{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Waiakea High School","outOfStateSupporters":43.8,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":4520371,"projectId":9153525,"letterContent":"We are writing to you today with immense gratitude and excitement! Thanks to your generous contribution to our science lab, we successfully acquired the equipment needed for advanced microscope work, the essential supplies for our Elodea and Snail labs, and the tools for exciting owl pellet dissections.\r\n\r\nThe impact has been immediate and visible.\r\n\r\nThe lab materials have completely transformed our approach to cellular biology and ecology. We are no longer limited by old, unreliable equipment.\r\n\r\nA perfect example of this transformation happened last week during our Elodea and Snail Lab. This classic experiment demonstrates the cyclical relationship between photosynthesis and cellular respiration. Using the new, high-quality glassware and testing probes, students were able to set up their individual closed systems and monitor the CO2 and O2 levels with precision. For the first time, every student was actively collecting data rather than just watching a demonstration. They saw the plant consume CO2 and produce O2 in the light, and then saw the snail's role in balancing the exchange—a true, tangible demonstration of energy flow.\r\n\r\nWhen the boxes of new equipment were unboxed, the classroom buzz was electric. The students' first collective \"Aha!\" moment came when they first looked at the different colored liquid in the test tubes. \r\n\r\nBuilding on the concepts of photosynthesis, cellular respiration and energy transfer we explored with the Elodea, our next major unit is ecology.\r\n\r\nNext week, we are moving on to the Owl Pellet Dissection using the new stainless-steel dissection kits you helped fund. This is a critical hands-on project where students act as forensic ecologists. They will meticulously dissect the pellets to identify and reconstruct the skeletons of small prey (like rodents and birds), which allows them to analyze the owl's diet and map out a food web. \r\n\r\nThank you again for empowering our students to be active, engaged scientists. Your investment is igniting curiosity and providing an authentic, unforgettable learning experience.\r\n\r\nSincerely,","fullyFundedDate":1741921287241,"projectUrl":"project/science-is-fun/9153525/","projectTitle":"Science is Fun!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Araki","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4520371"},{"teacherId":9299738,"projectId":9174610,"letterContent":"Aloha! Mahalo nui loa for your generous donation! Although we were unable to obtain the requested smoker which was unavailable, we were able to purchase a variety of supplies and equipment that we are currently using at our ʻĀinakoa Ag Park. ʻĀinakoa is a Hawaiian word that translates to land of the warriors, and warriors of the land.\r\n\r\nOur goal is to promote the direct use of locally grown products and elevate our recipes with local flavors and enthusiasm. Students are involved in the selection, planting, care, harvesting, preparation and recipes of many different ag products that we raise at our school. The more activities that we do in this realm the more students get inspired to create and grow more!\r\n\r\nThank you so much for your continued support for our land and our warriors!","fullyFundedDate":1746478026356,"projectUrl":"project/hawaiian-style-smoked-meat-and-fish/9174610/","projectTitle":"Hawaiian Style Smoked Meat and Fish","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Valente","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9299738"},{"teacherId":9184653,"projectId":9161364,"letterContent":"Donations for a 9th-grade English classroom library have a profound and lasting impact on struggling students, particularly in fostering increased enjoyment and literacy. For many students who find reading a chore or a source of frustration, a diverse and engaging classroom library transforms the learning environment into a more inviting and less intimidating space. The ability to choose books that genuinely interest them, rather than being limited to a single textbook or assigned reading, empowers students and reignites their curiosity. This freedom of choice, directly enabled by donations, directly correlates to increased motivation to read, as students are more likely to invest their time and effort in a book they've personally selected. This personal connection to literature is crucial for struggling readers, as it builds confidence and breaks down barriers associated with reading.\r\n\r\nBeyond simply making reading more enjoyable, these donations directly contribute to improved literacy skills. Access to a wide range of genres, reading levels, and topics allows students to encounter new vocabulary, sentence structures, and narrative styles organically. Regular engagement with self-selected books, driven by enjoyment, naturally increases reading fluency, comprehension, and critical thinking skills. Furthermore, a well-stocked classroom library fosters a culture of reading, encouraging students to discuss books with their peers and teacher, further deepening their understanding and analytical abilities. Ultimately, the positive impact of donations extends far beyond the immediate joy of reading; it lays the foundation for lifelong literacy and a greater appreciation for the power of stories.","fullyFundedDate":1742062023114,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-library-and-ink-for-print-sake/9161364/","projectTitle":"Classroom Library and Ink for Print Sake","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Morrison","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9184653"},{"teacherId":7896976,"projectId":9158223,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding the packaging equipment. Students reflected on their previous projects and designed stickers that could be used with the new packaging. They also factored in cost of materials and figured out the amount needed based on their products. They also brainstormed how they would have adapted the project if they had this resource to begin with. \r\n\r\nStudents were excited to see the response to their projects with equipment to enhance what they did. They thought it was cool that people were willing to fund this to give them this learning experience.","fullyFundedDate":1741920076818,"projectUrl":"project/packaging-like-the-pros/9158223/","projectTitle":"Packaging Like The Pros","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Pierce","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7896976_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y84&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1625514651731","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7896976"},{"teacherId":8825673,"projectId":8173460,"letterContent":"I am thrilled to share with you the incredible impact your generous donations have made on our special education classroom. Your support has truly transformed our learning environment and opened up new possibilities for our students. Let me take you through some of the amazing changes we've experienced.\r\n\r\nWhen the supplies first arrived, the students' reactions were priceless. Their eyes lit up with excitement as they explored the new materials. One student, who often struggles with verbal expression, beamed with joy as he ran his fingers over the textured surfaces of our new math manipulatives. Another student, usually hesitant to participate, eagerly reached for the colorful Uni Japan Paint Markers, exclaiming, \"Can we use these today, please?\"\r\n\r\nWe've been putting these resources to great use in various projects. Recently, we used the Aizweb Giant Magnetic XY Coordinate Dry Erase Grids for a cross-curricular lesson combining math and art. Students plotted coordinates to create geometric shapes, then used the Uni Japan Paint Markers to transform these shapes into vibrant abstract art pieces. This hands-on approach not only reinforced mathematical concepts but also allowed for creative expression, resulting in increased engagement and reduced anxiety among our students.\r\n\r\nThe Texas Instruments calculators have been a game-changer for our more advanced students. We're currently working on a project where students are using these calculators to solve real-world problems, such as calculating discounts during a simulated shopping experience. This practical application of math skills has boosted their confidence and independence.\r\n\r\nOur chess sets have become a favorite during our social skills sessions. Students are learning strategic thinking, patience, and good sportsmanship. It's been heartwarming to see students who usually struggle with social interactions engage in friendly competition and even teach their peers new moves. In fact we are establishing a chess club which I will be in charge of for next year.\r\n\r\nThe art supplies, including the watercolor paints and various markers, have been instrumental in our emotional expression exercises. Students who find it challenging to verbalize their feelings are now creating beautiful artwork to communicate their emotions. This has led to improved self-awareness and better communication between students and staff.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we're excited about our upcoming projects. We're planning to use the chalkboard paint to create an interactive learning wall where students can practice math problems, write creative stories, or draw freely. This will provide a flexible, sensory-friendly space for various learning activities.\r\n\r\nWe're also developing a cultural awareness project inspired by the \"Island Wisdom\" and \"Shodo\" books. Students will explore Hawaiian traditions and Japanese calligraphy, promoting diversity awareness and fine motor skills development.\r\n\r\nYour donations have not only provided tangible resources but have also injected new energy and enthusiasm into our classroom. Students who previously showed reluctance to participate are now eager to engage in learning activities. We've seen improvements in focus, creativity, and social interactions.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our students and supporting their unique learning journeys. Your generosity has made a significant difference in their lives, helping them build skills, confidence, and a love for learning that will serve them well beyond the classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1707488665612,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-special-education-students-to/8173460/","projectTitle":"Empowering Special Education Students Towards High School Diploma Success","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Chesser","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8825673_orig.jpg?crop=716,716,x281,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1667436285213","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8825673"},{"teacherId":5614667,"projectId":9161324,"letterContent":"On behalf of my students and myself, I want to extend our big \"thank you\" for your generous contribution to our classroom project, \"See and Share Our Thinking.\" Your support has truly brought this vision to life, and we're already seeing the positive impact it's having on our learning environment.\r\n\r\nWhen my students first saw the large white boards and dry-erase markers, they immediately began to doodle in excitement. It was a heartwarming reminder that even in high school, the opportunity for visual expression and hands-on engagement sparks genuine excitement. \r\n\r\nAcademically, they've been using the whiteboards to brainstorm ideas in groups, map out complex concepts, and visually represent their problem-solving processes in English as we explore Hamlet. It's incredible to witness them actively engaging with each other's thinking in such a visible way, leading to richer discussions and deeper understanding.","fullyFundedDate":1742050248484,"projectUrl":"project/see-and-share-our-thinking/9161324/","projectTitle":"See and Share Our Thinking","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Yonemoto","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5614667_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1627810118629","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5614667"},{"teacherId":2945199,"projectId":9160687,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your donation. My students were thrilled to have the opportunity to have some classes outside interacting with the world. We had a great time measuring things around campus and then doing calculations in class. \r\n\r\nIn the past I have used string or borrowed tape measures from the construction teacher. It is so nice to just have my own class set, especially the 100ft ones. Having the ability to measure the sides of buildings and the lengths os sidewalks and railings really opens up the possibilities for my lessons. \r\nThank you again for your generosity,","fullyFundedDate":1741995488264,"projectUrl":"project/measuring-our-world/9160687/","projectTitle":"Measuring Our World","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Waters","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2945199"},{"teacherId":9342151,"projectId":9156288,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous donation of scientific sensors and scientific calculators to my classroom. My students are using the soil moisture sensor to run a small-scale greenhouse gas effect experiment that observes the effects of humidity on temperature. They will use the salinity probes to prepare various salt water solutions as well as analyze marine and environmental samples.\r\nThe class set of scientific calculators have come in handy when my students are working on practice problems as well as when they need it for quizzes and tests.","fullyFundedDate":1741809084758,"projectUrl":"project/sensors-for-science/9156288/","projectTitle":"Sensors for Science","teacherDisplayName":"Dr. Sakai-Kawada","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9342151"},{"teacherId":9813910,"projectId":8899434,"letterContent":"The students all thank you for the generous donation to our classroom. The amount of complaints of heat dwindled down thanks to the multiple fans that were donated. With the donation, they have been more comfortable in the classroom and I seen an increased focus and engagement due to having a comfortable learning environment.\r\n\r\nI hope that more classrooms with a similar situation get funded as well, so that the students and teachers can also see the difference a comfortable learning environment can do.","fullyFundedDate":1729988259988,"projectUrl":"project/warriors-want-to-be-cool-for-school/8899434/","projectTitle":"Warriors Want to be Cool for School","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Ayap","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9813910"},{"teacherId":8388092,"projectId":8887067,"letterContent":"Donors! Your gift: hi-hats, bass, ukes! Pure joy! Kids' eyes wide, instant engagement. Rhythm clicks, hands-on learning. Uke rack? Jam sessions bloom, sharing music, collaboration thrives. Bass grooves inspire, new depths explored, confidence grows. \"Rhythm Explorers\" project? A huge hit! Syncopated beats, pure creativity, each student found their rhythm. Next: blues riffs, band songs, diverse styles explored, from jazz to rock. You sparked music magic, ignited passion, built confidence, and created a lasting impact. Thank you for giving them the tools to dream big","fullyFundedDate":1729390773207,"projectUrl":"project/miscellaneous-music-supplies/8887067/","projectTitle":"Miscellaneous Music Supplies","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Mento","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8388092_orig.jpg?crop=320,320,x0,y2&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1661925760346","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8388092"},{"teacherId":9184653,"projectId":8881097,"letterContent":"We're no longer just reading for plot; we're delving into themes, analyzing characters' motivations, and exploring the author's purpose. Students are learning to ask thoughtful questions and support their interpretations with evidence from the text.\r\n\r\nStudents enthusiasm for reading is definitely improved. I've noticed many more quiet moments of focused reading, where students are completely absorbed in their books. \r\n\r\nThese are just a few examples of the many ways your generosity has impacted our students. You've not only provided books; you've opened doors to new worlds, sparked imaginations, and empowered our students to become lifelong learners.","fullyFundedDate":1729207962113,"projectUrl":"project/graphic-novels-for-a-classroom-library/8881097/","projectTitle":"Graphic Novels for a Classroom Library","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Morrison","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9184653"},{"teacherId":8825673,"projectId":6964268,"letterContent":"I am deeply grateful for your generous donation. As a first-year teacher working with students who have mild to moderate behavioral challenges, this year has been both rewarding and demanding. Your support has made an incredible difference in our classroom, and I'm excited to share the impact of your kindness.\r\n\r\nWhen the supplies arrived, my students' eyes lit up with excitement. They were particularly thrilled by the colorful Crayola markers and colored pencils. One student, who often struggles to engage in lessons, exclaimed, \"Miss, are these really for us?\" This simple moment of joy set the tone for how these materials would transform our learning environment.\r\n\r\nThe Unitek USB Charging Stations have been a game-changer for our classroom management. We now have a designated area for students to charge their devices, which has significantly reduced distractions and arguments over charging spots. This organized approach has helped students stay focused on their tasks and has even improved their responsibility in managing their devices.\r\n\r\nOur math lessons have been revolutionized by the EAI Education Jumbo Magnetic X-Y Coordinate Dry-Erase Grids. Recently, we used these grids for a hands-on geometry lesson. Students worked in pairs to plot points and create shapes, then calculate areas and perimeters. The size of the grids allowed for easy visibility, and students who usually struggle with abstract concepts were able to grasp the ideas more readily. One student who often exhibits challenging behavior due to frustration with math said, \"I can actually see it now. It makes sense!\"\r\n\r\nThe Texas Instruments calculators have been invaluable for our more advanced calculations. We've incorporated them into a financial literacy project where students are learning to budget, calculate interest, and plan for future expenses. This real-world application has increased engagement and reduced behavioral issues as students see the practical value of what they're learning.\r\n\r\nOur classroom discussions and collaborative work have improved dramatically with the use of the EXPO markers and whiteboards. Students are more willing to participate and share their ideas when they can easily erase and correct their work. This has fostered a more positive attitude towards making mistakes and learning from them.\r\n\r\nThe addition of games like Monopoly, The Game of Life, and UNO has provided excellent opportunities for social skills development and applied math practice. We use these during our Friday afternoon \"Math and Social Skills\" sessions, where students practice turn-taking, fair play, and mental math in a low-pressure environment.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we're planning to use the Essential Calculus Skills Practice Workbook to introduce some foundational concepts to our more advanced students. We're also developing a cross-curricular project that will utilize the art supplies, calculators, and graph paper to create scale models of our school and calculate areas for potential improvements.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has not only provided us with physical resources but has also opened up new possibilities for engaging, hands-on learning experiences. These materials have helped create a more structured, positive learning environment, which has notably reduced behavioral challenges and increased student engagement.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our classroom and investing in these students' futures. Your support has truly made a difference in how we learn and grow together every day.","fullyFundedDate":1668806601161,"projectUrl":"project/first-year-teacher-needs-to-set-up-clas/6964268/","projectTitle":"First Year Teacher, Needs to Set Up Classroom!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Chesser","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8825673_orig.jpg?crop=716,716,x281,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1667436285213","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8825673"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_44287","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":1183,"numTeachers":80,"percentFrplEligible":60,"percentAsian":20,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":9,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":23,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"9 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":"14.8:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"TOWN","ncesMetroType":"TOWN_REMOTE"},"inStateSupporters":56.2,"schoolId":44287,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Waiakea High School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Waiakea High School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/hawaii/hawaii-school-district/waiakea-high-school/44287"}