{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Smalley Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":45.1,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":5746722,"projectId":8297908,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your incredible generosity in bringing this project to life! When the new books and supplies arrived, the excitement in our classroom was contagious. For my multilingual learners, seeing fresh, engaging texts that represent various career paths made them feel seen and inspired about their own futures.\r\n\r\nI have noticed a few students in particular—those who previously felt intimidated by reading in English—who are now the first to grab these new books. The visual supports and relevant topics have given them the confidence to tackle more challenging material. Your support has not only provided us with physical \"Classroom Supplies\" but has also opened a door to a world of possibilities for my students. Thank you for investing in their dreams!","fullyFundedDate":1715120054399,"projectUrl":"project/future-career-opportunities-for-multi-li/8297908/","projectTitle":"Future Career Opportunities for Multi-linguals & Classroom Supplies!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bugnacki","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5746722_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1550170060335","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/emily-bugnacki"},{"teacherId":5746722,"projectId":9394075,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your incredible generosity in providing the \"Necessities for an Inviting Multilingual Classroom!\". When the new materials arrived, my students were absolutely thrilled. Many of them were eager to help unbox the items, and there was a collective cheer as they saw the supplies that would make our classroom feel more like a community. For my multilingual learners, seeing these new resources made them feel special and supported in their learning journey.\r\n\r\nWe are currently using these new resources to create a more organized and welcoming environment that facilitates better communication. The students have been utilizing the new supplies during our collaborative group work, which has helped them engage more deeply with our language lessons. One specific moment that stood out was during a recent literacy station; seeing a student confidently use the new materials to explain a concept to a peer was truly heartwarming. These \"necessities\" have removed small barriers to learning, allowing us to focus entirely on our academic goals.\r\n\r\nThank you for making our classroom a more inviting place for all!.","fullyFundedDate":1756325800141,"projectUrl":"project/necessities-for-an-inviting-multilingual/9394075/","projectTitle":"Necessities for an Inviting Multilingual Classroom!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bugnacki","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5746722_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1550170060335","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/emily-bugnacki"},{"teacherId":5746722,"projectId":9403984,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your incredible generosity in bringing this project to life! When the new technology arrived in our classroom, the excitement was palpable. My students were eager to explore the new tools, and for my multilingual learners, these resources have become a vital bridge to understanding. While many of us use technology at home for entertainment, in our classroom, it serves as a powerful instructional aid that allows students to interact with language in a visual and hands-on way.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we plan to use these tools daily to differentiate instruction and provide targeted support during our literacy blocks. Because of your support, language is truly coming to life for my students, giving them the confidence they need to succeed academically and socially. Thank you for investing in our bright young learners!","fullyFundedDate":1756325800595,"projectUrl":"project/bringing-language-to-life-in-our-multili/9403984/","projectTitle":"Bringing Language to Life in Our Multilingual Classroom!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bugnacki","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5746722_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1550170060335","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/emily-bugnacki"},{"teacherId":5746722,"projectId":9410875,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for bringing \"Bright Minds, Cool Breaks\" to our classroom! The moment the new resources arrived, my students were buzzing with excitement. For many of my multilingual learners, the classroom is the primary place where they feel safe to practice their new language skills, and seeing these new materials made them feel incredibly valued. They couldn't wait to help set up our new \"cool break\" area and start using the tools you provided.\r\n\r\nWe are currently using these resources to create a more regulated and comfortable learning environment. By having a comfortable and well-equipped space, my students are becoming more independent and confident in their ability to manage their own learning needs. Your generosity has not only provided physical materials but has also fostered a sense of belonging and peace in our classroom. Thank you for investing in the bright minds of my second graders!","fullyFundedDate":1756325799254,"projectUrl":"project/bright-minds-cool-breaks-a-comfortable/9410875/","projectTitle":"Bright Minds, Cool Breaks: A Comfortable ML Classroom for Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bugnacki","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5746722_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1550170060335","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/emily-bugnacki"},{"teacherId":5746722,"projectId":8148767,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for bringing \"Let There Be Light!\" to our classroom! When the new lighting resources arrived, my students were absolutely captivated. Their eyes lit up—quite literally—as they saw how the warm, soft glow transformed our room from a sterile environment into a cozy sanctuary for learning.\r\n\r\nWe are now using these resources daily to create a focused atmosphere during our literacy blocks and quiet reflection times. One standout moment occurred during a recent independent reading session; the calm environment provided by the new lighting allowed even my most high-energy students to settle in and get \"lost\" in their books for the entire period. It has noticeably reduced overstimulation and helped my multilingual learners feel more at ease.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has turned our classroom into a place where students truly feel at home. Thank you for making our learning environment shine!","fullyFundedDate":1709139096420,"projectUrl":"project/let-there-be-light/8148767/","projectTitle":"Let There Be Light!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bugnacki","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5746722_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1550170060335","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/emily-bugnacki"},{"teacherId":4744056,"projectId":9687134,"letterContent":"I am writing to express my deepest gratitude and heartfelt thanks for your generous contribution to my project to create a safe space for students to regulate their emotions. Your support has not only helped me realize my vision but has also brought me one step closer to making a lasting impact on the lives of our students.\r\n\r\nThanks to your donations, I have been able to equip our classroom with the resources and tools that foster a warm, inviting atmosphere. From comfortable beanbags and giant pillows to calming decor, I have designed a haven where students can get themselves ready to learn.\r\n\r\nIt is with immense gratitude that I acknowledge your role in empowering us to make a tangible difference in our students' lives. I firmly believe that your generosity will have a ripple effect, extending far beyond the immediate impact of this project.\r\n\r\nOnce again, I extend my most profound appreciation for your generosity, compassion, and belief in our cause. Your support has enabled me to create a safe space where students can find solace, strength, and hope. I am committed to ensuring that this project continues to flourish and make a lasting difference, and we hope to have your continued support in our journey ahead.","fullyFundedDate":1763577698394,"projectUrl":"project/beyond-the-desk-flexible-seating-and-an/9687134/","projectTitle":"Beyond the Desk: Flexible Seating and an Inclusive Learning Environment!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Riccardo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4744056_orig.jpg?crop=368,368,x0,y15&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1750161639719","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/d-riccardo"},{"teacherId":8494788,"projectId":9685940,"letterContent":"These supplies have been lifesavers—literally! With cold and flu season hitting hard, students have been using the tissues, hand sanitizer, and wipes every day. One moment that stood out was during a group project when students naturally grabbed wipes to clean their tables before working together. It kept everyone healthier and helped our classroom run smoothly.\r\nThey were relieved and grateful. Many students commented that it felt good knowing we had plenty of tissues and sanitizer \"just in case.\" It gave them a sense of comfort and safety during a time when lots of sickness was going around.\r\nAs we continue our collaborative activities and hands-on projects, these supplies will keep students healthy and able to stay in school and participate. Having a clean, well-stocked classroom makes it easier for them to focus, work together, and stay on track with learning.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping us stay healthy and ready to learn during a tough season!","fullyFundedDate":1762266350878,"projectUrl":"project/clean-classroom/9685940/","projectTitle":"Clean Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Mazzarella","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8494788_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755750437978","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8494788"},{"teacherId":8494788,"projectId":9401127,"letterContent":"The new toolboxes, pencil sharpener, and organizational supplies have transformed our classroom routines. Students started the year by setting up their personal toolboxes, and it was wonderful to see how carefully they arranged their materials. Having everything organized has helped them start each activity focused and prepared.\r\nThey were so excited—especially about the sturdy toolboxes and the \"fancy\" pencil sharpener! Several students said it felt like they were in a \"real workspace,\" and they loved having their own organized setup.\r\nAs we begin our early-year projects, these organization tools will help students move smoothly through group work, writing tasks, and goal-setting activities. Everything has a place now, and it's already making our classroom calmer, cleaner, and more productive.\r\n\r\nThank you for giving us such a strong, organized start to the year!","fullyFundedDate":1755732124643,"projectUrl":"project/welcome-to-first-grade/9401127/","projectTitle":"Welcome To First Grade!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Mazzarella","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8494788_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755750437978","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8494788"},{"teacherId":9335776,"projectId":9398551,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our DonorsChoose project. Your kindness has made a meaningful difference in our first-grade classroom of multilingual learners, and we are incredibly grateful.\r\n\r\nBecause of your donation, our students now have wonderful new materials that will enrich their learning every day. The Melissa & Doug Safari Buddies Hand Puppets (elephant, tiger, parrot, giraffe, monkey, and zebra) are already helping students practice language, storytelling, and social interaction in ways that feel playful, safe, and exciting. For multilingual learners, having tools that encourage speaking and confidence is invaluable, and these puppets are already making that happen.\r\n\r\nThe $100 gift card for educational resources from Teachers Pay Teachers allows me to provide highly targeted lessons, visuals, and interactive activities designed specifically for language development. These resources help tailor instruction to each learner's needs and give them more opportunities to succeed.\r\n\r\nWe also deeply appreciate the Brother INKvestment Tank Ink Cartridges, which allow us to print materials, visuals, anchor charts, student work, and supports that bring learning to life in colorful and accessible ways. Having reliable printing supplies is a game-changer in a classroom with diverse language needs.\r\n\r\nYour generosity provides more than supplies — it provides confidence, access, inclusion, and joy in learning. My students feel seen, supported, and excited because someone they've never met believes in them.\r\n\r\nOn behalf of myself and all of my amazing first-grade multilingual learners, thank you for investing in our classroom and helping every child grow.","fullyFundedDate":1756325800683,"projectUrl":"project/hands-on-hearts-open-language-learnin/9398551/","projectTitle":"Hands-On, Hearts Open: Language, Learning, and Joy for Multilingual Learners!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Cipolla","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9335776_orig.jpg?crop=1170,1170,x0,y128&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1705076616374","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9335776"},{"teacherId":9335776,"projectId":9682191,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting my DonorsChoose project and investing in the success of my first-grade multilingual learners. Your generosity provided our classroom with the Snap & Build CVC Words from Lakeshore Learning, a Large Display Digital Wall Clock with RGB color-changing features, an Artificial Fall Lighted Maple Tree with 24 LEDs, and the BAYSING Wooden Magnetic Sight Word Fishing Game with alphabet fish for hands-on literacy practice.\r\n\r\nThese materials have already begun transforming our learning environment. The CVC building set and magnetic fishing game offer my students fun, multisensory ways to practice phonics and build foundational reading skills. The large digital clock helps us keep routines clear and consistent—something especially helpful for multilingual learners building language around time and schedules. And our new maple tree adds a warm, calming glow that makes our classroom feel welcoming, safe, and full of joy.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, my students have more opportunities to engage, communicate, and learn with confidence. You have given them tools that spark curiosity, support language development, and make each day brighter—literally and figuratively.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students and helping create a classroom where they can thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1763577695532,"projectUrl":"project/a-calm-and-creative-classroom-for-growin/9682191/","projectTitle":"A Calm and Creative Classroom for Growing Multilingual Minds!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Cipolla","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9335776_orig.jpg?crop=1170,1170,x0,y128&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1705076616374","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9335776"},{"teacherId":9335776,"projectId":9410862,"letterContent":"I want to give a huge thank you for supporting my classroom this year! My first grade multilingual learners were so excited to use the new materials! \r\nAs a resource teacher, I work with many small groups all day long, so the ability to adjust my lessons with materials that meet their needs is essential. The stack and build phonics flip books have been a huge hit with my students. They love building words by looking at the photos and finding the tiles to spell the words. It is a huge bonus that there are multiple levels, so as they learn, they can advance to a higher color. \r\nThe CVC words spelling game has also been a crowd pleaser. My students love the photos and the color coded tiles. They are having fun while learning to read, and that is amazing!\r\nThese are just a couple of examples of materials that we are enjoying thanks to your generosity. We appreciate you!","fullyFundedDate":1756325799797,"projectUrl":"project/lighting-the-way-to-literacy-for-multili/9410862/","projectTitle":"Lighting the Way to Literacy for Multilingual Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Cipolla","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9335776_orig.jpg?crop=1170,1170,x0,y128&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1705076616374","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9335776"},{"teacherId":9359029,"projectId":9082888,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our classroom! Your donations of laminating sheets, sensory toys, and books have already made such a positive impact on our students' learning environment.\r\n\r\nThe laminating sheets help us preserve important classroom materials and student work, so we can use them again and again. The sensory toys have been a wonderful addition, providing students with tools to help them focus, self-regulate, and feel calm throughout the day. And the new books have sparked excitement and curiosity—students can't wait to explore new stories and ideas!\r\n\r\nYour kindness and generosity remind our class that there are people who truly care about their education and success. Thank you for helping us create a space that is engaging, inclusive, and full of joy.","fullyFundedDate":1746554245790,"projectUrl":"project/cool-and-calm/9082888/","projectTitle":"Cool and Calm","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Butler","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9359029"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_43735","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":594,"numTeachers":44,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":8,"percentWhite":7,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":77,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"13.5:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":54.9,"schoolId":43735,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Smalley Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Smalley Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/connecticut/consolidated-school-district-of-new-britain/smalley-academy/43735"}