{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Prince Hall Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":38.7,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":3533418,"projectId":9878458,"letterContent":"I am writing to share my heartfelt thanks for your wonderful donation to our classroom prize box. In a second-grade classroom, small incentives serve as powerful catalysts for big achievements. These prizes are more than just trinkets; they are the \"fuel\" for our positive behavior system. Whether a student finally masters their addition fluently or shows extraordinary kindness to a peer, being able to choose a special reward from the box makes those milestones feel truly celebrated. It creates a culture of \"can-do\" spirit where students are eager to put in the hard work because they know their efforts are seen and valued.\r\n\r\nThe day I unveiled the new additions to the prize box, the atmosphere in the room was electric. The students' eyes widened as they saw the colorful array of stickers, fun erasers, and small toys you provided. One of my most soft-spoken students, who often struggles with staying on task, worked diligently all morning just for the chance to earn a \"prize coupon.\" Seeing that spark of motivation and the genuine smiles on their faces was a joy. Your generosity has turned our daily routines into a series of exciting goals, making our classroom a place where every child feels encouraged to do their best.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we are using these rewards to launch our \"Kindness Challenge\" for the upcoming month. Students will earn a trip to the prize box by demonstrating specific character traits, such as empathy and cooperation. This initiative is designed to help them build social-emotional skills that will last a lifetime, and your donation provided the perfect spark to get us started. We are so grateful to have you as partners in our educational journey!","fullyFundedDate":1765236672956,"projectUrl":"project/positive-behavior-please/9878458/","projectTitle":"Positive Behavior Please!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Richman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mr-richman"},{"teacherId":3533418,"projectId":9770247,"letterContent":"In a second-grade classroom, teaching books is about moving beyond simple decoding and diving into the \"magic\" of the story. I focus on interactive read-alouds, where I model my own thinking process out loud. We use \"Story Maps\" to track the journey of a character, identifying the problem and the resolution. By using a mix of high-interest picture books and early chapter books, I help students bridge the gap between looking at pictures and visualizing the story in their own minds. We often \"stop and jot\" our predictions on sticky notes, turning reading into an active investigation rather than a passive task.\r\n\r\nReading in my classroom is a vibrant, multi-modal experience known as the Reading Workshop. At any given moment, the room is a hum of activity: some students are tucked into \"book nooks\" with flashlights and pillows for independent reading, while others are paired up for \"Buddy Reading,\" taking turns voicing different characters. This environment emphasizes that reading is both a personal escape and a social connection. I keep a diverse classroom library organized by genre and interest, ensuring every child can find a \"mirror\" (a book that reflects their life) or a \"window\" (a book that shows them a new world).\r\n\r\nThe heart of our literacy block is a special group of students I call the \"Literary Detectives.\" These are the children who live for our small-group guided reading sessions. This group is particularly enthusiastic because they thrive on the collaborative \"detective work\" of analyzing a text. They love hunting for \"clue words\" that hint at a character's feelings or debating why a plot twist happened. For these students, the reading group isn't just a lesson—it's a high-energy book club where their opinions are valued, and their curiosity is the primary driver of the conversation.","fullyFundedDate":1760226366867,"projectUrl":"project/scholastic-news-for-our-room/9770247/","projectTitle":"Scholastic News for Our Room","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Richman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mr-richman"},{"teacherId":3533418,"projectId":9763775,"letterContent":"I want to express my deepest gratitude for your incredible generosity. Because of your support, our classroom has been transformed into a true hub of discovery. My students and I have been putting the new resources to use every single day, particularly during our \"Literary Detective\" sessions. One of the most impactful moments occurred last week when we used the new graphic organizers and high-interest chapter books to map out a complex mystery. Watching my students huddle together, using their new supplies to cross-reference \"clues\" in the text, was a powerful reminder of how the right tools can turn a standard lesson into a vivid, hands-on experience.\r\n\r\nThe moment the boxes arrived was one I will never forget. When the students first saw the new materials, the room erupted in pure excitement. There were audible gasps as they pulled out the colorful new books and comfortable seating options. One student shouted, \"It feels like a real library now!\" Their faces lit up with a sense of pride and ownership over their learning space. It wasn't just about the objects themselves; they were overwhelmed by the realization that people they didn't even know cared enough to invest in their education and their future.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, your contribution is fueling our next big step: our \"Author's Spotlight\" project. Now that the students have the resources to analyze professional stories, they are beginning to write and \"publish\" their own original books. We will be using the new materials to draft, edit, and eventually bind our own classroom anthology. This project is helping them see themselves not just as readers, but as creators. Thank you for giving them the tools to see their own potential and for being a vital part of our classroom community.","fullyFundedDate":1760352003356,"projectUrl":"project/save-our-fluency/9763775/","projectTitle":"Save Our Fluency","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Richman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mr-richman"},{"teacherId":317797,"projectId":9382597,"letterContent":"Thank you so very much for your donation to \"Time for Kids\" magazines. My students are thoroughly enjoying reading about current events and the impact on children their age. Seeing real world children respond to issues that impact us all has sparked some lively discussions in our classroom.\r\n\r\nWe often never know how far our influence can reach. Please know that your support for this project is reaching not only my students, but also their friends and families, as they continue our classroom discussions in their homes and communities.","fullyFundedDate":1751755226409,"projectUrl":"project/its-time-for-kids-to-read-magazines/9382597/","projectTitle":"It's \"Time for Kids\" to Read Magazines","teacherDisplayName":"Dr. Thompson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp317797_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1738590450827","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/melissathompson"},{"teacherId":317797,"projectId":9336744,"letterContent":"Thank you for your donation to this project of a reading rug and bookcase. My students use both daily. We have a routine of selecting books for the week that we can read when we finish core assignments each day. There is something about the aesthetic of this bookcase that draws them to select books from it. They also enjoy reading on the carpet and sitting on the carpet with a clipboard to complete writing assignments.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping me provide this space for students to complete their assignments or read in a comfortable space.","fullyFundedDate":1747924769083,"projectUrl":"project/book-in-the-nook/9336744/","projectTitle":"Book in the Nook","teacherDisplayName":"Dr. Thompson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp317797_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1738590450827","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/melissathompson"},{"teacherId":4622257,"projectId":9503574,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our classroom and students. Your donations have allowed us to have a community space that we use each day to have our morning circle, daily calendar lesson, and a place for movement, including singing and dancing. Students also enjoy being able to use the space to take breaks.\r\n\r\nOn the first day of school, students were excited to find their carpet spots for our first morning circle. We've also been able to use the space to have read aloud and character education lessons.\r\n\r\nWe are continuing to work on having students take on more leadership roles during morning circle and working together as a team. Thank you again for your support!","fullyFundedDate":1753671823823,"projectUrl":"project/a-class-rug-to-build-classroom-community/9503574/","projectTitle":"A Class Rug to Build Classroom Community","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Vail","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4622257_orig.jpg?crop=776,776,x93,y522&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754917196755","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4622257"},{"teacherId":3533418,"projectId":9351869,"letterContent":"My students and I wanted to send a big thank you for the cleaning wipes and pencils you so generously gave us. Your gift made a huge difference, and the kids were so excited when they saw the new supplies. It really means a lot to us knowing that our community is cheering us on and supporting our students. We are so grateful for your kindness!\r\n\r\nYou might not think so, but a simple pencil can make all the difference in a classroom. It's the tool they use every single day to write their stories, solve math problems, and bring their ideas to life. Having a fresh box of pencils means no one ever has to worry about not being able to participate. And the cleaning wipes are just as important! They help us keep our space clean and healthy so we can all stay focused on learning instead of getting sick. Thank you for helping us create a happy and safe place to learn.","fullyFundedDate":1750773688355,"projectUrl":"project/pencils-and-wipes/9351869/","projectTitle":"Pencils and Wipes","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Richman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mr-richman"},{"teacherId":6323743,"projectId":9339810,"letterContent":"We want to take a moment to say a big, heartfelt thank you for the wonderful new chairs you gifted to our classroom! From the moment we saw them, we were so excited. They have completely transformed our reading corner into a cozy, welcoming space where we truly love spending time. It's amazing how something as simple as a comfortable chair can make such a big difference in the way we feel about reading and learning.\r\n\r\nEvery day, we look forward to finishing our lessons and heading over to the reading corner. Now, instead of sitting at our desks, we can curl up in our new chairs with a good book. They are soft, supportive, and so inviting — it's almost like they're encouraging us to open up a story and get lost in it. For many of us, reading used to feel like just another part of the school day, but now it's something we truly enjoy. These chairs make reading time feel special, relaxing, and fun.\r\n\r\nThe new chairs have done more than just add comfort; they've also helped build a stronger reading culture in our classroom. Students who were once hesitant to read are now eager to grab a book and settle into a chair. We find ourselves reading longer and with more focus, and we're even more excited to share stories and talk about books with one another. It's amazing how much a warm, welcoming reading space can inspire curiosity and excitement for learning.\r\n\r\nYour gift has also taught us an important lesson about kindness and generosity. Knowing that someone cared enough to think about our classroom and support our learning means so much to all of us. It shows that we are part of a bigger community of people who believe in the power of education and want to help us succeed. That's a lesson we will carry with us far beyond this school year.\r\n\r\nThe reading corner has quickly become one of our favorite parts of the classroom. During independent reading time, the room is filled with the soft sounds of pages turning and quiet laughter as we discover new stories. During partner reading, friends sit side by side in the chairs, sharing books and ideas. Even during quiet moments, the chairs offer a comfortable spot for us to think, dream, and learn. They have truly made our classroom feel like a second home.\r\n\r\nWe know we will make many happy memories in our new reading corner throughout the year — exploring exciting adventures, learning new facts, and traveling to faraway places through the pages of our books. And every time we sit in one of these chairs, we'll remember your generosity and how much it has meant to us.\r\n\r\nThank you once again for your thoughtfulness and support. You have given us more than just chairs — you've given us a place to fall in love with reading and a reminder that we are surrounded by people who care about our growth and success. We are so grateful for your kindness and can't wait to keep reading, learning, and dreaming in our new space all year long.","fullyFundedDate":1747867681129,"projectUrl":"project/readers-retreat-flexible-seating-for-f/9339810/","projectTitle":"Readers' Retreat: Flexible Seating for Focus and Fun","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Kochanowicz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6323743_orig.png?crop=533,533,x11,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1683135376811","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6323743"},{"teacherId":7653965,"projectId":9335949,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom with the stadium seats! These were used in my special education classroom, where many of my students are nonverbal and benefit from a structured yet comfortable learning environment. The moment the seats arrived, my students were immediately drawn to the bright colors and soft cushions. We've been using them daily during circle time, independent floor activities, and calm-down breaks. The added back support and comfort have helped my students stay engaged for longer periods and feel more secure while learning on the floor.\r\n\r\nOne powerful moment came during our sensory storytime, where students sat comfortably in the seats while exploring tactile books and engaging in visual supports. Being physically supported helped reduce restlessness and allowed for deeper participation—whether through gestures, eye contact, or use of AAC devices.\r\n\r\nThese seats have become a permanent part of our classroom setup. We will continue using them to support sensory regulation, focused engagement, and group interactions. Thank you for making our classroom a more inclusive, supportive space for my students. Your generosity is truly appreciated.","fullyFundedDate":1747771665986,"projectUrl":"project/movement-matters-flexible-seating-for-a/9335949/","projectTitle":"Movement Matters: Flexible Seating for All Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Lawrence","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7653965_orig.jpg?crop=1242,1242,x0,y66&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1605916936068","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/lawrence105"},{"teacherId":7653965,"projectId":9170299,"letterContent":"The AbleNet TalkingBrix 2 has been a transformative addition to our classroom. One powerful moment was during a morning meeting when a non-verbal student used the device to independently say \"Good morning\" to the class for the first time. The room erupted in smiles and applause—his joy was contagious, and it was a clear sign that he felt more connected and included.\r\n\r\nWhen the TalkingBrix first arrived, the students were instantly curious. They gathered around with wide eyes as we demonstrated how to record messages. Several students took turns experimenting with it, and you could see their excitement build as they realized this tool would allow them to communicate more confidently.\r\n\r\nWe're currently working on a social communication project where each student uses a TalkingBrix to participate in structured conversations during centers. One student might press a button that says, \"Can I play with you?\" while another responds with a pre-recorded \"Yes, let's play!\" This helps build turn-taking, expressive language, and social engagement.\r\n\r\nThanks to this resource, our classroom has become more inclusive, and our students are developing not only their communication skills but also their confidence and independence. We're incredibly grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1746785270940,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-student-voices-through-commun/9170299/","projectTitle":"Empowering Student Voices Through Communication Tools","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Lawrence","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7653965_orig.jpg?crop=1242,1242,x0,y66&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1605916936068","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/lawrence105"},{"teacherId":7653965,"projectId":9142920,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom is now a more restful, comfortable, and organized space for our students. The ECR4Kids Stackable Kiddie Cots and the soft, cozy Comfyanno Cot Sheets have completely transformed our nap time routine. With the new cots, each child has their own clean, personal space to relax, and the stackable design helps us maximize storage when they're not in use—keeping the classroom neat and functional.\r\n\r\nOne special moment that stands out was the first day we introduced the cots. The students' eyes lit up as they explored their new nap spots, and many immediately laid down to \"test them out.\" A few even gave a thumbs-up before drifting off! The grey sheets are not only soft and soothing, but also help create a calm atmosphere that supports a smooth transition into rest time.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we're using these resources to reinforce healthy rest habits, self-care routines, and personal responsibility—students are learning how to take care of their nap areas, which supports independence and classroom community. Thanks to you, our students have a peaceful place to recharge during the day, helping them stay focused, happy, and ready to learn in the afternoons.\r\n\r\nWe truly appreciate your kindness and investment in our classroom—it's made a lasting difference.","fullyFundedDate":1746699645690,"projectUrl":"project/cozy-cots-for-rested-and-ready-learners/9142920/","projectTitle":"Cozy Cots for Rested and Ready Learners!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Lawrence","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7653965_orig.jpg?crop=1242,1242,x0,y66&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1605916936068","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/lawrence105"},{"teacherId":7653965,"projectId":9170356,"letterContent":"The AbleNet TalkingBrix 2 devices have opened up incredible opportunities for communication in our classroom. One memorable project involved a group storytelling activity. Each student used a TalkingBrix to record a part of a story, then we played the story back in sequence. Students who are typically nonverbal were able to participate equally with their peers, and their pride in contributing was heartwarming.\r\n\r\nTheir faces lit up! The colorful design and the instant voice playback were exciting for them. Many students were immediately curious, pressing the buttons and laughing when they heard their own voices. It was pure joy to witness.\r\n\r\nWe're now expanding the use of the TalkingBrix into daily routines. Students are using them to make choices (like selecting snacks or activities) and participate in morning meetings by greeting classmates or sharing how they're feeling. Over time, we're helping students build independence and confidence in expressing themselves with these tools.","fullyFundedDate":1746785271078,"projectUrl":"project/enhancing-communication-for-all-learners/9170356/","projectTitle":"Enhancing Communication for All Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Lawrence","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7653965_orig.jpg?crop=1242,1242,x0,y66&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1605916936068","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/lawrence105"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_90875","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":360,"numTeachers":27,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":93,"percentWhite":0,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":2,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"13.3:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":61.3,"schoolId":90875,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Prince Hall Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Prince Hall Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/pennsylvania/philadelphia-city-school-district/prince-hall-elementary-school/90875"}