{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"San Marcos Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":38.1,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8501678,"projectId":9692560,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our school now has a welcoming sensory room that has quickly become a favorite spot for students across all grade levels. From the moment they walk in, you can see the difference- calm lighting, soothing textures, and movement tools invite them to take a deep breath and reset.\r\n\r\nStudents are using the new resources every day in meaningful ways. One of our students loves to \"squeeze\" into the compression canoe whenever he feels overwhelmed, and he always leaves smiling and ready to rejoin his class. Another student often take a few minutes on the trampoline to release extra energy before returning to focus on their work. \r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the excitement was contagious. Students peeked in with wide eyes, eager to explore each new item. Many of them couldn't believe that this space was made for them, a place where it's okay to move, to calm down, and to feel their best.\r\n\r\nYour support didn't just fund equipment; it helped us create a safe, inclusive space where every child feels seen, supported, and empowered to succeed. Thank you for helping us build a calmer, kinder, and more connected school community.","fullyFundedDate":1758850368764,"projectUrl":"project/a-sensory-space-for-every-student/9692560/","projectTitle":"A Sensory Space for Every Student","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Blakeley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8501678_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1684795157513","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8501678"},{"teacherId":8799691,"projectId":9306267,"letterContent":"I want to extend my sincere thanks for providing the books I requested. Receiving these materials has made an immediate and meaningful impact on both my instructional planning and my students' engagement.\r\n\r\nThe books have helped my students identify and express emotions (e.g., happy, sad, frustrated), understand basic concepts such as colors, numbers, opposites, and shapes, build vocabulary through repeated exposure to new words in meaningful contexts, make connections between the story and their own lives, and practice social-emotional skills like sharing, turn-taking, and friendship. \r\n\r\nIn our classroom we chose the book that aligns with out theme, they answer questions, make predictions, and retell stories using their own words. I pair these amazing books with visual and fun and interactive games/toys. \r\n\r\nAll of my students enjoy reading these beautiful, colorful, and interactive books. These stories are helping my students find their voices, make connections, and feel empowered as learners. Thank you so much for your generous donations!","fullyFundedDate":1746785588523,"projectUrl":"project/little-learners-big-stories/9306267/","projectTitle":"Little Learners, Big Stories","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Reyes","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8799691_orig.jpg?crop=915,915,x0,y109&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1673555370807","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8799691"},{"teacherId":8501678,"projectId":9133436,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for giving our class the opportunity to enjoy these wonderful books. We've already started reading, and the students are completely engaged! They absolutely love their new decodable books, and it is truly inspiring to see the joy on their faces as they grow excited about reading.\r\n\r\nAs an Education Specialist, I have the privilege of working with students in small groups outside of their general education classrooms. These new books will make a tremendous impact on their progress. With the wide range of skills included, there is something to support every learner. My goal is for each student to feel confident and successful while reading, and these books will play a big role in making that happen.\r\n\r\nOnce again, I sincerely appreciate your generosity in providing these resources for my students. We are deeply grateful!","fullyFundedDate":1750550564120,"projectUrl":"project/decodable-readers/9133436/","projectTitle":"Decodable Readers!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Blakeley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8501678_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1684795157513","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8501678"},{"teacherId":9199738,"projectId":8401268,"letterContent":"We have had amazing STEM activities with the materials purchased from this project. Where should I start? \r\n\r\nIn the dramatic play area the students dressed up as community helpers - their favorite being the firefighter. They used the costumes to act out the new vocabulary that we were learning in the classroom (such as firefighter, community, safety and building). \r\n\r\nThe M in STEM has been enhanced through the multiple counters (fish, butterflies, maple leaves, seeds) that were purchased. One way we use the counters is with the 10-frame. When we first used the 10-frame the students were so excited. They were sad when we had to put it away to move onto the next activity. \r\n\r\nThank you again for everything!","fullyFundedDate":1716559488304,"projectUrl":"project/spectacular-and-totally-excellent-materi/8401268/","projectTitle":"Spectacular and Totally Excellent Materials to Enhance STEM Learning!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Daddio","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9199738_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1692242588507","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9199738"},{"teacherId":9199738,"projectId":8401427,"letterContent":"When I learned about NumberBlocks I knew that using them to support math learning in the classroom was the way to go. The NumberBlocks were put out on the first day of school and the students were instantly excited, \"I watch this at home!\" \r\n\r\nTheir love of NumberBlocks continued throughout the year. It has been amazing watching the students recognize the different numbers and quantities as they are playing with the characters. Another favorite activity is the NumberBlocks puzzle. One of the greatest joys is hearing, \"I did it!\" when they complete the puzzle and then begin to count.\r\n\r\nThank you again for enriching their math play (aka learning) through these materials.","fullyFundedDate":1717419192622,"projectUrl":"project/mathematicians-in-training/8401427/","projectTitle":"Mathematicians in Training!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Daddio","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9199738_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1692242588507","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9199738"},{"teacherId":9199738,"projectId":8401394,"letterContent":"The materials that I purchased through this project have provided my students with the tools they need to identify their feelings and learn self-regulation. They absolutely love the \"tool box\" that gives them different ideas on how to calm themselves. \r\n\r\nWhen they first saw the calming board that allows them to trace their fingers around a picture while they breathe they exclaimed, \"OOoo what is that?\" Honestly, that is the reaction they have to most (if not all) of the new materials brought into the classroom. They love learning about new materials that will help them \"stretch their brain\" (as we say).","fullyFundedDate":1718896160913,"projectUrl":"project/big-feelings-alert-tools-needed/8401394/","projectTitle":"Big Feelings Alert! Tools Needed.","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Daddio","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9199738_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1692242588507","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9199738"},{"teacherId":9441719,"projectId":8947062,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support in funding our DonorsChoose project! Because of your kindness, our classroom now has Bouncyband Wiggle Wobble Chair Feet—and the difference they've made has been incredible.\r\n\r\nThese innovative tools have already proven to be a game-changer for my students. Designed for quiet, continuous movement, the chair feet provide sensory relief that helps reduce stress and keep students focused. I've seen firsthand how the gentle rocking motion supports fidgety learners by improving blood flow, boosting concentration, and promoting calm, attentive behavior during lessons.\r\n\r\nBeyond focus and engagement, these chair feet also encourage better posture and strengthen core muscles—creating a classroom environment where students can thrive both physically and academically. They've become a key part of our flexible seating arrangement, giving students the tools they need to be more successful and confident learners.\r\n\r\nThank you again for believing in my students and supporting our classroom. Your generosity is making a real and lasting impact!","fullyFundedDate":1735691027796,"projectUrl":"project/managing-the-wiggles/8947062/","projectTitle":"Managing the Wiggles","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Barwicke","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9441719_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1731692460854","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9441719"},{"teacherId":8726764,"projectId":8544424,"letterContent":"We are truly grateful for your generous donation to support our literacy and math sensory play project. The floating toys that make learning letters, shapes, and numbers fun have already brought so much joy and excitement to our classroom. Your contribution is helping to make these early learning experiences both engaging and effective.\r\n\r\nPlay-based learning is incredibly powerful, especially for our little learners. By integrating sensory toys into their education, we are able to offer them a hands-on, playful approach to developing essential skills. When children are actively engaged in play, they are not only absorbing knowledge but also building strong neural connections that support \"deep sticky learning\"—the kind of learning that stays with them long after the lesson is over. This approach helps them retain concepts in a way that traditional methods alone may not, fostering a love for learning that will last a lifetime.\r\n\r\nThank you for supporting this vital project and for helping to create a classroom environment where learning is both fun and meaningful. Your donation is making a real difference in the educational journey of our students, and we couldn't be more appreciative of your commitment to their success.","fullyFundedDate":1727386749371,"projectUrl":"project/sensory-fine-motor-play-for-tk/8544424/","projectTitle":"Sensory Fine Motor Play for TK!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Sorter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8726764_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1664434837773","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8726764"},{"teacherId":8726764,"projectId":8549100,"letterContent":"We are incredibly grateful for your generous donation of art supplies, including tape, paint daubers, gem stones, and dot-scented markers. Your support is helping to bring creativity and self-expression into our classroom, and it is making a profound impact on our students' learning experiences.\r\n\r\nArt is so much more than just creating beautiful things—it plays a key role in social-emotional learning (SEL) by allowing children to express their feelings, build confidence, and develop empathy. These are key life skills we love to empower our students with as they are growing. Through artistic activities, our students are learning to communicate their emotions, collaborate with peers, and build a sense of community. The supplies you've provided offer them the opportunity to explore their imaginations and connect with one another in meaningful ways, fostering a sense of belonging and shared creativity.\r\n\r\nThank you once again for your thoughtful donation. Your generosity not only supports their artistic development but also strengthens the bonds within our classroom, helping students to grow as both individuals and as part of a supportive community.","fullyFundedDate":1723656574410,"projectUrl":"project/transitional-kindergarten-artists/8549100/","projectTitle":"Transitional Kindergarten Artists","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Sorter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8726764_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1664434837773","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8726764"},{"teacherId":8726764,"projectId":8371084,"letterContent":"On behalf of our students, we would like to extend our deepest thanks for your generous contribution to our Community Care Closet. Your donation of essential hygiene items, such as toothpaste, deodorant, and hair brushes, is making a significant difference in the lives of the children we serve. These basic supplies are not just helpful—they are foundational to ensuring our students can focus on their learning without the distractions of unmet health needs.\r\n\r\nTaking care of basic health needs is crucial for students to feel confident and secure in their daily lives. When students have access to personal care items, it directly impacts their well-being, easing their worries about fitting in with their peers. When these concerns are alleviated, they can engage more fully in class, concentrate better, and truly thrive academically.\r\n\r\nWe are truly grateful for your kindness and commitment to our students' success. Your generosity helps create a nurturing environment where they can focus on their education without worrying about the basics. Thank you for supporting our Community Care Closet and for making a positive, lasting impact in the lives of these young learners.","fullyFundedDate":1715170451262,"projectUrl":"project/communtiy-care-closet-stock-up/8371084/","projectTitle":"Communtiy Care Closet Stock Up","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Sorter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8726764_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1664434837773","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8726764"},{"teacherId":8726764,"projectId":8304928,"letterContent":"We are incredibly grateful for your generous donation of balance beams to our class project. Your support has provided our students with a fantastic opportunity to engage in activities that are vital to their physical and brain development. The balance beams are already being put to great use, helping children strengthen their coordination and build essential neural connections.\r\n\r\nAs you may know, coordination is not only key to physical development but also plays a crucial role in brain growth. Activities that involve crossing the midline, such as those using balance beams, are especially important for stimulating the development of neural pathways. This process helps children improve their cognitive skills, problem-solving abilities, and overall brain function, providing a solid foundation for their future learning.\r\n\r\nWe cannot thank you enough for investing in the well-being and growth of our students. Your donation is making a significant difference in their development, and we are truly appreciative of your commitment to helping them reach their full potential.","fullyFundedDate":1712713170449,"projectUrl":"project/balance-beams-building-our-brains-and-co/8304928/","projectTitle":"Balance Beams Building our Brains and Coordination in TK!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Sorter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8726764_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1664434837773","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8726764"},{"teacherId":8726764,"projectId":8304717,"letterContent":"We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for your generous donation to support our class project. Your contribution of bean bags, buckets, and ball toss equipment has made an incredible impact on our students. With your help, we now have the resources to create engaging and effective gross motor activities that will benefit the children in our class for years to come.\r\n\r\nThe kids truly need equipment like this to support and enhance their gross motor skills. These activities are essential for helping them develop coordination, strength, and balance, which are foundational to their physical and cognitive growth. By providing tools for these types of play, you've given them the opportunity to learn and grow in a fun and meaningful way.\r\n\r\nOnce again, thank you for your thoughtful support. Your generosity is helping shape the future of our students, and we are so grateful for your commitment to their development. We couldn't have done it without you!","fullyFundedDate":1712772753942,"projectUrl":"project/bean-bags-buckets-and-balls/8304717/","projectTitle":"Bean Bags, Buckets, and Balls!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Sorter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8726764_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1664434837773","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8726764"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_37339","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":599,"numTeachers":null,"percentFrplEligible":78,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":1,"percentWhite":2,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":93,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":null,"demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":61.9,"schoolId":37339,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about San Marcos Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"San Marcos Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/san-marcos-unified-school-district/san-marcos-elementary-school/37339"}