Phillips Middle School in Battleboro, North Carolina on DonorsChoose

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Many of our students have struggled with math in the past, and some even felt intimidated by it. However, the introduction of these manipulatives has completely shifted their perspective. Now, instead of dreading a new concept, they look forward to using tangible, interactive tools that make learning engaging and enjoyable.\r\n\r\nOne particular lesson that stands out involved our unit on fractions. Many of our students have found it difficult to grasp the abstract nature of fraction operations, particularly when it comes to adding and subtracting fractions with unlike denominators. Before receiving these materials, students often relied on rote memorization of rules without truly understanding why those rules worked. However, with the fraction tiles and number lines you helped provide, our scholars were finally able to see fractions in action. They physically manipulated pieces, combined them, and separated them, making the connections between visual models and numerical operations.\r\n\r\nI remember one student, Jordan, who had always struggled with fractions. He would often sigh in frustration, saying, \"I just don't get it.\" But on the day we introduced the fraction tiles, something clicked for him. He laid out different pieces, visually comparing sizes, and within minutes, he exclaimed, \"Oh! That's why you have to find the common denominator!\" It was a breakthrough moment that might not have happened without these materials. Jordan's excitement spread to the rest of the class, and soon, they were challenging each other with fraction puzzles and real-world fraction problems, eager to put their newfound understanding to the test.\r\n\r\nBeyond fractions, we've also used the manipulatives to explore concepts in geometry, algebra, and probability. The geometric shapes have helped our students grasp area and perimeter concepts, while the algebra tiles have provided a hands-on way to solve equations and understand integer operations. Instead of just looking at numbers on a worksheet, students are now physically moving pieces to model equations, making abstract concepts far more concrete.\r\n\r\nOne of the most rewarding aspects of this experience has been seeing students who once disengaged from math become active participants in their learning. Before we had these resources, some students would shy away from answering questions or participating in discussions. Now, they eagerly gather around in small groups, collaborating and problem-solving together. The hands-on nature of these materials has fostered a more interactive and student-centered learning environment.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, our next big step is tackling data analysis and probability. With the dice, spinners, and counters that your donations have provided, we will be conducting experiments, collecting data, and analyzing outcomes in a way that feels more like a game than a math lesson. Students will create their own probability experiments and predict outcomes, then test their predictions with real-world applications. This hands-on approach will not only deepen their understanding but also build their confidence in tackling more advanced math concepts in the future.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has not only provided resources but has also instilled a renewed sense of enthusiasm for learning in our classroom. You have given our scholars the opportunity to see math in a new light—to see it as something they can explore, manipulate, and truly understand. Your kindness has made an immeasurable impact, and we are forever grateful.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our students and for being a part of their academic journey. 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About this school

Phillips Middle School is a rural public school in Battleboro, North Carolina that is part of Edgecombe County Public School District. It serves 117 students in grades 6 - 8 with a student/teacher ratio of 11.7:1. Its teachers have had 20 projects funded on DonorsChoose.

Equity Focus School

Support towards this school will directly impact historically underfunded classrooms.

Public School

Title 1

Grades 6 - 8

117 Students

10 Teachers

4371 Battleboro Leggett Rd

Battleboro, NC 27809 View local requests

http://www.ecps.us/phillips/

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Ms. Vero, a DonorsChoose teacher for 9 years.

Kindergarten teacher at PS81 - Robert J. Christen School in Bronx, NY

Phillips Middle School Teachers on DonorsChoose

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Phillips Middle School Demographics

95%

of students receive free or reduced price lunch

Source: the National Center for Education Statistics

89%

of students are Black, Latino, Native American, or Asian

Schools in districts that mainly serve students of color receive substantially less state and local support than similar districts that serve primarily White students. Learn more about this gap, why it exists, and how you can help close it.

Phillips Middle School Support on DonorsChoose Last updated Dec 22, 2025

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