{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Northern Hills Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":35.2,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":1153154,"projectId":9452550,"letterContent":"I am thrilled to share the fantastic impact your donation for Rital Malone's Chants and Songs for my reading classroom has had on my 5th-grade students!\r\n\r\nYour support has brought energy and deep learning into our room, creating a truly engaged environment.\r\n\r\nThe songs have transformed complex literary concepts into memorable, rhythmic hooks. Students now sing the \"Cause and Effect\" chant or the \"Inference Jingle\" to quickly recall and apply strategies. This musical reinforcement is successfully moving concepts into their long-term memory.\r\n\r\nThe chants are powerful attention grabbers and transitions. Students are excited to participate and are fully engaged when we start our day with music. It helps students who often struggle with focus stay present and active during challenging lessons.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in an incredibly effective way for my students to learn to read and comprehend. You haven't just provided a resource; you've given my 5th graders a fun, confident path to literacy.","fullyFundedDate":1752613342858,"projectUrl":"project/rockin-reading-and-writing-with-rita-ma/9452550/","projectTitle":"Rockin’ Reading and Writing with Rita Malone’s Chants!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Boes","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1153154_orig.jpg?crop=1026,1027,x0,y160&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1736198175915","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1153154"},{"teacherId":1663954,"projectId":9479759,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has transformed into a true reading community. The new carpet you funded has quickly become the heart of our room. It is our shared space for read-alouds, small-group discussions, partner reading, and morning meetings. One of my favorite moments happened the very first day we rolled it out. My students walked in, gasped, and immediately sat down running their hands across it, saying, \"It feels like a real reading corner now!\" That moment reminded me how much the environment matters in helping students feel safe, comfortable, and excited to learn.\r\n\r\nSince then, this carpet has completely changed the way we gather and connect. We use it every day to launch our lessons, build background knowledge together, and model comprehension strategies. It has become the spot where students stretch out with a book during independent reading, work elbow-to-elbow in small groups, and collaborate on projects. The comfort and structure of a designated meeting space has made discussions more focused, transitions smoother, and students more eager to participate.\r\n\r\nOur next steps include diving deeper into book clubs and collaborative comprehension routines, and the carpet has made these activities easier and more engaging. Students now have a space that feels inviting and purposeful. It is somewhere they want to sit, learn, and talk about stories. Your gift didn't just add a new reading space; it added a sense of pride, community, and joy to our classroom. Thank you for helping us read in comfort and style!","fullyFundedDate":1755706089520,"projectUrl":"project/help-us-read-in-comfort-and-style/9479759/","projectTitle":"Help Us Read in Comfort and Style","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Houghton","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1663954_orig.jpg?crop=720,720,x0,y230&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1703729048624","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1663954"},{"teacherId":6868169,"projectId":9245912,"letterContent":"One of the most exciting parts of our job as educators is helping students learn how to read critically, and thoughtfully. With our new texts, we're introducing key skills like identifying themes, analyzing character development, and drawing connections between literature and real-world experiences. These books also allow us to explore perspective and voice, giving students the tools to recognize how authors build meaning and evoke emotion.\r\n\r\nIn our classroom, reading is active and collaborative. You'll often find students in pairs or small groups, we are grateful to have access to these texts thanks to you!!","fullyFundedDate":1746783030504,"projectUrl":"project/diversifying-through-literature/9245912/","projectTitle":"Diversifying Through Literature","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ramirez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6868169_orig.jpg?crop=666,666,x0,y126&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1570033584055","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jessrmrz"},{"teacherId":9972371,"projectId":9232892,"letterContent":"This year, my kindergarten through second-grade students will have the opportunity to engage with math in a dynamic and hands-on way. Young learners build a strong foundation in mathematics when they can explore concepts interactively. The addition of several key tools, including the Teacher Created Resources Push and Pop Bubble Ten Frames, Jumbo Magnetic Ten-Frames, and counting bears, will allow them to physically manipulate and visualize numbers. These resources are designed to help students master essential skills like number sense and place value by making abstract ideas tangible and fun. This hands-on approach will transform our math lessons into engaging, tactile experiences, which is the most effective way for these young students to learn.\r\n\r\nThe new materials will directly enhance our daily math instruction, leading to improved student outcomes. The Push and Pop Bubble Ten Frames will provide a unique, sensory way for students to practice counting and basic operations, while the Jumbo Magnetic Ten-Frames will make it easier to demonstrate and teach these same concepts at the front of the classroom. With a subtraction regrouping kit and a geometric shapes tub, we will be able to introduce more complex ideas in a way that is accessible and intuitive. By providing these tools, we are creating an environment where students can build confidence and curiosity in their math abilities, setting them up for long-term success.","fullyFundedDate":1746783054108,"projectUrl":"project/building-math-skills-through-play/9232892/","projectTitle":"Building Math Skills Through Play!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Hernandez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9972371"},{"teacherId":1663954,"projectId":9226912,"letterContent":"Our reading block has become a time of real engagement and curiosity. Students eagerly rush to the shelves, eyes scanning for the next story that will make them think, laugh, or feel seen. There's more book talk than ever—students recommending books to each other, discussing characters' choices, and even asking if they can take books home to read over the weekend (yes, of course!).\r\n\r\nWith these new texts, we've been able to introduce and deepen essential literacy skills: analyzing character development through diverse protagonists, making inferences about settings and cultures unfamiliar to some students, building empathy by stepping into the shoes of characters from different backgrounds, recognizing themes like resilience, justice, friendship, and identity, and comparing perspectives and understanding how a character's background influences their choices.\r\n\r\nThese books didn't just fill shelves, they have ignited curiosity, built confidence, and sparked powerful conversations. You've helped my students not only grow as readers but as thinkers and compassionate individuals. Thank you for making that possible. Your gift will continue to impact their journey long after the last page is turned.","fullyFundedDate":1746783021093,"projectUrl":"project/opening-doors-through-diverse-books-ins/9226912/","projectTitle":"Opening Doors Through Diverse Books: Inspiring 5th Grade Readers!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Houghton","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1663954_orig.jpg?crop=720,720,x0,y230&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1703729048624","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1663954"},{"teacherId":1663954,"projectId":9156819,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our 5th grade classroom is now equipped with individual headphones, and the impact has been immediate and meaningful. These headphones have transformed the way students engage with educational technology, allowing them to focus deeply on their learning without distractions. Whether they're listening to interactive math tutorials, accessing leveled reading programs, or watching science videos that bring abstract concepts to life, students are now fully immersed in their lessons. The ability to hear clearly and work independently has empowered them to take greater ownership of their learning.\r\n\r\nWhat excites students most about the new headphones is the sense of independence and choice they now have. They love being able to move at their own pace, revisit difficult content, and explore topics that interest them. They do this all without worrying about bothering or being bothered by others.\r\n\r\nIn short, these headphones have made our classroom more personalized, focused, and inclusive. Thank you for making this possible. You've given our students the tools to hear more, learn more, and achieve more. We're so grateful for your support!","fullyFundedDate":1746471380375,"projectUrl":"project/help-provide-headphones-for-focused-and/9156819/","projectTitle":"Help Provide Headphones for Focused and Engaged Learning!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Houghton","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1663954_orig.jpg?crop=720,720,x0,y230&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1703729048624","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1663954"},{"teacherId":1663954,"projectId":9298278,"letterContent":"Thanks to your incredible generosity, our \"5th Grade Leaders in Literacy\" project has taken off in the best possible way! The library has been transformed into a welcoming, student-centered space where our fifth graders now serve as reading role models for our younger learners. Every week, they meet with their kindergarten and first-grade buddies, sharing stories, laughter, and a love for books that's growing on both sides of the partnership.\r\n\r\nThrough this project, our fifth graders aren't just reading, they are leading. They are practicing fluency, expression, and questioning techniques as they guide their buddies through picture books, early readers, and even nonfiction texts. We've had wonderful conversations about how to ask comprehension questions, how to explain tricky words, and how to be patient and encouraging. These are powerful leadership and literacy skills that will serve our students far beyond this year. Thank you for giving our students the tools, space, and encouragement to grow as both readers and leaders.","fullyFundedDate":1747143118380,"projectUrl":"project/5th-grade-leaders-in-literacy/9298278/","projectTitle":"5th Grade Leaders in Literacy","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Houghton","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1663954_orig.jpg?crop=720,720,x0,y230&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1703729048624","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1663954"},{"teacherId":1663954,"projectId":9317591,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom has been transformed into a more vibrant, organized, and productive learning space! The highlighters, markers, scissors, and pencils you helped provide have become essential tools in our daily routines. From color-coding academic vocabulary to designing creative posters, students are now equipped to fully engage in their learning. One specific moment that stood out was during a group project on ecosystems, students used the new markers and scissors to create detailed dioramas and labeled charts, and their pride in their work was evident. They were thrilled to have materials that helped bring their ideas to life.\r\n\r\nWhen the supplies first arrived, there was genuine excitement in the room. Many students couldn't believe the materials were just for them. It was a small but powerful reminder of how much these resources matter. Having access to basic supplies has also created more equity in the classroom, ensuring that every student, regardless of background, can participate fully in activities.\r\n\r\nAs we head into our next school year, students will be using the supplies to create math projects teaching place value to their peers. These tools are helping them grow in confidence and capability. Thank you for opening the door to more meaningful and hands-on learning. Your contribution has truly made a difference!","fullyFundedDate":1746783037257,"projectUrl":"project/ready-to-learn-supplying-success-for-ev/9317591/","projectTitle":"Ready to Learn: Supplying Success for Every Student","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Houghton","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1663954_orig.jpg?crop=720,720,x0,y230&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1703729048624","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1663954"},{"teacherId":1663954,"projectId":9339345,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, I had the opportunity to attend a powerful training focused on using small groups effectively and teaching writing across all content areas, including math, science, and social studies. Since returning to school, I've been able to immediately apply these strategies in my classroom. I'm now structuring lessons to include more intentional small-group instruction, which allows me to meet students where they are, differentiate support, and encourage deeper engagement with writing no matter the subject. Whether students are explaining their thinking in math or writing reflections on historical events, I'm seeing stronger communication and critical thinking skills emerging across the board.\r\n\r\n Because of the training, I have the tools to guide my students in small groups through brainstorming, organizing their ideas, and refining their writing. They have improved their final drafts with personality, thoughtfulness, and allowing their voice to shine through in their writing. Students are not only learning content but also making emotional and intellectual connections, which makes lessons so much more meaningful.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, I'm excited to continue growing in this area, especially in helping students use writing to explain their mathematical reasoning. I've already started incorporating math journals, and it's been amazing to see how clearly students can articulate their thinking when given the tools and support. Thank you for helping me grow as an educator. Your contribution is making a real difference in my teaching and in my students' learning every day.","fullyFundedDate":1747428348108,"projectUrl":"project/strengthening-reading-and-writing-skills/9339345/","projectTitle":"Strengthening Reading and Writing Skills in 5th Grade","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Houghton","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1663954_orig.jpg?crop=720,720,x0,y230&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1703729048624","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1663954"},{"teacherId":1153154,"projectId":9235921,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of books for our classroom library! Because of you, my 5th grade students now have access to big variety of popular, engaging, exciting, age-appropriate books that have completely transformed the reading experience in our classroom. From graphic novels to adventure stories to realistic fiction, there is truly something for every reader, and it's been a joy to see students light up when they find a book that speaks to them.\r\n\r\nYour donation didn't just supply books—it sparked a deeper love of reading in our classroom. Thank you for helping my students grow as readers, thinkers, and learners. We are truly grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1746783017105,"projectUrl":"project/expanding-our-5th-grade-classroom-librar/9235921/","projectTitle":"Expanding our 5th Grade Classroom Library","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Boes","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1153154_orig.jpg?crop=1026,1027,x0,y160&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1736198175915","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1153154"},{"teacherId":1663954,"projectId":9112716,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our Battle of the Books project! Your contributions have made an incredible difference in our classroom, and we're excited to share just how impactful this experience has been.\r\n\r\nStudents worked collaboratively in teams, diving into each book with enthusiasm. They divided up tasks, shared insights, and helped each other summarize chapters, explore characters' motivations, and draw connections between books and their own lives. The teamwork and discussion were just as important as the reading itself.\r\n\r\nThanks to you, our students not only enjoyed reading—they thrived in it. They learned, discussed, and competed with pride, showing just how much they had grown as readers and thinkers. We're deeply grateful for your support","fullyFundedDate":1740841336136,"projectUrl":"project/battle-of-the-books/9112716/","projectTitle":"Battle of the Books","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Houghton","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1663954_orig.jpg?crop=720,720,x0,y230&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1703729048624","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1663954"},{"teacherId":1663954,"projectId":9137950,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our DonorsChoose project for period products has made a powerful and deeply meaningful impact on the girls in my 5th grade classroom. For many of them, this school year marks the beginning of big physical and emotional changes, and having access to period products at school has helped ease some of the stress and uncertainty that comes with starting their menstrual cycles. Your donation has provided pads, liners, and hygiene supplies that are available discreetly and without stigma—creating a safe and supportive environment where girls can feel confident and cared for.\r\n\r\nThis project has helped open the door to important conversations about health, self-care, and growing up, all within a space where students feel seen and empowered. Several girls have shared how relieved they feel knowing they won't have to worry about being unprepared during the school day. The confidence that comes from simply having what they need allows them to focus on learning instead of discomfort or embarrassment. Thank you for making such a personal and powerful difference in their daily lives.","fullyFundedDate":1741714058727,"projectUrl":"project/empower-her-providing-period-essentials/9137950/","projectTitle":"Empower Her: Providing Period Essentials for Young Students","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Houghton","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1663954_orig.jpg?crop=720,720,x0,y230&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1703729048624","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1663954"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_12450","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":522,"numTeachers":41,"percentFrplEligible":85,"percentAsian":1,"percentBlack":9,"percentWhite":15,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":67,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"12.7:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":64.8,"schoolId":12450,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Northern Hills Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Northern Hills Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/texas/north-east-independent-school-district/northern-hills-elementary-school/12450"}