{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Olney C Allen Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":17.6,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":6574678,"projectId":9549316,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous donation to our classroom project. Students now have all of the materials needed for our group projects. Each group has access to a portable, presentation desk where they can have their materials displayed to present to various groups of peers or instructors. This project has helped those students who are more timid have the platform to feel comfortable to speak up and share with their class and ultimately become more confident with public speaking. This has become a great tool in our classroom and has started a trend within the school to have these materials available for students.","fullyFundedDate":1755737917910,"projectUrl":"project/moving-groovin/9549316/","projectTitle":"Moving & Groovin’","teacherDisplayName":"Dr. Beck","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6574678_orig.jpg?crop=336,336,x31,y61&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1589402866205","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6574678"},{"teacherId":6574678,"projectId":9024387,"letterContent":"These materials were essential in creating the most amazing and spoken about calming corner in our classroom. When students feel they need to take a break and regulate their emotions, they are allowed to utilize the classroom's calming corner where they have access to all the materials provided through your donations. These include posters with steps to help self-regulate, reflection sheets, calming fidgets, books to read with strategies to incorporate in various situations, and calming sensory objects. These items have become vital in helping students teach themselves to self-regulate, know the signs of when they need to remove themselves from a situation, or even how to calm down and then resume learning in a classroom environment.","fullyFundedDate":1746493854061,"projectUrl":"project/emotional-regulation/9024387/","projectTitle":"Emotional Regulation","teacherDisplayName":"Dr. Beck","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6574678_orig.jpg?crop=336,336,x31,y61&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1589402866205","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6574678"},{"teacherId":6574678,"projectId":8932283,"letterContent":"Thank you so very kindly for your generous donations towards our STEM project. Students LOVED exploring the stem materials independently during indoor recess or independent science/math centers as well as during stem centers where they were able to explore circuits or create solar powered vehicles. These materials allowed students to work together with their peers, brainstorm, and really problem solve to come to solutions to real world problems. Students analyzed what they did and reflected on what they would do differently if given the project again.","fullyFundedDate":1731948618721,"projectUrl":"project/stem-in-5th-grade/8932283/","projectTitle":"STEM in 5th Grade!","teacherDisplayName":"Dr. Beck","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6574678_orig.jpg?crop=336,336,x31,y61&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1589402866205","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6574678"},{"teacherId":9323431,"projectId":9657433,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation! My heart is so incredibly happy right now. It is such a wonderful feeling to be able to help the students in my classroom. It is one less worry I have when meeting the needs of my students. I no longer have to worry about charging iPads and working head phones. The students in my class deserve every opportunity to be successful. Your generous donation will help with their success! The students in my class and I thank you from the bottom of our hearts!","fullyFundedDate":1758305651125,"projectUrl":"project/ipad-support/9657433/","projectTitle":"iPad Support","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. VanCura","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9323431_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723686877285","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9323431"},{"teacherId":5759709,"projectId":9100710,"letterContent":"When our organizational supplies arrived, my students were so excited to see their new classroom setup! The bright caddies, labeled bins, and fresh supplies made our room feel brand new and gave them a sense of pride in their space. One student said, \"Now I know where everything goes—I won't lose my crayons anymore!\" It was a simple but powerful reminder of how something small can make a big difference in a child's confidence.\r\n\r\nWe are already seeing the impact of having a more structured and organized environment. Students are taking ownership of keeping materials in the right places, which has saved us valuable learning time. Instead of searching for missing supplies, we can dive right into lessons with everything we need at our fingertips. This shift has created a calmer, more focused classroom where students can put their energy into learning instead of worrying about what they're missing.\r\n\r\nNext, we will continue building on these organizational routines as we move into bigger classroom projects. For example, during our upcoming literacy centers, students will be able to grab their labeled caddies with pencils, crayons, and erasers ready to go—no wasted time, no frustration. Because of your support, my students now have the tools to feel prepared, responsible, and successful every single day. Thank you for believing in them and helping create a learning environment where they can truly thrive!","fullyFundedDate":1746787303172,"projectUrl":"project/set-students-up-for-success-supplies-/9100710/","projectTitle":"\"Set Students Up for Success: Supplies & Organization for Learning!\"","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hunt","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5759709_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1561957096065","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-huntk"},{"teacherId":6574678,"projectId":9189775,"letterContent":"My students last year had so much fun using these STEM materials during intervention, indoor recess, or as a science supplement! They loved creating the solar power vehicles and having additional items to use for brain breaks. Optimum really helped support the learning of my 5th graders by giving them access to materials they otherwise would not be able to access!\r\n\r\nWhen the materials arrived at school and we unpacked them, my students instantly wanted to open them and begin creating! I loved seeing the excitement to learn in their eyes!","fullyFundedDate":1744033071899,"projectUrl":"project/stem-manipulatives/9189775/","projectTitle":"STEM Manipulatives!","teacherDisplayName":"Dr. Beck","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6574678_orig.jpg?crop=336,336,x31,y61&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1589402866205","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6574678"},{"teacherId":6574678,"projectId":8954878,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your amazingly generous donation towards my class project. My students are so excited to have updated, modern, popular books in our classroom. Students are so excited we had to create \"waiting lists\" for most of the books since they want to read them all! Students are reading these during independent reading time, silent reading, centers, and are allowed to take them home to read and return. I love watching my students get excited for reading and just waiting for the next book they want to read to be available! Thank you!","fullyFundedDate":1735683363803,"projectUrl":"project/graphic-novels/8954878/","projectTitle":"Graphic Novels!","teacherDisplayName":"Dr. Beck","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6574678_orig.jpg?crop=336,336,x31,y61&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1589402866205","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6574678"},{"teacherId":9888220,"projectId":9066782,"letterContent":"When I told my students that their project was fully funded, they were elated that they could do something for their community and shocked that people wanted to help them do it. They never experienced anything like this before and it gave them power and purpose. \r\n\r\nThey were able to see what can happen if they share their passion for helping people in their community and work hard for what they want. It was an amazing experience, and I am so grateful for you. \r\n\r\nBecause of you, my students learned that they can make a difference in their community right now and that people believe in their dreams. This goes way further than helping a dog pound, but those dogs did look pretty happy too!","fullyFundedDate":1737472850441,"projectUrl":"project/dont-wait-to-be-great/9066782/","projectTitle":"Don't Wait to Be Great!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Loera","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9888220"},{"teacherId":5759709,"projectId":8871207,"letterContent":"I am beyond grateful for your generous support in funding our snack project. Your contribution has already made a world of difference in my students' lives. Many of my kindergartners come to school hungry or without access to nutritious snacks, and thanks to you, I now have the resources to provide them with the healthy fuel they need to stay focused, engaged, and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nSince receiving the snacks, we've noticed a big improvement in my students' focus, especially during reading and math lessons. Each morning, when my students arrive, we ensure that every child has a nutritious snack to start their day. This small act has had a huge impact. For example, just last week, during a math activity, the students were able to stay more focused and actively participate, without the distractions of hunger. They are able to concentrate more deeply, which leads to better behavior and more successful lessons.\r\n\r\nWhen the snacks first arrived, my students were so excited! Their faces lit up with joy, and I could see how much they appreciated having something to eat that would help them stay energized. Snack time has also become an important part of our day, offering not only physical nourishment but a chance for my students to connect and share with each other. It has created a sense of community in our classroom that has enriched both their academic and social development.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we are about to start a new reading project where the students will work together to create their own class book. I'm confident that with the consistent energy and focus provided by these snacks, my students will continue to thrive. Snack time is helping us move forward with lessons and projects, ensuring that every child feels prepared to do their best, both academically and socially.\r\n\r\nOnce again, thank you for your generosity. Your support means more than you could ever know. You've truly helped make a difference in the lives of my students!","fullyFundedDate":1737175469019,"projectUrl":"project/yummy-tummy-snacks-to-keep-us-learning/8871207/","projectTitle":"Yummy Tummy: Snacks to Keep Us Learning!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hunt","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5759709_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1561957096065","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-huntk"},{"teacherId":5759709,"projectId":8864109,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous contribution to our classroom project. Your support has had an incredible impact on my kindergarten students, and I am excited to share how we've been using the new resources and the difference they've made.\r\n\r\nThe big pencils have already become a favorite tool in our classroom! As we've been practicing writing our names and learning to form letters, my students are using these pencils to build strength and coordination. The larger grip allows them to hold the pencil comfortably, and they're able to control their movements with more ease. It's been so rewarding to see their handwriting improve while they gain confidence with each stroke. One of my students, Emma, who previously struggled with gripping a pencil, has made tremendous progress in just a few weeks. Watching her proudly write her name on her own was a special moment for all of us!\r\n\r\nWhen the left-handed and adaptive scissors arrived, the students' faces lit up with excitement. My left-handed students, who had previously struggled with regular scissors, now have the tools they need to cut with precision and ease. I had one student, Luke, who always became frustrated when he couldn't cut along the lines with standard scissors, but with the left-handed pair, he was able to do it without any trouble. He couldn't stop smiling as he cut out shapes for our art project! Similarly, the adaptive scissors have been a game-changer for students who have limited hand strength. They are now able to participate in cutting activities without feeling defeated, and this has helped them feel more included in our classroom projects.\r\n\r\nThese tools have not only made daily tasks easier but have also opened the door for new learning experiences. We've recently started a creative project where students use their cutting skills to make a class collage. This activity involves cutting out shapes, animals, and even some letters, all of which are important for building fine motor skills. Thanks to the big pencils and the adaptive scissors, every student is able to participate at their own level and feel successful.\r\n\r\nAs we continue to work on strengthening our fine motor skills, the next step will be to integrate these tools into more complex projects, like creating our own mini-books and cutting out shapes for an upcoming science experiment. These projects will continue to support my students' growth, helping them gain mastery over their coordination and fine motor abilities.\r\n\r\nYour donation has helped my students gain confidence and independence, and for that, I can't thank you enough. We look forward to all the future learning we will accomplish with your generous support!","fullyFundedDate":1731948617470,"projectUrl":"project/fix-my-fine-motor/8864109/","projectTitle":"Fix My Fine Motor","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hunt","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5759709_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1561957096065","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-huntk"},{"teacherId":5759709,"projectId":8620114,"letterContent":"I am incredibly grateful for your support in helping my students gain access to the supplemental resources they need to thrive. Your generosity has provided additional practice resources, games, worksheets, and other materials that have allowed me to meet my students where they are and give them the tools to grow beyond the standard curriculum.\r\n\r\nThe resources you have provided have had an incredible effect on my students' learning experiences. With access to these additional materials, my students are able to engage with the content in ways that were previously unavailable to them. The practice resources, games, and worksheets have made learning more interactive and enjoyable, and have helped foster both curiosity and motivation.\r\n\r\nAs an educator, I believe that learning is not one-size-fits-all. Sometimes, I have to think outside the box to ensure that each student has multiple pathways to understanding. The resources you've helped fund enable me to provide engaging, differentiated learning opportunities that support their diverse needs. With these materials, my students are making meaningful progress and reaching more learning targets than ever before.\r\n\r\nOne of the most exciting things is watching how the students interact with the new resources. Many students who previously struggled with engagement are now more excited and confident in their learning. For example, I've noticed a student who struggled with math using the additional practice worksheets to improve their skills and gain confidence. Another student, who loves working through games, has developed a real passion for learning by applying the new resources in creative ways, helping them engage with the material in ways I hadn't anticipated.\r\n\r\nYour kindness and investment in their future make a lasting impact. Thank you for believing in the power of education and for helping me create a classroom where all students can succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1727192896146,"projectUrl":"project/complete-the-puzzle/8620114/","projectTitle":"Complete the Puzzle","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hunt","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5759709_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1561957096065","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-huntk"},{"teacherId":5759709,"projectId":8628732,"letterContent":"I cannot thank you enough for your kindness and generosity in supporting my kindergarten classroom with much-needed snacks! For many of my students, school is a place where they feel safe, cared for, and nourished—not just academically but physically as well. Thanks to your donations, I can provide them with healthy snacks throughout the day, ensuring they stay energized and focused on learning. Whether it's a quick bite before tackling letter sounds or a little fuel before an afternoon math lesson, these snacks have made a world of difference in their ability to engage and thrive.\r\n\r\nWhen my students first saw the snack bins filled with their favorite treats, their faces lit up with joy! Some even whispered, \"Is this for us?\" Seeing their excitement and relief warmed my heart, knowing that they wouldn't have to worry about being hungry during the school day. Now, snack time has become a moment of comfort and connection in our classroom. It gives students a much-needed brain break, helps build social skills as they share and chat with their classmates, and allows me to continue fostering a warm and supportive environment for their growth.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, my students can focus on what truly matters—learning, exploring, and growing every single day. As we continue through the school year, I look forward to watching them build strong academic foundations with the confidence and energy they need to succeed. Thank you for making such a meaningful impact on their young lives. We are so grateful for you!","fullyFundedDate":1727193146596,"projectUrl":"project/tiny-tummy-treats/8628732/","projectTitle":"Tiny Tummy Treats","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hunt","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5759709_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1561957096065","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-huntk"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_28836","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":594,"numTeachers":45,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":2,"percentBlack":23,"percentWhite":5,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":64,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"13.2:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":82.4,"schoolId":28836,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Olney C Allen Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Olney C Allen Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/illinois/east-aurora-school-district-131/olney-c-allen-elementary-school/28836"}