{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Murray - Massenburg Elementary","outOfStateSupporters":4.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10187665,"projectId":9621209,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding our \"learning to observe and record the natural world\" project. The students go outside to observe the natural world twice a week. We come back from outside and \"record\" our observations in our journals, including many illustrations. \r\n\r\nThe students have enjoyed the opportunity to look closely and learn. We have observed many birds on our walks. We even created an ebird checklist for our school. The group includes students in grades 4 and 5 and mostly students whose first language is not English.\r\n\r\nI believe this project will continue to have an impact on the participating students. The opportunity to observe and name the world is an important skill that supports both curiosity and language development. I look forward to reflecting on the project at the end of the school and dreaming about our next steps.","fullyFundedDate":1755707118337,"projectUrl":"project/learning-to-observe-and-record-the-natur/9621209/","projectTitle":"Learning to Observe and Record the Natural World","teacherDisplayName":"Dr. Melragon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10187665"},{"teacherId":5975046,"projectId":9435891,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our DonorsChoose project, \"Building Literacy Hands-on in Kindergarten!\" Your generosity has truly transformed our classroom and created meaningful learning experiences for my students every single day.\r\n\r\nFrom the moment my kindergarteners saw the new literacy materials, their faces lit up with excitement. They could not wait to touch, explore, and play with their learning tools. In kindergarten, hands-on learning is everything—and because of you, my students now have engaging, tactile materials that help them build the foundational literacy skills they need to become confident readers.\r\n\r\nWe use these materials throughout our structured literacy block to practice writing words, blending and segmenting, and substituting sounds—critical phonemic awareness skills that can be challenging without concrete, interactive tools. Having manipulatives they can move, arrange, and experiment with has made such a difference. Students who once hesitated now eagerly participate because they feel successful and in control of their learning.\r\n\r\nThe materials have also become a highlight in our Literacy Centers. Every day, the children ask, \"Is it center time yet?\" It has quickly become their favorite part of the day. They love using the tools to build words, sort sounds, and work with their partners. Your contribution not only supported academic growth—it has boosted motivation, confidence, and joy in learning.\r\n\r\nAs we continue working on early reading skills this year, these resources will support students in mastering CVC words, building phonics fluency, and strengthening their phonemic awareness. The impact will last far beyond this moment—these materials will continue to benefit future classes for years to come.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students and giving them the tools they need to thrive. Your kindness matters, and we are deeply grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1755707118589,"projectUrl":"project/building-literacy-hands-on-in-kindergart/9435891/","projectTitle":"Building Literacy Hands-on in Kindergarten!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Mabini","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5975046_orig.jpg?crop=960,960,x240,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1751307834455","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/danielmabini"},{"teacherId":4277297,"projectId":9475486,"letterContent":"We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your generous contribution to our \"Power Up Afterschool Learning\" project through Donors Choose. Your support has made a significant impact on our students and their academic journey.\r\n\r\nWe are excited to share that we have already implemented the tablets funded by your donation into our afterschool learning programs. These devices are already enhancing our students' educational experiences in remarkable ways! \r\n\r\nThe tablets have empowered our students to conduct research for their homework projects, access interactive learning platforms such as Prodigy, Khan Academy, and Boddle, and engage in various educational activities that nurture their academic skills. In addition to academic enrichment, we are integrating a sense of fun into learning environments. Through our Minecraft Education club, students are learning valuable skills while exploring creativity and problem-solving. \r\n\r\nFurthermore, in our cooking club, the tablets play a vital role in teaching K-5 students how to find recipes and assist them in creating their very own cookbooks. This hands-on activity not only makes learning exciting but also encourages practical life skills and teamwork among our young learners.\r\n\r\nYour generous support has allowed us to create a dynamic and engaging learning atmosphere where students can thrive and explore their interests. We are extremely grateful for your belief in our mission and your commitment to making a difference in the lives of our students.\r\n\r\nThank you once again for your kindness and support. We look forward to sharing more updates on our progress and the continued impact of your generosity.","fullyFundedDate":1755707118439,"projectUrl":"project/power-up-afterschool-learning/9475486/","projectTitle":"Power Up Afterschool Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Dorsey","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4277297_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1486747049133","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4277297"},{"teacherId":4038771,"projectId":9618467,"letterContent":"Thanks to the generous contributions of donors, our class was able to make great use of the cleaning supplies and snacks that were provided. These donations played a vital role in maintaining a healthy, focused, and welcoming learning environment throughout the school year.\r\n\r\nThe cleaning supplies helped us maintain a high standard of cleanliness in the classroom, which was especially important during flu season and times when illnesses were circulating. Items such as disinfecting wipes, paper towels, hand sanitizer, and sprays were used daily to sanitize desks, door handles, shared materials, and other high-touch surfaces. This routine became a part of our daily schedule, with students taking turns each afternoon to help clean their areas and shared classroom tools like scissors, pencils, and tablets. These supplies not only helped us reduce the spread of germs, but also taught students valuable lessons about personal responsibility, hygiene, and caring for a shared space.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, the cleaning supplies contributed to creating a more comfortable and organized classroom. With materials like storage bins, wipes, and cleaning sprays, we were able to keep art and science stations neat and ready for use. This made it easier to transition between activities and allowed students to take more pride in their workspace.\r\n\r\nThe snacks provided by donors were equally impactful. Many students come to school without a substantial breakfast or may not have access to healthy snacks at home. Having a stock of nutritious snacks such as granola bars, crackers, applesauce, and fruit cups on hand made a significant difference in helping students stay focused and energized throughout the day. We distributed snacks during mid-morning breaks and sometimes during after-school programs or tutoring sessions.\r\n\r\nThese snacks also provided emotional comfort to students who might have been having a tough day or were dealing with food insecurity at home. The knowledge that there would always be something to eat in the classroom helped many students feel safe, cared for, and better able to engage in learning.\r\n\r\nMoreover, we used snack times as opportunities to build community. Students often shared stories, practiced gratitude, and bonded over snack breaks, which fostered a greater sense of belonging in the classroom. We also incorporated snack time into social-emotional learning activities, where students practiced mindfulness, discussed healthy habits, or simply enjoyed a few minutes of calm together.\r\n\r\nIn conclusion, the cleaning supplies and snacks donated to our class went far beyond their practical purposes. They contributed to the overall physical health, emotional well-being, and academic success of our students. Every wipe used and every snack shared was a small act that added up to a big impact. We are truly grateful for the support from our donors, and their generosity continues to make a difference in our classroom every day.","fullyFundedDate":1755558403413,"projectUrl":"project/great-start-to-a-new-year/9618467/","projectTitle":"Great Start to a New Year!!!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Wright","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4038771"},{"teacherId":9370044,"projectId":9392172,"letterContent":"Bringing History to Life in 2nd Grade\r\nOh, what a joy these new resources have been in our 2nd grade classroom! My seven- and eight-year-olds are using the colorful picture timelines, touchable artifact kits (like tiny freedom hats and protest signs), and simple AR maps to explore \"Brave Helpers\" from history. In our special project called \"My Hero Parade,\" kids march around the room with the AR maps on iPads, waving virtual flags from stories like Rosa Parks' bus or Ruby Bridges' school. One sweet moment was when little Mia held up a toy megaphone from the kit and shouted, \"We help friends now!\"—then the whole class joined in a giggle-filled parade, drawing their own hero banners.\r\nKids' Big \"Wow\" Moment\r\nWhen I first pulled out the boxes, it was like magic! The kids gasped and clapped as colorful timelines unrolled like treasure maps, and they touched soft fabric from old story flags. \"It's alive!\" squealed Jamal, tapping an AR bus that honked on the screen. Some wiggled with excitement, others hugged the kits tight—one shy girl, Lila, smiled huge and said, \"Rosa is my friend now!\" No tears or fuss—just pure sparkly eyes and \"Can we play again?\" cheers.\r\nNext Fun Steps Ahead\r\nNow, we're finishing our parade project by making real \"helper hats\" from the kits to wear at our class party on October 25th. Next week, kids will draw their own brave stories on timelines to share with families—then we'll visit the school playground to \"march for kindness\" like our heroes! Donors, your gifts turned storytime into adventure—we can't wait to show you pictures!","fullyFundedDate":1752675388002,"projectUrl":"project/help-the-2nd-grade-team/9392172/","projectTitle":"Help the 2nd grade Team","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Visbal","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9370044_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1706868002356","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/thepetiteteacher"},{"teacherId":9370044,"projectId":9365013,"letterContent":"Bringing History to Life in 2nd Grade\r\nOh, what a joy these new resources have been in our 2nd grade classroom! My seven- and eight-year-olds are using the colorful picture timelines, touchable artifact kits (like tiny freedom hats and protest signs), and simple AR maps to explore \"Brave Helpers\" from history. In our special project called \"My Hero Parade,\" kids march around the room with the AR maps on iPads, waving virtual flags from stories like Rosa Parks' bus or Ruby Bridges' school. One sweet moment was when little Mia held up a toy megaphone from the kit and shouted, \"We help friends now!\"—then the whole class joined in a giggle-filled parade, drawing their own hero banners.\r\nKids' Big \"Wow\" Moment\r\nWhen I first pulled out the boxes, it was like magic! The kids gasped and clapped as colorful timelines unrolled like treasure maps, and they touched soft fabric from old story flags. \"It's alive!\" squealed Jamal, tapping an AR bus that honked on the screen. Some wiggled with excitement, others hugged the kits tight—one shy girl, Lila, smiled huge and said, \"Rosa is my friend now!\" No tears or fuss—just pure sparkly eyes and \"Can we play again?\" cheers.","fullyFundedDate":1752689932981,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-magic/9365013/","projectTitle":"Classroom Magic","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Visbal","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9370044_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1706868002356","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/thepetiteteacher"},{"teacherId":6643194,"projectId":9320927,"letterContent":"Thank you for funding this special project. It all started with a map of the world in my classroom and grew into a passion for my students. They love looking around to find where our stories come from and how far away they are.\r\nThe rug provides many opportunities for engaging with the animals and continents as they move around the world through stories. The large globe helps them to understand how the world is laid out and which countries are close to each other which helps them understand various cultures.\r\nBeing a literature-based speech therapist. All of the books, and the game, get them excited to learn more about students from other place and their culture. Our school is very diverse, and I hope to keep them curious about each other and create bonds of mutual understanding.\r\nThank you for your ongoing support.","fullyFundedDate":1752505091961,"projectUrl":"project/language-develop-through-world-explorati/9320927/","projectTitle":"Language Develop through World Exploration","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Kimberly Wynns","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6643194_orig.jpg?crop=1718,1718,x35,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1671029459215","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/wynns"},{"teacherId":9736577,"projectId":8749682,"letterContent":"My kindergarten students were able to use your donations to learn through hands on experiences in the classroom. We took our learning outside, built amazing creations, and had a functional classroom space to move in. Our clipboard/whiteboards allowed us to move around while still writing, completing math problems, and to share our work with each other. Marble run encouraged cooperation, taught students about motion and encouraged problem solving. My students really grew as critical thinkers. So thank you!!","fullyFundedDate":1733272423188,"projectUrl":"project/we-need-to-move-it-move-it-in-kindergart/8749682/","projectTitle":"We Need to Move It Move It in Kindergarten!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Nelson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9736577"},{"teacherId":6643194,"projectId":8649996,"letterContent":"This year I was assigned to a new school to help get it started and build the team. Being a new school, and having to leave my supplies at the old school, I needed some basics to prepare for a whole new batch of students. \r\nWe have beautiful new rooms and furniture, but that is where the budget stopped. \r\nI needed to get support to get some basic supplies. The number one supply area was setting up folders for each of my students. \r\nIt sounds simple, but it impacts the flow of our time together and they love having their own folder with their own work to create a memory for the year.","fullyFundedDate":1725410711255,"projectUrl":"project/new-school-stock-up/8649996/","projectTitle":"New School Stock Up","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Kimberly Wynns","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6643194_orig.jpg?crop=1718,1718,x35,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1671029459215","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/wynns"},{"teacherId":9370044,"projectId":8472837,"letterContent":"Students have enjoyed using all the interactive materials we have recived! We have been able to use a lot a project base learning and used our interactive boards. Learning has been fun this year and a unique experience as a new school in dpsnc students have enjoyed every activity and every project that have been done. Thank you for your kindness and support in education and for the future of our kids. With out your support it would not be possible. May all this blessing you have give us return to you!","fullyFundedDate":1728501145087,"projectUrl":"project/magical-white-boards-engaging-centers/8472837/","projectTitle":"Magical White Boards & Engaging Centers","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Visbal","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9370044_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1706868002356","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/thepetiteteacher"},{"teacherId":4038771,"projectId":8819513,"letterContent":"Teaching an inclusion class of 4 year old's with differing abilities makes it a little difficult to differentiate skills. With the iPad, they can navigate through the program with ease. The curriculum builds children's confidence, creativity, and critical thinking skills through hands on project based investigations. It respects and nurtures individual skill progression for the whole child. As well, it provides the teacher with intentional support.\r\n\r\nThank you again from the bottom of our hearts!!!","fullyFundedDate":1728742718256,"projectUrl":"project/pre-k-needs-ipads/8819513/","projectTitle":"Pre-K Needs iPads","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Wright","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4038771"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_134145","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":800,"numTeachers":null,"percentFrplEligible":67,"percentAsian":1,"percentBlack":34,"percentWhite":18,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":32,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":null,"demographicsDataSource":"MDR District Record","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":null},"inStateSupporters":95.7,"schoolId":134145,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Murray - Massenburg Elementary on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Murray - Massenburg Elementary","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/north-carolina/durham-public-schools/murray-massenburg-elementary/134145"}