{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Monte Gardens Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":10.8,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":1113408,"projectId":9938935,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting my project, \"Bright Ideas, Clear Communication: Art & Organization for Our Classroom.\" Your generosity has made a meaningful and immediate impact on our learning environment.\r\n\r\nThe materials from this project have helped transform our classroom into a space that is both visually engaging and thoughtfully organized. With new art supplies, my students are able to express their creativity in ways that strengthen fine motor skills, storytelling, and confidence. Watching them bring their ideas to life—through drawing, coloring, and creating—has been such a joy. Art gives my students another pathway to communicate their thinking, especially for those who may struggle to express themselves verbally.\r\n\r\nThe organizational tools have been just as powerful. Clear systems and labeled spaces help my first graders build independence, responsibility, and confidence. When materials are accessible and routines are visually supported, students can transition more smoothly, stay focused longer, and take ownership of their learning. A well-organized classroom reduces distractions and creates a calm, structured environment where all learners can thrive.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, our classroom is brighter, more functional, and better equipped to support clear communication and creativity. Your support doesn't just provide supplies—it creates opportunities for independence, expression, and success every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1764707415373,"projectUrl":"project/bright-ideas-clear-communication-art-/9938935/","projectTitle":"Bright Ideas, Clear Communication: Art & Organization for Our Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Grisafi","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1113408_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1471932661014","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-prichard"},{"teacherId":1113408,"projectId":9935691,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting my project \"Tools for Calm Bodies and Focused Minds\" and giving my students access to tools that help them regulate their energy, stay calm, and engage more fully in learning. Your generosity has made a meaningful difference in our classroom! \r\n\r\nOur young learners come to school with so much enthusiasm and curiosity—but some also bring big emotions and bodies that need movement to focus. With your support, we were able to provide flexible seating options, weighted and sensory tools, fidget bands, and movement items like soccer balls for both classroom and PE use. These resources give students choices to help them regulate their energy, settle into learning, and participate more confidently in lessons. \r\n\r\nI've seen firsthand how these tools help students stay grounded. Children who once struggled to sit through a reading lesson are now using their flexible seating and sensory input in ways that support their focus. Students with ADHD, autism, or bigger sensory needs are calmer and better able to transition between activities. The soccer balls have brought joy, cooperation, and movement opportunities that help students reset and return to academics ready to learn. \r\n\r\nBecause of your support, our classroom feels more inclusive, responsive, and better equipped to support all learners—especially those who thrive with movement and sensory supports. Thank you for positively impacting my students' ability to regulate their bodies and minds so they can grow, explore, and succeed every day.","fullyFundedDate":1764715582268,"projectUrl":"project/tools-for-calm-bodies-and-focused-minds/9935691/","projectTitle":"Tools for Calm Bodies and Focused Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Grisafi","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1113408_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1471932661014","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-prichard"},{"teacherId":1113408,"projectId":9935770,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting my DonorsChoose project and investing in my growth as an educator. I am incredibly grateful for your generosity.\r\n\r\nWhile my original request was for an iPad, it was unavailable at the time of purchase. Instead, I received a MacBook Air—and it has truly been an even better fit for my needs as a teacher and instructional leader.\r\n\r\nAs a first-grade teacher, my work extends far beyond the school day. This year, our district adopted a new McGraw Hill math curriculum, and we are participating in extensive training to implement it with fidelity. At the same time, we continue deepening our understanding of the Science of Reading, which requires ongoing professional study, reflection, and application of research-based practices.\r\n\r\nThe MacBook Air has made it easier than ever to fully engage in this learning. Its larger screen, full keyboard, and powerful processing capabilities allow me to comfortably complete training modules, watch and analyze instructional videos, create and revise lesson plans, and annotate digital curriculum materials. I am able to keep multiple resources open at once, organize student data efficiently, and design engaging instructional materials with greater ease and precision.\r\n\r\nIn addition to teaching first grade, I serve as a Teacher Instructional Leader (TIL), supporting colleagues as we implement tools such as Brisk Teaching, Adobe Creative Cloud, and Canva. Having a reliable laptop has strengthened my ability to model these programs clearly, lead professional learning sessions, and troubleshoot alongside my peers. The MacBook has allowed me to step more confidently into that leadership role.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, your support directly impacts my students. When I have the tools to grow professionally and stay organized, I can deliver stronger, more intentional instruction every single day. The MacBook Air has streamlined my planning process, expanded my ability to create high-quality resources, and supported the meaningful, research-based learning happening in our classroom.\r\n\r\nThank you for your flexibility and for making this upgrade possible. What began as a request for one device turned into an even greater opportunity for growth. Your generosity continues to make a lasting difference for my students, my colleagues, and me.","fullyFundedDate":1764747703843,"projectUrl":"project/an-ipad-air-to-boost-lesson-planning-tr/9935770/","projectTitle":"An iPad Air to Boost Lesson Planning, Training, and Teaching","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Grisafi","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1113408_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1471932661014","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-prichard"},{"teacherId":4756473,"projectId":9995729,"letterContent":"My students are loving the new tray tables! They use them every morning during our morning work time and they are always so excited about it. As their teacher I am also pleased to see my students happily working. This flexible seating option is a favorite of my first graders, as they often get together in pairs or small groups to work collaboratively which is always a goal for the teacher. These daily interactions also help to build the overall well being of our classroom spirit and moral. I love that my students both get closer and are helping each other out.\r\nMy class and I are also very excited to be able to organize our classroom and our supplies. Our legos are neatly put away and stored in our new rolling lego box, our lap trays are easily put away in our brightly colored rainbow baskets and our floor puzzles are organized into their own plastic bins. These baskets and bins help my students keep own classroom neat and clean and allow them to use our supplies responsibly. Thank again for your support of my students and our classroom growth.","fullyFundedDate":1768412371510,"projectUrl":"project/ready-on-the-rug-lap-tables-for-flexibl/9995729/","projectTitle":"Ready on the Rug! Lap tables for Flexible Seating","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gaston","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4756473_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753635634712","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/c3cookies"},{"teacherId":10250887,"projectId":9899477,"letterContent":"Our students have been creating nonstop ever since our shipment of new materials arrived! We have completed several exciting projects, incorporating the new construction paper into teacher-led art as well as student-led crafts. We were able to expand our classroom's art station and dedicate an entire shelving unit to our paper supply, which the students absolutely love! \r\n\r\nOne of our favorite projects was a cross-curricular art and science exploration during our learning about space and the moon as we geared up for Lunar New Year. Our students used baking soda and our new liquid watercolors mixed with baking soda to \"paint\" the moon using water droppers to experiment with chemical reactions. When dry, the moon's surface has the appearance of craters. They then cut their moons out and glued them on one of our construction paper sets to fix the moon into outer space. \r\n\r\nAnother fun project that utilized out new supplies was a Valentine card exchange, during which each student made 20 Valentine cards from scratch (one for each student in our class) and proceeded to \"deliver\" them to their classmates. This project took two weeks and the open-ended nature of the project gave the student pride over their creations and helped them experience gratitude at receiving a hand-made card from each of their classmates.\r\n\r\nWe look forward to many more fun art explorations using these wonderful supplies! Thank you again for your generosity and support.","fullyFundedDate":1763661618552,"projectUrl":"project/create-create-create/9899477/","projectTitle":"Create, Create, Create!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Dekker","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10250887"},{"teacherId":7931326,"projectId":9938970,"letterContent":"Our kindergarten students have been absolutely thrilled to use the new materials, and they've quickly become staples in our classroom. We've been using the Kwik Stix paint sticks language arts to create beautiful alphabet art without the mess of traditional paint which is perfect for building independence and confidence. The Buddha Boards have been especially popular during our inquiry time, giving students a soothing, creative outlet as they practice pre-writing strokes, letters, and shapes. The bright, colorful paper and glitter have elevated our projects, helping students take pride in their work and express their creativity in bold, joyful ways.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, their faces lit up with excitement. They were eager to explore, ask questions, and share their creations with classmates, which led to wonderful moments of collaboration and encouragement.\r\n\r\nThanks to your generosity, our class will benefit from using the Kwik Stix and glitter all year long! Our real showcase will happen towards the end of the year at Open House, where we display artwork from the whole school year. We'll also continue integrating the Buddha Boards into our daily routines to support fine motor skills, letter formation, and mindfulness. Your support has made learning more engaging, creative, and meaningful for our young learners, and we are so grateful for your contribution.","fullyFundedDate":1764746837087,"projectUrl":"project/creating-confident-learners-through-art/9938970/","projectTitle":"Creating Confident Learners Through Art","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Franks","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7931326_orig.jpg?crop=2400,2400,x0,y176&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1627586544739","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/carter-franks"},{"teacherId":669039,"projectId":10008527,"letterContent":"I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for your generous support of our classroom. The arrival of our new paper, pens, and storage containers has made a profound difference in our daily routine.\r\nBefore this project was funded, we often struggled with the 'little things' that can disrupt a lesson. Students frequently lacked the basic tools needed to participate fully, and our materials were scattered, making transitions difficult. Now, with a steady supply of high-quality pens and paper, every student is ready to write the moment inspiration strikes. No one has to feel the stress of coming to class empty-handed. \r\nFurthermore, the storage containers have completely transformed our physical space. Our learning stations are now neatly labeled and organized, which has significantly reduced the time we spend searching for materials and increased the time we spend actually learning. One student recently remarked how 'grown-up' and professional the room feels now that everything has its own place. \r\nYour kindness has not only provided physical supplies but has also sent a powerful message to my students: that their education is worth investing in. Thank you for being a champion for our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1769112665745,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-supplies/10008527/","projectTitle":"Classroom Supplies","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Urias","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp669039_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1489156026175","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/michaela-urias"},{"teacherId":669039,"projectId":9919565,"letterContent":"When the supplies arrived, they immediately became part of our daily classroom life. We are using the hand sanitizer as part of our routines before art, after cleanup, and anytime students move between centers. It has helped students take responsibility for their health and the shared space. The paper and storage containers are now essential tools in our art area. Students are able to easily access different types of paper, keep their work organized, and return materials independently. Thank you so much!","fullyFundedDate":1767808237441,"projectUrl":"project/supplies-please/9919565/","projectTitle":"Supplies Please","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Urias","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp669039_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1489156026175","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/michaela-urias"},{"teacherId":485060,"projectId":9790633,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting this project and helping bring a reliable, high-quality paper cutter into our classroom. While it may seem like a simple tool, it plays an essential role in nearly every STEM activity we do—from engineering templates and scaled graph paper to student-created models and experiment labels.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, my students will be able to work more efficiently, accurately, and confidently. This tool reduces frustration, saves valuable class time, and allows students to focus on what truly matters in STEM: problem-solving, critical thinking, and innovation. It also elevates the quality of their work and helps them take pride in what they create.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has a direct and meaningful impact on student learning, and I am truly grateful for your investment in our classroom and our students' success.","fullyFundedDate":1760670126267,"projectUrl":"project/cutting-into-stem-precision-tools-for-p/9790633/","projectTitle":"Cutting Into STEM: Precision Tools for Precise Projects","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Carlee Smith","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp485060_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1520213918067","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/carlee-smith"},{"teacherId":669039,"projectId":9880929,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom through your generous donation of Legos and tech cords. Your contribution has made an immediate and meaningful impact on my students.\r\nThe Legos have become a powerful learning tool—sparking creativity, encouraging teamwork, and helping students develop problem-solving skills through hands-on building activities. Every day, I see their eyes light up as they design, experiment, and bring their ideas to life.\r\nThe tech cords have also made a huge difference. They have helped ensure that our devices stay charged and ready for learning, allowing students to participate fully in digital activities without interruption. Something as simple as having reliable tech access has boosted their independence and confidence.\r\nYour kindness has created opportunities for exploration, engagement, and joy in our classroom. We are truly grateful for your support and belief in our students.\r\nThank you for helping us learn, create, and grow!","fullyFundedDate":1763601262197,"projectUrl":"project/building-brilliant-minds-with-stem-lego/9880929/","projectTitle":"Building Brilliant Minds with STEM, Legos, and Tech","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Urias","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp669039_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1489156026175","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/michaela-urias"},{"teacherId":1113408,"projectId":9760034,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for giving to our \"Movers & Groovers\" classroom project. Because of your support, our students now have flexible seating chairs, weighted stuffed animals, fidget bands, and soccer balls — tools that make a real difference every day. \r\n\r\nThese resources help our \"movers and groovers\" — especially students with ADHD, autism, or abundant energy — to stay focused, calm, and ready to learn. The flexible seating gives them options to settle in and engage comfortably. The sensory supports (weighted animals, fidget bands) give them ways to regulate their energy and feel secure. And the soccer balls give them opportunities for play, movement, and team-building when we use our PE bin — helping build coordination, confidence, and joy through movement. \r\n\r\nYour generosity has helped create a classroom where every student has a chance to thrive — where learning, movement, and comfort work together. Thank you for believing in our kids, supporting their needs, and helping make our classroom a place where they can learn, grow, and feel seen.","fullyFundedDate":1759012903980,"projectUrl":"project/movers-groovers/9760034/","projectTitle":"Movers & Groovers","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Grisafi","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1113408_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1471932661014","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-prichard"},{"teacherId":1113408,"projectId":9760093,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting Mindful Mondays: Storage for Yoga Mats. Your generosity has made a tangible—and deeply meaningful—difference for our classroom community.\r\n\r\nBy providing proper storage for our yoga mats, you've made it possible for students to easily access their mats, roll them up, and return them after use. That simple act of organization means our mindfulness and movement sessions can run smoothly and efficiently, without the disruption of mats unrolling or getting lost. This improved flow allows students to begin each Mindful Monday feeling calm, focused, and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nBut beyond convenience, your gift supports deeper growth. With yoga mats stored neatly and ready, students are more likely to participate in mindfulness, yoga, or movement practices. Those practices help them build self-regulation, reduce stress, improve focus, and nurture emotional and physical well-being — creating a classroom environment grounded in respect, calm, and care.\r\n\r\nYour generosity shows our students that their wellness matters — that their emotional and mental health is worth supporting. Thank you for believing in the power of mindfulness in education and for helping create a space where students can learn, breathe, move, and grow.","fullyFundedDate":1758821100213,"projectUrl":"project/mindful-mondays-storage-for-yoga-mats/9760093/","projectTitle":"Mindful Mondays: Storage for Yoga Mats","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Grisafi","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1113408_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1471932661014","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-prichard"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_4138","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":578,"numTeachers":22,"percentFrplEligible":23,"percentAsian":15,"percentBlack":2,"percentWhite":30,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":33,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"26.3:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":89.2,"schoolId":4138,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Monte Gardens Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Monte Gardens Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/mount-diablo-unified-school-district/monte-gardens-elementary-school/4138"}