{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Alexandria City High School - M Howard","outOfStateSupporters":38.7,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10244327,"projectId":9689406,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, my students participated in a hands-on simulation that made the concept of gerrymandering real and understandable. Students wore red and blue pinnies to represent voters, while classmates acted as redistricting officials using ropes to redraw district boundaries. As we moved through balanced, packed, and cracked scenarios, students could immediately see how changing district lines altered outcomes, even when the total number of voters stayed the same. Watching those shifts happen in real time helped an abstract idea make sense.\r\n\r\nStudents were genuinely excited when the materials were introduced and eager to jump into the activity. Many commented that this was the first time gerrymandering truly made sense to them, and the physical movement and role-playing kept everyone engaged. Students who are sometimes quieter in traditional lessons participated confidently, asked thoughtful questions, and reacted strongly to scenarios they felt were unfair. The energy in the room reflected the effectiveness of hands-on learning.\r\n\r\nAfter the simulation, students were able to discuss and write about gerrymandering with greater clarity and confidence. They referenced the activity directly when explaining packing and cracking, and were eager to share their reactions to how unfair certain maps felt, having seen the impact firsthand. The lesson led to thoughtful, honest discussion about representation and who gets power in a democracy. Thank you for making this hands-on learning experience possible and for helping my students develop a clearer, more meaningful understanding of representation and fairness in a democracy.","fullyFundedDate":1757779136209,"projectUrl":"project/drawing-the-lines-a-hands-on-lesson-on/9689406/","projectTitle":"Drawing the Lines: A Hands-On Lesson on Gerrymandering","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. von Topel","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10244327"},{"teacherId":10305998,"projectId":9809256,"letterContent":"Thank you for your kindness. The coloring pencils have been key for my students, across multiple content areas. They use them all the time & I have started leaving them where they can be easily accessed. They really do enjoy the pencils. \r\nThe color-coded organizing bins have been key to staying organized! Right now, they're helping us manage the information that has been shared about life after high school & what to expect. The students are able to quickly access the information that they need! \r\nThe books have been an absolute delight. Several were featured for Indigenous American Heritage month. My students were blown away by the information that they learned! My students who are planning to pursue careers related to biology, nature, & conservation in particular were over the moon! Other students who have been impacted by issues related to immigration or differences in who they are were soothed to read books written by people who have been where they are right now. \r\nThank you, thank you, thank you!","fullyFundedDate":1761148004456,"projectUrl":"project/reading-rainbow-20/9809256/","projectTitle":"Reading Rainbow 2.0","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Smith","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10305998_orig.jpg?crop=1242,1242,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1760202555456","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10305998"},{"teacherId":10244932,"projectId":9690524,"letterContent":"With your help, the past few months have been game-changing for my students. Scores on the unit 3 and 4 tests were high, and engagement is even higher! Students who were skipping class and going to lunch early are now coming to class on time because they know they can get a snack. Some weeks, I have as many as 20 students staying after school to work on homework, make up tests, and study. It can be hard to juggle everyone's needs, but it's a beautiful problem to have! To get to me, most of them climb five flights of stairs after a long day. Being able to offer snacks motivates them and helps them surprise even themselves.\r\n\r\nAfter our Unit 3 test, one student told me, \"I never thought I'd get a score that good on a math test!\" She's learned math, but, with your help, she's also learned something important about herself. \r\n\r\nThe figet toys have been particularly helpful in my special education class. It's my biggest class, we meet every day, and they get lunch AFTER our class. Needless to say, it's hard for all of us to sit still! Being able to keep their hands busy has been tremendously helpful. It also helps keep them from reaching for their cell phones, which are banned in Virginia schools. The stretchy \"strong men\" are a favorite, and they are holding up tremendously well. \r\n\r\nFrom the bottom of all our hearts, thank you!","fullyFundedDate":1759468009745,"projectUrl":"project/finding-focus-with-fidgets-and-food/9690524/","projectTitle":"Finding Focus With Fidgets and Food","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Schulz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10244932_orig.png?crop=664,664,x45,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757217504616","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10244932"},{"teacherId":10244327,"projectId":9731907,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generosity and support. Because of you, my classroom now includes a variety of games, toys, and fidgets that students use throughout the day. Your donation has made a meaningful difference in student focus, classroom climate, and engagement.\r\n\r\nDescribe the impact; how we are using the resources:\r\nStudents use the games, toys, and fidgets during structured class time, independent work, and small group activities. When students complete assignments early, these options provide a constructive way to remain engaged without distractions. Fidgets are especially helpful for students who benefit from subtle movement, allowing them to stay attentive during instruction without disrupting others.\r\n\r\nDescribe the impact: Student reactions\r\nStudents responded positively when the materials arrived. Many expressed appreciation for having tools that support focus and stress management during a demanding senior academic year. Several students commented that the presence of these items made the classroom feel more supportive and respectful of different learning needs.\r\n\r\nDescribe the impact; what donors made possible and next steps:\r\nYour support helped create a learning environment that recognizes students as emerging adults preparing for graduation and life beyond high school. During this demanding senior academic year, students are completing sustained written work, projects, and assessments that require focus, self regulation, and independence. The games, toys, and fidgets will continue to support students as they manage stress, stay focused, and take responsibility for their learning as they transition toward postsecondary plans.\r\n\r\nThank you for supporting my students during this important stage of their education. Your generosity has had a lasting and meaningful impact on our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1758805993382,"projectUrl":"project/from-phones-to-fun-games-and-fidgets-fo/9731907/","projectTitle":"From Phones to Fun: Games and Fidgets for Focus","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. von Topel","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10244327"},{"teacherId":8951445,"projectId":9627547,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping us build our new College & Career section in the library! Your generosity provided students with access to test prep books and resources that are already being used to study for Science, Biology, English, History, and even ASVAB exams. Students are also exploring college financing options, scholarship information, and pathways beyond high school—all because of your support.\r\n\r\nWhat makes this section especially meaningful is that it serves students in grades 9–12, giving them early exposure to the tools they need for future planning. Some students are preparing for exams right now, while others are getting a head start on exploring potential majors and careers. This collection has quickly become one of the most frequently visited areas of our library.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in our students' long-term goals. You didn't just help us add books—you helped us create a space filled with possibilities, confidence, and hope for their future.","fullyFundedDate":1757518469100,"projectUrl":"project/opening-doors-to-the-future-college-rea/9627547/","projectTitle":"Opening Doors to the Future: College Readiness in Our Library","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gross","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8951445_orig.jpg?crop=1707,1707,x485,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1676218715689","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/rebellious"},{"teacherId":8951445,"projectId":9685296,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our LEGO makerspace in the library! Because of your generosity, students have been able to design and build amazing structures such as the Harry Potter mansion, ancient pyramids, and the Statue of Liberty. Each build has sparked conversations about history, architecture, and literature—and best of all, has encouraged students to check out related titles from our library collection.\r\n\r\nThese LEGO creations have done so much more than decorate our shelves; they've created meaningful pathways into reading. Students who may not have explored certain genres before are now diving into fantasy, mythology, world cultures, and historical nonfiction because the projects have made these topics come alive. Our makerspace has become a joyful hub during the lunch block, where creativity and literacy meet brick by brick. Thank you for helping us build a space where imagination, curiosity, and a love of reading truly come together. Your support continues to make a visible and lasting impact in our library—and in the minds of our young creators!","fullyFundedDate":1757508187660,"projectUrl":"project/bricks-books-building-creativity-in/9685296/","projectTitle":"“Bricks & Books: Building Creativity in Our Library Makerspace”","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gross","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8951445_orig.jpg?crop=1707,1707,x485,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1676218715689","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/rebellious"},{"teacherId":7180677,"projectId":9570956,"letterContent":"Thanks to your incredible generosity, my students now have full access to DeltaMath INTEGRAL, a resource that's already transforming the way they learn math. The high-quality instructional videos, guided examples, and instant feedback are giving my Algebra 2 and Geometry students the confidence to take charge of their own learning. For many of them—especially those who don't have access to tutoring outside of school—this subscription has become a lifeline for mastering tough concepts at their own pace.\r\n\r\nI've seen remarkable changes in how my students approach problem-solving. Instead of giving up when they make mistakes, they use the worked examples and feedback to understand why and try again. Their persistence, accuracy, and self-assurance are growing every day. This project has truly bridged learning gaps and reinforced classroom instruction, allowing me to focus more on enriching lessons and small-group support.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, my students—100% of whom receive free or reduced lunch—now have access to individualized tools that make success in math achievable. Thank you for helping them believe in their abilities and for giving them the resources to build lasting confidence in their mathematical thinking.","fullyFundedDate":1757529254248,"projectUrl":"project/deltamath-power-boost-videos-feedback/9570956/","projectTitle":"DeltaMath Power Boost: Videos, Feedback, and Confidence in Math!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. E. Jones","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7180677_orig.png?crop=549,549,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1588728630723","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/essie-jones"},{"teacherId":7180677,"projectId":9817376,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students now have the fuel they need to stay focused and confident while tackling the challenges of Algebra 2 and Geometry. It's tough to master complex math when hunger is a constant distraction, but the nut-free, non-perishable snacks you helped provide have made a remarkable difference. Students who used to arrive tired or unfocused now start class ready to learn, and I've noticed more engagement, participation, and persistence during problem-solving activities.\r\n\r\nOne of my favorite moments is seeing students politely ask for a snack and express gratitude afterward—it's teaching them more than manners; it's teaching community. The simple act of sharing a snack has built a sense of care and connection in our classroom. When their basic needs are met, my students are more willing to take academic risks, collaborate, and push through challenging problems instead of giving up.","fullyFundedDate":1760663195554,"projectUrl":"project/fueling-focus-the-snack-attack-to-conqu/9817376/","projectTitle":"Fueling Focus: the Snack Attack to Conquer Algebra!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. E. Jones","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7180677_orig.png?crop=549,549,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1588728630723","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/essie-jones"},{"teacherId":7180677,"projectId":9527674,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students now have a calm, supportive environment where they can manage their emotions and stay focused throughout the school day. The SEL Classroom Calm Kit has truly transformed our classroom into a space where every student feels safe—academically and emotionally. The fidget tools have become a natural part of our routine; students know just where to find them when they need help refocusing or calming down. It's heartwarming to see them self-regulate and return to learning with confidence.\r\n\r\nThe cleaning supplies have also been a big help in maintaining a neat, organized classroom. After hands-on projects—especially our cut-and-paste activities—students take pride in using Clorox wipes to clean their desks and reset the space for the next class. The snacks have had an unexpected but wonderful impact as well: students are learning to ask politely and say \"thank you,\" reinforcing social skills and gratitude in our daily interactions.\r\n\r\nBecause of your kindness, my hardworking and creative students have the tools they need to thrive both emotionally and academically. Your support has made a lasting difference, helping them build healthy habits, reduce anxiety, and stay engaged in their learning. Thank you for believing in them and in the power of a calm, caring classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1760720926507,"projectUrl":"project/sel-classroom-calm-kit/9527674/","projectTitle":"SEL Classroom Calm Kit","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. E. Jones","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7180677_orig.png?crop=549,549,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1588728630723","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/essie-jones"},{"teacherId":8614551,"projectId":9155650,"letterContent":"Providing snacks in my classroom has a powerful impact on student learning and well-being. When students have access to healthy or filling snacks, they can stay focused, energized, and engaged throughout the day. Snacks help prevent hunger from becoming a distraction, especially for those who may not have enough to eat at home.\r\n\r\nThey also create a caring and supportive environment where students feel valued and cared for. This small gesture encourages better participation, improves mood, and promotes a stronger classroom community built on respect and empathy.","fullyFundedDate":1746786298214,"projectUrl":"project/feeding-machines/9155650/","projectTitle":"Feeding Machines","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. GONZALEZ","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8614551_orig.jpg?crop=334,334,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1660492205127","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/luis-gonzalez"},{"teacherId":7180677,"projectId":9527807,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous gift to my project, \"Brew & Belong.\" Your support has provided us with a morning coffee station that is fostering kindness and community among our students. It really helps start the day out focused.\r\n\r\nThis simple act of generosity is helping students see the world through the eyes of others as they serve on our Morning Crew. They are learning that small acts of compassion can make a big difference in their peers' day. We are so grateful for your belief in our students.","fullyFundedDate":1756249151107,"projectUrl":"project/brew-belong-fostering-compassion-and/9527807/","projectTitle":"Brew & Belong: Fostering Compassion and Community for Student Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. E. Jones","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7180677_orig.png?crop=549,549,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1588728630723","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/essie-jones"},{"teacherId":8951445,"projectId":9332843,"letterContent":"Thanks to your incredible generosity, our students had the chance to take part in my project \"Your Summer. Your Story. Your Books.\" This project gave our students access to a wonderful selection of engaging books they could take home and read over the summer. For many of our students, having their own books meant they could choose stories that reflected their interests, cultures, and experiences—helping them feel excited about reading and confident as independent learners.\r\n\r\nThese new books supported important skills beyond just reading comprehension. Students practiced critical thinking, empathy, and making text-to-self connections as they explored characters and themes that resonated with their own lives. \r\n\r\nSummer reading looked very different this year: instead of dreading assignments, students shared their books with peers, discussed favorite passages, and even wrote short reflections about how the stories connected to their personal journeys. Reading became something joyful and social, not just an academic task.\r\n\r\nSeveral students told me how much they loved reading novels that reminded them of their own family and traditions, while another was thrilled to discover a new favorite genre he had never tried before. Your support has inspired them to continue exploring new books, building skills, and finding joy in reading well beyond the summer. Thank you so much!","fullyFundedDate":1747338793053,"projectUrl":"project/your-summer-your-story-your-books/9332843/","projectTitle":"Your Summer. Your Story. Your Books.","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gross","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8951445_orig.jpg?crop=1707,1707,x485,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1676218715689","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/rebellious"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_60037","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":900,"numTeachers":null,"percentFrplEligible":72,"percentAsian":6,"percentBlack":23,"percentWhite":26,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":36,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"9 - 9","studentTeacherRatio":null,"demographicsDataSource":"MDR District Record","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":null},"inStateSupporters":61.3,"schoolId":60037,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Alexandria City High School - M Howard on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Alexandria City High School - M Howard","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/virginia/alexandria-city-public-school-district/minnie-howard-school/60037"}