{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Robert Waters Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":28.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9301465,"projectId":10102766,"letterContent":"Thank you so very much!! The HP color printer and paper have made a meaningful difference in my special education classroom. Many of my students are visual learners who benefit from colorful graphic organizers, visual schedules, adapted worksheets, and hands-on learning materials. Having immediate access to a reliable color printer allows me to create engaging resources tailored to each student's individual learning needs. The visuals help students better understand directions, organize their thoughts, and stay focused during lessons. It has also allowed me to provide differentiated instruction more effectively, making learning more accessible and less frustrating for my students.\r\n\r\nWhat excites my students most is seeing their learning materials come to life in color. Bright visuals, pictures, and themed activities connected to their interests motivate them to participate and complete their work with greater confidence. Students who often struggled to stay engaged are now more willing to attempt assignments because the materials feel interactive and personalized. Many of my students especially enjoy using colorful graphic organizers during reading and writing activities because they help break down complex tasks into manageable steps.\r\n\r\nThis donation has also helped foster independence in the classroom. Students who previously relied heavily on adult support are becoming more confident in completing assignments using visual supports and clear printed models. The ability to quickly print materials when needed has improved classroom organization and consistency, which is especially important for students with learning, behavioral, and communication challenges. Your generosity has truly helped create a more supportive, motivating, and student-centered learning environment.","fullyFundedDate":1771709206914,"projectUrl":"project/because-every-student-deserves-a-chance/10102766/","projectTitle":"Because Every Student Deserves a Chance","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Espinoza","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9301465_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1695527435084","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9301465"},{"teacherId":10058891,"projectId":10207426,"letterContent":"We were sooooo excited to see our box being delivered to our class! We are also so grateful and want to thank the donors for their special donations. We live in a low-income area, and our district is really struggling financially, as are the families who live in the community. Therefore, we were so happy to see that we could now start concentrating on the content and not waste so much time copying things in our notebooks, instead of using the time to work constructively on the actual assignments.\r\n The families I work with tried to help with what little they could by donating small amounts of paper, which they could afford. I also tried finding affordable packages that I could contribute to as well, but this was to no avail. I was in just as bad a situation financially as everyone else was in my community and district.\r\n We recently had to tackle the NJSLA for 3rd grade in English. My class is a predominantly Hispanic class, which speaks Spanish and reads and writes very little English. Although I have been working on developing their English language skills throughout the year, the Writing portion of the TEST was obviously a tremendous struggle for them. I decided that, after the test, we would continue to review Narrative Writing. I was able to print up Graphic organizers to use with them in order to help them with the planning portion of the Writing Process. It was very useful, and they loved it. Some students even commented that it was a very fun day! I will send photos of the students working diligently on their stories and a sample of the graphic organizer we used. Thanks to having paper to print it on!","fullyFundedDate":1777991664479,"projectUrl":"project/bilingual-battlers-need-paper-to-prepa/10207426/","projectTitle":"Bilingual Battlers! Need PAPER to prepare for NJSLA 2026!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Annette Diaz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10058891_orig.jpg?crop=720,720,x121,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1750257065340","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10058891"},{"teacherId":10081257,"projectId":9467000,"letterContent":"The materials from this project have already made a meaningful impact in my first grade classroom. My students are using the phonics games, pocket charts, magnetic boards, and sight word activities during small-group instruction, literacy centers, and intervention time each day. These resources have helped transform phonics instruction into something hands-on, engaging, and exciting for my students.\r\n\r\nOne of the most memorable moments was watching my struggling readers confidently build and blend CVC words using the magnetic word building boards and Elkonin boxes. Students who are normally hesitant to participate were eager to come to the front of the room, manipulate sounds, and work together with their classmates. The excitement in the classroom when the materials first arrived was incredible...students immediately wanted to explore the games, stamps, and flashcards, and they were thrilled to \"play while learning.\"\r\n\r\nThese resources are especially helping students strengthen decoding, blending, digraph, and sight word skills in a way that feels interactive rather than intimidating. Many of my students benefit from multisensory learning opportunities, and these materials allow them to physically manipulate sounds and words while building confidence as readers.\r\n\r\nAs we continue through the school year, students will use these materials to deepen their reading fluency, spelling, and comprehension skills. We will continue practicing phonics patterns, working collaboratively during literacy centers, and applying these foundational skills during guided reading and writing activities. Thanks to your generosity, my students now have engaging tools that make learning to read both accessible and enjoyable.","fullyFundedDate":1758820245332,"projectUrl":"project/phonics-tools-for-confident-readers/9467000/","projectTitle":"Phonics Tools for Confident Readers","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. O'Keefe","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10081257_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1778590827231","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10081257"},{"teacherId":10468963,"projectId":10166545,"letterContent":"I just wanted to take a moment and say \"thank you\". Thank you for your kind heart and generosity. You have no idea how this project has impacted my students. They were so happy when they saw the boxes today and they were patiently waiting for me to open the boxes. After the white board was assembled it turned out so beautiful. My students were delighted. I will be putting this white board to use every single day. \r\nAs it happens today was one of my student's birthday and I was able to give him and his classmates a bag of chips, which I also received today. The snacks come in handy and I use them for birthday gifts and when a student has no snack and is hungry. As a teacher we are always looking out for our students. Again, thank you from the bottom of our hearts.","fullyFundedDate":1776979407710,"projectUrl":"project/in-search-of-operation-whiteboard/10166545/","projectTitle":"In Search of Operation Whiteboard!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Escobar","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10468963_orig.jpg?crop=234,234,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1774284543518","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10468963"},{"teacherId":9115387,"projectId":10054178,"letterContent":"When my students first saw the boxes they were excited, but curious to find out why so many boxes had been delivered to our classroom. They wanted to know what was inside all the boxes. My students were absolutely thrilled when they saw the donation of oral hygiene products, chapsticks, deodorant, cleaning supplies, and snacks. Their excitement was immediate, especially when they found out they would be receiving snacks—it quickly became something they eagerly look forward to each day. This has had a positive impact on their motivation, as students are now more excited to stay engaged and work hard, knowing their efforts are being rewarded.\r\n\r\nThanks to your generous support, students were also able to take home care packages, which made a meaningful difference for them and their families. Your donation has not only helped meet important daily needs but has also created a sense of joy and encouragement in our classroom. I will continue to engage students in meaningful projects where they can stay motivated and feel proud of their efforts, with the added excitement of earning rewards like snacks.\r\n\r\nThank you again for making such a positive impact on our students' lives.","fullyFundedDate":1769379016948,"projectUrl":"project/helping-hands-for-healthy-ready-learner/10054178/","projectTitle":"Helping Hands for Healthy, Ready Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Rivera","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9115387_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1694649033779","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9115387"},{"teacherId":9542858,"projectId":10135633,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of headphones to our second grade classroom. Your kindness has made a meaningful difference in my students' daily learning experience.\r\n\r\nWith these headphones, each child now has the opportunity to fully focus during independent work, especially during reading, listening activities, and educational programs. They are able to hear clearly, stay engaged, and build important skills with fewer distractions. This has helped boost both their confidence and their excitement for learning.\r\n\r\nYour support has created a more comfortable and productive environment for my students, and we are truly grateful. Because of you, our classroom is a place where every child can succeed and feel supported.","fullyFundedDate":1776453289596,"projectUrl":"project/headphones-for-learning-success/10135633/","projectTitle":"Headphones for Learning Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Abdelqader","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9542858"},{"teacherId":2650351,"projectId":10054521,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of warmth and care for my students. Being part on an inner city school, with students students are often very reserved on their needs of self care. My students were able to benefit from these special supplies in many different ways. \r\n\r\nWith your gifts, my students were able to learn the importance of good hygiene. They were delighted to use the brushes, soap, and loofahs. Being in a school that has no central air conditioning, and many kids reaching puberty calls for much needed reapplication of deodorant. Thanks to you, my students were able to confidently participate in all physical activities our school has to offer. Specifically, my basketball team players. They consumed many Degree, Old Spice and Secret sprays this season, and proudly made it to the final championship game. \r\nThe snacks provided were always a pick me up after state testing spiral reviews and our championship loss. Thanks so much for everything!","fullyFundedDate":1769357760734,"projectUrl":"project/warmth-care-hunger/10054521/","projectTitle":"Warmth, Care, Hunger","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Moreno","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2650351"},{"teacherId":1779896,"projectId":10043683,"letterContent":"Donations of everyday essentials—like cleaning supplies, hygiene products, and items that provide warmth and nourishment—can have a profound and often life-changing impact on students in impoverished neighborhoods. These contributions go far beyond meeting basic needs; they directly influence students' health, dignity, emotional well-being, and ability to succeed in school.\r\n\r\nFirst, access to cleaning and hygiene products plays a critical role in maintaining both physical health and self-confidence. When students are able to bathe regularly, wear clean clothes, and care for their personal hygiene, they are less likely to face illness, bullying, or social isolation. This sense of dignity can improve attendance and participation, allowing students to focus on learning rather than worrying about how they are perceived by others.\r\n\r\nSecond, donations that help keep students warm—such as coats, hats, gloves, and blankets—are essential for safety and comfort, especially in colder climates. Without proper clothing, students may miss school or struggle to concentrate in class due to discomfort. Warmth is not just a physical necessity; it also contributes to a sense of security, which is fundamental for a child's ability to engage and thrive academically.\r\n\r\nEqually important are food donations. Reliable access to nutritious meals supports cognitive development, energy levels, and overall health. Students who are well-fed are better able to concentrate, retain information, and participate actively in classroom activities. In contrast, hunger can lead to fatigue, irritability, and difficulty focusing, all of which hinder academic performance.\r\n\r\nFinally, these donations send a powerful message: that someone cares. For students in under-resourced communities, knowing that others are willing to invest in their well-being can foster hope, motivation, and a stronger sense of belonging. This emotional impact can be just as significant as the physical benefits, encouraging students to stay engaged in school and envision a brighter future.\r\n\r\nIn short, donations of basic necessities create a foundation that supports not only survival, but growth, confidence, and opportunity. By meeting essential needs, they help remove barriers to education and empower students to reach their full potential.","fullyFundedDate":1768922426610,"projectUrl":"project/warmth-care-and-hunger/10043683/","projectTitle":"Warmth, Care and Hunger","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ricca","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1779896"},{"teacherId":10188233,"projectId":10063123,"letterContent":"First and foremost, thank you for all of your support. It truly has made our classroom into a home, a clean home. Upon receiving our items, the students immediately created a plan and a rotation of jobs and supplies. They have really taken control of their environment. For example, they created a space in the back of the room to house all of our cleaning supplies. They also made space in the closet for water and snacks knowing they can freely take whatever they need. We also have a health corner where we have our hygiene supplies. This is especially vital in a middle school classroom.\r\n\r\nAs we move toward the end of the year we continue to learn lessons of gratitude and respect. Each time an item that was donated is in use I will overhear students engaging in conversations, \"I can't believe we have a vacuum\", \"Just take out the dust buster to clean that up. What did we do before this?\", \"It's nice not to have to ask anyone else for anything. We have our own supplies now.\" Thank you again for all that you do and your continued support.","fullyFundedDate":1769707412749,"projectUrl":"project/care-that-supports-learning/10063123/","projectTitle":"Care That Supports Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Keegan","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10188233"},{"teacherId":10413658,"projectId":10044918,"letterContent":"On behalf of our 2nd grade classroom, I want to extend our sincerest gratitude for choosing us to receive the generous donation of snacks and care packages for our students' daily needs. It has been an incredible privilege for our students to have this special opportunity, and we cannot thank you enough for your dedication and support.\r\n\r\nYour donation has not only provided our students with nourishment and support, but it has also shown them that there are kind and caring individuals who are willing to help and make a difference in their lives. This act of generosity has truly touched our hearts and we are so grateful for your kindness.\r\n\r\nThe snacks and care packages have made a significant impact on our students' daily routines. They are now able to focus better in class and have more energy to participate in activities. Your donation has not only met their physical needs, but it has also given them a sense of comfort and security knowing that someone cares for them.\r\n\r\nOnce again, we want to express our deepest appreciation for choosing our classroom and making a difference in the lives of our students. Your support has been invaluable and we will forever be grateful for your kindness.","fullyFundedDate":1769098531482,"projectUrl":"project/warmth-care-and-hunger/10044918/","projectTitle":"Warmth, Care and Hunger","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Pastrana","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10413658"},{"teacherId":9589056,"projectId":10021210,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students now have the essential supplies they need to learn, create, and succeed every single day. These resources are being used in all areas of our classroom—from writing lessons to math practice and creative projects. \r\n\r\nFrom your support, we're able to move forward with our lessons smoothly and confidently. Students will continue to use these supplies to draft, revise, and share their ideas. These essentials are helping build strong habits, boost confidence, and ensure every student is ready to learn each day.","fullyFundedDate":1768614476680,"projectUrl":"project/essential-for-school-at-home/10021210/","projectTitle":"Essential for School & at Home!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Brodka","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9589056_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y221&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742844431093","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/magdalena-brodka"},{"teacherId":9120356,"projectId":10054095,"letterContent":"We've been making great use of the new resources in several ways! For example, I used Cheez-Its not just as a snack but as part of a math lesson on area. The students loved it. They had so much fun arranging the Cheez-Its and calculating area, and it really made the concept stick.\r\n\r\nThe flexible seating chairs were perfect during Read Across America week. Older students came to read to my class, and having the comfortable chairs made it easy for my students to sit and enjoy the stories without fidgeting or getting uncomfortable.\r\n\r\nThe new storage has also been incredibly helpful. I've used it to keep snacks and extra supplies accessible for my students. My students really enjoy being able to take a snack before leaving, and it's made our classroom routines at the end of the day smoother.\r\n\r\nThe flexible seating chairs were a huge hit, as well as the other items donated. We are truly grateful. Overall, these resources have not only supported learning but have also made our classroom environment more comfortable and engaging.","fullyFundedDate":1769357026219,"projectUrl":"project/from-snacks-to-smilesbuilding-a-classro/10054095/","projectTitle":"From Snacks to Smiles:Building a Classroom Where Care Comes First","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Cando","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9120356_orig.jpg?crop=508,508,x0,y18&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1736664957992","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-cando"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_81369","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":1019,"numTeachers":71,"percentFrplEligible":88,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":1,"percentWhite":1,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":97,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 6","studentTeacherRatio":"14.4:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":71.7,"schoolId":81369,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Robert Waters Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Robert Waters Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/new-jersey/union-city-public-schools/robert-waters-elementary-school/81369"}