{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"PS 171 Peter G Van Alst","outOfStateSupporters":30.4,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":5245261,"projectId":9007276,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom! Your generosity brought in new materials that have truly transformed our daily learning.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, their faces lit up. They were excited to explore the new materials, math manipulatives, and sensory tools, and they immediately wanted to try everything. One student said, \"I can't believe we get to use this at school!\"\r\n\r\nWe are using these resources daily during centers and small group work. For example, during our math centers, students use the counting bears and ten-frame boards to practice addition and subtraction in a way that is hands-on and engaging. One moment that stood out was when a student who usually struggles with math was able to confidently show how to make \"10\" using the manipulatives. Seeing that pride in their face was priceless.\r\n\r\nNext steps: We are currently working on a unit about measurement, and the students are using the new measuring tools to compare the length of different classroom objects, recording their findings in their journals. These materials are helping them build confidence while making learning fun.\r\n\r\nThank you for giving my students the chance to learn in a way that is meaningful and exciting for them. Your support has made a lasting difference in our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1736910088208,"projectUrl":"project/supporting-success-essential-supplies-f/9007276/","projectTitle":"Supporting Success: Essential Supplies for Thriving Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Katechis","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5245261_orig.jpg?crop=1813,1813,x871,y942&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755117054046","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5245261"},{"teacherId":8512576,"projectId":8002745,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has been transformed into a hub of scientific discovery and excitement! We recently distributed the National Geographic Science Kits to students who demonstrated a commitment to growth on their i-Ready final scores. This not only celebrated their hard work but also motivated others to strive for personal growth. When students first received the kits, their eyes lit up with excitement. One student exclaimed, \"I've always wanted to do real science like this!\" The joy and pride they felt in being recognized and rewarded with such meaningful tools was unforgettable.\r\n\r\nWe've begun using the kits as part of our hands-on science explorations, focusing on topics like geology, chemical reactions, and weather patterns. One standout moment came when a group of students successfully simulated a volcanic eruption—they were amazed to see science come to life in their own hands. These moments have helped deepen their understanding of key scientific concepts while boosting their confidence and curiosity.\r\n\r\nOur next steps involve incorporating the kits into small group rotations so every student has the opportunity to explore different aspects of science throughout the term. We're also encouraging students to keep a \"scientist's notebook\" where they reflect on their experiments and pose new questions for future inquiry. Thanks to your support, our classroom has become a place where science feels exciting, accessible, and empowering. We're so grateful for your kindness and belief in our students' potential!","fullyFundedDate":1704907399245,"projectUrl":"project/for-the-love-of-science/8002745/","projectTitle":"For the love of science!","teacherDisplayName":"Dr. Uncle","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8512576_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757639780423","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mikejohnpat"},{"teacherId":7467948,"projectId":8727307,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous contribution to our classroom! The resources you helped provide—squish balls, puzzles, kinetic sand, calming strips, a mood board, stability ball chairs, and wobbly chairs—have made a remarkable difference in our learning environment and the emotional well-being of my students.\r\n\r\nFrom the moment the materials arrived, the classroom energy shifted. Students lit up with excitement and curiosity as they explored each item. Many couldn't believe these resources were actually for them. One student whispered, \"This is like a dream classroom,\" and that sentiment has echoed throughout the weeks.\r\n\r\nWe use these materials daily as part of our emotional regulation and focus routines. The mood board has become a morning ritual, allowing students to identify and share their feelings before starting the day. The kinetic sand and squish balls have become go-to tools for students who need sensory breaks, while the calming strips on desks help many stay grounded during challenging tasks.\r\n\r\nOne memorable moment came during a group writing activity. A student who usually struggles with focus was able to sit on a stability ball chair and squeeze a stress ball while working. For the first time all year, he completed his writing independently and proudly read it to the class. That small success sparked a considerable boost in his confidence.\r\n\r\nRight now, we're working on a social-emotional learning project where students are creating \"calm corner kits\" and learning how to advocate for their needs in healthy ways. These materials are not only helping them through challenging moments but are also teaching lifelong strategies for self-regulation and empathy.\r\n\r\nThanks to you, our classroom feels more supportive, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of every learner. 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Join the 115 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
PS 171 Peter G Van Alst is
an urban public school
in Long Is. City, New York that is part of New York City Dept Of Ed.
It serves 406 students
in grades Pre-K - 5 with a student/teacher ratio of 10.2:1.
Its teachers have had 36 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
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of students receive free or reduced price lunch
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
Source: the National Center for Education Statistics
83%
of students are Black, Latino, Native
American, or Asian
Data about school demographics comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. The numbers in this chart may not add up to 100% because of limitations in the available data.
PS 171 Peter G Van Alst Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Dec 4, 2025
DonorsChoose makes it easy for anyone to help a teacher in need, moving us closer to a nation where students
in every community have the tools and experiences they need for a great education.
PS 171 Peter G Van Alst
$12,610
raised using DonorsChoose
36
projects
funded
17
teachers
funded
115
donors
1
project
for
basic supplies
6
projects for
technology
1
project for
books
1
project
for
art supplies
PS 171 Peter G Van Alst has received support from
80 individuals from New York and
35 individuals out-of-state.