{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"N.B. Mills Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":38.6,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":4473650,"projectId":10097315,"letterContent":"This project has already made a meaningful and visible impact on our classroom, strengthening both student learning and our daily routines in powerful ways.\r\n\r\nThe addition of new books has truly transformed our classroom library. Students are more excited than ever to read, often eager to dive into new titles and share recommendations with one another. Because they now have access to a wider variety of high-interest texts, I have seen noticeable growth in reading stamina, vocabulary, and comprehension. More importantly, students are beginning to see themselves as readers. They are making thoughtful choices, engaging in deeper discussions, and showing a genuine love of reading that continues to grow each day.\r\n\r\nThe chair pockets have significantly improved organization and efficiency in our classroom. Each student now has a personal, easily accessible space for their materials, which has reduced clutter and eliminated the need to search for supplies. Transitions between lessons are smoother and quicker, allowing us to maximize instructional time. Students are also taking more ownership of their belongings, demonstrating increased responsibility and independence.\r\n\r\nLabels have further supported our organized environment by clearly identifying where materials belong. This has empowered students to manage classroom resources on their own, ask fewer procedural questions, and maintain a sense of order throughout the day. The classroom runs more smoothly because students know exactly where to find and return items, reinforcing routines and expectations.\r\n\r\nThe vacuum has played an important role in maintaining a clean, comfortable learning space. Our classroom feels more welcoming and cared for, which has had a positive effect on student focus and pride. Students are more mindful of their environment and take greater responsibility in keeping it tidy, contributing to an overall positive classroom culture.\r\n\r\nWhile each item serves a different purpose, together they have created a classroom environment that is organized, engaging, and supportive of student success. This project has not only enhanced our physical space but has also strengthened student independence, motivation, and confidence. The impact is evident in our daily routines and in the growth I see in my students every day.","fullyFundedDate":1771974160948,"projectUrl":"project/building-a-clean-and-organized-classroom/10097315/","projectTitle":"Building a Clean and Organized Classroom Community!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Derby","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4473650_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1701179552990","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4473650"},{"teacherId":4473650,"projectId":9862899,"letterContent":"Thanks to the generous support of this project, our classroom environment has been transformed in meaningful and lasting ways. The addition of flexible floor seating has given my fifth graders the opportunity to choose learning spaces that best meet their individual needs, and that sense of choice has had a powerful impact on both engagement and independence. Students who previously struggled to remain focused during longer reading and writing tasks are now able to sustain their attention for extended periods of time, simply because they are more comfortable and better supported.\r\nI have seen a noticeable increase in student stamina, particularly during small group work and independent practice. Students who benefit from movement or sensory input are no longer as restless or distracted—instead, they are productively engaged and able to fully participate in lessons. The flexible seating has also fostered a calmer classroom atmosphere, reducing disruptions and allowing for smoother transitions throughout the day.\r\nBeyond academics, this project has positively impacted our classroom community. Students are more collaborative, respectful of shared spaces, and invested in maintaining an environment that works for everyone. They take pride in making responsible choices about their seating and understand how those choices support their learning.\r\nThis project has not only enhanced comfort—it has strengthened focus, increased engagement, and empowered students to take ownership of their learning. The impact is visible every single day in the way students approach their work with confidence, persistence, and a greater sense of independence.","fullyFundedDate":1770997151090,"projectUrl":"project/flexible-seating-to-support-focus-and-in/9862899/","projectTitle":"Flexible Seating to Support Focus and Independence","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Derby","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4473650_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1701179552990","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4473650"},{"teacherId":9928101,"projectId":9828285,"letterContent":"The project that was donated to my classroom for games has provided a lot of smiles, cheering and laughter to my room. The students have enjoyed spending cold recess days inside playing the games. We have spent many Friday's incorporating the games into our Fun Friday reward system which is for students that have completed all work, including homework for the week. \r\n\r\nThe students are enjoying getting to know one another better and learning to collaborate as a team. This has brought many new friendships to our classroom. We are so thankful for your help with this project and making this fun for us all. We can't wait to use them for years to come.","fullyFundedDate":1763149480401,"projectUrl":"project/games-for-growth/9828285/","projectTitle":"Games for Growth!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Hamlett","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9928101"},{"teacherId":4473650,"projectId":9722250,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting this project and investing in my students' success. Because of your generosity, my classroom now has organizational tools that have made a noticeable difference in students' independence and daily routines. The clipboard storage and paper sorter have helped students manage their materials more efficiently, reducing confusion and saving valuable instructional time. Students are able to locate and return their work independently, which has increased responsibility and confidence.\r\n\r\nThe labels have made classroom routines clearer and more accessible for all learners. Students now transition between activities with greater ease because expectations are visually reinforced. The digital wall timer has been especially impactful, helping students understand time management and prepare for transitions without stress. As a result, students are more focused, calm, and engaged throughout the day.\r\n\r\nThese tools have allowed my students to spend less time worrying about materials and more time actively participating in meaningful learning. I have seen growth in responsibility, organization, and self-confidence as students take ownership of their work and routines. Thank you for helping create a classroom environment that supports independence, focus, and academic success.","fullyFundedDate":1758840863607,"projectUrl":"project/organization-brings-success/9722250/","projectTitle":"Organization Brings Success","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Derby","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4473650_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1701179552990","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4473650"},{"teacherId":4473650,"projectId":9654272,"letterContent":"Thanks to this project, my students now have access to equipment that has transformed our daily routines and classroom culture. The basketballs, soccer balls, frisbees, and cones have encouraged students to work together, communicate clearly, and solve problems during structured and free-play activities. I have seen increased cooperation, improved focus, and stronger peer relationships as students learn to take turns, follow rules, and support one another. The sports bag has helped keep materials organized and ready for consistent use, reinforcing responsibility and independence. These resources have not only made play more engaging, but they have also supported social-emotional growth that carries into the classroom, helping students approach academic challenges with confidence, teamwork, and perseverance.","fullyFundedDate":1758636593753,"projectUrl":"project/game-on-active-play-for-growing-minds/9654272/","projectTitle":"Game On: Active Play for Growing Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Derby","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4473650_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1701179552990","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4473650"},{"teacherId":6231735,"projectId":9505366,"letterContent":"First and foremost, thank you so much for your donations. We are so fortunate to have your support. When we first received the information, my students were ecstatic! They were so excited and couldn't wait to share our new products. I mean, who doesn't get excited about bean bag chairs?! We talked about what they are used for and how we use them so that we can have them for everyone. So far, the students have done great with them. \r\n\r\nThe students use them in our \"calm down\" area when they need a moment for themselves or just to relax. The students sometimes use the items with a friend when they are working to or sometimes when they just need a place to feel safe. They sit and sink into the bean bag and sometimes, they even fall asleep. This is their safe place and when they are ready, they will join the class again. I'm so glad that they now have an area like this that is not a traditional seating option. They love sitting in that area!","fullyFundedDate":1761951323854,"projectUrl":"project/a-safe-space-to-manage-overwhelming-emot/9505366/","projectTitle":"A Safe Space to Manage Overwhelming Emotions","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lee","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6231735_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1549821257684","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6231735"},{"teacherId":4473650,"projectId":9757059,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has gained so much more than a rug—we've gained a true community space. This new rug has transformed the way my students learn each day. They now have a comfortable, organized place to gather for lessons, read together, collaborate in groups, and share their ideas with confidence.\r\n\r\nYour support has helped create a warm, inviting environment where students can focus better, feel more connected, and engage more deeply in their learning. Because of you, our classroom feels like a place where every child belongs and is excited to grow. Thank you for making such a meaningful and lasting difference for my students.","fullyFundedDate":1758839517615,"projectUrl":"project/gather-round-our-new-classroom-rug/9757059/","projectTitle":"Gather ‘Round Our New Classroom Rug","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Derby","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4473650_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1701179552990","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4473650"},{"teacherId":4473650,"projectId":9284786,"letterContent":"Your support will directly transform our classroom library into a welcoming, well-organized space where every young reader can discover books that inspire and excite them. With durable book bins, students will be able to easily browse by genre, author, or reading level—empowering them to make independent reading choices and fostering confidence as lifelong learners.\r\n\r\nThese bins will not only keep our shelves tidy, but they will also create a smoother, more enjoyable experience for all readers. A well-organized library invites curiosity, encourages exploration, and helps students build a genuine love for reading.\r\n\r\nBy contributing to this project, you're giving our students access to a library that meets their enthusiasm—and fuels it. Thank you for helping us create a space where imagination grows and every reader can thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1746492765887,"projectUrl":"project/bins-that-build-readers-organizing-our/9284786/","projectTitle":"Bins That Build Readers: Organizing Our Classroom Library","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Derby","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4473650_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1701179552990","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4473650"},{"teacherId":10262260,"projectId":9715501,"letterContent":"Thanks again for funding my project. The materials helped my kinders grow in math and literacy. The materials also has helped to keep them engaged. They can't wait for small group to begin..We absolutely love the materials and you for making this all possible. The kinders were able to grow in number recognition, letter recognition, blending and segments. My kinders are know 75% engaged and is excited about learning. My non verbal student loves the shape patterns sorter, I'm so happy and thankful for this item because I see growth in him with sorting 2D and 3D shapes..The Little Language Learners sends a heartfelt Thank you to DonorsCoose. THANK YOU","fullyFundedDate":1762559231749,"projectUrl":"project/little-language-learners/9715501/","projectTitle":"Little Language Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Williams","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10262260"},{"teacherId":4473650,"projectId":8754975,"letterContent":"Creating a supportive, engaging, and nurturing classroom environment goes far beyond the lessons taught during academic blocks—it also includes providing students with meaningful opportunities to learn, connect, and grow during the quieter moments of their day. Indoor recess is often overlooked, yet it plays a powerful role in shaping the social, emotional, and behavioral well-being of young learners. For many of my students, indoor recess is not just \"free time\"—it is a much-needed break from the demands of learning, a moment to decompress, express themselves, build friendships, and practice essential life skills. Unfortunately, without developmentally appropriate materials, indoor recess can quickly become unstructured and stressful rather than restorative and joyful. This project, \"Building a Well-Equipped Classroom for Every Need,\" aims to change that by equipping our classroom with kinetic sand and an Uno game—two simple but incredibly impactful tools that bring calm, creativity, joy, and connection into our daily routine.\r\n\r\nKinetic sand provides students with a soothing sensory experience that is especially beneficial for those who struggle with anxiety, overstimulation, or difficulty transitioning between activities. The tactile nature of kinetic sand helps students regulate their emotions, ground their energy, and experience a sense of control and peace during an otherwise noisy part of the day. It also encourages creativity and imaginative play, allowing students to build, shape, and explore in ways that support fine-motor development and problem-solving skills. For many students, this type of sensory outlet is not available at home, making it an even more meaningful resource within our classroom. Having access to kinetic sand ensures that children who need sensory input can find comfort and calm in a safe, structured way that promotes emotional well-being.\r\n\r\nThe Uno game fulfills another essential component of student growth: social interaction. Card games like Uno teach cooperation, turn-taking, patience, resilience, and strategic thinking. They encourage students to communicate, support one another, handle winning and losing gracefully, and work through challenges—all skills that extend far beyond the classroom. Many students struggle with navigating social dynamics, and games like Uno provide a structured and positive way to practice these skills. By offering a game that students can learn quickly, enjoy together, and return to again and again, we are strengthening peer relationships and building a sense of community in our classroom.\r\n\r\nYour support for this project will make a meaningful difference in students' everyday experiences. These materials will transform indoor recess from an unstructured pause into a valuable opportunity for learning, healing, and connection. Students will have the chance to reset their minds, manage their emotions, and engage in play that supports their cognitive and social development. Donors like you help create classrooms where students' needs—academic, emotional, and social—are honored and respected. Your generosity ensures that every child, no matter their circumstances, has access to tools that nurture them holistically.\r\n\r\nBy funding this project, you are giving my students more than just sand and a card game—you are giving them comfort, community, and the chance to grow in ways that will support them far beyond this school year. Your contribution truly matters, and it will be felt every single day by the students who step into our classroom ready to learn, play, and become the best versions of themselves.","fullyFundedDate":1734098750641,"projectUrl":"project/building-a-well-equipped-classroom-for-e/8754975/","projectTitle":"Building a Well-Equipped Classroom for Every Need","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Derby","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4473650_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1701179552990","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4473650"},{"teacherId":4473650,"projectId":8672677,"letterContent":"Our new resources have already made a huge difference in our classroom. The screen has helped transform our lessons—students are now more engaged during reading mini-lessons, small-group instruction, and interactive activities. During free recess time, students eagerly rotate through the game bins, cooperative board games, and the kinetic sand station. These materials have become a calming and creative outlet, especially for students who need sensory breaks. On rainy days, the indoor recess equipment has saved us! Students stay active, play together, and use their energy in positive ways even when we can't go outside.\r\n\r\nWhen my students first saw everything set up, their reactions were priceless. They gasped, cheered, and immediately started asking if it was \"really for us.\" Several students couldn't wait to try the kinetic sand, and groups quickly gathered around the board games, working together and laughing. It created an instant sense of joy and community.\r\n\r\nNow that we have these resources, we're able to move forward with more hands-on learning and collaborative activities. Students are using the screen to share their writing pieces, model math strategies, and review content together. The free-recess stations are helping them practice communication and teamwork—skills that carry over into academic group work. Next, we are beginning a new set of literacy and STEM rotations, and these materials will play a big role in giving students choice, movement, and meaningful engagement. Thank you for giving my students the tools and experiences that make our classroom a better place to learn every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1734098750558,"projectUrl":"project/screen-free-recess-entertainment/8672677/","projectTitle":"Screen-Free Recess Entertainment","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Derby","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4473650_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1701179552990","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4473650"},{"teacherId":9928101,"projectId":9468362,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for making this incredible donation to my classroom and students. Students have enjoyed being able to use and utilize many of the items that were purchased. When my students came to school on the first day, the smile on their face was unforgettable to see a nice, clean, neat and organized room. The laminating sheets allowed me to create colorful name tags for each students desk as well as informational sheets around the ELA room. The organizing bins have been so helpful for students. All the materials are easily organized and found within the classroom. I feel it is teaching them some responsibility in knowing how to put things back in their correct spot. The inspirational quote pencils brought a smile to all the students as they sat at their desk and was able to look down and see a positive message in their hand. Lastly the carpet rug. They LOVE it. When we have morning meeting and read aloud they can not wait to get on the cozzy, fluffy carpet. I really appreciate your kindness in making such an impact in my classroom and provided these resources and supplies for my students. We could not make it happen if their were not people like you!","fullyFundedDate":1752941581843,"projectUrl":"project/smiles-and-supplies/9468362/","projectTitle":"Smiles and Supplies!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Hamlett","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9928101"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_2961","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":346,"numTeachers":30,"percentFrplEligible":83,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":49,"percentWhite":12,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":28,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"11.5:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"TOWN","ncesMetroType":"TOWN_FRINGE"},"inStateSupporters":61.4,"schoolId":2961,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about N.B. Mills Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"N.B. Mills Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/north-carolina/iredell-statesville-sch-dist/n-b-mills-elementary-school/2961"}