{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Ulysses S Grant Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":26.1,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10303966,"projectId":10142335,"letterContent":"Having a portable cot in my office has made an immediate and meaningful difference for my middle school students. When students come in not feeling well, they now have a clean, comfortable place to rest instead of trying to sit upright in a chair or lie uncomfortably on a hard surface. This small change has helped create a more supportive and calming environment where students can feel cared for while they recover.\r\n\r\nSince receiving the cot, it has already been used several times, proving how essential it is in our daily routine. It allows me to better meet the needs of students who are ill by giving them a safe and sanitary space to rest while they wait to return to class or be picked up. This resource has truly improved the level of care I am able to provide, and it directly impacts student comfort, dignity, and well-being.","fullyFundedDate":1775488253715,"projectUrl":"project/odds-and-ends-to-include-a-much-needed-c/10142335/","projectTitle":"Odds and Ends to Include a Much Needed Cot","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Beveridge","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10303966_orig.png?crop=811,811,x0,y70&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1760914926022","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10303966"},{"teacherId":9784754,"projectId":9829322,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project, \"Bring Learning to Life With Lego Pac-Man!\" Your generosity has truly made a meaningful impact in our classroom. When the materials first arrived, the excitement was immediate—students were eager, curious, and couldn't wait to get started. Seeing their faces light up as they explored the Lego sets was a powerful reminder of how hands-on learning can spark engagement and creativity in ways that traditional instruction sometimes cannot.\r\nWe have been using the Lego Pac-Man sets to bring problem-solving, collaboration, and critical thinking to life. One of our favorite moments so far was watching students work together to design their own Pac-Man-inspired mazes and challenges. They had to think strategically, communicate effectively, and revise their ideas when things didn't work the first time. It was incredible to see students who don't always speak up take leadership roles and contribute ideas with confidence.\r\nMoving forward, we plan to continue integrating these materials into lessons that connect creativity with real-world skills. Students will be building more complex designs, incorporating storytelling, and even exploring basic coding and game design concepts. Your support has opened the door for deeper engagement and meaningful learning experiences that our students will carry with them beyond the classroom. Thank you again for helping us bring learning to life!","fullyFundedDate":1769177136410,"projectUrl":"project/bring-learning-to-life-with-lego-pac-man/9829322/","projectTitle":"Bring Learning to Life With Lego Pac-Man!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Montooth","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9784754_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1758296714161","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9784754"},{"teacherId":3540454,"projectId":8477723,"letterContent":"My students are a wonderful group of learners who come to school each day ready to try, even when things feel challenging. Many of them need extra encouragement and support, especially in building their academic confidence. These supplies will allow me to create a structured, engaging, and welcoming environment where all students can succeed. Whether we are working through problem-solving activities, collaborating in groups, or practicing new skills, these materials will be used daily to support their growth.","fullyFundedDate":1721055240603,"projectUrl":"project/essential-supplies-for-awesome-students/8477723/","projectTitle":"Essential Supplies for Awesome Students","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Cuzzort","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3540454_orig.jpg?crop=3984,3984,x672,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1774451133182","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/cuzzort"},{"teacherId":8915077,"projectId":10098279,"letterContent":"Thanks to the generosity of my DonorsChoose project. I have been able to improve my organization as a teacher, which is making a meaningful difference in my daily instruction. In the past, I stored many of my materials in folders, and it often took a significant amount of time to find what I needed.\r\n\r\nI am now in the process of organizing my materials into subject-specific binders, which has made it much easier to quickly locate papers and stay prepared. While this is an ongoing process, I am happy to share that my 7th-grade math and health binders are already fully organized and in use.","fullyFundedDate":1774457489653,"projectUrl":"project/keeping-it-all-together/10098279/","projectTitle":"Keeping It All Together","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Meyer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8915077_orig.jpg?crop=2735,2735,x0,y455&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1773247678063","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8915077"},{"teacherId":8915077,"projectId":10102613,"letterContent":"Thank you for donating supplies for my classroom. Having disinfecting wipes and Kleenex readily available helps students keep their learning space clean and reduce the spread of germs. In our busy classroom, students often share materials, desks, and supplies, which can quickly spread illness if not wiped down. \r\n\r\nThese simple supplies empower students to take responsibility for their own health while helping keep the entire classroom cleaner and safer for everyone. Students do not want to get sick and have taken responsibility for ensuring their work area is clean for the next class.\r\n\r\nThanks again for making an impact.","fullyFundedDate":1771883840208,"projectUrl":"project/supplies-for-a-safe-sanitized-space/10102613/","projectTitle":"Supplies for a Safe & Sanitized Space","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Meyer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8915077_orig.jpg?crop=2735,2735,x0,y455&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1773247678063","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8915077"},{"teacherId":6623553,"projectId":10073670,"letterContent":"When engaging with Mental Toughness, I approach it as a reflective learner with my students always in mind. I read with intention—highlighting meaningful passages, underlining ideas that connect directly to student challenges, and making notes about how a strategy might translate into classroom practice. Most of this studying happens after school or during quiet planning moments, when I can truly reflect on how these lessons can best support my students' growth.\r\n\r\nThe skills introduced in these texts—such as perseverance, positive self-talk, emotional regulation, and responding to challenges with confidence—have been invaluable. They emphasize that mental toughness is not about avoiding struggle, but about learning how to work through it productively. These lessons have helped me better support students as they navigate frustration, build resilience, and develop confidence in their abilities.\r\n\r\nThanks to your generous donation, these ideas have come to life in our classroom. One of my favorite moments occurred during a challenging activity when a student who often became discouraged paused and said, \"I'm going to keep trying.\" Instead of shutting down, the student applied the strategies we had discussed and completed the task with pride. Moments like this show the true impact of your support—students are not only learning academic content, but also developing lifelong skills that help them believe in themselves. Your generosity has made a meaningful difference in fostering a classroom environment where students feel supported, capable, and empowered to persevere.","fullyFundedDate":1771117871870,"projectUrl":"project/building-mental-toughness-beyond-the-gam/10073670/","projectTitle":"Building Mental Toughness Beyond the Game","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Stevens","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6623553_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x510,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1730655487667","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6623553"},{"teacherId":8915077,"projectId":9911429,"letterContent":"With baskets now available, small items are contained in one secure space. Instead of placing loose belongings directly on the table area, students can put everything into a basket, which keeps items grouped together. This simple organizational tool prevents objects from rolling onto the floor or mixing with someone else's belongings. \r\n\r\nAs a result, students are able to retrieve their items quickly and move forward without hesitation. The baskets create a smoother flow because each person has a clear, designated space for their possessions. Thanks again for supporting this project.","fullyFundedDate":1765491593971,"projectUrl":"project/keep-our-metal-detector-line-moving/9911429/","projectTitle":"Keep Our Metal Detector Line Moving","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Meyer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8915077_orig.jpg?crop=2735,2735,x0,y455&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1773247678063","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8915077"},{"teacherId":6623553,"projectId":10044308,"letterContent":"Providing snacks in my classroom has a direct and meaningful impact on student success. Many students arrive at school hungry or go long periods without eating, which can make it difficult to focus, regulate emotions, and fully engage in learning. When basic needs are met, students are better able to concentrate, participate in discussions, and persevere through challenging academic tasks. Snacks help create a learning environment where students feel supported, valued, and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nAccess to snacks also positively affects student behavior and classroom culture. Hunger can lead to irritability, fatigue, and disengagement, which may result in unnecessary behavior issues. By offering snacks, I have seen improvements in students' ability to remain on task, collaborate with peers, and manage their emotions. This support allows instructional time to be used more effectively and reduces disruptions, benefiting the entire classroom community.\r\n\r\nUltimately, providing snacks removes a barrier to learning and promotes equity within my classroom. It ensures that all students—regardless of their circumstances—have the opportunity to learn at their best. By addressing students' physical needs, I am able to support their academic growth, social-emotional well-being, and overall success in school.","fullyFundedDate":1769792260519,"projectUrl":"project/snacks-to-success/10044308/","projectTitle":"Snacks to Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Stevens","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6623553_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x510,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1730655487667","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6623553"},{"teacherId":6178034,"projectId":9443136,"letterContent":"I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for all of the donations to my students, my classroom, and to other students who frequent my room for other clubs and activities. The items donated will be used in so many ways! The snacks are used multiple ways throughout the day, such as for incentives/rewards during classwork time, as an end-of-the-day treat for students who have demonstrated good choices and behaviors throughout the day, and simply for those who are hungry and need a snack. The toiletries are very much appreciated, as most of my students do not have deodorant or lotion at home. Your donations have allowed me to keep items here for them, helping them feel good about themselves knowing they can address their hygiene needs once they arrive at school (or anytime throughout the day, if needed). Thank you so much, again!","fullyFundedDate":1760102248649,"projectUrl":"project/toiletrieshealthcandy-middle-school-s/9443136/","projectTitle":"Toiletries/Health/Candy: Middle School Students","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Romer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6178034_orig.png?crop=750,750,x0,y67&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690909898075","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6178034"},{"teacherId":6178034,"projectId":9443064,"letterContent":"the students who benefited from these resources are like none other in our school. These students suffer from trauma, have some low self-esteem issues, low attendance issues, and a variety of behavior issues. \r\nWe use these resources in a variety of ways, including as a reward during class time. In addition to this, we also open our room at lunch to other students who aren't a part of our class, to allow my students to play games with them. \r\nWhen the boxes of resources arrived, my students new immediately that it was \"something\" for them. They always argue with each other about who gets to open the boxes! They were thrilled to see all of the resources, games, snacks, and health/beauty aid products.","fullyFundedDate":1757682832014,"projectUrl":"project/social-emotional-resources-for-amazing-k/9443064/","projectTitle":"Social Emotional Resources for Amazing Kids","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Romer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6178034_orig.png?crop=750,750,x0,y67&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690909898075","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6178034"},{"teacherId":6623553,"projectId":9689284,"letterContent":"We would like to extend our deepest and most sincere gratitude for your incredibly generous donation of snacks for our students. Your kindness has made a meaningful and immediate impact on our school community, and we cannot thank you enough for thinking of our students and their needs. What may seem like a simple act of giving truly reaches far beyond providing food—it touches lives, supports learning, and reminds our students that they are seen, valued, and cared for.\r\n\r\nFor many of our students, access to consistent meals and snacks is not always guaranteed. Hunger can be a quiet challenge that affects focus, behavior, energy levels, and overall well-being throughout the school day. Because of your donation, students are able to refuel their bodies, stay attentive during lessons, and participate more confidently in class activities. The availability of snacks has helped create a more supportive and equitable learning environment where students can focus on learning rather than worrying about when they will eat next.\r\n\r\nOn behalf of our students, staff, and families, thank you for your generosity, your thoughtfulness, and your willingness to support our school. Your donation has made a lasting impact that extends far beyond the snacks themselves. We are truly grateful for your support and for the difference you have made in the lives of our students. Please know that your kindness is deeply appreciated and will not be forgotten.","fullyFundedDate":1757682833794,"projectUrl":"project/snacks-and-supplies/9689284/","projectTitle":"Snacks and Supplies","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Stevens","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6623553_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x510,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1730655487667","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6623553"},{"teacherId":10303966,"projectId":9797684,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous donations, our school nurse office now has a fully functioning ice machine, along with sandwich bags and a large bowl to store and organize the ice packs. This addition has made a remarkable difference in how we care for our students. Now, when a student gets a bump, bruise, or minor injury, we can quickly provide a clean, ready-to-use ice pack. The storage bowl and sandwich bags help keep everything organized and sanitary, making it easy for students or staff to grab what they need without delay. This simple improvement has added both comfort and efficiency to our office routines. The students are excited as they no longer have to use a frozen paper towel to help their injury feel better. \r\n\r\nHaving an ice machine dedicated to making ice packs has been an incredible benefit for my students. It allows us to respond immediately when someone is hurt, easing pain and helping them recover faster so they can return to learning and participating in activities. Students feel cared for and safe knowing that we always have ice ready for any little accident. What may seem like a small addition has made a huge impact on the overall well-being and comfort of the nurses office. Thank you for helping us create a safer, more supportive environment for every student!","fullyFundedDate":1762280928726,"projectUrl":"project/ice-machine-needed-asap/9797684/","projectTitle":"Ice Machine Needed ASAP","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Beveridge","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10303966_orig.png?crop=811,811,x0,y70&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1760914926022","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10303966"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_30148","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":515,"numTeachers":44,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":54,"percentWhite":27,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":3,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"11.7:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":73.9,"schoolId":30148,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Ulysses S Grant Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Ulysses S Grant Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/illinois/springfield-public-schools-district-186/ulysses-s-grant-middle-school/30148"}