{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Toms River High School East","outOfStateSupporters":22.0,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9024191,"projectId":10715477,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our Warmth, Care, and Hunger classroom project! Your donation of food, hygiene products, cleaning supplies, and other essential items will make a meaningful difference in the lives of our students.\r\n\r\nAs a special education resource teacher, I strive to create a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment where every student feels valued and ready to learn. Having access to these basic necessities helps remove barriers that can affect students' confidence, comfort, and ability to focus on their education.\r\n\r\nOne of the most rewarding parts of this project was seeing the students' excitement and enthusiasm when they learned about the supplies available to them. Their positive reactions were truly heartwarming, and it was wonderful to see how this support helped them feel cared for and more engaged in their learning. When students feel supported and know that people care about their well-being, they are better able to focus, participate, and succeed in the classroom.\r\n\r\nYour generosity goes beyond providing supplies. It sends a powerful message to our students that their community cares about them and believes in their potential. We are incredibly grateful for your kindness and for helping us provide a little extra care, comfort, and dignity to the students who need it most.\r\n\r\nThank you for being part of our classroom community and making a direct, positive impact on our students' lives. Your support is helping us create an environment where students feel supported, motivated, and ready to learn!\r\n\r\nWith sincere appreciation,\r\n\r\nChristina Gregus-Bowker\r\nBiology and Forensics Special Education Teacher\r\nToms River High School East","fullyFundedDate":1791323859308,"projectUrl":"project/warmth-care-hunger/10715477/","projectTitle":"Warmth, Care, Hunger","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gregus-Bowker","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9024191_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1769098687339","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9024191"},{"teacherId":10413324,"projectId":10043927,"letterContent":"I want to thank you for your time and dedication to our children. My students were able to move around the room easier and used the white boards with markers that were not only black and blue! It is really funny to see how they all got so excited about using the different colored markers to complete math problems. I explained where the supplies and snacks came from and they were taken back that \"strangers\" would even consider donating to benefit others. I was able to structure my class lessons around students working together and reviewing correct and incorrect responses.\r\nWhen my students seemed they need a little \"pick-me-up\" I would give away snacks for answers and participation especially when things got difficult for them.\r\nI want to thank you again for your support to make my classroom a space students liked to code to and felt comfortable.","fullyFundedDate":1768951522534,"projectUrl":"project/move-around-the-math-class/10043927/","projectTitle":"Move Around the Math Class","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Medina","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10413324"},{"teacherId":10415895,"projectId":10051964,"letterContent":"On behalf of my students and myself, I'm writing to share our heartfelt gratitude for the food and snacks you generously provided to our students over the recent months. Your kindness has had a meaningful and lasting impact on our school community.\r\nFor many of our students, access to consistent, nourishing food is not something they can always count on. Because of your support, students were able to stay focused, energized, and ready to learn throughout the day. Other teachers noticed improved concentration in the classroom, fewer disruptions caused by hunger, and a greater sense of comfort among students who knew they had something to eat when they needed it.\r\nBeyond the academic benefits, your donation also contributed to students' emotional well-being. Having snacks available created a sense of security and care—students felt supported and valued. This was particularly meaningful as the generosity came from complete strangers. It also fostered a stronger sense of community, as sharing food became an opportunity for connection and kindness among peers.\r\nOver the months, your generosity quietly (but at the same token powerfully) removed a barrier to learning for so many young people. What may have seemed like a simple act of giving truly made a profound difference in their daily lives.\r\nThank you again for your compassion and commitment to supporting our students at Toms River High School East. Your contribution has not only met an immediate need but has also helped create a more positive and sustainable learning environment.\r\n\r\nWith sincerest appreciation,\r\n\r\n\r\nKevin Kanarkowski\r\nSocial Studies Teacher\r\nToms River High School East","fullyFundedDate":1769300219177,"projectUrl":"project/help-curb-student-hunger/10051964/","projectTitle":"Help Curb Student Hunger","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Kanarkowski","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10415895"},{"teacherId":10414927,"projectId":10048267,"letterContent":"Thank you to the Tepper Foundation! Your donation had an enormous impact on our Raiders Helping Raiders mentoring program for at-risk students. The program often thinks of new and creative ways to engage our student members. With your donation, we were able to have the most mentees ever participate in an event.\r\n\r\nThat event was the First Annual Raiders Helping Raiders Cornhole Tournament. By way of your kindness and support, RHR obtained four cornhole boards. The tournament took place outside along with snacks and drinks supplied through the Donors Choose funding. The day provided not only the mentees but the mentors as well with friendly competition, engagement and bonding. It just so happens to be that our building principal, Mrs. Anders and her mentee were victorious and the overall winners.\r\n\r\nDue to your support, RHR looks forward to continuing this new tradition for years to come. Based on the positive reaction of the students and their feedback, this activity is a keeper.","fullyFundedDate":1769212756136,"projectUrl":"project/raiders-helping-raiders/10048267/","projectTitle":"Raiders Helping Raiders!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Trumble","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10414927_orig.jpg?crop=1010,1010,x0,y393&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1786019891744","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10414927"},{"teacherId":8183833,"projectId":10041854,"letterContent":"Because of your incredible generosity, our classroom has become so much more than a place to learn math—it has become a place where students feel cared for, supported, and ready to succeed. Thank you for funding our classroom snack project and for recognizing that meeting students' basic needs is an essential part of helping them learn. Your kindness has had a meaningful impact on the daily lives of my high school special education students, and I am deeply grateful for your support.\r\n\r\nMany of my students arrive at school carrying challenges that extend far beyond academics. Some come to class hungry because they missed breakfast, have long school days, or face food insecurity at home. Even a small hunger can make it difficult to focus, regulate emotions, or stay engaged in a lesson. Thanks to your generosity, I am able to offer snacks in a respectful and welcoming way, ensuring that students have the fuel they need to participate, concentrate, and do their best. What may seem like a simple snack can make the difference between a student feeling distracted and discouraged or feeling ready to learn.\r\n\r\nThe snacks you provided have also helped create a classroom environment built on trust and compassion. My students know they can come into our room without worrying about whether they'll have something to eat if they need it. That sense of security helps reduce anxiety and allows them to focus on learning rather than on an empty stomach. It also sends an important message: that they are valued, supported, and worthy of care. Those moments of kindness help strengthen the relationships that are so important in a special education classroom.\r\n\r\nBeyond meeting physical needs, your donation has contributed to a more positive classroom culture. Sharing a snack during independent work or after completing a challenging assignment has become an opportunity to celebrate effort, encourage perseverance, and reinforce positive behaviors. These small moments help build confidence and foster a sense of community among students who are working hard to overcome academic and personal challenges. The classroom feels more welcoming, and students are more willing to take risks, ask questions, and engage in learning.\r\n\r\nAs a teacher, it is incredibly meaningful to know that there are people like you who believe in our students and want to invest in their success. Your generosity reminds my students that there are caring individuals beyond the walls of our school who want them to thrive. That message is powerful, especially for young people who may not always feel seen or supported.","fullyFundedDate":1768833511401,"projectUrl":"project/help-fuel-growing-math-minds/10041854/","projectTitle":"Help Fuel Growing Math Minds!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Gonzales","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8183833_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1637227217537","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8183833"},{"teacherId":8950241,"projectId":10051349,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom. Because of your generosity, my students were able to fully engage with The Odyssey and our AP Language & Composition curriculum throughout the year. The Post-it notes, markers, and highlighters quickly became essential tools as students annotated texts, tracked themes and character development, identified rhetorical strategies, and collected evidence for discussions and writing assignments. They were genuinely excited when the supplies arrived, and having colorful, high-quality materials made close reading more interactive, organized, and enjoyable. The cleaning supplies and classroom scents also helped create a welcoming environment where students felt comfortable learning together.\r\n\r\nOver the course of the year, my 9th graders completed a deep study of The Odyssey, using their annotations to support literary analyses and collaborative discussions. My AP Language students applied the same annotation strategies to challenging nonfiction texts as they prepared for essays and the AP Exam. Your generosity provided much more than classroom supplies—it helped create meaningful learning experiences that encouraged curiosity, confidence, and critical thinking. Thank you for making such a lasting impact on my students and our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1769304735430,"projectUrl":"project/reading-with-writing-in-mind/10051349/","projectTitle":"Reading with Writing in Mind","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Santonastaso","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8950241_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1786552689672","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8950241"},{"teacherId":5260895,"projectId":9962247,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation. My students are greatly benefiting from the electric pencil sharpeners—they're no longer struggling with dull pencils that barely make a mark. It's made a huge difference in their work. Their writing is much more legible, not only for me but for them as well.\r\n\r\nI would also like to thank you personally for the raised laptop holder. It has made a meaningful difference in my day-to-day routine by allowing me to stand comfortably at my desk and stretch my legs, rather than remaining in one position for extended periods.\r\n\r\nYour support has had a direct and positive impact in our classroom and we truly appreciate your kindness. Thank you again!!","fullyFundedDate":1775502135579,"projectUrl":"project/trying-to-sharpen-students-minds-as-wel/9962247/","projectTitle":"Trying to Sharpen Students' Minds as Well as Their Pencils","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Brooke Schilling","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5260895_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1522217779130","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5260895"},{"teacherId":10412744,"projectId":10042009,"letterContent":"Thank you so so much, from my students and myself, for your extremely generous donation. The snacks and drinks have been the most handy as students are often coming to me saying that they are hungry or thirsty, and kids cannot learn if they are focused on their empty stomachs or have a headache from dehydration. \r\n\r\nThe tissues have also been especially useful this month with allergy season at an all time high. They also come in handy for myself at the end of a long day working with high schoolers.","fullyFundedDate":1768838632164,"projectUrl":"project/keeping-ms-fosters-class-warm-healthy/10042009/","projectTitle":"Keeping Ms. Foster’s Class Warm, Healthy & Full","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Foster","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10412744"},{"teacherId":7354260,"projectId":10049785,"letterContent":"Donations have had a meaningful impact on my art students by expanding both the quality of their work and their confidence as creative thinkers. With access to better materials—such as higher-quality paints, sketchbooks, and specialty tools—students are able to experiment more freely and produce work that reflects greater depth, detail, and craftsmanship. Instead of being limited by scarce or low-quality supplies, they can fully engage in the artistic process from idea development through final execution.\r\n\r\nBeyond materials, donations also create opportunities for new types of projects that would otherwise be out of reach. Students can explore a wider range of media, techniques, and contemporary practices, which helps them discover their individual artistic voices. This variety encourages risk-taking and innovation, key components of strong artistic growth.\r\n\r\nJust as importantly, receiving donated resources sends a powerful message to students that their creativity is valued. Knowing that others have invested in their learning builds pride and motivation, leading to higher levels of engagement and perseverance. Students take their work more seriously, put in greater effort, and are more willing to revise and refine their ideas.\r\n\r\nOverall, donations don't just supply materials—they open doors. They allow students to think bigger, create more ambitiously, and develop the skills and confidence that extend far beyond the art room.","fullyFundedDate":1769265888227,"projectUrl":"project/warmth-care-hunger-art-theory/10049785/","projectTitle":"WARMTH, CARE & HUNGER Art Theory","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Koenigstein","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7354260_orig.jpg?crop=775,775,x1572,y1307&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1595896288690","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7354260"},{"teacherId":7239432,"projectId":10048477,"letterContent":"I want to take a moment to express my sincere appreciation for the generous grant that provided my students with such meaningful and much-needed supplies. Your support has made a direct and immediate impact in our classroom, and I am so grateful for your investment in my students and their learning experience.\r\n\r\nAs a high school special education teacher, I work with students who benefit greatly from hands-on materials, structured supports, and engaging resources. The supplies we received are not just \"extras\" — they are essential tools that help create an environment where my students can feel confident, supported, and motivated to learn. Because of your generosity, I am able to meet my students where they are and provide them with opportunities to succeed in ways that are both accessible and empowering.\r\n\r\nAlready, I have seen a shift in engagement and enthusiasm. Students are more willing to participate, more eager to try, and more confident in their abilities. Having the right tools matters, especially for students who may have struggled in traditional academic settings. Your contribution helps remove barriers and creates space for growth, independence, and success.\r\n\r\nBeyond the academic impact, your support sends a powerful message to my students: that people they may never meet believe in them. That message matters more than you may realize. Many of my students face challenges both inside and outside of school, and knowing that others care enough to invest in their education helps build a sense of worth, belonging, and possibility.\r\n\r\nI also want to share how meaningful this is for me as an educator. Teaching is deeply personal work, and having the resources to truly support my students makes all the difference. Your generosity allows me to focus less on what we lack and more on what we can build together as a classroom community. It reminds me that we are not alone in this work — that there is a broader community of people who value education and believe in supporting students in real, tangible ways.\r\n\r\nThank you for your kindness, your generosity, and your belief in my students. Because of you, our classroom is a more engaging, supportive, and inspiring place to learn. Please know that your contribution is not only appreciated, but it is also making a lasting difference.","fullyFundedDate":1769222315610,"projectUrl":"project/safety-and-security/10048477/","projectTitle":"Safety and Security","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Cosentino","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7239432_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1769080187815","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrscosb4c"},{"teacherId":9024191,"projectId":10049827,"letterContent":"I am incredibly grateful to Donors Choose for helping transform my classroom into a space where students feel comfortable, supported, and ready to learn. Your generosity has allowed me to create an environment that is not only functional, but also calm and welcoming—something my students truly need in order to succeed. With the resources you provided, I've been able to design a classroom that encourages focus, reduces stress, and promotes a sense of safety and belonging for every student.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, my students now have a space where they can collaborate, engage in hands-on learning, and build meaningful connections with one another. The calming atmosphere has made a noticeable difference in their ability to stay engaged, work together, and take pride in their learning. It has become more than just a classroom—it's a community where students feel valued and empowered.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in my students and believing in the importance of creating a positive learning environment. Your kindness and generosity are making a lasting impact not only on their academic growth, but also on their overall well-being.","fullyFundedDate":1769276671049,"projectUrl":"project/warmth-care-hunger/10049827/","projectTitle":"Warmth, Care, Hunger","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gregus-Bowker","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9024191_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1769098687339","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9024191"},{"teacherId":5515193,"projectId":10045494,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom care center is fully restocked and the impact has been immediate and meaningful. Each day, students quietly stop by to pick up the hygiene items, snacks, and personal care products they need. For many, these essentials help them feel confident, prepared, and ready to focus on learning rather than worrying about what they're missing at home.\r\n\r\nBecause everything is available for students to take freely and without question, the care center has become a safe, judgment‑free space where they know their needs will be met. Your support has helped create a classroom environment rooted in dignity, comfort, and belonging. \r\n\r\nThese supplies do more than fill shelves, they lift burdens, restore confidence, and remind students that there are people who believe in their well‑being. Thank you for making such a powerful difference in their daily lives and in our school community.","fullyFundedDate":1769125194379,"projectUrl":"project/the-care-corner/10045494/","projectTitle":"The Care Corner","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Schindler","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5515193_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1638485235867","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5515193"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_46033","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":1314,"numTeachers":111,"percentFrplEligible":47,"percentAsian":3,"percentBlack":3,"percentWhite":70,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":19,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":3,"gradesServed":"9 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":"11.8:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":false,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":78.0,"schoolId":46033,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Toms River High School East on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Toms River High School East","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/new-jersey/toms-river-regional-school-district/toms-river-high-school-east/46033"}