{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Academies at South Mountain","outOfStateSupporters":38.7,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8644456,"projectId":9211376,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support in funding our project to purchase a class set of The Skin I'm In by Sharon G. Flake. Because of your contribution, our African American Literature course now has the resources to provide every student with their own copy of this powerful novel. The impact has been immediate—students are engaging with themes of self‑acceptance, racial identity, and resilience in ways that spark meaningful discussion and reflection.\r\n\r\nSeveral students have expressed how much they enjoy having their own copy of the book. One student shared that she finally feels \"seen\" in literature, while another said the story helped him think differently about how he presents himself to others. These moments remind us that literature is more than words on a page—it is a mirror and a window, offering both self‑reflection and new perspectives.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has created an inclusive and enriching learning environment where students feel empowered to share their voices. We are deeply grateful for your support and excited to continue building on the momentum this project has brought to our classroom.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in the power of diverse literature and for investing in our students' futures. Your generosity is changing lives, one page at a time.","fullyFundedDate":1745689597393,"projectUrl":"project/embracing-identity/9211376/","projectTitle":"Embracing Identity","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Hughes","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8644456"},{"teacherId":8376702,"projectId":9555590,"letterContent":"Your donation to our project \"Happy & Healthy\" made a big difference for our students. We want to sincerely thank you for your generous donation of snacks. Your kindness made a real difference in our students' school experience. \r\n\r\nHaving snacks available gave them the energy to stay focused in class, complete our work, and participate more actively in lessons. It also made them feel cared for, knowing that people in our community believe in them and want them to succeed. \r\n\r\nYour generosity not only filled their stomachs but also inspired them to appreciate the importance of giving and helping others. We are thankful because your support showed us that our community believes in our student.\"","fullyFundedDate":1758293820744,"projectUrl":"project/happy-healthy/9555590/","projectTitle":"Happy & Healthy","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ahuja","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8376702_orig.png?crop=897,897,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1660147513847","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8376702"},{"teacherId":403277,"projectId":9680637,"letterContent":"My class has truly enjoyed using our new Cricut resources, and we recently completed a community-building project by creating handmade cards for residents in a local nursing home. Students designed, cut, and colored personalized cards with the Cricut, then added thoughtful and encouraging messages inside keeping in mind some residents may or may not have family to share Thanksgiving with. When students first saw the materials, they were instantly excited, though many had never used a machine like this before. We took some time to learn together, and they were eager to try, experiment, and create professional-looking pieces on their own. There was definitely a learning curve, but they were enthusiastic about personalizing their work and proud of what they created. \r\nThis first project not only allowed them to give back to the community they live in, but also helped them build confidence and pride in the work they produce. They are already looking forward to more opportunities to serve their community and make something again for those at the nursing home nearby. Many of my students are also looking to use the Cricut to create professional shirts as they prepare for their HOSA competitions in March. We plan to continue using the Cricut for pharmacy-related labeling, organization tools, fundraising items, and personalized materials for our classroom and HOSA. Thank you for helping bring this level of pride and ownership into our learning space. Your support is making a lasting impact.","fullyFundedDate":1758810243161,"projectUrl":"project/creating-leaders-building-teams-dress/9680637/","projectTitle":"Creating Leaders, Building Teams: Dress for HOSA Success With Cricut","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lyons","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp403277_orig.jpg?crop=1142,1142,x1585,y645&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757543703868","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/403277"},{"teacherId":9808445,"projectId":9826322,"letterContent":"The level of excitement expressed by students when the snacks were unveiled was the highlight of my day!\r\n\r\nI can not thank you enough for your support with this project. I am so grateful for the quick responses that resulted in receiving all funds within a week. A special acknowledgement goes to my family and close friends who showed up for my students with no hesitation.\r\n\r\nSince receiving the snacks, I've been able to cater to a variety of student needs: Student leaders who are meeting to execute their leadership plan(i.e. peer tutoring, campus clean-ups, recruiting); Students who arrived late to school and missed breakfast; Students with medical conditions that require snacks and others who are simply hungry.\r\n\r\nEveryone who supported my project is proof that it takes a village. I truly could not have done this without you!","fullyFundedDate":1760931150380,"projectUrl":"project/feed-to-succeed/9826322/","projectTitle":"Feed to Succeed","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Clay","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9808445_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1730672694863","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-clay10"},{"teacherId":9026105,"projectId":9130729,"letterContent":"The introduction of this technology has transformed the way our students learn and engage in the classroom. Many of our donors use technology at home, but in our school setting, it serves as a powerful tool for interactive learning, collaboration, and creativity. Students are no longer passive learners—they actively participate through digital activities, research, and problem-solving tasks that deepen their understanding of concepts.\r\nWhat excites our students most about this new product is its ability to make learning hands-on and personalized. For example, they can now create multimedia presentations, explore virtual simulations, and access resources that cater to their individual learning styles. This has sparked curiosity and boosted confidence, especially among students who previously struggled with traditional methods.\r\nOne particular student who was shy and hesitant to speak in class has embraced this technology wholeheartedly. Using interactive apps, she now shares her ideas confidently and collaborates with peers on projects. Her engagement and enthusiasm have grown tremendously, and she's even taken the lead in helping others learn new features.\r\nOverall, this technology has not only improved academic performance but also fostered critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration, preparing our students for a future where digital literacy is essential.","fullyFundedDate":1740794912480,"projectUrl":"project/enhancing-math-learning-with-computer-te/9130729/","projectTitle":"Enhancing Math Learning with Computer Technology","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Aying","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9026105_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1741212622752","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9026105"},{"teacherId":8125308,"projectId":9710291,"letterContent":"When the snacks first arrived, my students' excitement was undeniable. They were thrilled to see the variety of belly filling options, and their faces lit up knowing they had a place to go to when they are hungry. Almost immediately, I noticed a change in the classroom atmosphere—students settled into their seats more comfortably, and the transition into assignments or assessments became smoother. With full bellies, they were able to focus longer, participate more actively, and approach their work with confidence.\r\n\r\nOne of the most memorable moments came during a math assessment. In the past, some students struggled to stay engaged through the entire test, but after starting with a snack, the room was calm and focused. Students worked steadily, and many even expressed how much easier it was to concentrate. The progress they made was remarkable, and it was clear that the simple act of providing nourishment had a powerful impact on their ability to succeed.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, students are continuing to work hard on assignments and assessments where stamina and focus are key. Thanks to your generosity, I can continue offering snacks that help them sustain their energy during longer lessons. Your support has not only filled their bellies but also opened doors for them to thrive academically. We are deeply grateful for the difference you've made in our classroom—it's a gift that continues to shape their learning journey every day.","fullyFundedDate":1758293769871,"projectUrl":"project/brain-boosting-bites/9710291/","projectTitle":"Brain Boosting Bites","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Hughes","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8125308_orig.jpg?crop=2640,2640,x383,y30&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1646837622016","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8125308"},{"teacherId":9989482,"projectId":9222558,"letterContent":"When my students first received the materials, the classroom was full of excitement—they couldn't wait to dive in. They immediately began working together in small groups to build the DIY airplane engines, carefully following instructions and cheering when they saw the models come to life and run. Others jumped right into making paper airplanes, testing different designs and competing to see whose could fly the furthest. The walkie talkies quickly became a favorite as they practiced simulated radio calls, learning how real pilots and air traffic controllers communicate.\r\n\r\nThe best part has been watching them collaborate, problem-solve, and encourage one another. These resources have sparked creativity and hands-on learning in ways that connect directly to real aviation concepts. For example, we used the paper airplane kits to talk about lift and flight dynamics, while the engine models helped them understand aircraft systems in a tangible way.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we're excited to keep building on this momentum. My students will soon be using clay, cardboard, and other materials to design their own airports and model airplanes, learning about everything from runways to hangars. Your support has not only given them the tools to explore aviation today but has also opened the door to bigger projects that will deepen their passion for flight.\r\n\r\nThank you for giving them this opportunity—they are truly soaring because of you!","fullyFundedDate":1744054133828,"projectUrl":"project/flight-controls-and-aircraft-systems-h/9222558/","projectTitle":"Flight Controls and Aircraft Systems - Hands on Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Long","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-sarahlong"},{"teacherId":9752081,"projectId":9089098,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom has taken a big step toward promoting health, sustainability, and responsibility!\r\nHow are we using the new resources?\r\nThe reusable water bottles have become a daily essential for every student. We integrated them into a group and health unit focused on hydration and environmental impact. One standout moment was when the student came back to refill and mentioned that he saved the earth from the 1 water bottle today. \r\nHow did students react when they first saw the materials?\r\nThey were thrilled! Many students had never had a reusable water bottle of their own before. There were smiles all around as they picked their favorite colors and immediately filled them up. One student asked, \"How often can I fill this up? These are way better than the small ones we throw away\". \r\nWhat's next for our classroom?\r\nWe're now working on a student-led campaign to raise awareness about plastic waste. Students are designing posters and even creating short videos to share with the school community. The water bottles have sparked a broader conversation about sustainability and personal responsibility—lessons that will stick with them far beyond the classroom.\r\nThey did want me to expand to flavors in addition to the reusable water bottles, a project for another day. \r\nYour support has made a real difference. Thank you for helping us build healthier habits and a more eco-conscious classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1739373215466,"projectUrl":"project/help-students-and-the-environment/9089098/","projectTitle":"Help Students and the Environment","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Jacobson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9752081_orig.jpg?crop=1200,1200,x0,y280&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1726511273544","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9752081"},{"teacherId":9890741,"projectId":9045349,"letterContent":"On behalf of my students and myself, I want to extend my sincere gratitude for your generous donation of 26 backpacks. Your support has made a tangible difference—almost all of the backpacks have already found new homes, replacing old and worn-out ones that many of our high school students had been using.\r\n\r\nI wish I could share the joy on their faces as they received them—expressions of excitement, relief, and gratitude that spoke volumes. While I would have loved to capture and share that moment with you, I trust you understand the importance of preserving their privacy and dignity.\r\n\r\nThank you again for choosing to invest in our students' success. Your kindness has not gone unnoticed, and I truly hope you will consider supporting this important cause again in the future.","fullyFundedDate":1740148132203,"projectUrl":"project/a-sturdy-backpack-ensures-durability-co/9045349/","projectTitle":"A Sturdy Backpack Ensures Durability, Comfort, Organization, and Protects Belongings.","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Martinez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9890741_orig.png?crop=673,673,x0,y40&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1736458084055","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9890741"},{"teacherId":8404056,"projectId":8896993,"letterContent":"On behalf of our entire school community, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you for your generous donation that made it possible for us to install bulletin boards throughout our campus. Your support has truly enhanced our learning environment in a visible and meaningful way.\r\n\r\nThese new boards have become a central part of our hallways, allowing us to proudly display student work, celebrate creativity, and showcase the diverse learning happening across grade levels and subject areas. Our students light up when they see their efforts displayed for peers, staff, and visitors to admire—it's been an incredible boost to both confidence and school pride.\r\n\r\nWe've already had several wonderful projects featured on the boards, including:\r\n1. A Government teacher in our Social Studies department updates students on current events through newspaper clippings from the Arizona Republic. \r\n2. An Intermediate/Advanced Spanish teacher in our World Language department that gave students choice on their final project, with one option (La Felicidad) requiring a visual component for students to display their learning. \r\n3. A US/AZ History teacher in our Social Studies department that dove into African American influence in the US through a study on significant figures in an area of student interest. \r\n4. An Algebra 3-4 teacher in our Mathematics department who tasked students with making the measurements in the unit circle more memorable. \r\n\r\nPlease check out the photos of these amazing projects from our students and their teachers. Your investment in our school is an investment in our students' voices, talents, and sense of belonging. Thank you for helping us make learning visible and celebrated.","fullyFundedDate":1736874240857,"projectUrl":"project/bulletin-boards-to-display-student-work/8896993/","projectTitle":"Bulletin Boards To Display Student Work & Accomplishments!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Espericueta","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8404056_orig.jpg?crop=1733,1733,x1478,y631&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1729636088800","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8404056"},{"teacherId":8125308,"projectId":9117170,"letterContent":"Your contribution had a significant and positive impact on my students' motivation and our classroom culture. The donated items were used as incentives for students through a system of Kudo tickets. Students could earn a Kudo in five different ways, each tied to positive behaviors or achievements. These tickets were then exchanged for treats at the end of each grading period.\r\n\r\nAfter the first round of ticket distribution and reward selection, a noticeable shift occurred—more students became motivated to participate. Seeing their peers celebrated and rewarded inspired others to increase their efforts in class, demonstrating that even small incentives can lead to meaningful engagement. This definitely reinforced the message that hard work, kindness, and personal growth are valued and recognized.\r\n\r\nBeyond academic effort, the tickets also became a tool for acknowledging broader student milestones such as improved grades, acts of kindness, going above and beyond, birthdays, and even college acceptances, and scholarship awards. Your donation created a way to celebrate these successes meaningfully, fostering a more supportive and encouraging classroom environment. It was a powerful reminder that recognition and appreciation can go a long way in motivating students and making them feel seen and valued.","fullyFundedDate":1739901935137,"projectUrl":"project/project-hs-motivation/9117170/","projectTitle":"Project HS Motivation","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Hughes","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8125308_orig.jpg?crop=2640,2640,x383,y30&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1646837622016","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8125308"},{"teacherId":9758493,"projectId":8890037,"letterContent":"Your generosity has transformed our classroom! The whiteboard easel has become our learning hub, sparking interactive lessons and group activities. Students eagerly use it for problem-solving and brainstorming.\r\n\r\nThe posters have ignited curiosity, with students constantly referencing them during discussions. Glitter pens have made writing exciting, improving engagement and work quality.\r\n\r\nSnacks have boosted energy and focus, especially for our food-insecure students.\r\n\r\nYour gifts have created a vibrant, supportive learning environment. Students are more engaged, creative, and motivated. Thank you for believing in their potential and investing in their future.","fullyFundedDate":1738332538040,"projectUrl":"project/bright-tools-for-eager-minds-help-our/8890037/","projectTitle":"\"Bright Tools for Eager Minds: Help Our Classroom Shine!\"","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Mehta","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9758493"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_60121","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":2169,"numTeachers":110,"percentFrplEligible":52,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":12,"percentWhite":2,"percentIndigenous":1,"percentLatinx":82,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"9 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":"19.7:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":61.3,"schoolId":60121,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Academies at South Mountain on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Academies at South Mountain","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/arizona/phoenix-union-high-school-district/south-mountain-high-school/60121"}