{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"St Elmo Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":20.5,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":6573448,"projectId":10193968,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our Sensory-Rich Outdoor Learning project. Your contributions have truly transformed the way my Pre-K students learn and explore.\r\n\r\nFrom the moment the materials arrived, the students were beyond excited. They immediately gravitated toward the insect catchers, binoculars, butterfly growing kits, marble runs, and sensory bins. Their curiosity and joy were incredible to witness as they explored, asked questions, and engaged in hands-on discovery right away.\r\n\r\nOne of their favorite experiences has been watching the butterfly kit come to life each day, eagerly observing changes and sharing their excitement with classmates. The outdoor games like ball toss, Pass the Potato, Monster Feet, and the Egg Spoon Race have also been a huge hit. The students love the movement, laughter, and teamwork these activities bring, and they don't even realize how much they are learning while playing.\r\n\r\nThese materials have helped create an outdoor space where students are active, engaged, and deeply excited about learning. They are building important skills through exploration, movement, and play every single day.\r\n\r\nThank you for making these joyful learning experiences possible for my students.","fullyFundedDate":1776359158238,"projectUrl":"project/sensory-rich-outdoor-learning/10193968/","projectTitle":"Sensory-Rich Outdoor Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Nancy Casas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6573448_orig.jpg?crop=367,367,x180,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1565670839990","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-nancycasas"},{"teacherId":6573448,"projectId":10152272,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom camera has quickly become an essential part of our daily learning. We use it to capture special moments, create personalized labels with student photos, and build meaningful memory books that help students reflect on their experiences. One of our favorite moments was taking pictures during center time—students were so excited to see themselves printed and displayed around the room, which helped strengthen their sense of belonging and independence.\r\n\r\nWhen the camera arrived, the excitement was immediate! Students were eager to participate, taking turns helping document our day and proudly recognizing themselves and their classmates in our classroom materials.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, we are using the camera to document our learning during thematic units and create end-of-year memory books for each child. These keepsakes will celebrate their growth and give families a meaningful window into their child's Pre-K journey.","fullyFundedDate":1774963777686,"projectUrl":"project/capturing-our-pre-k-memories/10152272/","projectTitle":"Capturing Our Pre-K Memories","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Nancy Casas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6573448_orig.jpg?crop=367,367,x180,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1565670839990","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-nancycasas"},{"teacherId":10074024,"projectId":9953610,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom has been transformed into an even more intentional and beautiful space where children can explore, create, and grow independently. The new materials have become part of our daily rhythm. Children choose them with curiosity and purpose, engaging deeply in hands-on work that builds concentration, confidence, and joy. One moment that stays with me is watching a child who once hesitated now fully immersed, repeating an activity with focus and pride. These are the quiet, powerful transformations your support makes possible.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the excitement was immediate, but what moved me most was how quickly that excitement turned into meaningful engagement. The children treated each item with care and respect, as if they understood these were tools for something important. In a Montessori environment, materials are not just objects. They are invitations to think, to discover, and to become more independent learners. You have given them that invitation.\r\n\r\nAs we continue, these materials will support deeper exploration in our current work, extending language, refining fine motor skills, and nurturing independence and responsibility. More than anything, they are helping us cultivate a classroom where children feel capable, calm, and connected. Thank you for believing in our students and for being part of their journey. Your kindness is felt every single day.\r\n\r\nWith gratitude,\r\nSilvia","fullyFundedDate":1765910482478,"projectUrl":"project/montessori-material-for-little-learners/9953610/","projectTitle":"Montessori Material for Little Learners!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Villacorta","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10074024_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1752054565483","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10074024"},{"teacherId":6573448,"projectId":10113573,"letterContent":"\"The Little Things That Make a Big Difference in PK4\" has truly transformed our daily learning! My students use these supplies every day for hands-on centers, interactive books, and creative projects. One special moment was during a small group activity where students used our materials to build and explore numbers—they were excited, engaged, and proudly sharing their work with one another.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, their faces lit up with excitement and curiosity. They couldn't wait to start creating, learning, and exploring right away!\r\n\r\nThanks to your support, we are now able to take our learning even further by expanding our interactive lessons and incorporating more collaborative, hands-on projects. These resources continue to make learning meaningful, fun, and impactful for every student.","fullyFundedDate":1774963834074,"projectUrl":"project/the-little-things-that-make-a-big-differ/10113573/","projectTitle":"The Little Things That Make a Big Difference in Pk4","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Nancy Casas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6573448_orig.jpg?crop=367,367,x180,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1565670839990","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-nancycasas"},{"teacherId":3188809,"projectId":10026498,"letterContent":"The impact of your generosity is felt every single day in our classroom. The technology and supplies you provided have fundamentally changed how my students engage with their lessons!\r\n\r\nBy integrating Printer Ink and Laminating Pouches, I am able to create high-quality, durable visual aids and anchor charts that stay posted in the room as constant references. For my visual learners, these aren't just decorations; they are essential roadmaps that help them navigate complex new concepts independently. \r\n\r\nThe Reusable Write & Wipe Pockets have also been a game-changer, allowing students to engage in repetitive, hands-on practice with math templates and handwriting sheets. It has turned our daily drills into a sustainable, interactive routine.\r\n\r\nThe most exciting part of these new products for the students is the sense of freedom they provide. There is a visible spark of excitement when we pull out the Whiteboards and Dry Erase Markers. Because they can simply swipe away an error, the \"fear of being wrong\" has largely vanished. The low-pressure nature of the \"wipeable\" surface has given them the confidence to take risks and experiment with different strategies.","fullyFundedDate":1770388693196,"projectUrl":"project/tools-for-tomorrow/10026498/","projectTitle":"Tools for Tomorrow","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Garcia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3188809"},{"teacherId":10177194,"projectId":9595750,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project, Structured for Success: A Smart Calendar for Special Education Department! Your generosity has truly made a difference in our classroom, and I'm so grateful for your support.\r\n\r\nWe've been using the new calendar every day to help students stay on track with their schedules, assignments, and transitions. One moment that really stood out was when a student who usually struggles with unexpected changes was able to check the calendar and smoothly move to the next activity on their own- it was a big win! When the materials first arrived, the students were excited and eager to start using them. They loved being able to see their day clearly and even enjoyed helping set up their own schedules.\r\n\r\nNext, we're using the calendar to help students set goals and reflect on their progress, building independence and confidence along the way. This tool is helping create a more structured, calm environment where students feel successful and in control of their learning. Thank you again for making this possible for our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1764619426983,"projectUrl":"project/structured-for-success-a-smart-calendar/9595750/","projectTitle":"Structured for Success: A Smart Calendar for Special Education Department","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lorena","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10177194"},{"teacherId":10303267,"projectId":9954649,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping me make our class science center come to life by funding this project! The students in my Pre-K 4 class were so excited to see the new STEAM materials for their science center. These materials have sparked curiosity, increased engagement, and brought joy to my classroom. \r\n\r\nMy students have found the insects/bugs in resin to be fascinating! We are currently on our \"Amazing Critters\" unit where we learn about insects, spiders, and other small critters. Having real life, tangible examples of what we are learning about has deeply enriched my students' learning. Next, we will be learning about animals. I am so excited to use the life cycle puzzle to teach my students about the different stages of development. \r\n\r\nThe science center has now become one of my students' favorite places in the classroom! They enjoy exploring their environment with the kaleidoscopes, pretending to be scientists with the microscope, and conducting experiments with the magnet board and wands. Thank you for helping to cultivate a love for science in my students.","fullyFundedDate":1765640219165,"projectUrl":"project/stem-materials-for-prek-science-center/9954649/","projectTitle":"STEM Materials for PreK Science Center","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Sarah","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10303267_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1759805735121","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10303267"},{"teacherId":10074024,"projectId":9951778,"letterContent":"\"Exploring, Creating, and Collaborating\" has truly transformed the energy and engagement in our classroom. The materials and resources from this project allowed me to create an intentional environment where students can investigate, build, and work together with purpose.\r\n\r\nSince implementing the project, I have seen a noticeable increase in student independence and confidence. Children are choosing materials thoughtfully, sustaining focus for longer periods of time, and collaborating more naturally with peers. Instead of waiting for adult direction, they are initiating ideas, problem-solving together, and expressing their thinking through hands-on exploration.\r\n\r\nThe project has strengthened not only academic skills, but also social-emotional growth. Students are practicing communication, negotiating roles, sharing materials, and celebrating each other's ideas. The classroom feels more alive — not louder, but richer in meaningful conversation and discovery.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, this experience has reinforced my belief that when we thoughtfully prepare the environment, children rise to the occasion. They don't just complete tasks; they explore deeply, create boldly, and collaborate authentically. Your support made that possible, and the impact will continue long beyond this school year.","fullyFundedDate":1765339622032,"projectUrl":"project/exploring-creating-and-collaborating/9951778/","projectTitle":"Exploring, Creating, and Collaborating","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Villacorta","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10074024_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1752054565483","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10074024"},{"teacherId":6573448,"projectId":9723700,"letterContent":"Through problem-solving sets like Doctor Jupiter's My First Box of Games and Play Brainy Montessori Alphabet Matching Eggs, my students are developing critical thinking, language, and early STEM skills in joyful, meaningful ways. These materials encourage students to work together, test ideas, and learn through play while building confidence and perseverance.\r\n\r\nEven practical tools such as the Amazon Basics Cross-Cut Shredder and BESTIKER Sticker Paper have given learning real-world purpose. Students now \"publish\" their work, recycle materials, and create classroom resources, helping them understand that their ideas have value beyond the classroom.\r\n\r\nYour support has empowered every child—regardless of background or ability—to see themselves as capable makers and thinkers. Thank you for believing in my students and helping lay the foundation for a lifelong love of learning, creativity, and STEM exploration.","fullyFundedDate":1766007089518,"projectUrl":"project/little-makers-big-thinkers/9723700/","projectTitle":"Little Makers, Big Thinkers!”","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Nancy Casas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6573448_orig.jpg?crop=367,367,x180,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1565670839990","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-nancycasas"},{"teacherId":6573448,"projectId":9844824,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our Inventors in Training project. Because of your generosity, our classroom now has a Dell Inspiron 14 2-in-1 laptop that serves as the central hub for student learning and creativity.\r\n\r\nWith this laptop, my students are able to bring their ideas to life. They document experiments, explore interactive learning apps, and share their projects on the big screen—turning abstract concepts into hands-on, meaningful experiences. The flexibility of the 2-in-1 design allows students to collaborate, observe demonstrations, and reflect on their discoveries in real time.\r\n\r\nYour support has empowered my students to think like inventors: asking questions, testing ideas, and confidently sharing their learning with others. Most importantly, it has shown them that their ideas matter and that people beyond our classroom believe in their potential.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in our young innovators and helping create a learning environment where curiosity and creativity can thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1764785698327,"projectUrl":"project/inventors-in-training/9844824/","projectTitle":"Inventors in Training","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Nancy Casas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6573448_orig.jpg?crop=367,367,x180,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1565670839990","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-nancycasas"},{"teacherId":6573448,"projectId":9950952,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support! My PK students are using the new alphabet tools every day during circle time, small groups, and literacy centers. One special moment was seeing students excitedly recognize letters, say their sounds, and proudly share what they knew with their classmates.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials arrived, my students were full of excitement and curiosity. They couldn't wait to explore and learn, and the hands-on tools immediately made letter learning fun and engaging.\r\n\r\nBecause of this project, my students are building strong letter and sound foundations. Our next steps include strengthening letter-sound connections and beginning early writing activities. We are incredibly grateful for your support in helping our youngest learners grow as confident readers.","fullyFundedDate":1765257286395,"projectUrl":"project/building-strong-readers-tools-for-conti/9950952/","projectTitle":"Building Strong Readers: Tools for Continuous Alphabet Acquisition","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Nancy Casas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6573448_orig.jpg?crop=367,367,x180,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1565670839990","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-nancycasas"},{"teacherId":6573448,"projectId":9264048,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting Wild About Learning! These materials transformed our classroom into an exciting world of animals, exploration, and discovery. My students were instantly engaged—they eagerly matched animal puzzle cards, built habitats, and used doodle boards to draw the creatures they love.\r\n\r\nWith these resources, my prekinders strengthened letter recognition, vocabulary, problem-solving, and early STEM skills through hands-on, play-based learning. The animal theme made every activity meaningful and motivating, especially for students who learn best through movement, touch, and imagination.\r\n\r\nYour generosity helped create richer learning centers, deeper conversations, and more confident learners. Thank you for bringing joy, curiosity, and real growth to our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1752254447597,"projectUrl":"project/wild-about-learning/9264048/","projectTitle":"Wild About Learning!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Nancy Casas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6573448_orig.jpg?crop=367,367,x180,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1565670839990","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-nancycasas"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_17065","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":299,"numTeachers":22,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":2,"percentBlack":3,"percentWhite":21,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":69,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"13.6:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":79.5,"schoolId":17065,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about St Elmo Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"St Elmo Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/texas/austin-independent-school-district/st-elmo-elementary-school/17065"}