{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"P.B. Young Senior Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":39.4,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":2614657,"projectId":9349398,"letterContent":"The hands-on puzzles create meaningful opportunities for parents and students to learn together while strengthening their connection to school. These interactive experiences allow families to engage in problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity in ways that feel enjoyable and purposeful. By participating, students gain insight into the instructional strategies used in classrooms and discover fun, practical ways to learn at home. This collaboration helps bridge the gap between school and home, empowering parents to feel confident and involved in their child's academic journey.\r\n\r\nThese activities also foster teamwork, communication, and cooperation among families and school staff. When parents and students work together to complete a challenge or puzzle, they practice essential skills such as listening, sharing ideas, and supporting one another. The interactive format encourages innovative learning by blending play with educational goals, creating a positive environment where students are motivated to learn and parents are active partners in the process. Through these experiences, families build trust, strengthen relationships, and develop a shared commitment to student growth and success.","fullyFundedDate":1757640384403,"projectUrl":"project/all-in-the-family/9349398/","projectTitle":"All in the Family!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ellick","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2614657"},{"teacherId":2943512,"projectId":9469268,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous donations and support for this project. I want to express my sincere gratitude for providing me with a laptop for professional development. This resource has made a significant difference in supporting my work and continued learning. Having access to the right tools will allow me to participate more effectively in training sessions, complete projects efficiently, and stay current with new technologies and best practices.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in my growth and for your continued support. I truly appreciate your commitment to professional development and the confidence you've shown in me.","fullyFundedDate":1758639068553,"projectUrl":"project/professional-development-companion/9469268/","projectTitle":"Professional Development Companion","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Younger","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2943512_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733063797633","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2943512"},{"teacherId":9565326,"projectId":9367345,"letterContent":"Thank you for providing teachers with gift cards to support reading, science, and social studies instruction. Your generosity allows teachers to purchase much-needed resources that bring lessons to life, spark curiosity, and engage students in meaningful learning.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support:\r\n\r\nStudents have access to new books, science materials, and social studies resources that make learning more engaging and relevant.\r\n\r\nTeachers are able to differentiate instruction and better meet the diverse needs of their students.\r\n\r\nClassrooms are enriched with hands-on tools that encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, your contribution not only eases the financial burden on teachers but also boosts morale, showing them that their hard work and dedication are valued. The impact reaches far beyond the classroom—helping students build the knowledge and skills they need for future success.","fullyFundedDate":1755734427176,"projectUrl":"project/reading-writing-social-studies-oh-m/9367345/","projectTitle":"Reading, Writing, & Social Studies, Oh My!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Johnson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9565326_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1718192422830","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9565326"},{"teacherId":2943512,"projectId":9433908,"letterContent":"I would like to sincerely thank you for funding my Back to School Kickoff. The supplies you have donated has helped my students begin the 2025/2026 school year off on the right foot. \r\n\r\nSince many of them did not have school supplies to bring to school, their faces lite up and their eyes smiled when I distributed the note books, folders, glue and pencils to them. They did not feel left out because of your donations.\r\n\r\nSo, on their behalf, I say THANK YOU for being an important part of our village and giving so freely and generously to ensure that my students, your future world leaders received an awesome kick-off to this new school year.","fullyFundedDate":1754060000283,"projectUrl":"project/20252026-back-to-school-kickoff/9433908/","projectTitle":"2025/2026 Back to School Kickoff","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Younger","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2943512_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733063797633","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2943512"},{"teacherId":8504414,"projectId":9311034,"letterContent":"I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude for your generous support of our classroom through DonorsChoose. Thanks to you, our learning environment is being transformed in ways that are already making a meaningful difference.\r\n\r\nThe items you helped fund are not just supplies—they are tools that bring learning to life. Whether it's the flexible seating that helps my students focus and stay engaged, the new books that spark curiosity and deepen comprehension, or the hands-on materials that make abstract concepts feel real—each item has added a layer of excitement and comfort to our day.\r\n\r\nStudents are already using these resources daily. I've seen them eagerly choose a comfy seat and dive into independent reading. I've watched their eyes light up while collaborating with peers using new manipulatives or exploring a new concept with fresh materials. For many of them, these resources are something they've never had access to before—and they notice. Their pride and enthusiasm are unmistakable.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students and in the power of a well-equipped classroom. Your kindness has made a lasting impact, not only on their education but on their confidence and joy in learning.","fullyFundedDate":1746785705149,"projectUrl":"project/magic-mix-tools-for-tiny-learners/9311034/","projectTitle":"Magic Mix: Tools for Tiny Learners!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Byrd","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8504414_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1721402534301","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8504414"},{"teacherId":2614657,"projectId":9165981,"letterContent":"Helping Hands has afforded me the opportunity to impact students in meaningful and lasting ways by providing something as simple—but powerful—as inspirational clipboards. While these clipboards may appear to be basic school supplies on the surface, their impact on students has been profound. The colorful, encouraging designs transformed a regular classroom tool into something special, motivating students to take more pride in their work and approach tasks with greater enthusiasm.\r\n\r\nThe clipboards have served a dual purpose in my classroom: they are practical tools for organizing independent work and group presentations, and they are motivational items that remind students their efforts are seen, valued, and celebrated. When students received their clipboards, they lit up with joy. Some students even commented on how the messages made them feel empowered and more confident. Phrases like \"You've got this,\" \"Believe in yourself,\" and \"Keep going\" were not just decorative—they spoke directly to what many students needed to hear in that moment. These positive affirmations played a subtle yet powerful role in helping students shift their mindset about learning, effort, and perseverance.\r\n\r\nIn group presentations, students used the clipboards not only as a surface to hold their notes or visual materials but also as a visual representation of their readiness and confidence. I noticed that students were more organized and articulate during presentations. Some even stated they felt \"more professional\" when using their boards, which boosted their self-esteem and sense of ownership in their work. In independent learning stations, the clipboards helped students focus by giving them a designated workspace they were proud to use.\r\n\r\nThe positive response from students has inspired me to think deeper about how simple tools—when paired with encouragement and intention—can become transformative in the classroom. My next steps involve expanding on this momentum by incorporating more meaningful incentives into daily instruction. I plan to align these incentives with both academic and social-emotional goals, so students not only strive to master content but also grow in confidence, kindness, and collaboration.\r\n\r\nFor example, I will be developing a reward system where students earn tokens or stickers for acts of perseverance, teamwork, and creative problem-solving. These tokens can be exchanged for classroom privileges, special materials, or even more customized inspirational supplies. I also hope to work with local organizations and partners, like Helping Hands, to secure additional resources that uplift student motivation—such as bookmarks with motivational quotes, mini journals for reflection, or student-created affirmation cards.\r\n\r\nBeyond physical incentives, I want to deepen the emotional and relational aspects of student recognition. I plan to create a \"Wall of Effort\" where students' hard work is highlighted weekly, not only for high grades but for things like improvement, resilience, and kindness. Each student deserves to feel that they matter, and these small but intentional acts of recognition will help foster a positive, inclusive classroom culture.\r\n\r\nHelping Hands has truly opened the door to creative and impactful approaches in my teaching. Their generous support reminds me that when students are given tools that encourage and empower them—no matter how small—those tools can lead to a greater sense of pride, purpose, and participation in their own learning journey. I am excited for what lies ahead and committed to building on this foundation of inspiration and encouragement.","fullyFundedDate":1746715714994,"projectUrl":"project/helping-hands/9165981/","projectTitle":"Helping Hands","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ellick","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2614657"},{"teacherId":2614657,"projectId":9252509,"letterContent":"Student learning has improved as a result of increased motivation to attend school. The use of incentives has had a positive impact, encouraging students to be present, which directly supports learning. I've taken this opportunity to help students understand the value of consistent attendance and to show them that I genuinely care about their presence in class. This personal connection has strengthened relationships and reinforced a sense of belonging. The incentives have created a ripple effect, as other students are now making greater efforts to attend regularly. Overall, this approach has led to a more engaged and focused classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1746699707544,"projectUrl":"project/i-see-you/9252509/","projectTitle":"I \"SEE\" You!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ellick","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2614657"},{"teacherId":2614657,"projectId":8933929,"letterContent":"Thank you for your impact in the lives of teachers and students. Being able to put a smile on faces and helping to make the load a little lighter through encouragement and inspiration was made possible by sharing the motivation journals with others. As each person read their quote, they shared how impactful it was for them and how it set the tone for their day. Your generosity is greatly appreciated more than you can ever know. Thank you for helping me put smiles on faces and remind others that they are thought about.","fullyFundedDate":1734363365391,"projectUrl":"project/self-care-in-motion/8933929/","projectTitle":"Self Care in Motion!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ellick","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2614657"},{"teacherId":2614657,"projectId":8968269,"letterContent":"Your generous donation has impacted the learning environment in remarkable ways. The goal was to have interactive and engaging activities for days when the weather does not permit outdoor play but having the games you provided has improved student engagement throughout the day. Students are more focused on their work and intentional about accuracy and teamwork. In so many instances, students have completed their work early and had the opportunity to engage in a game of scrabble to spell content vocabulary words. This was a great investment and it is because of thoughtful people such as yourself that help educators reach students on another level.","fullyFundedDate":1734363365673,"projectUrl":"project/learn-and-play/8968269/","projectTitle":"Learn and Play!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ellick","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2614657"},{"teacherId":2943512,"projectId":8948487,"letterContent":"Thank you for donating our Classroom Leveled Lending Library. The students are thrilled to be able to take books home and read to their parents. \r\n\r\nTheir confidence has increased in their ability to read and they are not hesitant to read aloud in class. Parents are taking part in the academic success of their children. \r\n\r\nThe primary goals of our Classroom Leveled Lending Library are being accomplished, thanks to your donations. \"It take a village to raise a child\", is not just a cliche, but it is a reality. Thank you, again for your donations.","fullyFundedDate":1732584747204,"projectUrl":"project/leveled-classroom-lending-library/8948487/","projectTitle":"Leveled Classroom Lending Library","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Younger","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2943512_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733063797633","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2943512"},{"teacherId":2614657,"projectId":8968455,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generosity. You have helped students take learning to another level by actively engaging in interactive instruction and enrichment activities that extend beyond the four walls of learning. It is amazing to see the interest that students have gained from having access to an IPAD of their own and not having to share with a partner has made a tremendous difference. Capturing nature that coincide with a writing activity has motived students to express themselves by using personal footage that they were able to select. This impact and motivation to learn would not be possible without you so than you so much.","fullyFundedDate":1732979400558,"projectUrl":"project/interactive-learning/8968455/","projectTitle":"Interactive Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ellick","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2614657"},{"teacherId":2614657,"projectId":8968124,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generosity. You have helped students take learning to another level by actively engaging in interactive instruction and enrichment activities that extend beyond the four walls of learning. It is amazing to see the interest that students have gained from having access to an IPAD of their own and not having to share with a partner has made a tremendous difference. Capturing nature that coincide with a writing activity has motived students to express themselves by using personal footage that they were able to select. This impact and motivation to learn would not be possible without you so than you so much.","fullyFundedDate":1732584751143,"projectUrl":"project/capturing-core-memories/8968124/","projectTitle":"Capturing Core Memories!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ellick","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2614657"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_34890","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":241,"numTeachers":33,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":92,"percentWhite":1,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":3,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 2","studentTeacherRatio":"7.3:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":60.6,"schoolId":34890,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about P.B. Young Senior Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"P.B. Young Senior Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/virginia/norfolk-public-schools/p-b-young-senior-elementary-school/34890"}