{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Martin Luther King Junior Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":45.1,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9505405,"projectId":9951660,"letterContent":"hanks to your generosity, our physical education space has become a place where students feel safe, supported, and ready to learn. With access to essential items like hygiene products, water, and basic care supplies, students are able to fully participate in class without worry or discomfort. One meaningful moment was during a recent lesson when a student who might normally sit out was able to confidently join in after quietly accessing what they needed. That moment reminded me that when basic needs are met, students can focus, engage, and succeed. These resources have helped remove barriers so that every child can be active, included, and successful in PE. Research and classroom experience alike show that when students' basic needs are supported, they are better able to focus on learning and participation.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials arrived, students were immediately excited and relieved. There was a noticeable sense of comfort knowing that these items were available to them whenever needed, no questions asked. Students quickly understood that our classroom is a space where they are cared for as whole individuals, not just learners. That sense of dignity and trust has strengthened our classroom community and encouraged more students to participate fully and confidently.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we are continuing to build routines that normalize taking care of ourselves and others as part of physical education. Students are learning the importance of hydration, personal care, and responsibility for their well-being, while also showing empathy and respect for their peers. This project has allowed us to go beyond teaching physical skills, we are now fostering confidence, inclusivity, and lifelong healthy habits that students will carry with them far beyond the gym.","fullyFundedDate":1768398733876,"projectUrl":"project/basic-needs-in-pe/9951660/","projectTitle":"Basic Needs in PE!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Breier","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9505405_orig.jpg?crop=1512,1512,x0,y110&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1730749525971","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9505405"},{"teacherId":9505405,"projectId":9976256,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our students have been able to turn compassion into action in ways that feel real and meaningful. Using the new materials, students have taken part in hands-on service projects that allow them to help others while learning important life skills. One powerful moment was when students worked together to organize and complete a classroom or school-based service task—carefully planning, collaborating, and reflecting on how their efforts would positively impact others. These experiences helped students understand that compassion is not just something we talk about, but something we do through our actions. Projects like this give students the opportunity to build empathy, teamwork, and responsibility while making a difference in their own community.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, students were immediately excited and curious, eager to begin using real tools and resources in a purposeful way. There was a strong sense of pride and ownership as they realized they would be trusted to create, build, and contribute to something bigger than themselves. Many students expressed how special it felt to help others, and that excitement carried into every lesson. Their engagement, cooperation, and willingness to support one another have grown tremendously, creating a positive and compassionate classroom environment.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, students are continuing to expand this work by planning additional service projects and reflecting on how their actions impact others. They are setting goals for future projects, discussing ways to improve, and thinking about how they can continue showing compassion both in school and beyond. This project has laid the foundation for ongoing lessons centered on empathy, leadership, and community service, helping students see themselves as capable of making a real difference in the world.","fullyFundedDate":1767228053120,"projectUrl":"project/building-strength-through-compassion-in/9976256/","projectTitle":"Building Strength Through Compassion: Inclusive Fitness in PE","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Breier","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9505405_orig.jpg?crop=1512,1512,x0,y110&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1730749525971","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9505405"},{"teacherId":9505405,"projectId":9976549,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our students have been able to turn compassion into action in ways that feel real and meaningful. Using the new materials, students have taken part in hands-on service projects that allow them to help others while learning important life skills. One powerful moment was when students worked together to organize and complete a classroom or school-based service task—carefully planning, collaborating, and reflecting on how their efforts would positively impact others. These experiences helped students understand that compassion is not just something we talk about, but something we do through our actions. Projects like this give students the opportunity to build empathy, teamwork, and responsibility while making a difference in their own community.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, students were immediately excited and curious, eager to begin using real tools and resources in a purposeful way. There was a strong sense of pride and ownership as they realized they would be trusted to create, build, and contribute to something bigger than themselves. Many students expressed how special it felt to help others, and that excitement carried into every lesson. Their engagement, cooperation, and willingness to support one another have grown tremendously, creating a positive and compassionate classroom environment.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, students are continuing to expand this work by planning additional service projects and reflecting on how their actions impact others. They are setting goals for future projects, discussing ways to improve, and thinking about how they can continue showing compassion both in school and beyond. This project has laid the foundation for ongoing lessons centered on empathy, leadership, and community service, helping students see themselves as capable of making a real difference in the world.","fullyFundedDate":1767295687192,"projectUrl":"project/celebrating-chinese-new-year-through-mov/9976549/","projectTitle":"Celebrating Chinese New Year through Movement and Fitness","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Breier","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9505405_orig.jpg?crop=1512,1512,x0,y110&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1730749525971","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9505405"},{"teacherId":9505405,"projectId":10071820,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our students have transformed our space into a fully student-designed mini golf course that has quickly become the highlight of our physical education program. Students are not just playing—they are creating, collaborating, and leading. In one memorable moment, small groups worked together to design their own holes, testing angles, force, and obstacles, then revising their designs after classmates played through and gave feedback. Watching students problem-solve, encourage one another, and celebrate both successes and \"almost\" shots has been incredible. These materials have allowed our students to take ownership of their learning in a hands-on and meaningful way, blending physical activity with creativity and teamwork.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the excitement was immediate—students were wide-eyed, asking, \"When can we start building?\" and \"Can I design my own hole?\" That energy carried straight into our lessons, where students eagerly jumped into planning, building, and playing. For many of our students, this was their first experience with mini golf, and seeing their confidence grow as they learned new skills and took pride in their creations has been truly special. The joy, laughter, and sense of accomplishment during each class period have made this project unforgettable.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, our students are continuing to build on this experience by preparing to use the mini golf course as part of a school-wide community service event. They are taking the lead in organizing, teaching younger students how to play, and creating a welcoming experience for families and our school community. This project has gone far beyond physical education, it has empowered students to become leaders, problem-solvers, and active contributors to their community, and we are so grateful for the role you played in making that possible.","fullyFundedDate":1770401327951,"projectUrl":"project/students-build-mini-golf-to-serve-our-sc/10071820/","projectTitle":"Students Build Mini Golf to Serve Our School Community","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Breier","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9505405_orig.jpg?crop=1512,1512,x0,y110&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1730749525971","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9505405"},{"teacherId":549161,"projectId":10026863,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous support of our classroom and for helping meet the everyday needs of my students. Your kindness is making a meaningful difference in their lives.\r\n\r\nEach day, my students arrive eager to learn, but not all come with the basic comforts they need to fully succeed. Because of your support, we are able to provide warmth, care, and nourishment three essentials that directly impact focus, behavior, and academic growth.\r\n\r\nThe hats and gloves you've provided will keep students warm during cold mornings and outdoor transitions, allowing them to start their day comfortable and ready to learn. The addition of a soft classroom carpet is creating a welcoming space where students can gather, collaborate, and feel a true sense of belonging. Headphones are helping students stay focused and fully engage in technology-based learning without distractions, promoting independence and confidence.\r\n\r\nYour support of healthy snacks is equally impactful. When students are no longer distracted by hunger, they are better able to concentrate, regulate their emotions, and retain what they are learning.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, our classroom is becoming a place where students feel safe, supported, and valued. For many of them, school is the one place where their basic needs are consistently met. You are helping build a strong foundation for both their well-being and their academic success.\r\n\r\nThank you for your generosity, compassion, and commitment to our students. Your support truly helps every child feel ready to thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1768682220548,"projectUrl":"project/warmth-care-hunger-essentials-for-re/10026863/","projectTitle":"Warmth, Care & Hunger: Essentials for Ready-to-Learn Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. King","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp549161_orig.jpg?crop=960,960,x0,y160&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1605620290213","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/king3class"},{"teacherId":10416030,"projectId":10052175,"letterContent":"On behalf of our students and staff, we would like to express our heartfelt thanks for supporting the \"Full Bellies, Clean Hands, and Ready to Learn\" project. Your generosity helps ensure that our students have access to the basic essentials they need each day—nutritious food, proper hygiene, and a comfortable learning environment.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, our students are able to focus more on learning, growing, and reaching their full potential. When children have full bellies and the tools to care for themselves, they feel more confident, healthy, and prepared to succeed in the classroom.\r\n\r\nWe truly appreciate your kindness and commitment to making a difference in the lives of our students. Your support means more than words can express, and it is helping create a brighter future for the children we serve.","fullyFundedDate":1769308984483,"projectUrl":"project/full-bellies-clean-hands-and-ready-to/10052175/","projectTitle":"Full Bellies, Clean Hands, and Ready to Learn","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Chavis","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10416030"},{"teacherId":7239873,"projectId":10029967,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting my project, \"One Happy and Healthy World.\" Because of your generosity, we were able to provide essential hygiene and first aid materials such as deodorant, hair ties, bandages, ointment, Vaseline, and other care items to create bathroom baskets for staff and faculty throughout the entire school building. These baskets were placed in all staff bathrooms, including those used by Assistant Principals and Physical Education teachers, so that everyone in our school community has access to basic items that help them stay comfortable, confident, and healthy throughout the day.\r\n\r\nThese resources have already made a meaningful impact in our daily school routine. In our classroom, we often talk about the importance of taking care of ourselves so we can be ready to learn and help others. During one class discussion about community responsibility and health, students helped organize the materials and talked about why having access to basic hygiene and first aid supplies matters. They were proud to know that the items you donated were not just for our classroom, but for the entire school. It helped them see how small acts of kindness can support a whole community.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the materials, they were excited and curious. Many of them did not realize how many people in a school rely on simple items like bandages, hair ties, or deodorant to get through a long day. They were especially happy to know that the supplies would be available to teachers, staff, and visitors whenever needed. The idea that our class helped make the school a more comfortable and caring place made them feel proud and more connected to the community around them.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, we are continuing to build lessons around health, responsibility, and kindness. Our next step is to have students work on activities focused on community care and global awareness, where they learn how helping others — even in small ways — can make a big difference in creating a happier and healthier world. We will continue to use this project as an example of how people working together can solve real problems and support one another.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has helped create a school environment where both students and staff feel supported, cared for, and ready to do their best every day. Thank you for believing in our students and for helping us make our school a healthier and happier place.","fullyFundedDate":1768780272542,"projectUrl":"project/one-happy-and-healthy-world/10029967/","projectTitle":"One Happy and Healthy World","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Davila","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7239873_orig.jpg?crop=2378,2378,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1768429428841","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7239873"},{"teacherId":8707780,"projectId":10045727,"letterContent":"Thank you again for your generous donation. The white dry erase table that I requested has been received and very much appreciated. \r\nWhenever my students enter the class, they are so happy to be using this type of table. They love it when I give them the opportunity to write on it. Instead of taking the time to give everyone dry erase boards, they are ready to go.\r\nOther teachers have borrowed it too and comment on how much they love it. \r\nThis donation will be used for my career and will be taken care of.","fullyFundedDate":1769120871122,"projectUrl":"project/cared-for-at-the-table/10045727/","projectTitle":"Cared for at the Table!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Medina","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8707780"},{"teacherId":235872,"projectId":10033358,"letterContent":"I wanted to express my sincere thanks in funding my project. It means a lot knowing that there are people who sincerely care about my students wellbeing. \r\n\r\nThe kids are over the moon with the abundance of healthy snack options available to them. It helps keep them motivated for class and engaged in my lesson. They seem a big more eager to learn and work knowing that they can get a treat. \r\n\r\nThe notebooks help to keep all of there work in one place neatly and helps to track their progress. The book binders are helping to keep their notebooks all in a same place.","fullyFundedDate":1768753735539,"projectUrl":"project/help-us-stay-motivated-and-healthy/10033358/","projectTitle":"Help Us Stay Motivated and Healthy!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Thompson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp235872_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y493&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1662217586322","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/dthompson"},{"teacherId":9237171,"projectId":9338934,"letterContent":"I am incredibly grateful for your generous support of our \"Fun Friday Gaming\" project. Because of General Motors' commitment to education and community impact, my students now have access to a Nintendo Switch and engaging new games that have truly transformed our classroom environment. While gaming may appear to be simple entertainment, the learning that takes place during these experiences is powerful and meaningful.\r\n\r\nThrough structured game time, my students are strengthening critical thinking, strategic planning, and problem-solving skills. Many of the games require them to think ahead, make quick decisions, adjust strategies, and collaborate with teammates. They are practicing real-world skills such as communication, leadership, patience, and perseverance. I have watched students coach one another through challenges, celebrate each other's successes, and demonstrate resilience when things do not go their way. These moments build character just as much as academic lessons do.\r\n\r\nThe materials you helped provide have also allowed me to reinforce positive behavior and classroom expectations in a motivating way. \"Fun Friday Gaming\" has become a powerful incentive that encourages students to stay focused, complete assignments, and demonstrate kindness and responsibility throughout the week. As a teacher, having engaging, structured activities like this allows me to create a classroom culture built on teamwork and encouragement. Students are learning to win with humility and lose with grace—skills that will serve them far beyond elementary school.\r\n\r\nWhat has been especially meaningful is seeing students who sometimes struggle socially step into leadership roles during game time. Some of my quieter students have found their voice by explaining rules or helping classmates learn controls. Others who need extra support with peer relationships are practicing turn-taking and cooperation in an authentic, low-pressure environment. The Nintendo Switch has created shared experiences that bring students together and strengthen our sense of community.\r\n\r\nBecause of General Motors' generosity, I am able to offer my students opportunities that extend beyond traditional instruction. These experiences are helping to build confidence, strengthen relationships, and create joy in learning. Your support reminds my students that people and organizations believe in them and care about their success. That message alone is incredibly powerful.","fullyFundedDate":1747012524253,"projectUrl":"project/fun-friday-gaming/9338934/","projectTitle":"Fun Friday Gaming","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Toran","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9237171_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755704395577","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9237171"},{"teacherId":7239873,"projectId":9280758,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our 5th grade bilingual students were able to experience the joy and connection that comes from traditional board games during our schoolwide play days. When the boxes of Battleship, Guess Who?, Candy Land, Sorry!, and Twister were first opened, the room immediately filled with excitement. Many students recognized the games from home, while others were experiencing them for the very first time. What made the moment even more special was watching them naturally begin explaining the rules to one another—practicing English vocabulary, asking clarifying questions, and cheering each other on. It was learning disguised as play.\r\n\r\nWe have been using these games intentionally to build language skills, social-emotional growth, and collaboration. During Guess Who?, students practiced forming detailed descriptive questions using academic language. In Battleship, they strengthened listening skills and precise communication. Even Sorry! and Candy Land created opportunities to practice turn-taking, patience, and sportsmanship. And with Twister, students laughed together while building trust and teamwork. One especially meaningful moment came when a student who is usually hesitant to speak confidently led his group through the rules of Battleship in English. The pride on his face was unforgettable. These games have created a safe, low-pressure environment where language learning feels natural and joyful.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we are incorporating reflections and writing extensions tied to these experiences. Students are working on opinion pieces about which game best builds teamwork and why, as well as creating their own original board game concepts that include vocabulary and grammar skills we are currently studying. Your support has not only enriched our play days, but it has also strengthened classroom community and enhanced authentic language practice. Thank you for giving our students the gift of connection, confidence, and meaningful learning through play.","fullyFundedDate":1746787262081,"projectUrl":"project/dont-feel-board-sel-can-be-fun/9280758/","projectTitle":"Don't Feel \"Board\" - SEL Can Be Fun!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Davila","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7239873_orig.jpg?crop=2378,2378,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1768429428841","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7239873"},{"teacherId":9582863,"projectId":9940980,"letterContent":"This project has completely transformed the way we begin each day. The first morning we introduced the affirmation space, students walked in and immediately noticed the special circle setup. When they saw the portable whiteboard labeled \"Affirmation Board\" and the designated host seat, their faces lit up. Several students asked, \"Do we get to write on that?\" and \"Can I be the leader?\" That excitement quickly turned into ownership. Now, each morning, one student serves as the Affirmation Leader—standing proudly, writing a positive message on the board, and guiding the class in a short affirmation circle. Watching students who once avoided speaking volunteer to lead has been one of the most powerful moments of this project.\r\n\r\nWe use the space intentionally and consistently. Students sit in the meeting circle on the stools, make eye contact, and practice speaking clearly and confidently. The Affirmation Leader writes a message such as \"I am brave enough to try\" or \"Mistakes help me grow,\" and classmates reflect or add encouraging words with the markers. One especially meaningful moment happened when a typically quiet student chose the affirmation, \"My voice matters.\" After leading the group, he shared an idea later that day during our reading discussion—something he had never done before. The structure and consistency of this routine are helping students internalize positive self-talk and carry that confidence into academic lessons.\r\n\r\nNext, we are expanding this practice by connecting affirmations to goal setting and leadership opportunities throughout the week. Students will begin writing personal goals on reusable cards and reflecting on how their affirmations support their growth in reading, writing, and collaboration. We are also planning student-led \"Confidence Spotlights,\" where children recognize a peer's strengths and contributions. Because of your generosity, our classroom is not just starting the day with positivity—we are building lifelong skills in self-belief, communication, and leadership that extend far beyond our morning circle.","fullyFundedDate":1765918021084,"projectUrl":"project/shine-and-share-the-affirmation-station/9940980/","projectTitle":"Shine and Share: the Affirmation Station","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Picone","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9582863"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_22702","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":527,"numTeachers":42,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":29,"percentWhite":1,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":67,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"3 - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"12.5:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":54.9,"schoolId":22702,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Martin Luther King Junior Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Martin Luther King Junior Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/new-york/wyandanch-union-free-school-district/martin-luther-king-junior-elementary-school/22702"}