{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Thomas White Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":18.4,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8311223,"projectId":9851390,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has come alive with hands-on learning and excitement. When my kindergarteners first saw the magnetic tiles, alpha pops, letter scoops, and the mystery alphabet box, they couldn't wait to explore. Their faces lit up, and the room instantly filled with energy and curiosity.\r\nWe use the Double-Sided Magnetic Letter Tiles during small-group reading, where students build their names, practice beginning sounds, and create simple words. One student who often struggles with confidence proudly spelled her name independently for the first time — a huge moment for her. The JoyCat Mystery Alphabet Box has also become a class favorite. Each morning we open a new drawer, reveal a letter, and complete a quick phonics challenge. Even my shyest students eagerly participate.\r\nThe fidget and sensory toys have made a meaningful difference as well. Many students rely on them to stay focused, calm, and ready to learn, especially during literacy rotations. The magnetic building tiles encourage creativity and teamwork, helping students connect STEM play with early reading skills.\r\nOur next steps include building CVC words, creating alphabet books, and exploring new phonics games using these materials. Thank you for supporting joyful, hands-on learning every day.","fullyFundedDate":1762266280487,"projectUrl":"project/bridging-gaps-building-futures/9851390/","projectTitle":"Bridging Gaps, Building Futures","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Brethauer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8311223_orig.jpg?crop=4284,4284,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742932326677","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8311223"},{"teacherId":2024651,"projectId":9146122,"letterContent":"I am writing with heartfelt gratitude to thank you for your generous support in providing flexible seating for my kindergarten classroom. What may seem like a simple shift in classroom furniture has created a profound transformation in the way my students learn, interact, and grow each day. Your contribution has truly made a difference in their early educational experience.\r\n\r\nKindergarten is a year full of discovery, growth, and the building blocks of lifelong learning. At this age, students are naturally energetic, curious, and eager to explore their environment. Traditional desks and chairs often do not meet the developmental needs of five- and six-year-olds who learn best when they can move, wiggle, and choose how they engage with their learning. Thanks to your generosity, we now have a classroom environment that supports all of that.\r\n\r\nThe introduction of flexible seating— floor cushions and lap desks—has created a more student-centered, welcoming, and adaptable learning space. My students now have the ability to make choices about where and how they work, which helps them feel more in control of their learning. These options have supported better focus, increased engagement, and even improved behavior.\r\n\r\nI've watched students who used to struggle to sit still at a traditional desk now thrive when seated on a floor cushion. Others who need space to stretch out while working on puzzles or writing are able to do so at a lap desk The ability to move and choose where to sit has led to a noticeable improvement in classroom morale, focus, and cooperation.\r\n\r\nBeyond academics, flexible seating has also supported social-emotional learning. My kindergartners are learning how to share spaces, make respectful choices, and understand their own learning needs. When students choose their seats, they are also learning self-regulation and responsibility. They know that their choices have meaning—and that they are trusted to make decisions. This sense of autonomy helps build confidence and fosters a strong sense of classroom community.\r\n\r\nParents have also commented on the positive changes they've seen in their children since we introduced flexible seating. Many have shared that their children talk excitedly about where they sat that day or how they got to work with a friend in a special space. These little moments matter—especially in a year that sets the tone for their entire educational journey.\r\n\r\nIn short, flexible seating has helped create a learning environment that is inclusive, dynamic, and responsive to the needs of every child in our classroom. It's not just about the furniture—it's about the opportunity it provides for every student to feel comfortable, capable, and excited about learning.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our classroom and in the power of early education. Your support has made a lasting impact, and we are deeply grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1742498402183,"projectUrl":"project/flexible-seating/9146122/","projectTitle":"Flexible Seating","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Spendlove","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2024651"},{"teacherId":2024651,"projectId":9237513,"letterContent":"I want to thank you for your donation to my Organizing for Success project. It has made a positive impact on our classroom.\r\n\r\nBefore introducing the mailbox sorter, distributing and collecting student work was often time-consuming and disorganized. Papers would get misplaced, important handouts were missed, and I found myself constantly managing a backlog of materials that needed to get to students. It disrupted the flow of the day and pulled time away from instruction and one-on-one interactions. However, with the addition of the mailbox sorter, that dynamic has completely changed.\r\n\r\nNow, each student has their own clearly labeled mailbox. This allows me to distribute graded assignments, newsletters, permission slips, and other important documents quickly and efficiently. At the start or end of each day, students know exactly where to go to collect their materials. This has created a consistent routine and has fostered a sense of responsibility and independence among my students. They are now in charge of checking their mailboxes and organizing their own materials—skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom.\r\n\r\nThe sorter has also improved communication with families. Because students are more reliable in bringing home papers that were placed directly into their mailboxes, I've noticed a significant increase in returned permission slips, signed forms, and family responses. Parents have even commented on how much easier it is to stay informed now that their child brings home documents in a consistent, organized way.\r\n\r\nFrom a teacher's perspective, the mailbox sorter has saved valuable instructional time. Instead of handing out papers during class or calling students up individually, I can prepare everything ahead of time and place it in their slots. It also reduces clutter on my desk and gives me a clear system for managing daily paperwork. Having a centralized, organized location for student materials allows me to work more efficiently and maintain a calmer, more structured classroom environment.\r\n\r\nIn short, the mailbox sorter has been a transformative addition to our classroom. It enhances organization, encourages student responsibility, streamlines communication, and supports a more effective teaching and learning environment. I am deeply grateful for this resource and cannot overstate how much it has improved our day-to-day operations.","fullyFundedDate":1750774754224,"projectUrl":"project/organizing-for-success-mailbox-sorter-a/9237513/","projectTitle":"Organizing for Success: Mailbox Sorter and Binder Clips Organization","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Spendlove","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2024651"},{"teacherId":8311223,"projectId":9291051,"letterContent":"The new resources have been such a blessing at the start of our school year! My students were so excited when they first saw the bright crayons, glue sticks, and colorful markers—they couldn't wait to create. We've already used the trays to organize supplies for art and writing centers, which has helped the children stay independent and responsible with their materials. The chalk markers and cleaner have made our classroom boards more engaging for lessons, while the wipes and sanitizer keep everyone healthy. These donations set the tone for a positive, creative, and organized learning environment right from day one!","fullyFundedDate":1746785776497,"projectUrl":"project/kindergarten-classroom-essentials/9291051/","projectTitle":"Kindergarten Classroom Essentials","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Brethauer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8311223_orig.jpg?crop=4284,4284,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742932326677","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8311223"},{"teacherId":8311223,"projectId":9349167,"letterContent":"This school year, having snacks available will make such a difference by ensuring every student feels cared for and has the energy to focus on learning. Knowing they won't go hungry helps them stay engaged and ready for each lesson. When the snacks first arrived, students were so excited and thankful, it truly will make them feel special. The cardstock paper has already been put to great use in fun, hands-on activities where students practiced learning alphabet letters and sounds. Next, we'll continue using the cardstock for creative literacy projects, while snacks will keep everyone fueled for a successful year ahead.","fullyFundedDate":1748198703818,"projectUrl":"project/inspired-learning-tools/9349167/","projectTitle":"Inspired Learning Tools","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Brethauer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8311223_orig.jpg?crop=4284,4284,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742932326677","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8311223"},{"teacherId":8311223,"projectId":9126731,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has become an even more exciting and organized place to learn and grow. The new toy storage has made such a difference—our STEM materials are now neatly organized and easy for students to access during building and problem-solving activities. My students' faces lit up when they first saw it, and they immediately began exploring the blocks and STEM toys with excitement. The pink bookshelves have transformed our reading center into a cozy, inviting space that makes students want to curl up with a book and share stories with friends. They are developing a stronger love for reading every day. The microwave has been so helpful, too, giving us a way to heat up snacks so students feel cared for and ready to learn. Next, we'll be using these resources in a STEM challenge and a classroom reading celebration!","fullyFundedDate":1741359628217,"projectUrl":"project/vibrant-learning/9126731/","projectTitle":"Vibrant Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Brethauer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8311223_orig.jpg?crop=4284,4284,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742932326677","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8311223"},{"teacherId":8311223,"projectId":9230640,"letterContent":"We love reading and listening to stories every day! Our new books spark imagination, build vocabulary, and help us understand feelings, seasons, and making friends. The plush animals join us during read-alouds, bringing extra joy and comfort. Books like The Rainbow Fish and Facts vs. Opinions vs. Robots teach kindness and critical thinking. Our students, especially a few emerging readers, are captivated by the puppets and animals, often using them to retell stories. Storytime has never been more exciting!","fullyFundedDate":1746584103197,"projectUrl":"project/stories-to-share/9230640/","projectTitle":"Stories to Share","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Brethauer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8311223_orig.jpg?crop=4284,4284,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742932326677","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8311223"},{"teacherId":8311223,"projectId":9159715,"letterContent":"My class was absolutely thrilled with the arrival of our new materials, and it transformed our learning space into a colorful, engaging, and functional environment that everyone immediately embraced. Each item brought a new layer of comfort, organization, or creativity, and the impact on my students' enthusiasm and engagement was almost immediate.\r\n\r\nThe Amazon Basics 3-Tier Rolling Utility or Kitchen Cart in Dusty Pink was a hit from the start. With three carts, we were able to set up mobile stations—one for art supplies, one for tech tools like headphones and tablets, and another for classroom management tools. The cheerful pink color brought a touch of fun to the room, and the mobility meant that students could easily access materials during group work. They loved being given responsibility for organizing and using the carts, and it encouraged independence and collaboration.\r\n\r\nOur new MorisMos Dachshund Dog Stuffed Animal Plush, affectionately named \"Noodle\" by the class, added warmth and comfort. Noodle quickly became our classroom mascot, doubling as a reading buddy and a reward for good behavior. Students loved cuddling up with Noodle during quiet time, and having such a fun and quirky plush helped some of our more anxious learners feel more at ease.","fullyFundedDate":1746785842412,"projectUrl":"project/creative-classroom-essentials/9159715/","projectTitle":"Creative Classroom Essentials","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Brethauer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8311223_orig.jpg?crop=4284,4284,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742932326677","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8311223"},{"teacherId":2024651,"projectId":9207339,"letterContent":"I am writing to share the tremendous impact that Clorox wipes, a cordless vacuum cleaner, a dustbuster, and duster refills have had on our kindergarten classroom. Though these may seem like simple cleaning supplies, they have brought about transformative changes in our daily routine, health, and learning environment.\r\n\r\nIn a classroom filled with energetic five- and six-year-olds, spills, sticky hands, and messy projects are a part of everyday life. Before receiving these supplies, keeping our space clean was a constant challenge. Our custodial staff does an excellent job, but with so many young students and frequent transitions throughout the day, it became clear that we needed more immediate tools to maintain a hygienic and organized space.\r\n\r\nThe Clorox wipes have been nothing short of essential. We use them multiple times a day to wipe down desks, shared materials, and door handles,Their quick and easy use has helped us cut down on the spread of germs, especially during cold and allergy season. I am hoping to see a drop in absences due to illness, which I will attribute a large part of that to being able to disinfect surfaces more regularly. It's also been an opportunity to teach the children about personal responsibility and hygiene, as they often help wipe down their work areas after breakfast and at the end of the day.\r\n\r\nThe addition of the carpet and floor sweeper has been a game-changer. From snack crumbs to craft debris to the never-ending supply of wood chips from the playground that somehow make their way indoors, the sweeper has made quick cleanups so much easier. It's lightweight, easy to store, and safe enough for supervised student use. The students actually enjoy using it, and it has become a part of our clean-up routine. This sense of ownership over their environment has fostered pride and respect for their classroom.\r\n\r\nThe Dustbuster helps with those cereal spills that happen at breakfast. The students love to use it. It is so much quicker than picking up pieces one by one! \r\n\r\nLastly, the duster refills have helped us tackle dust buildup on shelves, window ledges, and classroom materials that are often overlooked. A dust-free room not only looks cleaner but helps students with allergies breathe easier. We've incorporated light dusting into our afternoon clean up routine, and it has made a noticeable difference in air quality and overall tidiness.\r\n\r\nThanks to these supplies, our classroom is not only cleaner, but calmer and more organized. When our space is fresh and free of clutter, the students are more focused and ready to learn. These tools have improved both the physical and emotional atmosphere in our room. The students feel safer, more responsible, and proud of their environment—and that translates directly into their academic and social success.\r\n\r\nFrom the bottom of our hearts, thank you for helping make our classroom a healthier and happier place to learn and grow.","fullyFundedDate":1743771373495,"projectUrl":"project/lets-clean-up/9207339/","projectTitle":"Let’s Clean Up!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Spendlove","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2024651"},{"teacherId":8845574,"projectId":7942985,"letterContent":"These manipulatives have made a very large impact on my students learning. We have been able to utilize several of these different manipulatives in different facets. During our reading time, we have used the CVC Sneaky elves to provide a fun way to review words/skills the students learned. Another way we have been able to use these manipulatives is during Mathematics. Students have been able to visualize, on a larger scale, how to utilize different tools for addition and subtraction. Once using the magnetic tens frame, students put this new skill to practice in groups. \r\nMy students were beyond ecstatic when they learned of the new manipulatives we were gaining within the classroom. By making these contributions to our classroom, you have helped foster a different learning that helped students to enjoy the more difficult tasks and skills they may learn.","fullyFundedDate":1699469314255,"projectUrl":"project/manipulatives-making-a-difference/7942985/","projectTitle":"Manipulatives Making a Difference","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Owen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8845574_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1686780222804","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8845574"},{"teacherId":8311223,"projectId":9104047,"letterContent":"When my students first saw the new materials, their excitement was contagious. The colorful markers, cozy blankets, and new school supplies were a hit from the moment they arrived. As soon as the students saw the markers, their faces lit up. They were eager to dive into creative projects, and I could feel the energy in the room shift. It wasn't just about the materials themselves, but the possibilities they opened up for new ways to learn and express themselves.\r\n\r\nOne of the first projects we did with the new markers was an art-based storytelling activity. Each student was asked to illustrate a scene from one of their favorite books. The markers were so bright and vivid, and the students couldn't wait to start drawing. I was amazed at how much effort they put into each picture, paying attention to details and using the markers to make their art really stand out. It wasn't just a fun activity; it was also an opportunity for students to practice their storytelling skills, as they had to explain why they chose their specific scene and what it meant to them. The blankets added an extra layer of comfort to the experience, creating a cozy environment where students felt relaxed and inspired to share their ideas with the class.\r\n\r\nThe reaction from my students was beyond what I expected. They were so motivated and engaged in the activity, and it gave them a chance to show off their creative talents in a way that was meaningful to them. Some students who were usually quiet and reserved found a voice through their artwork. The combination of materials and the setting made the activity feel special, and it was clear that the students felt that. It wasn't just a typical classroom assignment; it felt like a celebration of their creativity and individuality.\r\n\r\nNow that we have these new supplies, we're planning even more hands-on activities. Moving forward, my students will continue using the markers for group projects and to explore other artistic mediums. We plan to create a class mural that reflects the themes we're learning about in social studies, and the markers will be perfect for bringing that project to life. The blankets will also come into play during independent reading time, where students will use them to create cozy reading spaces. This will help them get more comfortable and engaged with the stories they're reading. It's about making the classroom a space where students feel connected to their learning in a personal and meaningful way.\r\n\r\nThe supplies also help my students with their emotional and social development. By having these new materials, they are encouraged to work together, collaborate on projects, and share their ideas in ways that help build confidence. The comfort of the blankets makes it easier for students to settle in and focus on their work, and the markers allow them to express their thoughts in a way that's visual and creative. It's exciting to see how these small changes have already made such a big difference in my students' motivation and enthusiasm.\r\n\r\nThanks to the generous donations, my students are able to experience learning in a new and exciting way, and I can't wait to see where these new materials will take them in the future. The next steps will be even more fun, as we continue to build on the projects we've started and explore new ones.","fullyFundedDate":1740584148722,"projectUrl":"project/tattle-phone/9104047/","projectTitle":"Tattle Phone","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Brethauer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8311223_orig.jpg?crop=4284,4284,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742932326677","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8311223"},{"teacherId":8311223,"projectId":9106059,"letterContent":"When the students first received the mechanical pencils, they were excited, knowing they'd help develop their fine motor skills. The smooth action of the pencils allowed for precise drawing, which enhanced their hand-eye coordination. As for the dachshund decorations, they instantly made the classroom feel more like home, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The students loved how the little dachshund accents brought a touch of fun to their workspaces. These materials have not only improved their skills but also fostered a sense of comfort and creativity, making the classroom a place where everyone feels inspired.","fullyFundedDate":1739881746781,"projectUrl":"project/skillful-space/9106059/","projectTitle":"Skillful Space","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Brethauer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8311223_orig.jpg?crop=4284,4284,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742932326677","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8311223"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_72613","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":187,"numTeachers":6,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":59,"percentWhite":18,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":16,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 1","studentTeacherRatio":"31.2:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":81.6,"schoolId":72613,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Thomas White Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Thomas White Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/michigan/bridgeport-spaulding-cmty-sd/thomas-white-elementary-school/72613"}