{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Shaler Area High School","outOfStateSupporters":30.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9465112,"projectId":9674212,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our students now have reliable access to ready-to-eat meals, snacks, and pantry items through the Titan Community Collective free store. This section of the store has quickly become one of the most respected and utilized resources in our building. Students use it daily—grabbing something to eat before a big test, taking meals home for the evening, or simply having a safe and dignified place to get what they need without having to ask.\r\n\r\nOur students' reactions have been overwhelmingly positive. They respect the space, they support each other, and they treat the store as part of our school community, not as a charity. Students have even started contributing back, donating snacks or organizing shelves during free periods. It has become a shared effort rooted in dignity and care.\r\n\r\nThe next step is continuing to keep the shelves stocked so this can remain a consistent resource, not a temporary one. We're also working with student leaders to track usage trends and gather feedback so we can thoughtfully expand offerings based on what students need most.\r\n\r\nYour support didn't just provide food... It provided comfort, stability, and a sense of belonging. Thank you for making this possible.","fullyFundedDate":1758294494288,"projectUrl":"project/meals-that-matter-supporting-students-b/9674212/","projectTitle":"Meals That Matter: Supporting Students Beyond the School Day","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. DiPasquale","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9465112_orig.jpg?crop=752,752,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1740401651614","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/dipasquale"},{"teacherId":9871086,"projectId":9456954,"letterContent":"On behalf of my entire roster, I want to sincerely thank you for your generous donation. Your support has brought meaningful and lasting improvements to our learning environment, and we are incredibly grateful.\r\n\r\nStudents now sit at tables that promote better focus, and I have more freedom to arrange my classroom in way that encourage collaboration, discussion, and hands-on learning. These changes have had a noticeable impact—students are more engaged, more comfortable, and more respectful of their surroundings. I have also seen a significant difference in classroom behavior and student participation.\r\n\r\nThe impact of your gift will be felt for years to come. Every student who enters this updated classroom will benefit from a learning environment that is safer, more comfortable, and more inspiring.\r\n\r\nThank you again for your incredible support. You've made a lasting difference in the lives of our students, and we are truly grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1759266577782,"projectUrl":"project/flexible-seating-for-flexible-learning/9456954/","projectTitle":"Flexible Seating for Flexible Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Siedlecki","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9871086"},{"teacherId":9465112,"projectId":9214997,"letterContent":"I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere appreciation for the grant writing course I completed through [Program/Organization]. The guidance, structure, and practical tools provided in the course have had a meaningful and immediate impact on my work this year.\r\n\r\nSince completing the training, I have successfully secured multiple private grants totaling over $5,000 to support student-centered initiatives in our high school library and learning community. These funds are directly helping us to expand resources in our Titan Community Collective free store, enhance experiential learning with our SPARK Club (Students Promoting Acts of Respect and Kindness), and improve the comfort and usability of our library environment. These initiatives are making a real difference in students' daily experiences.\r\n\r\nBeyond the funding itself, the course helped me strengthen my confidence in identifying opportunities, tailoring narratives to funder priorities, and clearly communicating the real-world impact of our programming. I now feel equipped not only to write grants more effectively, but also to plan sustainably, collaborate with partners, and articulate our mission with clarity and purpose.\r\n\r\nThank you for offering a learning experience that was both empowering and immediately applicable. The skills I gained have contributed directly to meaningful improvements in our school, and I look forward to continuing this work with the strategies and knowledge I now have.\r\n\r\nI've also attached photos of the Titan Community Collective, our high school's free store that provides students with everyday essentials at no cost. This space exists because of the grant-writing skills I gained and the support of our community partners. It has already become an essential resource for students.","fullyFundedDate":1746846290668,"projectUrl":"project/funding-the-future-advancing-school-pro/9214997/","projectTitle":"Funding the Future: Advancing School Programs Through Grant Writing","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. DiPasquale","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9465112_orig.jpg?crop=752,752,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1740401651614","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/dipasquale"},{"teacherId":10041055,"projectId":9371479,"letterContent":"The students are using the plants and soil to create a classroom green wall. The students were very excited about the project considering the fact that they are environmentally conscious and care about clean air. These plants will help to scrub the air in our classroom, making it safer to breathe, especially co solder g that we have no windows.\r\n\r\nFor now, the design is simple, but they are considering adding on to the design to make it the shape of a suspension bridge. This is an homage to our city, Pittsburgh, and the tradition of bridges in our city. Bridges also are a symbol in our school of positive behaviors - pride, respect, and honor are the three pillars.","fullyFundedDate":1755748468780,"projectUrl":"project/bring-the-outdoors-inside-with-a-living/9371479/","projectTitle":"Bring the Outdoors Inside with a Living Wall!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Elder","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10041055"},{"teacherId":9871086,"projectId":9167752,"letterContent":"On behalf of my entire roster, I want to sincerely thank you for your generous donation. Your support has brought meaningful and lasting improvements to our learning environment, and we are incredibly grateful.\r\n\r\nStudents now sit at tables that promote better focus, and I have more freedom to arrange my classroom in way that encourage collaboration, discussion, and hands-on learning. These changes have had a noticeable impact—students are more engaged, more comfortable, and more respectful of their surroundings. I have also seen a significant difference in classroom behavior and student participation.\r\n\r\nThe impact of your gift will be felt for years to come. Every student who enters this updated classroom will benefit from a learning environment that is safer, more comfortable, and more inspiring. \r\n\r\nThank you again for your incredible support. You've made a lasting difference in the lives of our students, and we are truly grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1746846426869,"projectUrl":"project/flexible-seating/9167752/","projectTitle":"Flexible Seating","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Siedlecki","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9871086"},{"teacherId":6772482,"projectId":9059093,"letterContent":"Receiving a color printer for my preschool classroom has made a tremendous difference in both the quality and creativity of our daily activities. With access to color printing, I can now produce vibrant, engaging learning materials that capture the attention of my young students. Visual aids like alphabet charts, counting games, story props, and activity sheets are now far more effective and fun, helping students stay focused and excited to learn. The use of color brings stories and lessons to life in ways that black-and-white materials simply can't match.\r\n\r\nThis donation has also helped foster a more inclusive and supportive classroom environment. I've been able to create personalized resources that reflect the diverse backgrounds of my students, as well as materials that support different learning styles and needs. Whether it's visual schedules, emotion charts, or custom name tags, the printer has allowed me to better meet each child where they are. Thanks to this generous gift, our classroom is more dynamic, welcoming, and filled with opportunities for joyful learning.","fullyFundedDate":1742961403569,"projectUrl":"project/pre-k-needs-to-keep-color/9059093/","projectTitle":"Pre-K Needs to Keep Color!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Wells","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6772482"},{"teacherId":9465112,"projectId":9027591,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our sound paneling project is well underway, and it's already making a difference! It has made for an ideal environment for one of our most exciting new features: Titan Talk Studio, our in-house podcasting studio!\r\n\r\nRecently, our students had the incredible opportunity to participate in a Podcasting 101 workshop led by SLB Radio Productions, a professional audio storytelling organization. During this hands-on session, students learned: The basics of narrative structure and audio editing, How to use microphones and soundboards, The importance of sound quality, including how your donated panels help create a clearer, crisper final product. This experience opened doors for students to explore storytelling, journalism, and media literacy, all within our library space.\r\n\r\nWith the foundation in place, students are preparing to: Launch their own podcast episodes, Interview peers, teachers, and community members, Share meaningful stories and perspectives from the student body, and teachers are starting to incoprorate this new technology in their classes.","fullyFundedDate":1742961403777,"projectUrl":"project/soundscapes-for-success-improving-learn/9027591/","projectTitle":"Soundscapes for Success: Improving Learning Environments Through Acoustic Solutions","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. DiPasquale","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9465112_orig.jpg?crop=752,752,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1740401651614","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/dipasquale"},{"teacherId":9465112,"projectId":9283878,"letterContent":"When our students first walked into the Titan Community Collective and saw shelves stocked with hygiene and period products, the sense of relief was clear. One student quietly said, \"I don't have to stress about this anymore.\" That moment captured exactly why these resources matter so much.\r\n\r\nStudents are using the Free Store daily to pick up the essentials they need whether that is deodorant before gym class, shampoo to take home, or period products for peace of mind during the school day. The fact that everything is free, discreet, and available to all students helps remove stigma and ensures everyone feels supported.\r\n\r\nThe next step is keeping the store fully stocked and expanding our offerings as students share their needs. We are also working with student volunteers to organize the space and track what items are most popular so we can be sure we are meeting real demand.\r\n\r\nThanks to your generosity, our students know they have a place where their basic needs are taken care of so they can focus on being confident, present, and successful at school.","fullyFundedDate":1746787130585,"projectUrl":"project/stocking-for-success-empowering-teens-b/9283878/","projectTitle":"Stocking for Success: Empowering Teens by Meeting Basic Needs","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. DiPasquale","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9465112_orig.jpg?crop=752,752,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1740401651614","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/dipasquale"},{"teacherId":9711384,"projectId":8997640,"letterContent":"Since receiving the new resources through this grant, my students and I have seen a remarkable transformation in our classroom environment. We've integrated the snacks and games into our daily routines, using them as both motivators and tools for social-emotional learning. For example, during our \"Break Time Bonding\" activity, students use the snacks to share stories and practice kindness, which has helped foster a sense of community and trust. The games have become a favorite part of our afternoons, encouraging teamwork, problem-solving, and communication among peers.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the new materials, their reactions were priceless—eyes lit up with excitement and curiosity. Many students expressed feeling more connected and supported, which is especially meaningful in a high-need setting. Their enthusiasm for these resources has motivated them to participate more actively in class activities, creating a more positive and stable learning atmosphere. Looking ahead, we plan to incorporate these resources into upcoming lessons on social skills and stress management, helping students build resilience and confidence as they continue to grow academically and personally.","fullyFundedDate":1742823950090,"projectUrl":"project/empowerment-through-stability-a-safe-ha/8997640/","projectTitle":"Empowerment Through Stability: A Safe Haven for Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Donini","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9711384"},{"teacherId":9465112,"projectId":8803401,"letterContent":"Thanks you for your incredible generosity! I'm thrilled to share that the new cash register and handheld scanner are a smashing hit in our Life Skills Café!\r\n\r\nWhat I love most about our life skills students is their enthusiasm for learning and their determination to succeed. With the addition of the POS system, our café has transformed into a dynamic learning space where students practice real-world on-the-job skills while working alongside their neurotypical peers. They are now confidently handling transactions, tracking inventory, and learning the ins and outs of the workplaces, skills that will serve them far beyond the classroom.\r\n\r\nThis project is about so much more than equipment. It's about building confidence, fostering independence, and creating a space where every student feels valued. Your support has helped nurture an inclusive, collaborative environment where our students thrive, not just academically, but socially and emotionally as well.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our vision and for helping us create meaningful, lasting opportunities for our students. We are so grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1733174250636,"projectUrl":"project/brewing-financial-literacy-empowering-s/8803401/","projectTitle":"Brewing Financial Literacy: Empowering Students Through Hands-On Café Business Experience","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. DiPasquale","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9465112_orig.jpg?crop=752,752,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1740401651614","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/dipasquale"},{"teacherId":9465112,"projectId":8706660,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our sound paneling project is well underway and it's already making a difference in our podcast studio!\r\n\r\nRecently, our students had the incredible opportunity to participate in a Podcasting 101 workshop led by SLB Radio Productions, a professional audio storytelling organization. During this hands-on session, students learned: The basics of narrative structure and audio editing, how to use microphones and soundboards, the importance of sound quality, including how your donated panels help create a clearer, crisper final product\r\n\r\nThis experience opened doors for students to explore storytelling, journalism, and media literacy, all within our library space. With the foundation in place, students are preparing to: Launch their own podcast episodes, interview peers, teachers, and community members, share meaningful stories and perspectives from the student body.","fullyFundedDate":1733240536852,"projectUrl":"project/soundscapes-for-success-improving-learn/8706660/","projectTitle":"Soundscapes for Success: Improving Learning Environments Through Acoustic Solutions","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. DiPasquale","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9465112_orig.jpg?crop=752,752,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1740401651614","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/dipasquale"},{"teacherId":9677212,"projectId":8752723,"letterContent":"I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude for your incredible support in bringing the discussion/activity table to our classroom. Your generosity has made a tangible difference in the learning experience of my English Language Learners, and I am thrilled to share the impact it has had so far.\r\n\r\nFrom the moment my students saw the new table and chairs, their excitement was undeniable. Their faces lit up with joy, and they immediately gathered around, eager to explore how they could use this new resource. It has quickly become the heart of our classroom, a space where students come together to collaborate, communicate, and grow in their language skills.\r\n\r\nOne of the most powerful moments came during a recent group research project. Students worked together to explore cultural traditions from their home countries, using the table as their collaborative hub. As they shared personal stories and discussed their findings, I watched them build confidence in their English proficiency while also celebrating their diverse backgrounds. This project exemplified how the discussion/activity table fosters not only language development but also a sense of belonging and community within our classroom.\r\n\r\nThe table has also become a go-to spot for interactive language-based games, peer tutoring, and extra support on assignments. Whether practicing new vocabulary, engaging in small group discussions, or simply helping one another understand complex concepts, my students now have a designated space that empowers them to take an active role in their learning. The ability to work closely with peers in this way has significantly boosted their communication skills and self-assurance.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we will continue to integrate this resource into our curriculum through more collaborative projects, storytelling activities, and hands-on language exercises. My students are making incredible progress, and this table has been instrumental in creating a learning environment that nurtures their growth every step of the way.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students and for providing them with the tools they need to succeed. Your kindness and generosity have made a lasting impact, and we are truly grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1733174388051,"projectUrl":"project/collaborative-language-learning-hub-enh/8752723/","projectTitle":"Collaborative Language Learning Hub: Enhancing ELL Growth Through Interactive Activities","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Piekarski","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9677212_orig.jpg?crop=931,931,x98,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1725894802207","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9677212"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_46040","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":1160,"numTeachers":107,"percentFrplEligible":36,"percentAsian":1,"percentBlack":2,"percentWhite":88,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":3,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"9 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":"10.8:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":false,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":69.7,"schoolId":46040,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Shaler Area High School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Shaler Area High School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/pennsylvania/shaler-area-school-district/shaler-area-high-school/46040"}