{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"PS 161 Juan Ponce De Leon","outOfStateSupporters":30.8,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":7182467,"projectId":10053139,"letterContent":"Your generosity has already made a meaningful impact in our classroom and school community. Students are now using the coats, care items, and snacks during the school day as needed. These resources are available not only for our class, but for any student in the school who may need support, helping ensure that no child goes without basic comfort and care.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the materials, they were excited and grateful. Many immediately recognized how helpful the items would be, especially on cold days or when they needed a quick snack or basic care supplies. It created a sense of comfort knowing that their needs would be met and that someone cared enough to support them.\r\n\r\nWe are currently continuing our learning focused on building strong math and literacy skills, and these resources help students stay focused and engaged. When students are warm, fed, and comfortable, they are better able to concentrate, participate, and take pride in their learning. Moving forward, students will continue using these supports daily as part of our classroom routines and school-wide care system, helping us maintain a safe, supportive environment where every child can succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1772550450138,"projectUrl":"project/wrapped-in-warmth-ready-to-learn/10053139/","projectTitle":"Wrapped in Warmth, Ready to Learn","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Begum","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7182467_orig.jpg?crop=2499,2499,x1370,y524&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1746548579097","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7182467"},{"teacherId":10003440,"projectId":9691439,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of my classroom. My students were thrilled as each package arrived, eagerly opening them one by one. These resources have made a meaningful difference and have become wonderful additions to our learning environment.\r\n\r\nOur cozy corner truly feels complete with the addition of the floor cushion, pillow cases, and the variety of fidgets we received. These tools have been incredibly helpful for students who need support with self-regulation and focus. More importantly, the space has grown into a safe, welcoming area for everyone, helping us nurture a calm and inclusive classroom environment.\r\n\r\nDuring small group time, one of the students' favorite activities is playing Splash—a game made possible through the generosity of our donors.\r\n\r\nCarpet lessons have become much smoother with the addition of student lap trays. Each student now has their own, which has been incredibly exciting for them. These trays help students stay comfortably on the carpet, close to the board and teachers, while completing both independent and partner work. They've also improved the overall flow of our day by making transitions more seamless and accessible for everyone. An added benefit has been organization, as students can keep their books and materials neatly stored in their designated lap trays.\r\n\r\n\r\nThank you for providing me with the opportunity to bring in the resources my students need and value. Your support has played a meaningful role in enhancing their learning and overall success in our classroom this year.","fullyFundedDate":1766931217713,"projectUrl":"project/accessibility-to-education/9691439/","projectTitle":"Accessibility to Education","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Pinto","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10003440_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757170700889","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10003440"},{"teacherId":7182467,"projectId":9803795,"letterContent":"The snack donations have made a meaningful difference in our classroom, helping students stay focused, energized, and ready to learn throughout the day. Items like apple sauce, Pringles, cookies, Nutella, and popcorn have become part of our daily routine, especially during transitions or after long periods of instruction. One special moment was during a small-group reading activity when students were able to enjoy a quick snack while discussing the text this simple addition helped them stay engaged longer and participate more confidently. For many of our students, having access to these snacks also provides comfort and a sense of care, which positively impacts their overall attitude toward school.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the snacks, their excitement and gratitude were immediate they felt seen, supported, and valued. It created a warm classroom environment where students were eager to learn and more willing to take academic risks. As we move forward, we plan to continue incorporating snack breaks as part of our structured learning time, especially during writing and math workshops where focus and stamina are key. These donations are not just snacks they are tools that support our students' well-being and academic growth, helping them build the energy and confidence they need to succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1763995226380,"projectUrl":"project/snack-smiles-and-focused-minds/9803795/","projectTitle":"Snack Smiles and Focused Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Begum","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7182467_orig.jpg?crop=2499,2499,x1370,y524&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1746548579097","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7182467"},{"teacherId":7182467,"projectId":9743517,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our students are now enjoying their new fidget toys and the impact has been immediate. We introduced the tools during morning work and small-group instruction, and the excitement on their faces was priceless. Many students picked up a fidget and said, \"This helps me focus!\" or \"I love this one!\" It was clear from the very first moments that these materials were going to make a real difference.\r\n\r\nWe are already seeing improvements in focus, calmness, and engagement. Students who often struggled to stay still during lessons are now using their fidgets to channel energy in a more productive way, helping them stay present and participate more confidently. One of our favorite moments was during a reading activity when a student who usually gets easily frustrated held a fidget in one hand and proudly finished an entire passage without stopping.\r\n\r\nThese tools will continue to support our students during independent work, partner activities, and transitions times that can be especially challenging for those who need sensory input. Our next steps are to teach students how to use the fidgets responsibly and incorporate them into mindfulness practices, helping everyone build stronger focus and self-regulation skills.\r\n\r\nThank you for giving our class the chance to learn, calm, and create with purpose. Your kindness is making every day brighter in our classroom","fullyFundedDate":1759582591037,"projectUrl":"project/play-with-purpose-supporting-focus-cr/9743517/","projectTitle":"Play with Purpose: Supporting Focus & Creativity!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Begum","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7182467_orig.jpg?crop=2499,2499,x1370,y524&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1746548579097","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7182467"},{"teacherId":7182467,"projectId":9274739,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students received play dough, fidget tools, and calming sensory materials to support their social-emotional learning. These resources have quickly become a part of our daily routine. During independent work or when emotions feel overwhelming, students are now able to use these tools to help them calm down and refocus. One student told me, \"When I use the play dough, I don't feel so mad anymore.\" Another shared, \"The fidgets help me listen without getting distracted.\" These moments show just how much your gift is making a difference.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the excitement in the classroom was unforgettable. Students were eager to explore everything, and many couldn't believe these items were truly meant for them to use in class. They immediately began sharing, taking turns, and talking about how the tools made them feel. That sense of joy and wonder has not faded—these items continue to spark positivity and calm each day.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, my students will keep using these resources while practicing lessons on self-regulation, teamwork, and problem-solving. They are learning how to recognize their emotions, choose a strategy that helps, and then return to learning with a clear mind. Your generosity has helped create a calmer, kinder classroom where students feel supported not only academically but also emotionally. We are truly grateful for the difference you have made.","fullyFundedDate":1746795655763,"projectUrl":"project/social-emotional-learning/9274739/","projectTitle":"~Social Emotional Learning~","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Begum","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7182467_orig.jpg?crop=2499,2499,x1370,y524&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1746548579097","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7182467"},{"teacherId":6874964,"projectId":8493357,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation to our 3K classroom. Because of your kindness, we are able to continue building compassionate practices that help our little to feel safe, calm and understood.\r\n\r\nThe sensory fidget toys, therapy toys, stress toys and \"Breathe bulletin board poster set\" resources are already making a difference. These tools give children healthy ways to express their emotions, manage big feelings, and learn how to regulate themselves throughout the day. With your support, our students are gaining lifelong skills in empathy, compassion and resilience. \r\n\r\nYour generosity is more than a gift of materials-it is a gift of comfort, care and love to our young learners. We are deeply grateful that you have chosen to invest in their social and emotional growth.","fullyFundedDate":1725412565573,"projectUrl":"project/establishing-compassionate-practices-in/8493357/","projectTitle":"Establishing Compassionate Practices in 3K","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lisa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6874964_orig.jpg?crop=284,284,x0,y2&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1589465206095","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6874964"},{"teacherId":6874964,"projectId":7373429,"letterContent":"On behalf of our busy Pre-K learners, I want to send a heartfelt thank you for your generous support in helping us get ready to restock for the new school year. Because of your kindness, our classroom will be filled with fresh paintbrushes, glue, people figures, learning materials and so much more that will spark creativity and imagination in young minds. \r\n\r\nThese supplies are more than just tools-they are building blocks for play, exploration, and growth. With your help, our little learners will be able to create colorful art, build strong friendships, and develop the skills they need to thrive. Your generosity makes a lasting impact, and we are so grateful to have you as part of our classroom community.","fullyFundedDate":1693919682962,"projectUrl":"project/getting-ready-to-restock-for-next-year/7373429/","projectTitle":"Getting Ready to Restock for Next Year!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lisa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6874964_orig.jpg?crop=284,284,x0,y2&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1589465206095","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6874964"},{"teacherId":6874964,"projectId":8782017,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project, \"Let's Help Keep Our Classroom Clean and Free of Germs.\" Your generosity means so much to our little learners and me. With your help, we now have the cleaning supplies we need to make sure our classroom stays a safe, healthy and welcoming space where children can play, learn and grow together. \r\n\r\nBecause of you, our 3K children can enjoy their activities in a fresh clean classroom instead of worrying about germs. You've helped us create a classroom environment that truly cares for every child's well-being. \r\n\r\nWe are so grateful for your kindness and being a part of our classroom community. Thank you for investing in our children's health and happiness!","fullyFundedDate":1736767154092,"projectUrl":"project/lets-help-keep-our-classroom-clean-and/8782017/","projectTitle":"Let's Help Keep Our Classroom Clean and Free of Germs!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lisa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6874964_orig.jpg?crop=284,284,x0,y2&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1589465206095","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6874964"},{"teacherId":6874964,"projectId":8137724,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation toward cleaning supplies for our 3K Busy Bees! Because of your kindness, we can keep our classroom sparkling clean and healthy, making sure our little learners can stay focused on exploring, playing, and growing together. \r\n\r\nYour support helps us create a safe and happy space where Busy Bees can thrive. We are so grateful for your care and generosity-you've truly made a difference for our little ones! Our little ones can safely play and relax on our fresh, clean carpet to build towers, read stories, and share games with their friends. Your support makes sure their imaginations can soar in a safe happy environment. \r\n\r\nWe are so grateful for your care and generosity.","fullyFundedDate":1715109301694,"projectUrl":"project/cleaning-supplies-needed-to-keep-3k-busy/8137724/","projectTitle":"Cleaning Supplies Needed to Keep 3K Busy Bee's Healthy","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lisa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6874964_orig.jpg?crop=284,284,x0,y2&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1589465206095","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6874964"},{"teacherId":6874964,"projectId":7688646,"letterContent":"I want to sincerely thank you for your generous support in helping our classroom receive a laminating machine and laminating paper. Because of your kindness, I can now create durable and long-lasting learning materials for my students.\r\n\r\nWith these resources, our classroom pictures, activities, and hands-on-learning tools can be preserved and used over and over again. This not only saves time and resources but also gives my students engaging materials that will help strengthen their learning in fun and meaningful ways.\r\n\r\nYour generosity makes a lasting difference, and my students and I are truly grateful for your support in helping us build a brighter, more creative classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1699029693075,"projectUrl":"project/ready-set-lets-laminate/7688646/","projectTitle":"Ready, Set, Let's Laminate!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lisa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6874964_orig.jpg?crop=284,284,x0,y2&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1589465206095","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6874964"},{"teacherId":6874964,"projectId":7851676,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of my school project, \"Fueling Little Minds with Classroom Snacks.\" Because of you, my students will have the nourishment they need to stay focused, energized, and ready to learn each day.\r\n\r\nYour kindness not only fills their bellies but also their hearts showing them that people truly care about their growth and success. The impact of your donation reaches far beyond snacks-it builds confidence, joy and a stronger foundation for learning. \r\n\r\nWe are deeply grateful for your support and for helping us create a classroom where every child feels cared for and ready to shine\r\n\r\nWith appreciation,\r\n\r\nLisa Schwarte","fullyFundedDate":1695314457261,"projectUrl":"project/fueling-little-minds-with-classroom-snac/7851676/","projectTitle":"Fueling Little Minds With Classroom Snacks","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lisa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6874964_orig.jpg?crop=284,284,x0,y2&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1589465206095","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6874964"},{"teacherId":3848461,"projectId":8140701,"letterContent":"I want to share my deepest gratitude for your incredible generosity in funding our Empowering Minds: Equipping Our Classroom for Success project. Your support has truly transformed our Pre-K classroom into a space that nurtures curiosity, engagement, and confidence. Because of your kindness, my students now have access to essential tools and materials that are helping them grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Every day, I see the difference these resources are making, and I cannot thank you enough for investing in their education and in their future.\r\n\r\nFrom the moment we introduced the new materials into our classroom, my students' excitement was undeniable. Their eyes lit up as they explored the tools, and I immediately noticed an increase in focus, independence, and pride in their work. These resources have allowed me to create more meaningful learning experiences that encourage children to take risks, try new things, and celebrate their successes along the way. Whether they are working with manipulatives to strengthen early math skills, using hands-on literacy tools to build language and communication, or engaging in activities that foster problem-solving and creativity, my students are empowered to see themselves as capable learners.\r\n\r\nOne of the most powerful changes I've seen is how these materials have supported collaboration and relationship-building. Pre-K is such an important time for children to learn how to work together, share, and support one another. With the resources you helped provide, I have been able to design small-group and partner activities that encourage teamwork and cooperative problem-solving. My students are learning that when they collaborate, they can accomplish even more than they can on their own. These experiences are building their social-emotional skills while also laying a strong foundation for future academic success.\r\n\r\nAs a teacher, this project has also empowered me. Having access to high-quality materials has given me the ability to plan lessons that are more engaging, differentiated, and developmentally appropriate. I can better meet the needs of all my students, from those who need extra support to those who are ready for new challenges. The materials allow me to create flexible learning opportunities that inspire children to explore, inquire, and take ownership of their learning. Most importantly, I now have the tools to foster a classroom environment where every child feels included, supported, and celebrated.\r\n\r\nI want to take a moment to recognize The DonorsChoose Community and all the generous individuals who made this project possible. Your belief in the power of early education and your willingness to invest in young learners has had a profound impact on my classroom. You have not only equipped us with materials but have also sent a powerful message to my students—that there are people who care about them, who believe in their potential, and who want to see them succeed. That message of hope and encouragement will stay with them for years to come.\r\n\r\nThank you again for making our Empowering Minds: Equipping Our Classroom for Success project a reality. Because of your kindness, my students are growing into confident learners who are curious, resilient, and ready to take on new challenges. You have helped me create a classroom where every child has the opportunity to thrive, and for that, we are forever grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1705549211620,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-minds-equipping-our-classroo/8140701/","projectTitle":"Empowering Minds: Equipping Our Classroom for Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Doran","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3848461_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1565613862318","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3848461"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_276","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":302,"numTeachers":40,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":1,"percentBlack":19,"percentWhite":0,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":76,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":0,"gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"7.6:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":69.2,"schoolId":276,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about PS 161 Juan Ponce De Leon on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"PS 161 Juan Ponce De Leon","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/new-york/new-york-city-dept-of-ed/ps-161-ponce-de-leon/276"}