{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Smith Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":34.6,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9552140,"projectId":10235697,"letterContent":"I wanted to take a moment to send a heartfelt thank you for your incredible generosity in purchasing supplies for our classroom. Opening those boxes and seeing the materials arrive was such an exciting moment for both me and the students, and it truly means the world to know we have a community rallying behind our learning.\r\n\r\nBecause of your contribution, my students now have the exact tools they need to dive into hands-on projects, stay organized, and engage fully with their daily lessons. It's amazing how a few new supplies can completely shift the energy in a room and make kids feel so valued and supported in their education.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in our classroom and for caring so deeply about these students' success. We are endlessly grateful for your kindness!","fullyFundedDate":1784910943778,"projectUrl":"project/fueling-our-foundations-pre-k-essential/10235697/","projectTitle":"Fueling Our Foundations: Pre-K Essentials","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Berdell","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9552140_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1777474358459","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9552140"},{"teacherId":3744736,"projectId":10302423,"letterContent":"Impact on Student Learning Receiving a chicken coop and feeding materials turns theoretical concepts into a vibrant, hands-on outdoor learning experience: Hands-On Life & Agricultural Science: Students gain first-hand understanding of animal life cycles, nutrition, habits, and sustainable food production by actively caring for living creatures and collecting eggs. Social-Emotional & Life Skills: Taking turns feeding, watering, and maintaining the coop builds a strong sense of accountability, teamwork, and empathy as students learn to care for life beyond themselves. Practical Math & Observation: Managing the flock provides real-world math and language arts integration, as students measure feeding ratios, track egg yields, record health observations, and write reflective journal entries. Teaching Accomplishments Consistent & Safe Husbandry: Proper feeding equipment and a secure coop allow me to establish structured, safe daily routines for students without safety or feeding logistics getting in the way. Experiential Cross-Curricular Lessons: I can take lessons outside the four walls of the traditional classroom, creating memorable STEM, environmental science, and social-emotional learning opportunities grounded in real-world application. Stronger Community Connection: The coop becomes a focal point for shared pride and engagement, encouraging collaborative projects and curiosity among students, staff, and families. If this is for a grant or donor thank-you note (such as DonorsChoose), consider adding a personal closing:\"A heartfelt thank you to our supporters for providing the tools and safe shelter our students need to connect with nature, build essential life skills, and discover the joy of agricultural learning every single day!\"","fullyFundedDate":1787664942354,"projectUrl":"project/chicken-coop/10302423/","projectTitle":"Chicken Coop","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Battee","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3744736_orig.jpg?crop=2401,2401,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1749478577329","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3744736"},{"teacherId":3744736,"projectId":10271739,"letterContent":"Having new, dedicated school supplies in our Pre-K classroom has created an immediate, powerful shift in how our four- and five-year-olds learn, play, and grow each day.\r\n\r\nBuilding Fine Motor Skills & Confidence: Age-appropriate tools like safety scissors, thick crayons, playdough, and grip pencils are essential for developing the hand strength needed for writing. Watching a child proudly hold their own brand-new scissors and master cutting a shape for the first time brings instant confidence.\r\n\r\nFostering Equity & Belonging: Many of our students enter the classroom without personal supplies. Having high-quality materials readily available ensures every single child starts on an equal playing field. It sends a clear message to our young learners: you belong here, and your education matters.\r\n\r\nUnlocking Creativity & Sensory Learning: Early childhood education thrives on hands-on exploration. Fresh art materials, paper, and sensory items allow us to transform abstract concepts—like shapes, letters, and color mixing—into tangible, joy-filled learning experiences.\r\n\r\nTeaching Ownership & Care: Having organized, vibrant materials teaches our students how to take responsibility for shared spaces. They learn to cap markers, sort items by color, and take pride in taking care of \"their\" classroom tools.\r\n\r\nBecause of these materials, my teaching is no longer constrained by resource shortages. I can focus entirely on designing engaging, hands-on lessons that ignite curiosity rather than scrambling to stretch limited supplies.\r\n\r\nThank you, The DonorsChoose Community, for investing in our littlest learners and providing the foundation for a safe, colorful, and inspiring school year!","fullyFundedDate":1787664955764,"projectUrl":"project/kick-off-sy-27-fully-stocked/10271739/","projectTitle":"Kick Off SY 27 Fully Stocked!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Battee","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3744736_orig.jpg?crop=2401,2401,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1749478577329","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3744736"},{"teacherId":3744736,"projectId":10178131,"letterContent":"Having dedicated cleaning supplies readily accessible in a Pre-K classroom impacts classroom safety, learning opportunities, and daily routines:\r\n\r\nPromotes Health and Hygiene: Pre-K environments are high-touch areas where germs spread quickly. Immediate access to child-safe cleaning supplies allows educators to disinfect surfaces, toys, and shared materials promptly, reducing overall illness and student absenteeism.\r\n\r\nTeaches Responsibility and Life Skills: Involving young children in simple, supervised cleanup tasks (such as using child-safe wipes or sweepers) fosters independence, self-help skills, and a sense of pride in maintaining their shared environment.\r\n\r\nEnables Rapid Hazard Response: Pre-K classrooms frequently involve messy play, sensory tables, and accidental spills. Having supplies within arm's reach ensures quick cleanup, preventing slip-and-fall accidents and minimizing downtime during activity transitions.\r\n\r\nReinforces Daily Routines: Incorporating cleanup into the daily schedule helps four- and five-year-olds learn sequence, follow multi-step directions, and transition smoothly between academic or play blocks.","fullyFundedDate":1787187116645,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-cleaning-supplies/10178131/","projectTitle":"Classroom Cleaning Supplies","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Battee","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3744736_orig.jpg?crop=2401,2401,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1749478577329","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3744736"},{"teacherId":7494804,"projectId":10286719,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project and providing an iPad for my dancers. Your support has made a big difference in how my students learn and create. The iPad allows us to watch dance videos learn new choreography record practices and review our performances. Students can see their movements and find areas where they can improve.\r\n\r\nThe iPad has also given my dancers a chance to explore creativity and technology through dance. We can create dance content work on different routines and capture special moments from our program. Thank you to The Young Sheldon School Initiative for believing in my students and giving them a tool that helps them build confidence creativity and new skills.","fullyFundedDate":1787320615198,"projectUrl":"project/dance-create-inspire/10286719/","projectTitle":"Dance, Create, Inspire","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. King","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7494804_orig.jpg?crop=3249,3249,x440,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1769357919339","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7494804"},{"teacherId":7494804,"projectId":10285207,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our One Speaker, Endless Possibilities project. The new speaker has made such a difference for my dancers. They were so excited when they saw it and could not wait to use it during practice. Having clear and loud music helps my students hear the beat better and stay together while learning choreography. It also allows us to practice in a way that feels more like an actual performance.The speaker has helped me teach different styles of dance while helping my students work on timing rhythm and movement. My dancers have become more confident and excited during rehearsals. Some students who were once shy have started coming out of their shells and becoming more comfortable performing in front of others.\r\n\r\nThank you for giving my dancers a resource that we can continue using for practices performances and special events. This may be one speaker but it has created so many opportunities for my students to learn express themselves and enjoy dance. Your support means so much to us.","fullyFundedDate":1787320674813,"projectUrl":"project/one-speaker-endless-possibilities/10285207/","projectTitle":"One Speaker, Endless Possibilities","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. King","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7494804_orig.jpg?crop=3249,3249,x440,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1769357919339","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7494804"},{"teacherId":7494804,"projectId":10285159,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our Fueling Minds & Movement project. My dancers were so excited when they saw all of the snacks that were donated. After being in school all day they come to our after-school dance program ready to work but sometimes they are tired and hungry. Having snacks available gives them a chance to recharge before we begin dancing. It has helped them stay focused and have the energy they need during practice.\r\n\r\nYour donation has made a difference in more ways than just providing snacks. Our students are working hard on learning new dances and preparing for performances. They are also learning teamwork leadership and confidence. Having something to eat before practice helps them stay involved and give their best effort. Our next step is to continue learning new choreography and preparing for more opportunities to perform and show what they have learned.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my dancers and supporting our program. It means so much to know that there are people who care about our students and want to see them succeed. Because of you they can continue to learn grow and shine both on and off the dance floor.","fullyFundedDate":1787187117433,"projectUrl":"project/fueling-minds-movement/10285159/","projectTitle":"Fueling Minds & Movement","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. King","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7494804_orig.jpg?crop=3249,3249,x440,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1769357919339","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7494804"},{"teacherId":7494804,"projectId":10285098,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our **Snacks and Support for Our Students** project. Your generosity has made a real difference in our classroom. When the students saw the snacks they were so excited and thankful. Having healthy snacks available has helped them stay focused, energized, and ready to learn throughout the day. It has also allowed me to make sure students who may have forgotten a snack or come to school hungry still have something to eat.\r\n\r\nOne special moment was seeing students smile when they realized there was enough for everyone. The snacks have become more than just food. They have helped create a caring classroom where students know they are supported. Because of your kindness my students can spend more time learning and less time worrying about being hungry.\r\n\r\nAs we continue through the school year these snacks will help support our daily lessons, small group activities, and classroom projects. Thank you for investing in our students and helping create a positive learning environment where every child can do their best. Your generosity has made a lasting impact and we are truly grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1785439629685,"projectUrl":"project/snacks-and-support-for-our-students/10285098/","projectTitle":"Snacks and Support for Our Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. King","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7494804_orig.jpg?crop=3249,3249,x440,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1769357919339","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7494804"},{"teacherId":7494804,"projectId":10090393,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support our students now have the resources they need to grow as dancers and leaders. When they first saw the new materials they were excited and could not wait to use them. They immediately started practicing with the equipment and working together on new routines. It was wonderful to see their confidence grow as they realized they had tools that would help them succeed.\r\n\r\nThe new resources have made our Dance Kreations Leadership program more engaging and organized. Students have been using them during rehearsals leadership activities and group projects as they prepare for performances. One of the best moments was watching them proudly use the new materials during practice while encouraging one another and celebrating each other's progress.\r\n\r\nAs we continue our program our students will build on what they have learned by creating new choreography strengthening their leadership skills and preparing for future performances and community events. Your kindness has given them opportunities they will remember for years to come. Thank you for believing in our students and investing in their future.","fullyFundedDate":1778553630851,"projectUrl":"project/creating-connections-through-friendship/10090393/","projectTitle":"Creating Connections Through Friendship Bracelets","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. King","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7494804_orig.jpg?crop=3249,3249,x440,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1769357919339","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7494804"},{"teacherId":10348859,"projectId":9905500,"letterContent":"What excites my students most is the independence, comfort, and focus these resources provide. Middle schoolers thrive when they feel empowered, and having access to comfortable floor pillows alongside their tech makes the classroom feel like a modern, welcoming workspace tailored to them.\r\n\r\nThey love grabbing a set of earbuds, grabbing a pillow to set up a spot on the floor, and instantly tuning out distractions to dive into their assignments. It turns standard digital science lessons into a cozy, independent \"lab session\" where they feel trusted and respected as learners.","fullyFundedDate":1763507103787,"projectUrl":"project/from-curiosity-to-creation-bringing-tec/9905500/","projectTitle":"From Curiosity to Creation: Bringing Technology to Our Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Benton","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10348859_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1763504312938","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10348859"},{"teacherId":10348859,"projectId":9891764,"letterContent":"The food and drinks from this project have truly transformed the daily environment in our middle school science classroom. Having these pantry staples readily available ensures that basic needs are met before learning even begins.\r\nA specific moment that stands out occurred during a recent multi-day, hands-on ecosystem modeling project. A few of my students came into class feeling drained and unable to focus on their group work. Being able to offer them a quick, nutritious snack and a drink immediately shifted their energy and mindset. Instead of sitting out or struggling through the period, they were able to actively engage with their team, build their models, and participate in classroom discussions with confidence and focus\r\n\r\nWhen the boxes arrived and were unpacked, the reaction was pure relief and excitement. Middle schoolers can often be self-conscious about being hungry during the day, so seeing a dedicated, well-stocked area in our classroom made them feel safe, cared for, and valued. Several students expressed genuine gratitude, commenting on how nice it was to know that snacks were there if they ever needed extra fuel during the day. It instantly built a deeper sense of community and care in our room.\r\n\r\nNow that basic needs are consistently supported, my students are diving deeper into our upcoming science unit focused on interactive investigations and data analysis. As we move into our next round of hands-on lab experiments, students will be collaborating in teams to collect evidence, build visual models, and track their scientific thinking in interactive notebooks. Because their energy levels and focus are supported, they are well-prepared to tackle these rigorous STEM projects and take ownership of their learning journey.","fullyFundedDate":1763490196424,"projectUrl":"project/no-child-can-learn-on-an-empty-stomach/9891764/","projectTitle":"No Child Can Learn on an Empty Stomach","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Benton","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10348859_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1763504312938","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10348859"},{"teacherId":9428242,"projectId":9965419,"letterContent":"Our new resources have become an important part of our daily classroom routine. The snacks are available for students who need a little extra fuel during the day, helping them stay focused, engaged, and ready to learn. One memorable moment was during a literacy center when a student who had been struggling to concentrate enjoyed a healthy snack and was able to rejoin the activity with a smile and renewed energy. It was a simple reminder of how meeting basic needs can make a big difference in learning.\r\n\r\nWhen my students first saw the snacks and classroom supplies, they were excited and grateful. Their smiles and excitement showed how much these resources meant to them. Knowing that they had what they needed helped them feel cared for and ready to participate in classroom activities.\r\n\r\nAs we continue through the school year, these resources will support our literacy, math, science, and art activities every day. Having snacks available helps students remain focused during small-group instruction, hands-on centers, and collaborative learning experiences. Your generosity has created a classroom where students can concentrate on learning, build confidence, and continue growing academically and socially. Thank you for making a lasting difference in the lives of my little learners!","fullyFundedDate":1774963591492,"projectUrl":"project/fueling-little-learners-for-big-days/9965419/","projectTitle":"Fueling Little Learners for Big Days","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ramos","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9428242_orig.jpg?crop=543,543,x0,y34&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1704820083482","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9428242"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_5477","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":340,"numTeachers":20,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":95,"percentWhite":0,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":3,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":0,"gradesServed":"Pre-K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"17.0:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":65.4,"schoolId":5477,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Smith Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Smith Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/illinois/chicago-public-school-district-299/smith-elementary-school/5477"}