, \"Can you please tell the people who gave us this THANK YOU for being so kind?\"\r\nSo from the kiddos and I: \"Thank you for your kindness and for making such a big difference in our daily learning!\"","fullyFundedDate":1752604991894,"projectUrl":"project/the-heart-of-our-classroom/9458729/","projectTitle":"The Heart of Our Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Elliott","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp713960_orig.jpg?crop=819,819,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1649109082209","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/713960"},{"teacherId":6570926,"projectId":9384680,"letterContent":"From the bottom of my heart, thank you for bringing our classroom to life in such a meaningful way. Because of your generosity, our learning space has been completely transformed—and the impact on my students has already been profound.\r\n\r\nThe moment our new carpet was rolled out, it became more than just a soft place to sit. It became our story area, our thinking spot, our safe zone where children feel comfortable enough to share their voices, listen closely, and learn together. It has brought warmth—both physically and emotionally—into our room.\r\n\r\nThe book boxes and seat sacks have given my students ownership of their materials and teaches them responsibility for taking care of them. Now, their books, chromebooks, journals, and supplies are within reach, neatly stored, and always ready for learning. You can see their pride in how they care for their materials—and each other.\r\n\r\nThe new shelving has made our classroom more organized. Books, centers, art supplies, and math-manipulatives are easily stored and accessible. It's amazing to watch my students gravitate toward reading during their free choice center time, eager to explore the shelves like treasure hunters on a mission.\r\n\r\nAnd the easel—what a game changer for whole-group learning! It has become a central hub for our shared writing, anchor charts, and morning messages. With it, every student can see, engage, and participate in a more interactive way.\r\n\r\nYour donation didn't just fund materials—it created opportunities for collaboration, independence, organization, and joy. The changes have allowed our classroom to become a more engaging, supportive, and nurturing environment where students feel valued and excited to learn each day.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in public education, in teachers, and most importantly—in students you may never meet. Your kindness extends well past the four walls of our classroom and deep into the hearts of my students.","fullyFundedDate":1750008383120,"projectUrl":"project/revive-and-refresh-creating-a-welcomin/9384680/","projectTitle":"Revive and Refresh – Creating a Welcoming Space for Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Giesel","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6570926_orig.jpg?crop=960,960,x0,y60&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1748662693984","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6570926"},{"teacherId":3242143,"projectId":9355732,"letterContent":"I cannot thank you enough for helping fund the resources I need to teach in my classroom.\r\n\r\n You have provided my students with the resources they need to excel in the classroom. My favorite part has been witnessing their excitement and love for learning. \r\n\r\nMy students are now able to stay organized, understand how using less paper helps the environment, and connect their everyday lives to efforts in helping the planet.\r\n\r\nThe Magic School read-aloud has provided my students with more ways to think about how to help the planet combat climate change.","fullyFundedDate":1752508145005,"projectUrl":"project/fish-are-friends-and-sometimes-food/9355732/","projectTitle":"Fish Are Friends and Sometimes Food!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Frey","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3242143_orig.jpg?crop=1242,1242,x0,y550&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1740504282598","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3242143"},{"teacherId":3242143,"projectId":9322049,"letterContent":"Thank you! I am back to teaching first grade, and the items you have provided for my classroom have made a significant impact. With your support, I now have a classroom library, storage containers for students' markers and writing materials, pencils for the entire school year, headphones for assessments, and a hanging file rack.\r\n\r\nWhen the students entered their first-grade classroom, they were amazed to see a fully furnished space that they could call their own.\r\n\r\nThe leveled books have been invaluable. I've already noticed some of my students advancing in their reading levels because they now have access to books that support their learning. Thank you for making such a positive impact on their education!","fullyFundedDate":1746787376293,"projectUrl":"project/im-back-at-it-again/9322049/","projectTitle":"I'm Back At It Again!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Frey","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3242143_orig.jpg?crop=1242,1242,x0,y550&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1740504282598","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3242143"},{"teacherId":5733488,"projectId":8545249,"letterContent":"Thank you all so much for contributing to making our school a more caring and compassionate place to be. Because of your generosity, we have been able to see several groups of students grow in kindness and compassion while using the sand trays and miniatures. \r\n\r\nThe groups were such a success that our administration team has requested these groups continue to be offered to students in the years to come. \r\n\r\nBecause of your thoughtfulness in contributing to our project, we have the tools to continue spreading compassion throughout our school community.","fullyFundedDate":1727386111261,"projectUrl":"project/helping-to-build-a-compassionate-school/8545249/","projectTitle":"Helping to Build a Compassionate School Community","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bourland","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5733488_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y548&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1722201214375","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5733488"},{"teacherId":3242143,"projectId":8997100,"letterContent":"Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! It is impossible to say how grateful I am for your donation to my \"Hands-on Readers.\" I am committed to providing students with a relevant curriculum that develops lifelong skills, and it is inspiring to see so many others who share my vision for education. \r\nThe tools you have funded will enable students to engage in their learning to read and help push strategies for fluency and comprehension My students love to try new activities, and we're thrilled to be able to use these learning tools during reading. Thank you once more for your generosity. We can't wait to begin our learning journey!","fullyFundedDate":1736366652865,"projectUrl":"project/hands-on-readers/8997100/","projectTitle":"Hands-on Readers!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Frey","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3242143_orig.jpg?crop=1242,1242,x0,y550&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1740504282598","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3242143"},{"teacherId":3242143,"projectId":8887830,"letterContent":"Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! It is impossible to say how grateful I am for your donation to my project. I am committed to providing students with a relevant curriculum that develops lifelong skills, and it is inspiring to see so many others who share my vision for education. \r\nThe tools you have funded will enable students to engage in their learning to read and help push strategies for fluency and comprehension My students love to try new activities, and we're thrilled to be able to use these learning tools during reading. Thank you once more for your generosity. We can't wait to begin our learning journey!","fullyFundedDate":1733712262236,"projectUrl":"project/fabulous-phonics-for-all-learners/8887830/","projectTitle":"Fabulous Phonics for ALL learners!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Frey","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3242143_orig.jpg?crop=1242,1242,x0,y550&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1740504282598","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3242143"},{"teacherId":7678293,"projectId":8782427,"letterContent":"Because of your generous donation to my classroom, my students have shown greater involvement and engagement in lessons. They love the value of making their own choices when coming in for class and being able to stand at a desk or sit on the wiggle seats.\r\n Everyday, there are happy faces as the work in their chosen spots in an environment built with them in mind. For example, one of the students who is typically non-stop moving, now has the flexibility to focus and remain present in the lessons. In addition, the adjustable desks also allow students to sit rather stand. This gives the chance to have more personal space as well as allow for greater seating in the room. Without you, none of this would have been possible!","fullyFundedDate":1727223466207,"projectUrl":"project/lets-be-flexible-learners/8782427/","projectTitle":"Let's Be Flexible Learners!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Kouzomis","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7678293"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_77911","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":499,"numTeachers":33,"percentFrplEligible":73,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":33,"percentWhite":17,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":40,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"15.1:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":57.9,"schoolId":77911,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Marion Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Marion Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/missouri/ritenour-school-district/marion-elementary-school/77911"}