{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Dr. Frederick Douglass Senior Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":32.9,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":7502442,"projectId":9257273,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my classroom library has grown into a space where students can finally see themselves in the stories they choose to read. The books funded through this project—Concrete Rose, The Poet X, Ghost, Genesis Begins Again, Chlorine Sky, Long Way Down, Promise Boys, and so many others—have already sparked excitement and curiosity. Students gravitated toward titles that reflect their lives, their emotions, and their questions, and several immediately asked to add these books to their independent reading lists. Having such a wide range of culturally relevant texts available has helped even my reluctant readers find books that feel accessible and meaningful.\r\n\r\nThese novels have opened the door to deeper conversations about identity, resilience, friendship, grief, and the choices young people navigate every day. Students have been able to engage in richer literature circles and more thoughtful reading conferences because the stories resonate with their lived experiences. Books like House Arrest and The Poet X have helped students understand verse as a powerful storytelling form, while series like Jason Reynolds's Track books and the Hazelwood High trilogy have encouraged them to continue reading beyond a single novel. Because we now have multiple genres—novels in verse, contemporary fiction, mystery, realistic fiction, and character-driven series—students have more opportunities to explore what type of reader they are and what kinds of stories speak to them.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, this project helped create a reading culture grounded in representation and relevance. Several students have already commented that these books \"feel real,\" \"sound like us,\" or \"finally make me want to read again.\" Your support did more than fill shelves—you expanded what reading can mean for my students. Thank you for helping them recognize their voices, discover new ones, and build a lifelong relationship with books that reflect and honor who they are.","fullyFundedDate":1752246085610,"projectUrl":"project/voices-we-recognize-stories-we-need/9257273/","projectTitle":"Voices We Recognize, Stories We Need","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gregg","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7502442_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1720889492476","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msgregg19"},{"teacherId":7502442,"projectId":9256323,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students now have consistent access to the basic classroom supplies that help them learn, create, and stay organized each day. The Post-it notes and lined sticky notes have made a noticeable difference in our reading and writing routines. Students use them to annotate texts, jot down quick inferences, draft short responses, and organize their thinking before completing longer assignments. The pictures I uploaded show how these notes are used on our Student Work board, where students posted their analysis, reflections, and mood statements from recent lessons. Having enough sticky notes for everyone means that students can fully participate without hesitation or borrowing from others.\r\n\r\nThe Crayola classpacks of crayons and markers have allowed us to bring more color and clarity into our assignments. Students use them to highlight key details, color-code evidence, and create visual representations of their understanding. These tools have helped students stay engaged and take pride in the work they display. The glue sticks and highlighters have also made day-to-day instruction smoother—students can assemble graphic organizers, build foldables, and mark text features efficiently during lessons. The bulk set of pencils ensured that every student had access to writing tools, which reduced interruptions and allowed all students to dive into activities right away.\r\n\r\nOverall, these supplies helped create a more organized and collaborative classroom environment. Students are able to participate fully in creative thinking, note-taking, and group work because everything they need is readily available. Thank you for supporting the small but essential tools that make learning more accessible, expressive, and enjoyable for my students.","fullyFundedDate":1746785273972,"projectUrl":"project/color-create-and-collaborate/9256323/","projectTitle":"Color, Create, and Collaborate","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gregg","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7502442_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1720889492476","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msgregg19"},{"teacherId":7502442,"projectId":9256247,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, I was able to transform several areas of my classroom into organized, welcoming, and visually clear learning spaces. The bulletin board borders, colorful tapes, and push-pin clips helped me redesign our Student Work and Data Wall displays so that student progress is easy to see and track. Students can now quickly find their work, identify goals, and understand how they are growing, which has made our data talks and reflection routines smoother and more meaningful.\r\n\r\nThe posters—especially the diversity prints, inspirational quotes, and growth-mindset messages—have helped create a positive atmosphere where students feel seen and encouraged. Many students pause to read the messages when they enter the room or turn in work, and several have commented on how the boards \"look organized,\" \"feel motivating,\" or \"make the room brighter.\" Having a clean, consistent visual layout also helps reduce distractions and makes transitions more efficient because students know exactly where materials belong.\r\n\r\nOverall, these materials allowed me to build a classroom environment that supports focus, pride, and belonging. The borders, push pins, tape, and posters may seem small individually, but together they helped me create a space that feels structured, calm, and student-centered. Thank you for helping me design a learning environment that my students enjoy walking into each day.","fullyFundedDate":1745847032018,"projectUrl":"project/walls-that-speak-positivity-and-pride/9256247/","projectTitle":"Walls That Speak Positivity and Pride","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gregg","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7502442_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1720889492476","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msgregg19"},{"teacherId":7502442,"projectId":9257997,"letterContent":"Because of your generous support, every student in my classroom was able to engage deeply with Long Way Down through structured, TEKS-aligned activities that required a physical copy of the novel. Having 30 books allowed us to complete close-reading routines such as annotation, figurative language identification, and character analysis using the FAST chart (Feelings, Actions, Speech, Thoughts). Students pulled evidence directly from the text—such as \"I felt like crying,\" \"I yanked and pulled and snatched,\" and \"I'll never go to sleep again believing him\"—to infer Will's emotional state and examine how Jason Reynolds builds tension through verse. This level of analysis simply isn't possible when students don't have books in their hands.\r\n\r\nWe also completed a full \"Head, Heart, Eyes, Mouth, Torso, Feet\" character study, and the quality of thinking was incredible. Students used their books to identify what Will dreams about, what he remembers, what he hides, and how his choices move the plot forward—citing lines like his dream about Shawn, his fear of not knowing how to use the gun, and his determination to follow the Rules. Students who previously struggled with abstract thinking were suddenly able to make concrete inferences because the text was accessible, visual, and personally relevant. They shared powerful insights about grief, revenge, and cycles of violence, showing a depth of understanding that exceeded expectations for sixth grade.\r\n\r\nPerhaps the most meaningful shift was in student engagement. Reluctant readers eagerly participated because the verse style felt approachable, and students took pride in flipping through their own copies to find evidence. One student became our class \"FAST expert,\" helping peers choose stronger evidence for Will's feelings and actions. Another student who rarely volunteers began reading entire stanzas aloud because the rhythm felt natural to him. Your donation didn't just provide books—it provided access, confidence, and a reading experience where every student felt capable and included. My students grew as readers, thinkers, and writers because of you, and we are truly grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1746466481378,"projectUrl":"project/riding-the-elevator-through-literature/9257997/","projectTitle":"Riding the Elevator Through Literature","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gregg","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7502442_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1720889492476","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msgregg19"},{"teacherId":7502442,"projectId":7947335,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, we were able to continue our very first Lunchtime Book Club!\r\n\r\nThe day the books arrived, the energy was electric. Students were so excited to hold their own copies of All American Boys. For many, it was the first time they had a brand-new book they could keep, annotate, and take home to read on their own schedule. One student hugged her book to her chest and said, \"I can't wait to start reading this tonight!\" That moment perfectly captured the excitement and ownership your gift has given them.\r\n\r\nOur book club has quickly become a safe space where students dive into powerful conversations about identity, justice, and empathy. During one meeting, a student connected a moment in the book to a real-life event he had witnessed, sparking a meaningful and respectful discussion among peers that extended well beyond the lunch hour. These kinds of conversations are exactly why I wanted this project to happen—reading is no longer just an assignment; it's become a way for my students to understand themselves and the world around them.\r\n\r\nThe next step? We're finishing All American Boys soon, and the students have already requested a new book to read together. We're even exploring the idea of inviting community members to join future discussions or hosting a student-led panel. The love for reading is spreading, and it's changing the way students view literature—not just as a school subject, but as a gateway to connection and understanding.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping ignite this passion. Your support is making a lasting difference.","fullyFundedDate":1697750875174,"projectUrl":"project/all-american-book-club/7947335/","projectTitle":"All American Book Club","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gregg","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7502442_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1720889492476","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msgregg19"},{"teacherId":7502442,"projectId":8248088,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom has been transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity and learning! When my students first saw the painting supplies laid out—rows of fresh canvas boards, colorful paints, palettes, and easels—they were absolutely ecstatic. The room buzzed with excitement as they eagerly unpacked the materials, marveling at the brushes and colors like artists stepping into their own studios.\r\n\r\nWith your donation, students were able to bring literature to life through art. Their discussions around color choices, symbolism, and character emotions were deeper and more insightful than I've ever seen. The combination of reading and painting sparked a level of engagement that was truly magical. These supplies haven't just made learning more enjoyable—they've elevated it. Students are collaborating more, expressing their thoughts more confidently, and taking pride in their work. \r\n\r\nYour contribution didn't just fund art supplies—it created an experience my students will remember for years to come. Thank you for helping us blend creativity with literacy in such a meaningful way!","fullyFundedDate":1721831708837,"projectUrl":"project/canvas-chapters-sip-paint-and-dive/8248088/","projectTitle":"Canvas & Chapters: Sip, Paint, and Dive Into Reading!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gregg","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7502442_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1720889492476","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msgregg19"},{"teacherId":7502442,"projectId":8529955,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous donation, our classroom now runs more smoothly and efficiently than ever before. The Sekey 220L Collapsible Foldable Wagon has become a true game-changer in how we manage and move materials. In a reading classroom like ours, we're constantly using a variety of books, journals, reading kits, and literacy tools for small group instruction, independent reading time, and book clubs. Having this sturdy, spacious wagon has made it so much easier to transport everything we need between classrooms, shared spaces, and reading areas within the building.\r\n\r\nMy students were so excited when the wagon arrived—they immediately started brainstorming all the ways we could use it. Now, they take turns helping organize and load it up with book sets, discussion guides, and reading games. It has made transitioning between activities much more efficient and has encouraged a strong sense of responsibility and teamwork. For book clubs and collaborative projects, the wagon helps us quickly set up student-led reading stations or move supplies for group work to different corners of our learning space.\r\n\r\nBecause of this simple but powerful tool, we're able to spend more time actually engaged in reading and meaningful discussion, rather than worrying about how to get materials from point A to point B. Your support has made our classroom more organized, collaborative, and focused—and my students feel proud to help take ownership of their learning environment. Thank you for making such a practical and lasting difference in our day-to-day learning!","fullyFundedDate":1724076569907,"projectUrl":"project/empower-our-classroom-super-wagon-for-s/8529955/","projectTitle":"Empower Our Classroom: Super Wagon for Super Students!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gregg","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7502442_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1720889492476","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msgregg19"},{"teacherId":7502442,"projectId":8143699,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous donation, my students were given something they rarely get when it comes to school reading—choice and ownership. With the arrival of Monday's Not Coming by Tiffany D. Jackson, our classroom came alive with energy and curiosity. The excitement on my students' faces when they realized they each had their own copy to take home was unforgettable. Many of them asked, \"We get to keep these?\"—it was a small moment, but it spoke volumes about how uncommon and special this opportunity was for them.\r\n\r\nWe launched our lunchtime book club just as planned, and it quickly became a space of connection, conversation, and honest reflection. Students took the book home, read at their own pace, and came back eager to unpack the twists, the characters, and the emotions stirred by Jackson's powerful storytelling. One student shared, \"This book feels real—it's like it's talking about someone I actually know.\" That level of engagement, especially for students who typically struggle with or avoid reading, has been incredible to witness. Monday's Not Coming touches on real-world issues that my students can relate to, and it's opened the door to meaningful discussions about friendship, mental health, justice, and what it means to truly see the people around you.\r\n\r\nNext, we're working on a student-led presentation project where each group will dive deeper into a theme or character from the book and share their thoughts in a creative format—whether that's a podcast-style discussion, a visual collage, or even a mock interview with one of the characters. These projects are giving students a chance to express themselves and practice analysis in ways that feel relevant and empowering. Because of you, our students aren't just reading—they're thinking, talking, and growing. Thank you for making it possible for them to experience literature in a way that feels personal, exciting, and lasting.","fullyFundedDate":1707925683500,"projectUrl":"project/mondays-not-coming-book-club/8143699/","projectTitle":"Monday's Not Coming Book Club","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gregg","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7502442_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1720889492476","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msgregg19"},{"teacherId":7502442,"projectId":8395024,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, my students now have access to essential hair care supplies that help them feel confident, cared for, and ready to learn each day. The items provided through this project—like braiding hair, brushes, edge control, hair ties, and styling products—have created a safe, welcoming space where students can take care of their grooming needs right here at school. For many of our students, these are resources they don't always have access to at home, and being able to walk into the classroom and find the tools they need has made a world of difference in how they see themselves.\r\n\r\nI'll never forget the moment a student came in feeling self-conscious about her hair after a rushed morning, and her whole demeanor changed when she realized she could use the detangling brushes, mousse, and a few bobby pins to refresh her look. She smiled, stood taller, and said, \"I feel like myself again.\" Small moments like that are happening every day now. Students are using the braiding hair and styling products to protect and maintain their hair in culturally affirming ways. The braiding rack and comb sets help us stay organized and ready for anyone who needs a quick touch-up or a moment of self-care. This initiative has not only helped with grooming—it has also opened the door for important conversations around hygiene, self-esteem, and personal empowerment.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, our focus is now on prom. We want every student to feel proud of how they look and walk into that special night feeling seen and celebrated. We're using the remaining supplies to help students prepare their hair in ways that make them feel beautiful and empowered—whether it's slicked back styles, protective braids, or defined curls. Thanks to you, we're helping them create memories they'll never forget, without the stress of not being able to afford the basics. Your support has gone far beyond the classroom—it's touching lives in deeply personal ways. Thank you for being part of our village.","fullyFundedDate":1716141818993,"projectUrl":"project/empower-and-elevate-hair-care-essential/8395024/","projectTitle":"Empower and Elevate: Hair Care Essentials for Self-Expression and Confidence","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gregg","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7502442_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1720889492476","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msgregg19"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_17192","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":393,"numTeachers":28,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":2,"percentBlack":51,"percentWhite":0,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":44,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"14.0:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":67.1,"schoolId":17192,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Dr. Frederick Douglass Senior Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Dr. Frederick Douglass Senior Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/texas/dallas-independent-school-district/sarah-zumwalt-middle-school/17192"}