{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Waiakea Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":34.6,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8064669,"projectId":9775366,"letterContent":"Thanks to the generous support of donors, my students were able to learn through hands-on experiences that made learning more meaningful and engaging. Using the measuring cups, students explored measurement by estimating and testing how much water different containers could hold. They worked together to measure and compare amounts of water in a jar, helping them better understand measurement concepts in a visual and interactive way.\r\n\r\nThe watercolor paper also allowed my students to participate in a creative art lesson where they explored painting techniques and expressed their ideas through art. The high-quality paper helped them experiment with watercolor paints and take pride in their finished work.\r\n\r\nThese resources helped bring learning to life by giving students opportunities to explore, create, and think critically. Hands-on activities like these help students build confidence, stay engaged, and make stronger connections to what they are learning in the classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1759450985390,"projectUrl":"project/hands-on-minds-cooking-creating-and-c/9775366/","projectTitle":"Hands-On Minds: Cooking, Creating, and Concentrating","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lee","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8064669"},{"teacherId":10382405,"projectId":9955935,"letterContent":"The project that you funded impacted my students in so many different ways. Most of my students have sensory and engagement struggles that need to be addressed. Having these tools on hand help me to keep them excited to learn, to engage, and to help them calm when necessary.\r\n\r\nThe students were excited as each new item was introduced and put into the rotation of activities. We were able to start a sensory center with many of the items and now that is the center that everyone wants to spend time at! The chewelry necklaces are awesome for my students who need something appropriate to chew when anxious, stressed, or needing that specific sensory input.\r\n\r\nIt's always exciting to see my students use these items to build their social skills as well. The various board games will help to teach them how to work in a group, turn take, share, and also how to win or lose a game graciously. Lessons that are so very important in life.\r\n\r\nThe velcro, retractable badge clips, and binder rings are also a very necessary part of my classroom. These things are used on the daily to make materials to support my learners. I make file folder activities that help to teach skills as well as maintain them after they are learned. The file folders are also used in an independent work area to teach each student to work by themselves. The binder rings are used to put together Social Narratives (simple stories that address skills that are hard for my students to learn and put into practice ) And finally the retractable badge clips are used by all of the staff to provide quick and convenient access to small visual cards that demonstrate appropriate behaviors (e.g. Stop, Walk, Quiet Voice, etc.)\r\n\r\nAgain, thank you so much for your gracious donation. Please know that your financial contribution has helped in more ways than I can express.","fullyFundedDate":1765998208109,"projectUrl":"project/support-our-learning-in-the-ways-that-we/9955935/","projectTitle":"Support Our Learning in the Ways That We Learn Best","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Spurrell-Robinson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10382405"},{"teacherId":9967512,"projectId":10110031,"letterContent":"Because of your kind and generous donations, my students are able to be 100% successful in their upcoming state wide assessments. When students first saw the snack bins, their reactions were pure gratitude. Several asked if the snacks were really for them. It created an immediate sense of care and encouragement. They knew someone beyond our classroom believed in them and wanted them to succeed. \r\n\r\nI am already seeing your impact touch many students. One day during their science assessment, about half-way through testing, I could already see fatigue setting in. We paused briefly, students had a quick snack break, and the shift was noticeable. Shoulders relaxed. Focus improved. \r\n\r\nBy contributing to this project, you helped remove barriers that can affect performance. Hunger, distraction, and stress. You helped level the playing field so students could show what they truly know.","fullyFundedDate":1771772376871,"projectUrl":"project/ready-set-test-essentials-for-testing/10110031/","projectTitle":"Ready, Set, Test: Essentials for Testing Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Mahuna","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9967512_orig.jpg?crop=1242,1242,x0,y269&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1741973948054","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9967512"},{"teacherId":1989844,"projectId":9629407,"letterContent":"My students have absolutely loved reading the different math storybooks you helped provide. They are especially excited by how math is woven into everyday situations — from tricky fraction disguises to hilarious math \"curses.\" These stories have helped them see that math isn't just numbers on a worksheet; it's part of real life, creativity, and even humor.\r\n\r\nWe are currently in the prewriting stage of our own math storybooks, and the excitement is contagious. Students are brainstorming characters, creating story problems, and finding clever ways to weave math into adventures. They love that they can be creative while still using their math skills. Several students have already asked if they will be able to share their finished books with other classes — they are that proud of their ideas!\r\n\r\nThe binders, cardstock, and publishing supplies are allowing them to think like real authors and illustrators. Instead of completing a typical math assignment, they are designing, drafting, revising, and preparing to publish something meaningful that connects reading, art, and math together.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, I am seeing confidence grow. Students who once felt intimidated by math are beginning to approach it with curiosity and even excitement. By linking what they already love — storytelling and art — with something they once struggled with, you have helped transform math into an opportunity for imagination and ownership.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in my students and for helping them discover that math truly can be creative, meaningful, and fun. Your support will continue to impact not only this class, but many future fourth graders as well.","fullyFundedDate":1764685332187,"projectUrl":"project/inspiring-math-through-stories-and-creat/9629407/","projectTitle":"Inspiring Math Through Stories and Creativity!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. L. Walker","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1989844_orig.jpg?crop=803,803,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1559429345636","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/leslie-walker"},{"teacherId":7934275,"projectId":9775361,"letterContent":"Because of you, our project \"Math, Motivation, and Creativity for Young Learners\" is fully funded—and my heart (and classroom!) are overflowing with gratitude.\r\n\r\nAt Waiakea Elementary School, more than half of our students come from low-income households. Your generosity has ensured that my 22 amazing 3rd–5th graders have access to tools that make learning engaging, hands-on, and joyful.\r\n\r\nHere's the impact you've already made:\r\n\r\n**Math Confidence in Action**\r\nWith our new dry-erase boards and visual math flashcards, every student can practice, make mistakes safely, and show their thinking in real time. Instead of quietly struggling, they are actively participating. I'm already seeing more hands raised, more \"I get it!\" moments, and stronger math fact fluency.\r\n\r\n**Creativity & Teamwork Through Building**\r\nThe LEGO brick sets and baseplates have transformed our classroom into a mini engineering lab. Students collaborate, problem-solve, and design together—building not just structures, but communication skills and perseverance.\r\n\r\n**A Calm & Magical Learning Environment**\r\nThe star projector and classroom lighting have created a peaceful atmosphere during transitions, reflection time, and celebrations. For students who need a little extra calm or sensory support, this environment makes a real difference in focus and emotional regulation.\r\n\r\n**Celebrating Every Success**\r\nThe Instax instant film allows us to capture student achievements the moment they happen—mastering multiplication, completing a challenge, or showing incredible kindness. Their photos now fill our walls, reminding them daily: *You matter. Your effort matters.*\r\n\r\nThe games, motivational stamps, reward systems, and organizational tools all work together to create a classroom where effort is recognized and growth is visible.\r\n\r\nYour donation didn't just purchase materials.\r\nYou built confidence.\r\nYou encouraged resilience.\r\nYou sparked creativity.\r\nYou helped my students see themselves as capable mathematicians and problem-solvers.\r\n\r\nFrom the bottom of my heart, thank you for investing in our classroom and in the bright futures of these young learners in Hilo.","fullyFundedDate":1759614221998,"projectUrl":"project/math-motivation-and-creativity-for-you/9775361/","projectTitle":"Math, Motivation, and Creativity for Young Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. T. Walker","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7934275_orig.jpg?crop=637,637,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1667324090173","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-tiare-walker"},{"teacherId":1989844,"projectId":9815890,"letterContent":"Mahalo for supporting our Building Thinking Classrooms project! The large whiteboards and materials you provided have truly transformed how our fourth graders learn together.\r\n\r\nStudents have loved using the vertical whiteboards during our math tasks. Standing, discussing, revising, and building on one another's ideas has made collaboration more engaging and visible. Learning feels active, and mistakes are becoming opportunities for growth.\r\n\r\nThere has been an adjustment as students strengthen their teamwork skills. We've taken time to review respectful communication, shared responsibility, and perseverance. Students are learning that, much like in future academic and workplace settings, we don't always choose our teammates—but we can choose how we collaborate. They are practicing expressing their thinking clearly and working productively, even when it feels uncomfortable.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, our students are growing not only as problem-solvers, but also as confident, collaborative learners.","fullyFundedDate":1764685558533,"projectUrl":"project/help-us-build-our-thinking-classroom-in/9815890/","projectTitle":"Help Us Build Our Thinking Classroom in Hawaii!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. L. Walker","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1989844_orig.jpg?crop=803,803,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1559429345636","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/leslie-walker"},{"teacherId":4770528,"projectId":9779838,"letterContent":"Thank you for the \"Sports and School Equipment\"materials! Here are a few ways that we've been able to use our new resources in our classroom. First, we used our hair spray bottles to learn how rivers are formed on our paper mountain models. We colored the ridges of the mountain with markers and then spritzing the top of the mountain with water. The water wet the marker and then funneled down the slopes of our model mountains. The run off of color from the markers highlighted where the rivers would be. Students enjoyed learning through a hands on model. For most of the students this was a know concept. They weren't aware of how rivers were formed. Some students originally thought that water traveled up stream. We mainly learned how land changes over time. We even reviewed gravities role relating to how water travels from mountains to end up in oceans. \r\n Along with the spray bottles, the plates and cups were prefect materials for our science building projects. We used the paper cups to plant radish seeds to determine if seeds grow better in the light or in the dark. Students were able to review their knowledge on the needs of a plant while learning how to create an experiment with controlled variables. In science we also built our own bird feeders. Students used their knowledge of birds to design and build their own bird feeders using materials such as plates, cups, string, straws, pipe cleaners, and bird seed. \r\n The next items that the students LOVED was the snacks. Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs definitely plays a role in what students enjoy. The snacks were such a hit, they only lasted a few weeks. Student used their positive reward system points to purchase snack during recess for themselves. The adorable pencil topper erasers and stickers were popular too. The stickers are a nice quick positive reinforcement. Students earn stickers or points as a friendly reinforcement when they're completing their work, working cooperatively as a group, or doing anything positive. \r\n We are truly grateful for all of your support and generosity. Thank you of helping our students strive to their highest potential!","fullyFundedDate":1759539497224,"projectUrl":"project/sports-and-school-equipment/9779838/","projectTitle":"Sports and School Equipment","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ota","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4770528_orig.jpg?crop=1240,1240,x1520,y980&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1696286885504","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/c-ota"},{"teacherId":1989844,"projectId":9772124,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our fourth graders continue turning their ideas into real, tangible creations through 3D printing. With our new multi-color printer and fresh filament, students are experimenting with layered designs, adjusting measurements, and troubleshooting challenges as they arise. These hands-on experiences have sparked meaningful conversations about engineering, material science, and how everyday products are created—truly built layer by layer.\r\n\r\nAs we look ahead, students are beginning to design products for our upcoming Market Day and thoughtful gifts for Mother's Day. Their creativity is thriving, and even when the process feels frustrating, their determination shines through. I regularly hear, \"Let me try again,\" or \"I think I know how to fix it.\" They are learning that mistakes are simply part of the design process—small bumps in the road, not reasons to quit. That perseverance is just as valuable as the finished product.\r\n\r\nYour support ensures that innovation, creativity, and real-world problem solving continue in our classroom. Mahalo for investing in our students' growth and future.","fullyFundedDate":1759236506122,"projectUrl":"project/supplies-to-power-our-3d-creations/9772124/","projectTitle":"Supplies to Power Our 3D Creations!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. L. Walker","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1989844_orig.jpg?crop=803,803,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1559429345636","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/leslie-walker"},{"teacherId":9225979,"projectId":9773800,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom has become an even more joyful and engaging place to learn! My kindergarteners were thrilled to have new fidget spinners and fidget worms to enjoy after completing their work. These tools have given them a positive, exciting way to celebrate their effort while staying calm and ready for the next activity.\r\n\r\nThe math manipulatives have truly transformed our lessons. Instead of simply listening to number talks, students are now building, sorting, counting, and exploring concepts with their own hands. I've seen so many proud smiles during those \"aha!\" moments when a tricky idea suddenly makes sense.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, your support has helped build confidence. Students feel successful, motivated, and excited to learn each day. Thank you for investing in their growth and helping create a classroom filled with focus, fun, and meaningful learning experiences. Your kindness is making a lasting difference in their educational journey!","fullyFundedDate":1759445592945,"projectUrl":"project/tactile-tools-for-tiny-thinkers/9773800/","projectTitle":"Tactile Tools for Tiny Thinkers!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Uchida","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9225979_orig.jpg?crop=2378,2378,x221,y796&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1708290834299","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9225979"},{"teacherId":9225979,"projectId":9924208,"letterContent":"My students and I are so grateful for your generosity and for believing in our classroom project! Because of your generosity, our classroom was filled with excitement, pride, and pure joy this holiday season. My kindergarteners carefully prepared and delivered the fidget toys to their 4th-grade buddies, and the smiles on both sides were unforgettable. My students felt so important knowing they were giving a gift that was meaningful—something they themselves use to stay focused, calm, and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nThis project turned into more than just a Christmas surprise. It became a simple but meaningful lesson about being kind and caring for others. My kindergarteners got to practice giving in a real way and build sweet friendships with their 4th-grade buddies. They learned that even though they are little, they can still make a big difference.\r\n\r\nWatching them beam with pride as they spread happiness was truly heartwarming. Thank you for helping my students experience the joy of giving and for supporting their growth as compassionate, confident learners. We are so grateful for you!","fullyFundedDate":1764685725332,"projectUrl":"project/buddy-joy-with-fidget-toys/9924208/","projectTitle":"Buddy Joy with Fidget Toys","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Uchida","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9225979_orig.jpg?crop=2378,2378,x221,y796&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1708290834299","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9225979"},{"teacherId":8821596,"projectId":9776934,"letterContent":"When my students first saw the new materials, their excitement was immediate and genuine. The books transformed our classroom library and sparked a renewed interest in reading—students are recommending titles to one another and choosing to read during free time. Recess supplies quickly became favorites, encouraging movement, teamwork, and joy. Games like Mancala have brought students together, helping them socialize, strategize, and rebuild connections through friendly competition.\r\n\r\nWe now use the supplies daily in meaningful ways. Sheet protectors hold reference sheets students rely on during lessons, and the paper cutter is used constantly to prepare materials efficiently. Using lanyard cord and beads, students created mini wampum belt replicas during social studies, deepening cultural understanding through hands-on learning. Paint pens allowed students to create artwork, including submissions to the Shibukawa Art Exchange Program. These resources continue to support creativity, engagement, and authentic learning experiences every day.","fullyFundedDate":1759496906518,"projectUrl":"project/engaged-minds-creative-hearts/9776934/","projectTitle":"Engaged Minds, Creative Hearts","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Iwamoto","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8821596"},{"teacherId":4604227,"projectId":10004451,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donations to our schoolwide PBIS store. These small treats truly make a HUGE impact on our students. They provide meaningful encouragement for those who are consistently making positive choices and inspire them to keep up the great work. They also motivate students who may need a little extra support and encouragement to try their best each day.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, we are able to celebrate and reward positive behavior across our entire school. What a gift it is to recognize all of our students for doing the right thing! Your kindness makes this possible, and we are so very grateful. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of our students!","fullyFundedDate":1770994774969,"projectUrl":"project/motivating-students-through-positive-beh/10004451/","projectTitle":"Motivating Students Through Positive Behavior Rewards!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Curry","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4604227_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1521217999370","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/heathercurryg102"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_50783","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":706,"numTeachers":58,"percentFrplEligible":54,"percentAsian":14,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":3,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":22,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"12.2:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"TOWN","ncesMetroType":"TOWN_REMOTE"},"inStateSupporters":65.4,"schoolId":50783,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Waiakea Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Waiakea Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/hawaii/hawaii-school-district/waiakea-elementary-school/50783"}