{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Rahway Seventh and Eighth Grade Academy","outOfStateSupporters":33.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8705271,"projectId":9819008,"letterContent":"Our classroom has been transformed by the addition of this technology, and I'm so excited to share what it has meant for my students. These tools open doors to deeper learning, creativity, and independence.\r\n\r\nWith consistent access to Chromebooks, students are able to engage in interactive lessons that go far beyond traditional textbooks. The new headphones and Chromebook chargers have been especially exciting for students because they make this learning seamless and personal. Headphones allow students to fully immerse themselves in audio-based activities without distractions, whether they're listening to a story, practicing a new language skill, or watching an instructional video. It also gives them a sense of ownership over their learning space. Meanwhile, having reliable chargers ensures that learning is never interrupted—students can depend on their devices being ready whenever they need them, which helps maintain focus and momentum throughout the day.\r\n\r\n\r\nOverall, this technology hasn't just added convenience—it has created opportunities for equity, engagement, and excitement in learning. Your support is directly helping students build confidence, develop critical skills, and discover new ways to succeed. Thank you for making that possible.","fullyFundedDate":1767234444735,"projectUrl":"project/plug-in-and-learn-tech-for-a-brighter-f/9819008/","projectTitle":"Plug In and Learn: Tech for a Brighter Future","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ali","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8705271_orig.png?crop=513,513,x0,y111&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1760219175020","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8705271"},{"teacherId":8009759,"projectId":10020848,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom and helping provide essential supplies like extension cords, scissors, disinfecting wipes, a floor lamp, and an Expo eraser. While these items may seem small, they make a big difference in how smoothly our classroom runs each day. These materials help create a learning environment where students can focus on their work, collaborate with classmates, and feel comfortable in the space where they spend so much of their time.\r\n\r\nThe extension cords and floor lamp have helped us make better use of our classroom space, especially when using technology and creating flexible seating or work areas. Students frequently work on Chromebooks or other activities around the room, and having accessible power sources allows them to stay engaged in their learning without interruptions. The scissors and Expo eraser are used daily during lessons, from annotating texts to group activities on the whiteboard, helping students stay active and involved in their learning.\r\n\r\nStudents were especially excited to see new supplies added to our classroom because it shows them that others care about their learning and success. The disinfecting wipes also help us keep our shared materials and spaces clean, which is important in a busy classroom where students are constantly working together. Your generosity has helped create a more organized, comfortable, and productive learning environment for my students, and we are incredibly grateful for your support.","fullyFundedDate":1768603060713,"projectUrl":"project/resourceful-ela/10020848/","projectTitle":"Resourceful ELA","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lamar","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8009759_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1759689176327","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8009759"},{"teacherId":8009759,"projectId":10021158,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom now has 20 Chromebook chargers available for students who need them. While technology is an important part of learning in today's classrooms, it can only be effective when students are able to consistently access it. Before receiving these chargers, some students were unable to complete digital assignments because their devices had lost power and they did not have access to a charger at school. With these new chargers, students can keep their Chromebooks powered throughout the day, ensuring they are able to participate in lessons, complete assignments, and stay engaged with our digital learning tools.\r\n\r\nChromebooks are used daily in our classroom for reading, writing, research, and collaborative learning. Students use them to access articles, write essays, participate in interactive activities, and receive real-time feedback on their work. Having chargers readily available means students no longer have to worry about their battery dying in the middle of a lesson or assessment. Instead, they can stay focused on learning and fully participate in class activities.\r\n\r\nWhat excites students most is the independence these chargers provide. When a student notices their battery running low, they can quickly plug in and continue working without missing valuable instructional time. Several students who previously struggled to complete digital assignments due to dead batteries now feel more confident and prepared in class. Your support has helped remove a barrier to learning and ensured that all students have the tools they need to succeed in our technology-rich classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1771020183925,"projectUrl":"project/chromebook-chargers/10021158/","projectTitle":"Chromebook Chargers","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lamar","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8009759_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1759689176327","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8009759"},{"teacherId":457358,"projectId":9866165,"letterContent":"Food insecurity is often a quiet shadow, one that lingers in the background of a classroom or hides behind a brave face in the hallway. In our community, the school food pantry has become far more than a collection of shelves; it is a vital lifeline that preserves the dignity and well-being of our students and their families. Your recent donations have done more than just provide meals; they have provided the stability and peace of mind necessary for our students to focus on their futures rather than their hunger.\r\n\r\nThe true impact of your giving is best understood through the eyes of the children who walk our halls every day. We often encounter students who are caught in the difficult space between pride and necessity. One young man recently shared a perspective that resonates with many of our families. \"My guardian tells me we aren't struggling,\" he told us while selecting items. \"But we barely ever go to the grocery store, and when I open the fridge at home, it's usually empty. Being able to grab things here makes me feel like I don't have to worry about what's for dinner tonight.\" For this student, the pantry bridges the gap between a guardian's hope and a household's reality.\r\n\r\nThe reach of your generosity also extends into the realm of personal hygiene and self-esteem. We often forget that household essentials are just as critical as nutrition for a student's success. One of our students recently expressed her gratitude for the non-food items that many take for granted. She shared that having laundry detergent available at the school has \"changed everything,\" making it much easier to keep her uniform clean and fresh. For her, clean clothes represent more than just hygiene; they provide the confidence to stand tall among her peers without the fear of judgment.\r\n\r\nThe pantry also serves as a vital safety net for parents who find themselves navigating the \"gap weeks\" when budgets are stretched to their limits. One parent recently reached out to share how much the resource means to her family's survival. She expressed that she was \"oh so thankful\" that this resource exists and is openly available for her family to access whenever they are in a pinch. Knowing that the school community cares enough to provide this support takes a massive weight off her shoulders, allowing her to focus on being a parent rather than just a provider.\r\n\r\nFinally, the pantry has evolved into a vibrant \"learning laboratory\" that benefits our students in unexpected ways. Our Life Skills class uses the space to practice essential vocational tasks, such as sorting donations and stocking shelves. These practical life experiences allow students to develop organization and inventory skills in a real-world setting, turning your donations into a dual-purpose tool for both relief and education. Your support is not just filling a pantry; it is fueling a community, empowering our students, and proving that no one in our school family has to face these challenges alone.","fullyFundedDate":1762484656502,"projectUrl":"project/dignity-in-a-bag-food-essentials-for-o/9866165/","projectTitle":"Dignity in a Bag: Food/ Essentials for Our Students","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Reeves","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp457358_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1564615038932","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-reeves110"},{"teacherId":6394860,"projectId":9787583,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of NutriGrain bars and the handheld KardiaMobile monitor. We are incredibly grateful.\r\nThe NutriGrain bars have been immensely helpful for students who face food scarcity and for kids who miss breakfast. Many students look forward to a quick morning visit for today's variety of NutriGrain bars and for a quick daily check-in. \r\n The KardiaMobile monitor is a useful tool when students have vague cardiac complaints. It allows us to download a rhythm that can be shared with their doctor and further assist in proper follow-up care. \r\nThank you for helping the health office keep students fed and cared for.\r\nWarmly,\r\nTherese Breza RN\r\nRahway Public Schools","fullyFundedDate":1763498185160,"projectUrl":"project/school-health-office-assistance/9787583/","projectTitle":"School Health Office Assistance","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Breza","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6394860"},{"teacherId":10035004,"projectId":9402982,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project, \"Classroom Storage Needed.\" Because of your generosity, our classroom now has secure storage drawers that have made a meaningful difference in how we function each day.\r\n\r\nWe are already using the drawers to organize class supplies, student materials, and books, as well as items that need to be safely locked up. Having designated, secure spaces has helped keep our classroom more organized and has reduced distractions caused by clutter or misplaced materials. It also allows me to quickly access what I need for lessons without interrupting instruction.\r\n\r\nWhen the drawers first arrived, students were curious and excited to see them set up. They immediately noticed how much neater the classroom felt and appreciated knowing that supplies and shared materials now have a clear, consistent home. This has helped students focus more on learning and less on managing materials.\r\n\r\nWith our classroom now better organized and secure, we are able to move smoothly through lessons and activities, especially during our reading and writing work. The extra structure allows us to spend more time engaged in learning and less time handling logistics.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in our classroom and supporting our students. Your generosity has had a lasting impact on our daily learning environment, and we are truly grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1759265981729,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-storage-needed/9402982/","projectTitle":"Classroom Storage Needed","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. DiMarco","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10035004"},{"teacherId":457358,"projectId":9724899,"letterContent":"I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for your generous donation to our classroom project. Thanks to your support, our room is no longer just a space for lectures; it has been transformed into a dynamic digital media studio.\r\n\r\nMiddle school is a pivotal time when students are finding their voices, and the podcasting equipment you provided has given them a professional platform to do exactly that.\r\n\r\nTransforming Instruction into Action\r\nYour contribution has been woven directly into our curriculum, elevating our projects from standard assignments to professional-grade productions:\r\n\r\nDigital Citizenship Podcasts: Students moved beyond just \"learning the rules\" of the internet. They researched, scripted, and recorded episodes discussing cyberbullying, digital footprints, and online safety. This allowed them to become peer mentors, teaching others how to navigate the digital world responsibly.\r\n\r\nLiterary Debates: We took our English Language Arts debates to the next level. Instead of simple classroom arguments, students engaged in recorded \"Point/Counterpoint\" sessions about our latest novels. The microphones forced them to focus on their evidence, tone, and persuasive clarity.\r\n\r\nVideo Voiceovers: My students have also begun producing public service announcement (PSA) videos. Using the high-quality microphones, they recorded clear, authoritative voice-overs that gave their video projects a professional polish they are incredibly proud of.\r\n\r\nThe True Impact\r\nBeyond the technical skills of audio engineering, this equipment has fostered confidence and collaboration. I have watched even my most soft-spoken students flourish behind the mic, finding a level of expression they hadn't shown in traditional written essays. You haven't just provided \"gear\"; you have provided the tools for student agency and modern literacy.\r\n\r\nThe excitement in the classroom when the \"On Air\" light goes on is palpable, and it is entirely thanks to your kindness. You have made a lasting impression on these students and have truly modernized our learning environment.","fullyFundedDate":1759265983223,"projectUrl":"project/give-our-students-a-voice-podcasting-eq/9724899/","projectTitle":"Give Our Students a Voice: Podcasting Equipment For The Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Reeves","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp457358_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1564615038932","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-reeves110"},{"teacherId":10040964,"projectId":9372080,"letterContent":"When the new organizational resources arrived, my students were immediately drawn to them—especially the large HOOBRO literature organizer and the rolling storage cart. We quickly put them to use during our weekly math centers. Students now have dedicated mailboxes for turning in assignments, picking up practice packets, and accessing materials independently. One standout moment was during our problem-solving rotation: students used the new math posters, pastel highlighters, and sticky notes to annotate their thinking before placing their work neatly into their labeled magazine file holders. The new order and accessibility have made transitions smoother and helped students take ownership of their learning space.\r\n\r\nThe reaction when students first saw the materials was priceless. They were amazed at how professional and colorful the classroom suddenly felt. The hanging lanterns, motivational bulletin board decorations, and Better Than Paper backdrop gave the room a warm, inviting feel that immediately lifted everyone's mood. Students were especially excited about the new games—UNO, chess, and 4-in-a-row—which we now use for strategic-thinking breaks and reward time. Seeing their faces light up as they explored each new item made it clear how much these resources meant to them.\r\n\r\nAs for our next steps, we are beginning a collaborative project on math fluency and logical reasoning. Students will use the new posters, organizers, and highlighters as they rotate through stations focused on skip counting, multiplication, and real-world problem solving. The games will be used to build strategy, patience, and turn-taking skills, all of which support their academic growth. With your generous support, our classroom is more structured, joyful, and student-centered—and my students are eager and ready to tackle their next learning challenges.","fullyFundedDate":1759265980667,"projectUrl":"project/solving-for-success-a-classroom-of-math/9372080/","projectTitle":"Solving for Success: A Classroom of Math, Fun, and Function","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Kissoon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10040964_orig.png?crop=220,220,x8,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1747839638281","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10040964"},{"teacherId":10034900,"projectId":9491881,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has been completely transformed. The students walked in the day the items arrived and immediately noticed how clean, organized, and inviting everything felt. Several students said, \"It looks like a real learning space now!\" and one even joked, \"Mrs. Luniewski, this is like a makeover episode.\" Their excitement set the tone for the rest of the day.\r\n\r\nOne of the best moments was when the students saw the bulk pack of tennis ball chair covers. They were so excited that they didn't even wait for instructions—they jumped right in and helped put all the tennis balls on the chair legs themselves. They were laughing, racing to finish columns of desks, and proudly showing off how quiet the room became with every chair they \"transformed.\" It instantly created a sense of ownership and pride in our new space.\r\n\r\nWe are already putting everything else to use. The curtains and book stands have helped create a peaceful, structured atmosphere that students genuinely appreciate. My seventh graders now grab pencils and materials without asking, thanks to the pencil organizers, mechanical pencils, and lead refills. The Dirt Devil vacuum and Lysol wipes are keeping the classroom clean in a way that wasn't possible before, which is so important for 80+ middle schoolers coming through every day. And without fail, the calming jellyfish lamp has become the most popular item in the room—students use it as a visual reset when they're overwhelmed or overstimulated.\r\n\r\nYour support has changed the everyday experience of my students. They now walk into a space that feels cared for, stocked, and intentionally designed for them. Our next steps include using the new supplies for writing projects, independent reading, small-group work, and our upcoming research unit. Having a clean, organized environment makes it easier for students to focus, take responsibility for their materials, and take pride in their learning.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in us. These items will support my students all year long—and for many years to come.","fullyFundedDate":1759265984394,"projectUrl":"project/tools-for-a-clean-organized-and-inspir/9491881/","projectTitle":"Tools for a Clean, Organized, and Inspiring Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Luniewski","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10034900_orig.jpg?crop=855,855,x382,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757195252082","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10034900"},{"teacherId":3452237,"projectId":9761174,"letterContent":"Thanks to your incredible contribution, our classroom has been transformed with a class set of Bluetooth headphones! This change has fundamentally shifted how my students approach individualized learning and concentration.\r\n\r\nThe primary goal of this project was to minimize auditory distractions, allowing every student to create their own focused learning environment. Since introducing the headphones, I have seen a remarkable increase in student concentration and their ability to engage deeply with independent activities, such as online learning programs, audiobooks, and specialized listening centers.\r\n\r\nThe impact of these headphones is immediate and profound. Students who were previously easily distracted now have a tool to block out common classroom noise, giving them the sustained focus necessary to tackle complex tasks. They love the freedom of not being tethered by cords and the ability to customize their learning experience. Crucially, these headphones provide my special education students, and those needing accommodations, with seamless, private access to essential assistive technology like text-to-speech (TTS). This makes their learning environment more accessible and equitable. They love the freedom of not being tethered by cords and the ability to customize their learning experience.\r\n\r\nThank you, once again, for investing in my students and our classroom. Your generosity ensures that every student has the tools necessary for focused, individualized, and uninterrupted learning every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1759265982834,"projectUrl":"project/access-to-sound/9761174/","projectTitle":"Access to Sound","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Petti","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3452237_orig.jpg?crop=2400,2400,x0,y120&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1738476498759","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-petti"},{"teacherId":3452237,"projectId":9760954,"letterContent":"Thanks to your incredible contribution, our classroom has been completely transformed with new, flexible seating options! This change has fundamentally shifted how my students approach learning and independent work.\r\n\r\nThe primary goal of this project was to provide students with choice, allowing them to select a workspace that best supports their focus and learning style. Since introducing the new seating, I have seen a remarkable increase in student engagement and ownership over their work. Giving them agency over their physical learning environment has led to greater focus and productivity during independent tasks.\r\n\r\nThe highlight of the entire project, according to the students, is definitely the new couches! They are indeed as comfy as advertised, and they have quickly become the most sought-after spot for quiet reading and focused, individual projects. The students know that when they choose a cozy spot like the couch, they are committing to high-quality, comfortable work.\r\n\r\nThank you, once again, for investing in my students and our classroom. Your generosity ensures that they have a comfortable, engaging, and dynamic space to learn every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1759265983932,"projectUrl":"project/comfortable-seating-for-reading/9760954/","projectTitle":"Comfortable Seating for Reading","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Petti","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3452237_orig.jpg?crop=2400,2400,x0,y120&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1738476498759","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-petti"},{"teacherId":10268073,"projectId":9724377,"letterContent":"I would like to take this time to thank you for your donation to my classroom and our school!\r\nWe are so grateful for the 3d printing filament and extruders that help to keep our 3d printers functioning in the art class.\r\nOur students have been observing how fun items and items for everyday use around the classroom can be made through the use of the 3d printers. They really are excited about exploring both premade and self made items that can be produced with these machines. Many of my students have never seen a 3d printer in action, so it is a wonderful sight to see the amazement on their faces as the printers \"grow\" an item out of thin air!\r\nWe will be using the printer throughout the year to conitnue to foster a sense of accomplishment through the use of this technology that is at the forefront of both art and computer science.\r\nI am humbled that donors such as you would help to provide such a valueable experience to our students!","fullyFundedDate":1759265979662,"projectUrl":"project/help-my-students-explore-3d-printing/9724377/","projectTitle":"Help My Students Explore 3d Printing!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Swiss","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10268073_orig.jpg?crop=2556,2556,x0,y426&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1758199873514","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10268073"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_82306","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":700,"numTeachers":53,"percentFrplEligible":59,"percentAsian":2,"percentBlack":35,"percentWhite":12,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":46,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"7 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"13.2:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":66.7,"schoolId":82306,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Rahway Seventh and Eighth Grade Academy on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Rahway Seventh and Eighth Grade Academy","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/new-jersey/rahway-public-schools/rahway-middle-school/82306"}