{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Robert Waters Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":27.7,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"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"},{"teacherId":2638528,"projectId":10109384,"letterContent":"On behalf of our entire classroom, I would like to extend our sincere thanks for your incredibly generous donation. The mobile whiteboard, snacks for care packages, laminating paper, printing paper, and construction paper have already made a meaningful difference in our daily learning environment.\r\n\r\nThe mobile whiteboard has quickly become an essential teaching tool. Its flexibility allows us to move instruction wherever it's needed in the classroom, making lessons more interactive and engaging for students. The laminating and printing supplies help us create durable materials that students can use again and again, and the construction paper has sparked a wave of creativity in our classroom projects.\r\n\r\nThe snacks you provided for care packages were also deeply appreciated. They helped us put together thoughtful packages that students were excited to prepare and share, creating a wonderful sense of community and kindness in our classroom.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has truly improved our classroom in both practical and meaningful ways. Because of your support, we are able to provide more engaging lessons, creative opportunities, and memorable experiences for our students.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in our classroom and in the success of our students. Your kindness and support mean so much to all of us.","fullyFundedDate":1772665276728,"projectUrl":"project/raising-a-generation-of-kindness/10109384/","projectTitle":"Raising a Generation of Kindness","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Vecco","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2638528_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1771512013933","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2638528"},{"teacherId":9975908,"projectId":10052694,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generosity. My students were elated to experience this generosity. No words can accurately describe their reactions when the custodial staff came in with boxes of goodies. They now have snacks in the classroom for when they need an extra pick me up. They also have neat and clean work areas thanks to the supplies. My students look forward to coming into school and learning knowing they have a safe and supportive environment. Your generosity has shown them that other people care for their needs and wish them the best.","fullyFundedDate":1769350234650,"projectUrl":"project/healthy-classroom/10052694/","projectTitle":"Healthy Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. I. Fernandez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9975908_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742868516976","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/il-fernandez107"},{"teacherId":10417502,"projectId":10056267,"letterContent":"Every day, our school nurse's office serves as a safe haven for students who walk through our doors carrying challenges we can't always see. Many of our children live in a low-income neighborhood where basic necessities—warm clothing, nourishing meals, hygiene products, and comfort items—are not always within reach.\r\n\r\n\r\nWith your support, we can ensure that every child who comes to our nurse's office leaves feeling cared for, safe, and ready to learn. Donations help provide warmth, comfort, and daily essentials, from a cozy hoodie or a nutritious snack to self-care items that support health and dignity. These are more than just items—they are lifelines that allow children to focus in class, engage with peers, and thrive in their education.\r\n\r\n\r\nThis year, contributions like yours have directly impacted students' lives by:\r\n\r\n\r\n-Helping children stay in school rather than miss class due to minor illnesses or discomfort\r\n-Providing immediate relief for hunger, supporting concentration and energy in the classroom\r\n-Offering personal care items that foster confidence, health, and well-being\r\n\r\nYour generosity ensures that no child's health, comfort, or education is compromised due to unmet needs. Every donation—big or small—makes a tangible difference and sends a powerful message to our students: you matter, and your well-being matters to us.\r\n\r\nThank you for joining us in this vital work. Together, we can nurture a safe, caring environment where all students have the tools they need to succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1769382982441,"projectUrl":"project/the-school-nurses-care-closet/10056267/","projectTitle":"The School Nurse's Care Closet","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ashley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10417502"},{"teacherId":10005857,"projectId":9295200,"letterContent":"This jack in the box supports learning by building anticipation skills, encouraging cause-and-effect understanding, strengthening fine motor control, and helping students practice emotional regulation through surprise in a safe, playful way.\r\n\r\nI am deeply grateful to The Tepper Foundation and all our generous donors for your incredible support. Your generosity, care, and commitment make a meaningful difference in everything we do, and we could not accomplish our mission without you. Your belief in our work inspires us every day, and we are truly thankful for the trust, encouragement, and impact you bring to our community.","fullyFundedDate":1746699679836,"projectUrl":"project/simply-sensory-selection/9295200/","projectTitle":"Simply Sensory Selection!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Wesly","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10005857_orig.jpg?crop=633,633,x333,y225&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1747547247985","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10005857"},{"teacherId":4355159,"projectId":9190590,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding our classroom project that provided markers, washable paint, and glue sticks for our students. Your generosity has opened the door for so much creativity and hands-on learning in our classroom.\r\n\r\nWith these materials, students are able to express their ideas, explore their imaginations, and bring their learning to life through art. Creative activities not only make lessons more engaging, but they also help build fine motor skills, confidence, and problem-solving abilities. I have already seen students take pride in their work and feel excited about sharing their creations.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, our classroom is filled with color, creativity, and joy. Thank you for investing in our students and giving them the tools they need to explore and grow.","fullyFundedDate":1745365965985,"projectUrl":"project/color-cut-create/9190590/","projectTitle":"Color, Cut, Create!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Charles","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4355159_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1537467123539","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4355159"}],"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":72.3,"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"}
Join the 220 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Robert Waters Elementary School is
a suburban public school
in Union City, New Jersey that is part of Union City Public Schools.
It serves 1,019 students
in grades Pre-K - 6 with a student/teacher ratio of 14.4:1.
Its teachers have had 122 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Share and help support Robert Waters Elementary School
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Every donation funds real needs — pencils, books, lab equipment, art supplies, and more — helping students learn and thrive. We ship supplies directly to the school, and you'll see exactly where each dollar goes.
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
98%
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.
Robert Waters Elementary School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Apr 25, 2026
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.
Robert Waters Elementary School
$52,316
raised using DonorsChoose
122
projects
funded
42
teachers
funded
220
donors
22
projects
for
basic supplies
7
projects for
technology
16
projects for
books
12
projects
for
art supplies
Robert Waters Elementary School has received support from
159 individuals from New Jersey and
61 individuals out-of-state.