{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Pontiac OLHSA Head Start","outOfStateSupporters":33.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9468628,"projectId":10266215,"letterContent":"together to design strong structures using the magnetic cubes. They created towers, bridges, and even imaginative \"future cities.\" Watching students collaborate, test ideas, and encourage one another was incredible. Some of my quieter students became leaders during the activity because they felt confident expressing their ideas through building.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, the room filled with excitement and curiosity. Their eyes lit up as they discovered how the cubes connected and moved. Many students immediately began experimenting, asking questions, and thinking creatively. The magnetic cubes made learning feel like play while still strengthening important skills like critical thinking, spatial awareness, communication, and perseverance.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, my students now have opportunities to learn in a more interactive and meaningful way. Our next steps include using the magnetic cubes during math and science lessons to explore geometry, patterns, engineering, and problem-solving challenges. Students will also work on collaborative design projects where they can plan, build, and present their creations to the class.\r\n\r\nThank you for giving my students tools that inspire creativity, confidence, and hands-on discovery every single day. Your support is helping young minds grow in exciting ways, and we are so grateful for your kindness and investment in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1778509241149,"projectUrl":"project/mind-concentration/10266215/","projectTitle":"Mind Concentration","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Maiyia Xiong","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9468628_orig.jpg?crop=1440,1440,x0,y91&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1737741744313","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9468628"},{"teacherId":9468628,"projectId":8863773,"letterContent":"The new cubes have made a huge difference in my classroom by giving my students a hands-on way to practice important math and problem-solving skills. One of the most exciting moments was during a small group activity where students used the cubes to build arrays and create multiplication models. Many of my students struggle with understanding abstract math concepts, but being able to physically move and arrange the cubes helped the lessons finally \"click\" for them.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, they were immediately excited and eager to begin learning. They loved being able to touch, build, and explore during math time. Several students who are usually hesitant to participate became more engaged and confident because the cubes gave them a visual and interactive way to solve problems. It was wonderful to see students working together, explaining their thinking, and encouraging one another during activities.\r\n\r\nThe next steps for our classroom include using the cubes for more advanced math lessons such as fractions, measurement, geometry, and STEM building challenges. Students will continue using the cubes in partner activities and collaborative projects that strengthen teamwork, critical thinking, and creativity. These resources are helping create a classroom environment where students feel excited about learning and confident in their abilities.\r\n\r\nThank you again to all of our donors for supporting our classroom and helping provide meaningful learning experiences for my students. Your generosity is making a lasting impact every single day!","fullyFundedDate":1738090152988,"projectUrl":"project/mental-health-in-prek-matters/8863773/","projectTitle":"Mental Health in PreK matters!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Maiyia Xiong","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9468628_orig.jpg?crop=1440,1440,x0,y91&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1737741744313","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9468628"},{"teacherId":7755020,"projectId":10072125,"letterContent":"This project has made a meaningful impact in our classroom by helping support our students on hungry days. Many of our children come to school tired or without enough food, and it can be hard for them to focus and learn when their stomachs are growling. Because of your generous support, we are now able to offer healthy snacks throughout the day when a child says they are hungry. I have already seen a difference—students are more focused during lessons, more patient with their classmates, and more excited to participate in activities. Having something small to snack on helps them feel cared for and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the new snacks and supplies, their faces lit up with excitement. They were so happy knowing that food would be available if they needed it. One special moment was during our small group reading time. A student who usually struggles to sit and focus asked for a snack before we started. After eating, they were able to stay engaged, answer questions, and complete their work with confidence. Moments like this show just how important it is to meet their basic needs so they can succeed academically.\r\n\r\nThanks to our donors, we can continue building a classroom environment where students feel safe, supported, and ready to grow. Our next steps include continuing our literacy and math small group lessons, where students will now be better prepared to concentrate and participate. We are also working on collaborative projects that require teamwork and focus, and having access to snacks ensures that hunger is no longer a barrier to learning. Your support is truly making a difference in our students' daily lives, and we are so grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1772550308276,"projectUrl":"project/haulty-days/10072125/","projectTitle":"Haulty Days","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Adriana","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7755020"},{"teacherId":7755020,"projectId":9993415,"letterContent":"We are beyond grateful for the support of our Warmer Days Project! Because of your generosity, our classroom has been filled with excitement, comfort, and new learning opportunities.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, my students' faces lit up with pure joy. They were so eager to open the boxes and see what was inside. Some of them immediately wanted to touch and explore everything. It was such a special moment watching them realize these new resources were just for them. They felt important, cared for, and excited to learn.\r\n\r\nWe began using the materials right away during our morning circle and learning centers. The new items have helped create a warm and welcoming space where students feel safe, comfortable, and ready to focus. During our play-based learning time, I noticed students collaborating more, sharing ideas, and using their imagination in ways they hadn't before. The comfort and support these materials provide have truly made a difference in their confidence and participation.\r\n\r\nOne special moment that stood out was when a student said, \"This is for us?\" with the biggest smile. It reminded me why projects like this matter so much. They understand that people care about them and believe in their learning.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, we will continue using these resources to support hands-on activities, small group learning, and creative exploration. Our next steps include building themed lessons around the materials, encouraging teamwork projects, and helping students strengthen their social-emotional and academic skills as we transition into the warmer days ahead.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, our classroom feels brighter, warmer, and full of possibility. Thank you for giving our students not just materials, but meaningful moments of joy, comfort, and growth. Your kindness is truly making a difference in their daily learning experience.","fullyFundedDate":1769454853729,"projectUrl":"project/warmer-days/9993415/","projectTitle":"Warmer Days","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Adriana","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7755020"},{"teacherId":7755020,"projectId":9771814,"letterContent":"We sincerely appreciate the generous donation of the projector to our classroom. This thoughtful investment has greatly enhanced our instructional practices and expanded learning opportunities for our students. Through the use of this technology, students are now able to explore the solar system in a more interactive and engaging manner, which has strengthened both their curiosity and understanding of scientific concepts.\r\n\r\nIn addition, when paired with the provided books, the projector has supported meaningful reading experiences and encouraged collaborative learning during small-group instruction. Students have shown increased focus, participation, and enthusiasm as they engage with the materials and discuss their learning with peers.\r\n\r\nOverall, this contribution has had a significant and lasting impact on our classroom environment. It has not only supported academic growth but has also fostered a love of learning among our students. We are truly grateful for this support and appreciate the commitment to enriching educational experiences for our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1767887117414,"projectUrl":"project/science-world/9771814/","projectTitle":"Science World","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Adriana","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7755020"},{"teacherId":7755020,"projectId":9772136,"letterContent":"We sincerely appreciate the generous donation of writing tools and paper to our classroom. These materials have played an important role in enhancing our students' learning experiences by providing them with meaningful, hands-on opportunities to explore creativity and develop essential skills.\r\n\r\nThrough the use of these supplies, students enthusiastically participated in a variety of activities, including crafting, cutting, and designing their own personalized cards for friends and family. This process encouraged creativity, strengthened fine motor skills, and supported early writing and artistic expression.\r\n\r\nThe students took great pride in their work and demonstrated a high level of engagement and focus throughout the activities. These experiences not only brought joy to the classroom but also helped foster confidence, independence, and a positive learning environment.\r\n\r\nOverall, this thoughtful donation has had a lasting impact on our classroom. It has supported both academic and social-emotional growth, and we are truly grateful for the generosity and commitment to supporting student learning.","fullyFundedDate":1765990740074,"projectUrl":"project/early-writing/9772136/","projectTitle":"Early writing","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Adriana","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7755020"},{"teacherId":10298659,"projectId":9787044,"letterContent":"I want to begin this letter by saying thank you for your generosity. Our class is enjoying all the new materials in the art center. We created a snowman project for winter shortly before we went on break, and they turned out so cute! We were able to finally introduce paint during this project and used the white color. We also had enough paint brushes for each child to use their own, promoting independence and lessening the likelihood of any arguments. Furthermore, the paint cups have come in handy, keeping the mess to a minimum and allowing children to explore the art area freely! We are so thankful to be able to introduce these materials that children may not get to use otherwise. \r\n\r\nWhen the packages arrived, the children's eyes lit up with excitement and they squealed! We took turns opening the boxes and each child got to take charge and feel included. It was truly a special moment, and I know that they will remember getting \" special presents\" for a long time.\r\n\r\nLastly, I want to say that as a first year teacher myself, I could not provide these materials on my own. I am extremely thankful to the donors who helped me create an art rich environment where my children can explore, play, experiment, and experience new things.","fullyFundedDate":1762458854480,"projectUrl":"project/art-extravaganza/9787044/","projectTitle":"Art Extravaganza","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jayden","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10298659"},{"teacherId":9733772,"projectId":9433855,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for contributing to the education of my students. My children grew so excited when they saw the new firehouse/police station and all the furniture that came with it.\r\n\r\nThe helicopter and the police motorcycle was such a hit that the children started using the magna tiles and Lego blocks to make additional helicopters and motorcycles to use with the house. \r\n\r\nSeeing the children take the new items donated to them and using it to expand their level of play and creativity is such a joy to see.","fullyFundedDate":1759272278838,"projectUrl":"project/fun-play-with-community-helpers/9433855/","projectTitle":"Fun Play with Community Helpers","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Pat","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9733772_orig.jpg?crop=1264,1265,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755556275354","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9733772"},{"teacherId":9156061,"projectId":9099163,"letterContent":"Even though we've only been using the new STEM resources for less than a month, I can already see how much they're helping my students learn and grow. We recently used the STEM Builders to create simple machines, and the kids had a blast working together to solve problems and build different structures. They were so pumped to see how their ideas turned into real models, and they kept asking questions about how things work. These tools are going to be super helpful all year, helping students develop important skills like creative thinking, teamwork, and understanding science and engineering concepts in a fun way.\r\n\r\nWhen my students first saw the materials, they were full of surprise and curiosity. They eagerly reached out to touch the slime sand, paint, and playdough, and they couldn't wait to start experimenting. One student exclaimed, \"I really, really like playdough.\" Their smiles and excited voices showed how much they loved exploring with these hands-on tools. Next, we plan to use the slime sand, and playdough to learn about textures and shapes, and we'll work on a project to create colorful sculptures. I can't wait to see how these activities help my students build confidence and discover new ideas, making learning a joyful adventure for everyone.","fullyFundedDate":1746787328893,"projectUrl":"project/tiny-engineers-stem-toys-for-growing-mi/9099163/","projectTitle":"Tiny Engineers: STEM Toys for Growing Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Tameka","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9156061_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1739895969400","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9156061"},{"teacherId":9156061,"projectId":9095497,"letterContent":"I really appreciate your amazing support! Since we got the new resources, my students and I have been having a blast learning together. The magnetic tiles have quickly become a hit; the kids enjoy building letters and numbers, which really helps them grasp these essential skills of alphabet knowledge. In a recent classroom project, they used the tiles to spell out their names and some simple words. Watching their excited faces as they created and learned was such a joyful experience. The indoor games have also been great for fostering teamwork and problem-solving, while the basketballs and ring toss set allow the kids to stay active and work on their coordination.\r\n\r\nWhen my students first laid eyes on the new materials, they were buzzing with curiosity and excitement. They dove right in, exploring each item, asking questions, and experimenting with the magnetic tiles and games. Their enthusiasm showed just how much they appreciated having new tools to aid their learning. These resources have injected so much energy and joy into our classroom, making learning even more fun for everyone.\r\n\r\nLooking forward, we plan to use these items to enhance our current lessons in literacy and math. The magnetic tiles will keep helping the kids recognize letters and numbers, while the physical activities will encourage movement and coordination. I aim to keep crafting engaging activities that support each child's growth and boost their confidence. Your support allows us to keep discovering and learning in enjoyable and meaningful ways. Thanks again for helping us create a classroom where every child can flourish.","fullyFundedDate":1746787169982,"projectUrl":"project/fun-and-games-indoor-recess-adventures/9095497/","projectTitle":"Fun and Games: Indoor Recess Adventures!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Tameka","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9156061_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1739895969400","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9156061"},{"teacherId":9468628,"projectId":9076347,"letterContent":"Thanks to the generosity of our donors during an emergency period at our school, we have been able to quickly provide students with essential learning materials that helped us maintain stability and continuity in the classroom. These resources were immediately put to use in daily lessons, especially during small-group instruction and independent practice, where students needed extra support to stay on track and remain engaged despite the challenges we were facing. One specific moment that stands out is when students used the new materials during a collaborative math and reading rotation—what could have been a stressful situation instead became a calm and productive learning experience because everyone had access to what they needed.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the donated materials, their reactions were a mix of relief, excitement, and gratitude. Many of them immediately recognized that these resources would help them feel more confident and less worried about missing out on learning time. There was a clear sense of appreciation as they realized that people outside of our classroom cared enough to support them during a difficult time.\r\n\r\nBecause of this support, we are now able to focus on moving forward with more consistency and purpose. The next steps for our students include strengthening foundational skills through targeted lessons and continuing project-based learning that reinforces collaboration and problem-solving. We are also working on helping students reflect on resilience—how they adapted during an uncertain time and how these resources can continue to support their growth as learners moving forward.","fullyFundedDate":1739569806572,"projectUrl":"project/emergency-days/9076347/","projectTitle":"Emergency Days!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Maiyia Xiong","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9468628_orig.jpg?crop=1440,1440,x0,y91&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1737741744313","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9468628"},{"teacherId":9468628,"projectId":8967492,"letterContent":"We have been using the new resources to support students in building a calmer, more focused \"resting mind,\" which has helped create a healthier and more productive learning environment. One specific classroom moment came during a reading and reflection activity where students used the materials to pause, reset, and then re-engage with the text more thoughtfully instead of rushing through their work. When the students first saw the materials, they were curious and a bit surprised—they immediately wanted to explore how these tools could be used during daily routines and group work. Many of them quickly recognized that the resources weren't just \"extra supplies,\" but something that could actually help them manage stress and improve concentration.\r\n\r\nOur donors got a small glimpse into our classroom through their support, and their contribution has already made a noticeable difference in how students approach learning. The next steps for our students involve continuing to integrate these practices into more complex assignments, especially during writing and problem-solving tasks, where maintaining focus and emotional balance is essential. We are also planning to build on this by having students reflect on when they feel most overwhelmed and how they can independently use these strategies to reset their thinking and stay engaged in their learning.","fullyFundedDate":1735433984853,"projectUrl":"project/resting-mind-enhances-healthy-learners/8967492/","projectTitle":"Resting Mind Enhances Healthy Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Maiyia Xiong","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9468628_orig.jpg?crop=1440,1440,x0,y91&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1737741744313","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9468628"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_120421","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":null,"numTeachers":null,"percentFrplEligible":74,"percentAsian":4,"percentBlack":63,"percentWhite":15,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":14,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"US Census Data for the surrounding geographic area","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":2,"gradesServed":"Not specified","studentTeacherRatio":null,"demographicsDataSource":"Census ZCTA","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"UNCLASSIFIED","ncesMetroType":null},"inStateSupporters":66.7,"schoolId":120421,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Pontiac OLHSA Head Start on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Pontiac OLHSA Head Start","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/michigan/office-of-head-start/pontiac-head-start-early-head-start/120421"}