McKinley Elementary School in Warren, Michigan on DonorsChoose

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By removing the barrier of tedious or error-prone calculations, fraction calculators allow students to focus on the why behind operations: understanding relationships between numerators and denominators, recognizing equivalent fractions, and interpreting real-world fraction situations. This shift from mechanical steps to conceptual reasoning supports deeper learning for all students, especially those who may need extra time or support.\r\nSecond, fraction calculators promote accuracy and reduce frustration. In complex tasks—such as adding unlike denominators, comparing mixed numbers, or working through word problems—small mistakes can derail the entire solution process. With the aid of a calculator, students can check their work, verify their reasoning, and develop a stronger sense of numerical patterns. This experience helps students build perseverance and develop habits of mathematical rigor.\r\nAdditionally, the use of fraction calculators mirrors real-world mathematical practice. Adults regularly use digital tools to manage calculations, and introducing students to responsible, purposeful use of these tools prepares them for higher-level mathematics and problem-solving in everyday life. When used strategically, calculators empower students to ask better questions, experiment with numbers, and explore mathematical ideas with greater independence.\r\nFinally, fraction calculators can support differentiated instruction. Students working at varying levels of readiness can engage with the same high-value tasks. Those who need computational support have access to it, while students who are ready for more advanced challenges can extend their learning. This approach fosters an inclusive classroom environment where every student can experience success.\r\nIn conclusion, fraction calculators are not a shortcut—they are a scaffold. When thoughtfully integrated into instruction, they strengthen conceptual understanding, increase student confidence, encourage accuracy, and support equitable participation in mathematics. Their use in fifth grade can meaningfully enhance the learning experience and help students build the skills and mindset needed for long-term mathematical success.\r\nThank you for your dedication to supporting effective learning tools and approaches in mathematics education","fullyFundedDate":1758845877950,"projectUrl":"project/calculating-fractions/9712555/","projectTitle":"Calculating Fractions","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Silos","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-silos"},{"teacherId":555739,"projectId":9126799,"letterContent":"With our six weeks of testing completed my students got to make their custom pencils. They were so excited to choose and customize their very own mechanical pencil. Thanks to your generosity, they all got lead to refill their pencils as well. It's so hard at the end of a long year to keep motivation high and with so much testing it's really amazing I get to reward all their efforts, stamina, and perseverance. Thank you for supporting my kids and making the end of an elementary career a fun and successful one.","fullyFundedDate":1742947361668,"projectUrl":"project/testing-incentives/9126799/","projectTitle":"Testing Incentives","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Silos","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-silos"},{"teacherId":555739,"projectId":9245851,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous donation of summer reading books, students in our community are diving into stories, sparking curiosity, and building a lifelong love of reading.\r\n\r\nThis summer, hundreds of children who might not otherwise have access to age-appropriate books now have their own personal libraries. For many of them, it's the first time they've been able to choose books that interest them—books they can call their own.\r\n\r\nReading during the summer is crucial. It helps students retain the progress they've made during the school year and prevents the \"summer slide\" that disproportionately affects children without access to resources. Your donation is not just about books—it's about confidence, imagination, and equity.\r\n\r\nOn behalf of my students and families—thank you. Your support is making a lasting impact, one page at a time.","fullyFundedDate":1744239720827,"projectUrl":"project/summer-time-reading/9245851/","projectTitle":"Summer Time Reading","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Silos","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-silos"},{"teacherId":555739,"projectId":9048683,"letterContent":"Thank you for your support of buying new needed supplies mid year. The student's folders had self destructed and they were all delighted to have new folders that their papers weren't falling out of. Also, with cold and allergy season upon us many of the students were very happy to have actual tissue instead of using the harsh school paper towel or toilet paper to wipe and blow their noses. Lastly, our first aid section of band aids has been replenished because of you. They now have some stylish covers for all their cuts and scrapes. Once again thank you for your support.","fullyFundedDate":1738795371155,"projectUrl":"project/restock-needed/9048683/","projectTitle":"Restock Needed!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Silos","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-silos"},{"teacherId":555739,"projectId":8945859,"letterContent":"I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for the incredible Glowforge laser cutter. It has truly transformed the way I approach creativity and design with the kids in the after school program. The ease of use, precision, and versatility of the machine have exceeded my expectations, and it has been an absolute joy to work with.\r\n\r\nWhether we are creating intricate designs, or custom gifts, the Glowforge has been an indispensable tool that allows me to bring my ideas to life with incredible detail. The setup was straightforward, and the results are nothing short of stunning. It was very kid and user friendly.\r\n\r\nThank you for providing such an innovative and powerful tool that empowers makers like us to explore new possibilities. 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About this school

McKinley Elementary School is an urban public school in Warren, Michigan that is part of Van Dyke Public School District. It serves 327 students in grades K - 5 with a student/teacher ratio of 15.6:1. Its teachers have had 47 projects funded on DonorsChoose.

Equity Focus School

Support towards this school will directly impact historically underfunded classrooms.

Public School

Title 1

Grades K - 5

327 Students

21 Teachers

13173 Toepfer Rd

Warren, MI 48089 View local requests

http://www.vdps.net

Evidence-based impact

Inspire teachers to stay in the classroom and boost student achievement.¹

Give to this school

Ms. Vero, a DonorsChoose teacher for 9 years.

Kindergarten teacher at PS81 - Robert J. Christen School in Bronx, NY

McKinley Elementary School Teachers on DonorsChoose

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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. Each classroom request for funding was created by a classroom teacher and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.

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McKinley Elementary School Demographics

95%

of students receive free or reduced price lunch

Source: the National Center for Education Statistics

71%

of students are Black, Latino, Native American, or Asian

Schools in districts that mainly serve students of color receive substantially less state and local support than similar districts that serve primarily White students. Learn more about this gap, why it exists, and how you can help close it.

McKinley Elementary School Support on DonorsChoose Last updated Dec 5, 2025

DonorsChoose makes it easy for anyone to help a teacher in need, moving us closer to a nation where students in every community have the tools and experiences they need for a great education.