{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Las Estrellas Dual Language Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":35.4,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":3816828,"projectId":10041658,"letterContent":"One of our most memorable moments was acting out The Three Little Pigs together—students eagerly took turns retelling the story, using the puppets to bring each character to life. Even my quieter students found their voices, building confidence as they participated in storytelling and group discussions.\r\n\r\nWe are using these resources every day in meaningful ways. During whole-group lessons, flannel board figures help students visually follow along with stories, strengthening their comprehension and vocabulary. In small groups, students use dry erase pockets to practice writing and drawing, reinforcing early literacy and fine motor skills. Our STEM materials, like plant-growing kits and sensory tools, have sparked curiosity and thoughtful questions as students observe changes and explore the world around them.\r\n\r\nYour support has created a classroom environment where learning feels like play, and every child is actively engaged. These tools have made it easier for all students—including emerging readers—to access and enjoy stories in a multi-sensory way.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, we are beginning a new storytelling project where students will create and act out their own stories using the puppets and materials you provided. This next step will help them develop creativity, sequencing skills, and confidence as young storytellers.\r\n\r\nThank you for giving my students the opportunity to experience learning in such a joyful, interactive way. Your generosity is making a lasting impact, and we are so grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1769808957240,"projectUrl":"project/growing-readers-exploring-stories/10041658/","projectTitle":"Growing Readers, Exploring Stories","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Roman-Mendoza","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3816828_orig.png?crop=126,126,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755493172531","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3816828"},{"teacherId":3816828,"projectId":10075355,"letterContent":"The impact of these resources on my classroom has been immediate, meaningful, and truly joyful to witness. From the moment my students first saw the new materials, their excitement was undeniable—wide eyes, eager hands, and so many questions. What might look like \"just math tools\" quickly became treasures that invited curiosity, creativity, and confidence. We now use these materials daily in math centers, and they have completely transformed how my students engage with learning. During one small group activity with the magnetic ten frames, a student who had previously struggled with counting placed counters and suddenly exclaimed, \"I see it! It's ten!\" Instead of memorizing, they are building understanding with their hands.\r\n\r\nThe sorting snacks, counting sets, and hands-on games have turned foundational skills into playful discovery. Students naturally compare quantities, sort by attributes, and use math language in authentic ways. The lacing beads have been especially powerful for strengthening fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, supporting students who need extra practice for writing. When we introduced the dice poppers and addition games, the room filled with laughter as students eagerly practiced addition, took turns, and encouraged one another. Math has become something they look forward to, rather than something they hesitate to try.\r\n\r\nThese resources have created a classroom where learning truly feels like exploration. My students are more confident, more willing to take risks, and more excited to participate. As we move forward, we will build on these skills by using ten frames and number lines to solve simple story problems and explain our thinking. We are also beginning to incorporate small group projects where students collaborate to represent numbers in different ways. Because of your generosity, my students are not only developing strong foundational skills but also a lasting belief in their ability to learn and succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1775385726223,"projectUrl":"project/active-math-for-active-minds/10075355/","projectTitle":"Active Math for Active Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Roman-Mendoza","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3816828_orig.png?crop=126,126,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755493172531","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3816828"},{"teacherId":3816828,"projectId":10075265,"letterContent":"The addition of new digital cameras has had an immediate impact on our yearbook class. Students are now able to actively document school life—capturing events, candid moments, and everyday experiences that bring the yearbook to life. Through this technology, they are developing real-world skills in photography, visual storytelling, and design while collaborating to create something meaningful for the entire school community.\r\n\r\nWhat excites students most is the creative freedom and responsibility that comes with using the cameras. Many have taken ownership of their roles as photographers and editors, and even quieter students have grown more confident behind the lens. These cameras have empowered them to preserve memories and share their perspectives, resulting in a yearbook that truly reflects their voices and experiences.","fullyFundedDate":1770907296151,"projectUrl":"project/through-their-lens/10075265/","projectTitle":"Through Their Lens!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Roman-Mendoza","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3816828_orig.png?crop=126,126,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755493172531","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3816828"},{"teacherId":3816828,"projectId":10076552,"letterContent":"When the materials for this project arrived, my kindergarten students were immediately excited and curious. As we unpacked the storage benches and new seating options together, they eagerly asked questions and began imagining how they would use each item. One of my favorite moments was watching students independently choose their seating for the first time—some selected stools, others preferred lap desks, and a few were thrilled to try the chair bands. It quickly became clear how empowering choice can be for young learners. Students who previously struggled to stay focused were more engaged and able to regulate their bodies in ways that worked best for them.\r\n\r\nWe are now using these resources every day to build independence and responsibility in our classroom routines. The storage benches have transformed how students manage their belongings—they confidently store and retrieve materials without assistance, which has reduced transitions and increased learning time. During literacy centers, students use the activity trays to keep materials organized, and our new pencil sharpener has become part of our smooth, student-led routines. The classroom feels calmer, more organized, and more student-centered, allowing everyone to focus on learning rather than distractions.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, students are continuing to build on these skills through collaborative projects and independent work time. We are beginning a unit where students rotate through hands-on learning stations, and the flexible seating and organized materials are making these transitions seamless. Students are not only learning academic skills but also developing confidence, responsibility, and ownership of their environment. Your support has truly helped create a space where every child can thrive, and I am so grateful for the impact you've made in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1770143294597,"projectUrl":"project/where-organization-meets-differentiation/10076552/","projectTitle":"Where Organization Meets Differentiation","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Roman-Mendoza","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3816828_orig.png?crop=126,126,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755493172531","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3816828"},{"teacherId":8421626,"projectId":10114530,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students now have the tools they need to continue growing as thoughtful, empathetic, and confident members of our classroom community. Our new A Little SPOT materials have already begun making a meaningful difference in how my students understand their emotions, express themselves, and build stronger relationships with one another.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, my multilingual and multicultural learners now have access to stories and resources that reflect who they are. They are exploring complex feelings with more confidence, practicing calming strategies with greater independence, and using shared SEL language to navigate challenges in ways that make them feel proud of themselves.\r\n\r\nThe emotion blocks, educator guides, book sets, and sensory tools have transformed our SEL time into something my students look forward to every day. I've watched them light up when they recognize themselves in a story, help a classmate regulate during a tough moment, or use a new strategy to express what they're feeling. These moments are small on the surface, but they are shaping the kind of people they are becoming — leaders, problem-solvers, and compassionate friends.\r\n\r\nYour kindness didn't just fund materials; it strengthened a foundation we've been building together all year. You helped create a classroom where every student feels seen, valued, and supported. You helped them find their voices. You helped them feel like they belong.\r\n\r\nFrom the bottom of my heart, thank you for believing in my students and in the power of social–emotional learning. Your support will continue to ripple through our classroom in ways that matter every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1773869214570,"projectUrl":"project/building-strong-hearts-minds-with-a-li/10114530/","projectTitle":"Building Strong Hearts & Minds With a Little Spot","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Noelia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8421626_orig.jpg?crop=768,768,x256,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1722461597876","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8421626"},{"teacherId":8421626,"projectId":10086690,"letterContent":"Bringing a 3D printer into my classroom has transformed the way I teach and the way my students learn. Before this project, whenever I needed specialized fidgets or sensory tools, I had to contact our ATC department and wait for them to design and print items for my students. While they were always supportive, the process took time, and I often wished I could make quick adjustments or create something on the spot when a student needed it. Now, having a 3D printer right in my classroom has completely changed that dynamic.\r\n\r\nThe biggest impact has been on how I approach hands‑on learning. I can turn abstract concepts into tangible objects that students can touch, explore, and manipulate. This has opened up new pathways for engagement, especially for learners who rely heavily on sensory input to understand new ideas. Instead of watching them struggle with materials that weren't built for them, I now get to watch them light up as they hold something they created themselves. That sense of ownership changes everything.\r\n\r\nThis project has also pushed me to grow as an educator. Learning to use design software, experimenting with different filaments, and troubleshooting prints has made me more of a co‑learner alongside my students. It's refreshing and energizing to model curiosity and problem‑solving in real time. I've become more intentional about integrating engineering, creativity, and fine‑motor practice into my lessons because I now have a tool that makes those skills accessible and exciting.\r\n\r\nHaving the ability to print custom fidgets, textured shapes, and sensory tools has also strengthened my ability to support students' emotional and sensory regulation. Instead of relying on generic store‑bought items - or waiting for ATC to create something - I can design tools that match each student's preferences in size, texture, shape, and function. This has reduced frustration, increased independence, and helped students participate more confidently throughout the day.\r\n\r\nOverall, this project has elevated my teaching in ways I didn't expect. It has made learning more inclusive, more joyful, and more student‑driven. It has given my students opportunities to see themselves as creators and problem‑solvers, and it has given me the tools to support them in ways that truly honor their strengths. I feel more inspired, more capable, and more connected to my students because of this project.","fullyFundedDate":1770915395471,"projectUrl":"project/handson-learning-with-3d-printing-for-e/10086690/","projectTitle":"Hands‑On Learning With 3D Printing for Exceptional Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Noelia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8421626_orig.jpg?crop=768,768,x256,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1722461597876","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8421626"},{"teacherId":8421626,"projectId":10068548,"letterContent":"Implementing the Let's Clean This Up project has had a meaningful and immediate impact on my teaching. By bringing in durable storage bins, a reliable label printer, and clear labeling materials, I've been able to transform my classroom into a space that feels more predictable, accessible, and supportive for my students. This shift has changed the way I plan, teach, and manage our daily routines.\r\n\r\nOne of the biggest differences I've noticed is how much more smoothly our day flows. With materials clearly labeled and safely stored, I no longer lose instructional time searching for items or reorganizing supplies that have been misplaced. Instead, I can stay fully present with my students, focusing on instruction, relationship‑building, and individualized support. The organization system has also made it easier for me to prepare lessons in advance, knowing that everything I need will be exactly where it belongs.\r\n\r\nThis project has also strengthened my ability to foster independence in my students. Many of my learners thrive when their environment is structured and predictable, and having clearly labeled materials empowers them to navigate the classroom with confidence. They can find what they need, return items independently, and take ownership of their learning space. I've seen a noticeable decrease in frustration and an increase in self‑advocacy and responsibility - skills that are essential for their long‑term growth.\r\n\r\nOn a personal level, the project has brought me a sense of calm and renewed energy. Teaching in a Special Education setting means juggling many moving parts, and having an organized system in place reduces my stress and helps me stay focused on what matters most: supporting my students' academic and emotional development. Knowing that our materials are protected and ready for future years also gives me peace of mind and allows me to invest more energy into creative planning and individualized instruction.\r\n\r\nOverall, this project has not only improved the physical environment of my classroom but has also elevated the quality of my teaching. It has helped me create a space where my students feel capable, supported, and ready to learn - and where I feel more effective, prepared, and grounded in my practice.","fullyFundedDate":1771438891380,"projectUrl":"project/lets-clean-this-up/10068548/","projectTitle":"Let's Clean This Up","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Noelia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8421626_orig.jpg?crop=768,768,x256,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1722461597876","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8421626"},{"teacherId":8421626,"projectId":10081981,"letterContent":"This project is currently transforming my teaching by helping me create a classroom environment where every student feels safe, valued, and supported. As I began placing positive mindset posters around the room and common areas, I immediately saw how students responded to the encouraging messages. Many of them come to school carrying fear, anxiety, or uncertainty about expressing who they are, and these visual reminders now help counter those feelings each day. Because students feel more emotionally secure, they participate more openly and engage more deeply in learning, which strengthens the effectiveness of my instruction.\r\n\r\nThe affirming messages displayed throughout the space have already helped reduce stress and emotional tension. Students who once struggled to regulate their emotions now pause to read the posters or look at their stickers, giving themselves a moment to breathe. This shift has allowed me to spend more time teaching and less time managing behavior. The environment itself now supports social‑emotional learning in a natural, ongoing way, reinforcing the growth mindset and resilience I encourage during lessons.\r\n\r\nThe stickers and white sticker paper have also become meaningful tools for connection. When I hand out positive stickers or invite students to create their own affirmations, it strengthens our relationships and builds trust. Students feel proud when their words are displayed, and they feel seen when their voices are included in the classroom space. This has supported my efforts to teach in a culturally responsive and inclusive way, honoring the diverse backgrounds and identities represented in our community.\r\n\r\nOverall, this project is enhancing my ability to teach with compassion, clarity, and purpose. By transforming the classroom into a space filled with warmth, acceptance, and encouragement, I am better able to support students' emotional well‑being and academic growth. The positive climate created through this project has already helped students develop confidence, resilience, and a stronger sense of belonging, which directly enriches my teaching every day.","fullyFundedDate":1770663077862,"projectUrl":"project/a-safe-space-to-grow/10081981/","projectTitle":"A Safe Space to Grow","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Noelia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8421626_orig.jpg?crop=768,768,x256,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1722461597876","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8421626"},{"teacherId":6530152,"projectId":9915902,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our Chromebooks now have a home! The charging cart has transformed how our 4th grade classroom runs. Before, devices were scattered and often dead when we needed them. Now, 25 students start the day with fully charged, safely stored Chromebooks — ready the moment learning calls for them.\r\nWhen the cart arrived, the reaction was priceless. My students lit up like we had just leveled up our classroom — and honestly, we had. They immediately wanted to be the ones to plug in and organize the Chromebooks, taking real ownership over caring for our tools. I had to work with them to create a Tech Helper job, and it's one of the firsts to go when we switch jobs on Mondays. \r\nBecause we use technology intentionally and tied to specific standards, having reliable, organized devices means less time troubleshooting and more time learning. Thank you for investing in our classroom and helping us level up!","fullyFundedDate":1769473259713,"projectUrl":"project/a-chromebook-house/9915902/","projectTitle":"A Chromebook House","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. D. Ortiz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6530152_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y386&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755402173686","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6530152"},{"teacherId":3816828,"projectId":10065302,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom has been filled with excitement, creativity, and meaningful learning experiences. When my students first walked in and saw the decorations, banners, and hands-on materials for our 100th day celebration, their faces lit up with pure joy. They immediately felt proud of reaching such an important milestone, and the festive environment made the day feel truly special.\r\n\r\nWe used the resources in a variety of engaging ways. One standout moment was our \"100 Creations\" activity, where students used craft supplies like stickers, gems, and clay to design their own collections of 100 items. They practiced counting, grouping, and problem-solving while also expressing their creativity. Another favorite was making 100th day crowns and bracelets—students carefully counted each piece as they built their designs, strengthening both fine motor skills and number sense. It was incredible to see their focus, excitement, and pride as they wore their creations throughout the day.\r\n\r\nTheir reactions were unforgettable—students were eager, curious, and fully engaged from start to finish. Many couldn't stop smiling and were excited to share their work with classmates. The materials helped create a sense of community, with students encouraging one another and celebrating each other's accomplishments.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, we are continuing to build on this momentum. We are using the remaining materials for math centers focused on counting, grouping by tens, and early addition. Students are also incorporating the craft supplies into creative storytelling and design projects, allowing them to connect academic skills with imagination and self-expression. This experience has not only strengthened their foundational skills but also boosted their confidence and love for learning.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping create such a joyful and impactful experience for my students. Your support has made a lasting difference in our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1770143294416,"projectUrl":"project/100-days-brighter-a-celebration-of-lear/10065302/","projectTitle":"100 Days Brighter: A Celebration of Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Roman-Mendoza","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3816828_orig.png?crop=126,126,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755493172531","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3816828"},{"teacherId":1528285,"projectId":9750400,"letterContent":"Thank you for helping to provide snacks for our Black Affinity Group that meets as part of our after-school program. With everything that has been happening in our community, there have been issues of students struggling with food insecurity. Having snacks helped us give snacks during program, but also send some snacks home with students we know needed that support.\r\n\r\nOnce hunger is taken care of, we can get on to learning and all of the other things we enjoy doing as part of our group.\r\n\r\nThanks again for providing snacks!","fullyFundedDate":1760061341081,"projectUrl":"project/growing-children-must-eat/9750400/","projectTitle":"Growing Children Must Eat!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Olson de Alvarez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1528285_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1507759780729","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/emilyolsondealvarez"},{"teacherId":3816828,"projectId":9815160,"letterContent":"When the new recess equipment arrived, my kindergarteners were beyond excited. They cheered, smiled, and couldn't wait to start playing. It was so special to see their joy right away.\r\n\r\nNow, students use the balls and materials every day to play games together. I've seen them take turns, share, and include classmates who usually play alone. One of my favorite moments was watching a group of students work together to play a simple ball game, cheering each other on.\r\n\r\nThese resources have made recess more active, fun, and inclusive. Moving forward, we will keep building teamwork and social skills through play and simple group games.\r\n\r\nThank you for giving my students a happy and active recess!","fullyFundedDate":1769469003733,"projectUrl":"project/ready-set-go/9815160/","projectTitle":"Ready, Set, GO!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Roman-Mendoza","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3816828_orig.png?crop=126,126,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755493172531","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3816828"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_53163","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":402,"numTeachers":37,"percentFrplEligible":78,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":6,"percentWhite":13,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":76,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"10.9:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":64.6,"schoolId":53163,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Las Estrellas Dual Language Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Las Estrellas Dual Language Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/minnesota/minneapolis-public-schools/sheridan-global-arts-school/53163"}