{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Ridge Hill Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":43.0,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":7963202,"projectId":9296417,"letterContent":"My first graders were so excited when they received their new binders and literacy supplies! They immediately wanted to organize their materials, decorate sections, and begin using them during reading and writing time. Having personal, organized learning tools made students feel proud, responsible, and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nWe are using the binders daily to organize reading passages, vocabulary activities, writing assignments, and literacy goals. One special classroom moment was watching students independently locate their materials and confidently participate in small-group reading activities with much more focus and enthusiasm.\r\n\r\nThese resources are helping students build strong organizational habits while supporting their literacy growth and independence. Next, students will continue using their binders to track their reading progress, practice writing skills, and complete engaging literacy projects that strengthen comprehension and confidence in the classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1746518251760,"projectUrl":"project/bright-minds-neat-binders-organizing-f/9296417/","projectTitle":"Bright Minds, Neat Binders: Organizing for Literacy Success!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jermine","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7963202_orig.jpg?crop=321,321,x0,y53&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1695647712490","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7963202"},{"teacherId":7963202,"projectId":9702461,"letterContent":"My first graders were beyond excited when they saw the new engineering and science materials arrive in our classroom! The moment we opened the kits, students immediately began asking questions, exploring, and sharing ideas with one another.\r\n\r\nWe are using the resources during hands-on STEM lessons where students design simple structures, test solutions, and practice problem-solving like real engineers and scientists. One of our favorite moments was watching students work together to build and improve mini bridges after learning about strength and balance. Their excitement and teamwork were incredible to see.\r\n\r\nThese materials are helping spark curiosity, creativity, and confidence in my students every day. Next, students will continue exploring science and engineering through experiments, collaborative challenges, and inquiry-based projects that encourage them to think critically and ask meaningful questions. Thank you for helping make these engaging learning experiences possible for our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1757960894388,"projectUrl":"project/little-engineers-and-scientists-buildin/9702461/","projectTitle":"Little Engineers and Scientists: Building Curiosity in First Grade!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jermine","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7963202_orig.jpg?crop=321,321,x0,y53&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1695647712490","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7963202"},{"teacherId":7072618,"projectId":9677759,"letterContent":"It is hard to believe the school year is coming to an end! Our new literacy program has most of the materials we need to be successful however there were only one set of books. Without your donations, students would not have their own copy of the text. Because of your generosity, each student is able to have ownership of their book for the marking period. They can read without worrying to hand it back in and catch up at home, if needed. This also ensures the books will last longer as they do not need to be shared between three classes! Thank you for supporting my readers!\r\n\r\nWith gratitude,\r\nMrs. Mannle","fullyFundedDate":1764613339338,"projectUrl":"project/a-text-copy-for-all/9677759/","projectTitle":"A Text Copy for All","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Mannle","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7072618_orig.jpg?crop=480,480,x0,y80&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1693403968557","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7072618"},{"teacherId":8110466,"projectId":10020615,"letterContent":"We are so grateful for your generous support of our DonorsChoose project. Thanks to your kindness, our classroom will have access to vinyl materials that will bring creativity, collaboration, and hands-on learning to life for our students.\r\n\r\nThe vinyl will be used for a variety of class projects centered around team building. Students will have the opportunity to work together to design and create items that represent their groups, fostering a sense of unity, pride, and shared accomplishment. These projects encourage communication, cooperation, and problem-solving—skills that are essential both inside and outside of the classroom.\r\n\r\nIn addition to team-building activities, the vinyl will play a key role in enrichment opportunities. Students will be able to explore their creativity by designing their own projects, turning their ideas into tangible products. Whether they are creating personalized items, decorations, or project-based learning materials, they will gain valuable experience in planning, design, and execution. These types of activities help students stay engaged and allow them to see the real-world applications of what they are learning.\r\n\r\nYour donation does more than provide supplies—it creates opportunities for students to connect, create, and grow. It allows us to offer experiences that go beyond traditional instruction and leaves a lasting impact on student learning and engagement.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our classroom and for supporting our students. Your generosity truly makes a difference, and we are excited to see all the amazing things our students will create because of you.","fullyFundedDate":1776377117433,"projectUrl":"project/creating-our-own-identity/10020615/","projectTitle":"Creating Our Own Identity","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Sanchez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8110466_orig.jpg?crop=445,445,x0,y148&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1711993000497","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8110466"},{"teacherId":8110466,"projectId":10148732,"letterContent":"We are incredibly thankful for your generous donations to our DonorsChoose project. Your support has made it possible for us to provide meaningful and memorable experiences for our students as they prepare to close this chapter of their elementary school journey.\r\n\r\nThe inspirational texts we've received will serve as a powerful tool for reflection. As students read these books, they will be encouraged to think about their time in elementary school—the friendships they've built, the challenges they've overcome, and the growth they've achieved. These texts will also help them look ahead with confidence and excitement as they prepare for the next stage of their education and beyond. It is our hope that these messages will stay with them long after they leave our classroom.\r\n\r\nIn addition, the gift bags will allow us to present these books in a special and meaningful way. Each student will receive their inspirational text along with other end-of-year items that celebrate their accomplishments and mark this important milestone. These small but thoughtful touches help create lasting memories and show our students just how proud we are of all they have achieved.\r\n\r\nYour generosity goes far beyond materials—it helps us create moments that matter. Because of you, our students will leave with not only a gift in hand, but also a sense of pride, reflection, and encouragement for the future.\r\n\r\nThank you for your kindness, your support, and your belief in our students. Your contribution truly makes a lasting impact.","fullyFundedDate":1778078985446,"projectUrl":"project/goodbye-elementary-school-hello-midd/10148732/","projectTitle":"Goodbye, Elementary School, - Hello Middle School!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Sanchez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8110466_orig.jpg?crop=445,445,x0,y148&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1711993000497","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8110466"},{"teacherId":8110466,"projectId":10207782,"letterContent":"We are incredibly grateful for your generous support of our DonorsChoose project. Because of your kindness, our classroom will soon have a new carrying case and heat press—resources that will open the door to exciting, hands-on learning opportunities for our students.\r\n\r\nThese materials will allow us to create matching team gear that helps build a strong sense of community and pride within our classroom. Whether students are working in groups, participating in school events, or celebrating achievements, having something they helped design and create will make those moments even more meaningful.\r\n\r\nBeyond team gear, the heat press and supplies will be used for enrichment activities that encourage creativity, problem-solving, and real-world application of skills. Students will have the chance to design their own projects, bringing their ideas to life while learning about planning, design, and production. These experiences go far beyond traditional classroom activities and give students a sense of ownership and accomplishment in their work.\r\n\r\nYour donation is not just providing materials—it is creating opportunities. It allows students to explore new interests, collaborate with their peers, and engage in learning in a way that is both fun and memorable. These are the kinds of experiences that leave a lasting impact.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our students and investing in their growth. Your support truly makes a difference, and we are so excited to put these new resources to use in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1777979333782,"projectUrl":"project/circut-needs/10207782/","projectTitle":"Circut Needs","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Sanchez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8110466_orig.jpg?crop=445,445,x0,y148&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1711993000497","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8110466"},{"teacherId":9919131,"projectId":10086846,"letterContent":"Our classroom was filled with excitement the day we introduced the new resources. The laminated sheets and colorful dry erase markers immediately sparked curiosity and creativity among my students. We began using them during our small-group reading rotations, where students practiced writing responses, solving problems, and illustrating their ideas directly on the reusable sheets. One memorable moment was during a vocabulary activity—students eagerly wrote and erased their answers, helping each other refine their thinking without the fear of making mistakes. It created a more relaxed and collaborative learning environment.\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, their faces lit up. They were especially thrilled with the bright markers and the ability to write, erase, and try again. It felt like a special upgrade to our daily routine, and even students who are usually hesitant to participate were more willing to jump in and share their work.\r\nThanks to these generous contributions, we are now moving into more interactive and student-led activities. Our next steps include using the laminated sheets for ongoing math problem-solving challenges and peer teaching exercises, where students explain their thinking and strategies to classmates. We also plan to incorporate them into project-based learning, allowing students to brainstorm, draft, and revise their ideas in a more flexible and engaging way.\r\nYour support has truly made a difference in how my students learn and collaborate each day. Thank you for helping us create a more dynamic and joyful classroom experience!","fullyFundedDate":1775669995392,"projectUrl":"project/request-for-classroom-supplies/10086846/","projectTitle":"Request for Classroom Supplies","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Arya","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9919131_orig.jpg?crop=888,888,x0,y91&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1764543132595","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/k-arya"},{"teacherId":9919131,"projectId":9104457,"letterContent":"We are very grateful for your donation of games to our 5th grade classroom. We were so excited to receive them and truly appreciate your generosity.\r\nThe games have made learning more interactive and engaging. They have given us new ways to practice important skills like math, reading, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Learning through games has helped us stay motivated and better understand what we are studying.\r\nYour donation has also helped us strengthen our teamwork and communication skills. As we have played together, we have learned how to collaborate, think strategically, and support one another—skills that are important both in school and in life.\r\nWe truly appreciate your kindness. Your gift has made a meaningful difference in our classroom and has helped create a fun and supportive learning environment.\r\nWith sincere thanks,","fullyFundedDate":1739232755762,"projectUrl":"project/its-game-time/9104457/","projectTitle":"It's Game Time.","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Arya","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9919131_orig.jpg?crop=888,888,x0,y91&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1764543132595","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/k-arya"},{"teacherId":2538138,"projectId":9922802,"letterContent":"I have seen such a positive impact in my classroom as a result of having this project fulfilled. Everyone's eyes lit up when they saw the new crayons, markers and craft materials. They were especially excited for silver and gold crayons - many didn't know these colors even existed in a crayon!\r\n\r\nMy students' creativity has blossomed as they enjoy using the various materials to create a variety of artwork. They are using these materials during free choice time and for artwork that support our reading curriculum. These materials make learning more fun and engaging for everyone. \r\n\r\nThank you for making this all possible!","fullyFundedDate":1765562639511,"projectUrl":"project/colorful-creations-in-kindergarten/9922802/","projectTitle":"Colorful Creations in Kindergarten","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Mastracchio","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2538138_orig.jpg?crop=464,464,x0,y40&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1652297655631","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2538138"},{"teacherId":2538138,"projectId":9922846,"letterContent":"It has been so wonderful having these sensory materials in my classroom. My diverse group of students all benefit from hands-on sensory experiences. These materials help calm students and provide them with sensory input in an appropriate way. They are also fun and engaging to all students. Students have been sharing the sensory bins which has encouraged social skills such as cooperation and sharing. These materials will be able to used not only this year, but for years to follow as well.\r\n\r\nI am so grateful for the donations which made this project possible.","fullyFundedDate":1765564501228,"projectUrl":"project/sensory-play-for-growing-minds/9922846/","projectTitle":"Sensory Play for Growing Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Mastracchio","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2538138_orig.jpg?crop=464,464,x0,y40&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1652297655631","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2538138"},{"teacherId":6945351,"projectId":9588521,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our DonorsChoose project and helping make it possible for our kindergarten students to have fidget tools and desk pets in the classroom. Your generosity and support of public education truly make a meaningful difference in the lives of our students.\r\nThese tools are more than just fun additions to our classroom. They are helping our students learn important self-regulation skills at an early age. Our kindergarteners are learning how to recognize when they need to calm their bodies and focus their minds, and the fidgets and desk pets are giving them a positive way to practice those skills.\r\nThe students have been so excited to use their new tools, and it has been wonderful to see them engage with them as calming strategies throughout the day. These skills will go far beyond this school year—our students will carry what they are learning about self-regulation with them as they continue to grow and learn.\r\nWe are incredibly grateful for your kindness, generosity, and belief in supporting classrooms like ours. Thank you for helping create a learning environment where our students can feel supported, focused, and ready to succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1764601182582,"projectUrl":"project/take-a-break-tools/9588521/","projectTitle":"Take a Break Tools","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Carlson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6945351_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1613599646715","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6945351"},{"teacherId":9725812,"projectId":9627434,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity and for believing in our classroom. Because of you, my students now have access to STEM bins and calm-down corner supplies that are already making a meaningful difference in our daily learning environment.\r\n\r\nWe are using the STEM bins during small-group time and choice periods, where students collaborate, problem-solve, and think creatively as they build, design, and test their ideas. One of my favorite moments so far was watching a group of students work together to redesign a structure that kept falling over—they encouraged one another, tried new strategies, and celebrated when they finally succeeded. These materials have truly brought hands-on learning and teamwork to life.","fullyFundedDate":1764961088301,"projectUrl":"project/a-cozy-calming-corner-for-growing-minds/9627434/","projectTitle":"A Cozy Calming Corner for Growing Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Chaib","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9725812"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_43966","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":321,"numTeachers":25,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":8,"percentBlack":28,"percentWhite":27,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":26,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 6","studentTeacherRatio":"12.8:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":57.0,"schoolId":43966,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Ridge Hill Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Ridge Hill Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/connecticut/hamden-public-schools/ridge-hill-elementary-school/43966"}