{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Mary Hoge Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":40.0,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":5383737,"projectId":9780520,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project, \"Kindness Through Our Eyes.\" Your generosity is helping my students lead a meaningful community service project that is already having a positive impact on our school.\r\n\r\nWith the Kodak camera and portable photo printers you funded, my students are capturing acts of kindness happening in our hallways, classrooms, and neighborhood. They are excited to look for the good around them and document moments that show compassion, teamwork, and positivity.\r\n\r\nStudents are taking the lead in planning how these photos will be displayed. They work together to choose meaningful images, design their display layouts, and write inspirational messages to accompany each photo. Their work will be shared in common areas around campus and in community spaces so others can be inspired to spread kindness too.\r\n\r\nThis project is giving my students real opportunities to practice leadership, creativity, and empathy. They are learning that their voice and actions can make a difference beyond our classroom, and they are proud to contribute something positive to our community.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students and supporting their vision. Your contribution is helping kindness grow here, one photo at a time.","fullyFundedDate":1762453412300,"projectUrl":"project/students-speak-out-camera-mini-prints/9780520/","projectTitle":"Students Speak Out: Camera + Mini Prints for Community Kindness","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Tijerina","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5383737_orig.jpg?crop=2048,2048,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1711747826756","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5383737"},{"teacherId":5415258,"projectId":9837923,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom project. Your generosity has truly transformed our learning environment, and my students are already benefiting from the resources you helped provide.\r\n\r\nWith the new bookshelves, posters, and civic education materials, our classroom has become a more organized, welcoming space where students can think, collaborate, and grow. The shelves now give my students a dedicated place to store books, leadership materials, and group project supplies—something many of them do not have access to at home. These simple additions have made our room feel more structured, calm, and student-centered.\r\n\r\nThe new civic education resources have also had an immediate impact. My students are excited to explore lessons on leadership, government, and responsibility. They love discussing how these ideas connect to their own lives and how they can make a positive difference in their school and community. It has been inspiring to see them take ownership of shared materials and treat the classroom as a space they are responsible for.\r\n\r\nOne of my favorite moments came during a recent group activity, when a student said, \"This feels like a real learning center now.\" Comments like that remind me how much the environment influences their engagement, confidence, and curiosity.\r\n\r\nYour kindness has helped create a space where students can access information, ask questions, and develop the leadership skills they need to become active, responsible citizens. Thank you for believing in my students and investing in thei","fullyFundedDate":1760847292156,"projectUrl":"project/civic-scholars-building-an-organized-sp/9837923/","projectTitle":"Civic Scholars: Building an Organized Space for Learning and Leadership","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Alvarez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5415258_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1539369386002","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5415258"},{"teacherId":5415258,"projectId":9771303,"letterContent":"Thank you for helping bring this project to life and for believing in my students' potential. Because of your generous support, my students are now using technology to lead digital literacy workshops for younger students and families in our community. They've developed leadership, creativity, and collaboration skills while inspiring others to learn. The new monitors, hub, and hard drive have transformed the way they work together and share their projects. Your kindness has given them the confidence to teach, lead, and make a meaningful difference in our school and community.","fullyFundedDate":1760027615163,"projectUrl":"project/building-digital-literacy-through-studen/9771303/","projectTitle":"Building Digital Literacy Through Student Leadership","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Alvarez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5415258_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1539369386002","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5415258"},{"teacherId":5383737,"projectId":9307200,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support! We're excited to share the incredible impact your donation has had on our classroom.\r\n\r\nThanks to you, our students now have access to 3D printing technology that is opening up entirely new ways to learn, create, and explore. While many people use technology at home for communication or entertainment, in our classroom, technology has become a hands-on learning tool that makes abstract concepts real. Whether it's designing geometric shapes, building prototypes for science projects, or exploring engineering principles, the 3D printer helps students visualize and build their ideas from the ground up.\r\n\r\nOne of the most exciting developments has been our access to new filament for the 3D printer. The improved quality and variety of this filament have allowed our students to be more creative and ambitious with their projects. They've loved experimenting with different colors and textures, and many have noticed how much more durable and professional their final models look and feel.\r\n\r\nWhat's truly inspiring is how some students, especially those who don't always engage with traditional learning, have completely lit up with this new tool. One student who typically struggles with focus has become one of our most dedicated designers, staying after class to refine his 3D models and even mentoring others. Another student, who's been shy about sharing her work, proudly presented her custom-designed phone stand to the class, printed and fully functional!\r\n\r\nYour donation didn't just provide materials, it sparked curiosity, built confidence, and empowered our students to see themselves as inventors and problem-solvers. We're deeply grateful for your support, and we can't wait to see where our students go from here.","fullyFundedDate":1746325884875,"projectUrl":"project/historic-moments-in-3d/9307200/","projectTitle":"Historic Moments in 3D","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Tijerina","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5383737_orig.jpg?crop=2048,2048,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1711747826756","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5383737"},{"teacherId":5383737,"projectId":9302836,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our project! Because of your kindness, our students now have access to a variety of new outdoor activity games that have truly transformed our recess and outdoor learning time.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the students were absolutely thrilled—eyes wide, smiles everywhere, and a buzz of excitement filled the air! One student exclaimed, \"It's like our playground got a makeover!\" It was a moment full of joy and gratitude, and I wish you could have seen their faces.\r\n\r\nWe've already put the materials to great use. Recently, we integrated the games into a teamwork and problem-solving lesson. In small groups, students rotated through outdoor activity stations that challenged them to communicate, strategize, and support one another. One particularly special moment was during a cooperative relay activity students were cheering each other on, offering encouragement, and celebrating every small success as a team. It was a perfect blend of physical activity and character building.\r\n\r\nThese new games have not only made outdoor time more fun, but they've also become a tool for social-emotional learning, especially for students who thrive in more active and hands-on environments.\r\n\r\nNext, we're planning a science unit that includes outdoor exploration and movement-based challenges. The students will use the open space and some of the new equipment to simulate animal movements, learn about ecosystems, and even conduct simple experiments using motion and force. We're excited to keep blending physical activity with academic learning—it's keeping our students engaged, happy, and energized.\r\n\r\nThank you again for helping bring joy, movement, and deeper learning to our classroom. Your support means the world to us.","fullyFundedDate":1747333359111,"projectUrl":"project/kindness-while-promoting-outdoor-activit/9302836/","projectTitle":"Kindness While Promoting Outdoor Activities","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Tijerina","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5383737_orig.jpg?crop=2048,2048,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1711747826756","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5383737"},{"teacherId":5415258,"projectId":9630444,"letterContent":"Thanks to this project, my students are experiencing hands on learning like never before! The Bambu Lab A1 Combo 3D printer has opened the door to creativity, curiosity, and confidence. Students who were once hesitant to take risks are now eager to design, measure, and print their own creations watching their ideas literally come to life layer by layer. It's been incredible to see them troubleshoot, collaborate, and celebrate each other's successes.\r\n\r\nFor many of my students, this is their first experience with advanced technology. Learning to use a digital caliper, understanding design precision, and working with professional grade tools have given them a glimpse into real world engineering and manufacturing. The upgraded workspace complete with the drafting chair, desk lamp, and fan has turned our classroom into an inspiring mini lab where students feel like true innovators.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, my students are not only gaining technical skills, but also confidence, creativity, and a sense of possibility for their futures. They now see themselves as problem solvers and creators, capable of pursuing careers in STEM and design. Thank you for helping them discover the power of imagination and innovation!","fullyFundedDate":1755819056325,"projectUrl":"project/future-makers-3d-printing-and-design-in/9630444/","projectTitle":"Future Makers: 3D Printing and Design in the Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Alvarez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5415258_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1539369386002","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5415258"},{"teacherId":5415258,"projectId":9243414,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom now has laptop screen extenders that have completely changed how my students learn and work. Many of my students come from low income households and don't always have access to the latest technology, so this project has helped bridge that gap. With the ability to use multiple screens, students can research, create, and problem solve more efficiently. Whether they're writing, designing, or preparing presentations, these tools allow them to manage multiple tasks at once and work more independently.\r\n\r\nThe most exciting part for my students has been how much smoother it makes their workflow, especially as we begin using the 3D printer. They can design in one window while referencing tutorials, specifications, or inspiration in another, which has boosted their confidence and creativity. Students who were sometimes hesitant to experiment with technology are now diving in, trying new things, and helping their classmates along the way.\r\n\r\nThis project has allowed me to teach lessons that weren't possible before and provide a more professional, hands on learning experience. A special thank you goes to Disney and the Donors Choose Community for supporting our classroom you've given my students the tools to explore, create, and grow as independent learners and problem solvers.","fullyFundedDate":1754500075159,"projectUrl":"project/double-the-screens-double-the-learning/9243414/","projectTitle":"Double the Screens, Double the Learning!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Alvarez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5415258_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1539369386002","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5415258"},{"teacherId":5415258,"projectId":9208199,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom now has a 3D printer and filament that have completely transformed the way my students learn and create. Many of our students had only experienced technology passively at home, but now they are actively designing, prototyping, and problem-solving in ways that are both fun and educational. The printer allows them to bring abstract concepts to life, whether they're creating models of engineering ideas in STEM or crafting sculptures in art class.\r\n\r\nThe most exciting part for my students has been seeing their ideas come to life. They love experimenting with designs, testing prototypes, and watching their creations take shape layer by layer. The printer has sparked curiosity, encouraged creativity, and given them a sense of ownership over their learning. Students who were once hesitant to participate in STEM or art projects are now among the most enthusiastic, often helping peers troubleshoot designs or refine their models.\r\n\r\nThis project has empowered my students to combine creativity with technology, building skills in computer-aided design, critical thinking, and hands-on problem solving. A special thank-you goes to the Donors Choose Community for making this possible you've given my students the tools to explore new forms of learning, take risks, and grow as both artists and innovators.","fullyFundedDate":1742926426906,"projectUrl":"project/3d-printing-for-stem-and-art/9208199/","projectTitle":"3D Printing for STEM and Art","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Alvarez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5415258_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1539369386002","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5415258"},{"teacherId":5415258,"projectId":9155803,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our art classroom now has a sturdy workbench that has completely transformed the way my students create. Before, students struggled with limited space, and projects would often slide around or get damaged. Now, with a stable and professional surface, they can focus on the details of their work—whether it's sketching, painting, or experimenting with mixed-media projects—without worrying about their setup holding them back.\r\n\r\nThe workbench has quickly become the heart of our classroom. Students are most excited that they can spread out their supplies and work more comfortably. I've noticed them taking more pride in their creations, treating the new workspace almost like their own personal studio. This shift in mindset has boosted their confidence and made them feel like real artists.\r\n\r\nWhat has amazed me most is how certain students who used to shy away from sharing their work are now volunteering to demonstrate techniques at the workbench. They've grown into leaders, helping their peers and showing off skills they once kept to themselves. None of this growth would have been possible without your kindness. Thank you for giving my students the tools, space, and confidence to dream bigger in art.","fullyFundedDate":1742909398257,"projectUrl":"project/enhancing-creativity-with-a-workbench-fo/9155803/","projectTitle":"Enhancing Creativity with a Workbench for Artists","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Alvarez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5415258_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1539369386002","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5415258"},{"teacherId":5415258,"projectId":9064511,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, the Kindness Zone has come to life, and its impact has already been felt throughout our school! The moment students saw the space taking shape—with cozy seating, warm décor, and inviting touches—they knew this would be a special place. One student walked in and said, \"It finally feels like we have a place to just be.\"\r\n\r\nFrom the very start, students took ownership of this project, carefully selecting the furniture and designing the layout to ensure it feels welcoming for everyone. Since opening, the Kindness Zone has become a hub for meaningful conversations, peer support, and personal growth. Students are using it to decompress, talk through challenges, and build stronger connections with one another in a safe and comfortable environment.\r\n\r\nOne of the most powerful moments so far was when a group of students organized a Kindness Circle—a gathering where they shared stories, offered support, and encouraged one another. Seeing them step into leadership roles, showing empathy and care, reinforced just how important this space is.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, students are planning more outreach efforts, including a student-led \"Acts of Kindness\" initiative to encourage positive interactions throughout the school. They are also brainstorming creative ways to expand the space's use, from mindfulness activities to community service planning.\r\n\r\nYour support has done more than provide furniture—it has built a foundation for connection, resilience, and kindness. Thank you for making this vision a reality and for giving our students the chance to lead with heart.","fullyFundedDate":1741874385541,"projectUrl":"project/creating-a-cozy-space-to-share-kindness/9064511/","projectTitle":"Creating a Cozy Space to Share Kindness and Support","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Alvarez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5415258_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1539369386002","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5415258"},{"teacherId":5415258,"projectId":8793292,"letterContent":"I want to extend my deepest gratitude for your generous donation to our classroom project on DonorsChoose. Because of you, our students now have access to 3D printing supplies that are sparking creativity, critical thinking, and hands-on learning every day!\r\n\r\nWhen the 3D printer supplies arrived, there was a buzz of excitement. Students immediately began brainstorming ideas, and soon enough, they were transforming their designs into tangible creations. From printing architectural models to experimenting with engineering prototypes, these supplies have opened up a world of possibilities.","fullyFundedDate":1726847532270,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-creativity-with-3d-printing/8793292/","projectTitle":"Empowering Creativity with 3D Printing: Bringing Art to Life","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Alvarez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5415258_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1539369386002","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5415258"},{"teacherId":5415258,"projectId":8694964,"letterContent":"I want to extend my deepest gratitude for your generous donation to our classroom project on DonorsChoose. Because of you, our students now have access to 3D printing supplies that are sparking creativity, critical thinking, and hands-on learning every day!\r\n\r\nWhen the 3D printer supplies arrived, there was a buzz of excitement. Students immediately began brainstorming ideas, and soon enough, they were transforming their designs into tangible creations. From printing architectural models to experimenting with engineering prototypes, these supplies have opened up a world of possibilities.","fullyFundedDate":1726847532519,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-creativity-with-3d-printing/8694964/","projectTitle":"Empowering Creativity with 3D Printing: Bringing Art to Life","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Alvarez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5415258_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1539369386002","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5415258"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_15538","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":925,"numTeachers":62,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":0,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":99,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"14.9:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":60.0,"schoolId":15538,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Mary Hoge Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Mary Hoge Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/texas/weslaco-independent-school-district/mary-hoge-middle-school/15538"}