{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Waiakea Intermediate School","outOfStateSupporters":40.6,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":7934912,"projectId":10109114,"letterContent":"Our students were excited when the record player and capsule machine arrived. The record player became an instant favorite, as many students had never seen one before. They enjoyed listening to music and watching the record spin, which sparked conversations about music and technology. The capsule machine has been a fun incentive for positive behavior, effort, and participation. Students especially enjoyed trading stickers and small prizes, giving them opportunities to practice sharing and social skills.\r\n\r\nOne memorable moment was seeing students gather around the record player, completely fascinated by how it worked. Their excitement and curiosity made the listening experience even more meaningful.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, we will continue using the record player to explore different styles of music and strengthen listening skills. The capsule machine will remain part of our positive classroom culture, helping motivate students while celebrating their achievements. Mahalo for helping create these engaging experiences for our students!","fullyFundedDate":1771719349107,"projectUrl":"project/vinyl-values-and-victory-capsules/10109114/","projectTitle":"Vinyl, Values, and Victory Capsules!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Sato","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7934912_orig.jpg?crop=2320,2320,x0,y765&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1627962987167","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7934912"},{"teacherId":9656251,"projectId":10072885,"letterContent":"As a science teacher, implementing Building Thinking Classrooms (BTC) completely flipped my room upside down in the best way possible, and honestly, the whiteboards were the absolute game-changer. Before I put them up on the walls, trying to get my students to take risks with tough physics or chemistry problems felt like pulling teeth. Paper just felt way too permanent to them, and nobody wanted to look wrong. But the second I handed them dry-erase markers and told them to stand up, everything changed. Because whiteboards are so easy to erase, that fear of making a mistake just evaporated. Suddenly, kids who used to just sit there silently were up on their feet, excitedly sketching out molecular structures, arguing over math steps, and throwing ideas at the wall to see what stuck. The energy in the room went through the roof.\r\n\r\nThe whiteboards also completely changed how I teach on a daily basis. Since everyone is working vertically, I don't have to awkwardly hover over desks trying to peek at notebooks anymore; I can literally just look around the room and see exactly what everyone is thinking in real time. If a group is totally stuck on balancing a chemical equation, I can spot it from across the room and step in right away. Plus, it's been amazing for teamwork. When one group hits a wall while modeling an ecosystem, they can just look over at another group's board to get a hint or spark a new idea. For my classes, these whiteboards didn't just replace paper—they broke down walls and turned my classroom into a place where my students are finally acting like real, messy, collaborative scientists.","fullyFundedDate":1771784329826,"projectUrl":"project/get-up-and-move-using-btc-in-life-scie/10072885/","projectTitle":"Get Up and Move! Using BTC in Life Science","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Kelsie","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9656251"},{"teacherId":8824902,"projectId":10294767,"letterContent":"Our DonorsChoose project for nourishing snacks has made a meaningful difference for my 8th grade special education students each day in the classroom. Many of my students come to school carrying challenges that can make it difficult to focus, regulate emotions, and fully participate in learning activities. Having access to healthy snacks has helped create a calmer, more supportive learning environment where students feel cared for and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nWe use the snacks throughout the school day, especially during times when students begin to lose focus or become overwhelmed. One specific moment that stood out was during a small-group reading activity. Students were working together to analyze a short story, and after having a snack break, I noticed much stronger participation and engagement. Students who often struggle to stay focused were able to remain involved in the discussion, answer questions thoughtfully, and collaborate positively with their peers. The snacks have become more than just food — they are a tool that helps students reset, refocus, and feel successful.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the snacks, they were genuinely excited and grateful. Several students immediately asked where the snacks came from, and when I explained that generous donors wanted to support our classroom, they were touched. One student said, \"People really care about us?\" That moment reminded me how important these acts of kindness are for students who sometimes feel overlooked. The snacks have helped students feel valued, supported, and more comfortable at school.\r\n\r\nThe next steps for our students involve continuing to build both academic and social-emotional skills in the classroom. With fewer distractions caused by hunger, students are better able to participate in group projects, reading interventions, and hands-on learning activities. We are currently working on collaborative classroom projects that encourage communication, problem-solving, and independence. The nourishing snacks continue to support students as they develop confidence, strengthen peer relationships, and stay engaged in their learning every day.","fullyFundedDate":1779083695899,"projectUrl":"project/nourishment-that-helps-children-succeed/10294767/","projectTitle":"Nourishment That Helps Children Succeed","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Todd","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8824902_orig.jpg?crop=946,946,x624,y644&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1773871413106","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/kumu-todd"},{"teacherId":5563949,"projectId":10105436,"letterContent":"I am writing to express my gratitude for your generous support of our project, \"Movement Options for Behavior Classroom.\" When the boxes arrived in our classroom, the students were excited to open them and see the colorful variety of fidget tools and sensory items inside.\r\n\r\nEvery child learns differently, and for many of my students, sitting still and maintaining attention for extended lessons can be downright impossible. These new fidget items—including calming strips to stick to their computers, galaxy slime, and mini stress balls —have helped the learning environment. Instead of feeling restless or overwhelmed, my students now have quiet, productive outlets for their energy.\r\n\r\nI have already noticed a meaningful difference in our daily routine. During independent focused work time and/or when teachers are giving verbal directions, students are using their chosen fidget tools to anchor their attention. These tools have successfully reduced classroom anxiety, improved overall concentration, and given my students the physical support they need to succeed academically and socially.\r\n\r\nMany mahalo to our donors for caring so deeply about our students that projects such as these are automatically funded. Your trust and dedication to teachers and their understanding of what students need is commendable. Thank you for providing funding that helps students to reach their full potential. \r\n\r\nMe ke aloha a mahalo nui,\r\n(With appreciation and great gratitude)\r\nKumu Maile Nihipali\r\nMiddle School Behavior SPED; Waiakea Intermediate School","fullyFundedDate":1771634714552,"projectUrl":"project/movement-options-for-behavior-classroom/10105436/","projectTitle":"Movement Options for Behavior Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Kumu Maile","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5563949"},{"teacherId":10337357,"projectId":9868859,"letterContent":"Thanks to this project, the new TV will make a noticeable difference in our history classroom. It will allow us to bring lessons to life by showing videos, primary source documents, maps, and historical reenactments in a clear and engaging way. Students are much more attentive and connected to the content when they can see and visualize what we are learning about, rather than only reading or listening.\r\n\r\nWhat excites students most is the ability to experience history in a more interactive and visual way. Whether it's analyzing footage from key historical events or exploring virtual museum exhibits, the TV helps make abstract concepts feel real and relevant. Lessons feel more dynamic, and students are more willing to participate in discussions afterward.\r\n\r\nI've also noticed that students who typically struggle with reading-heavy content or have difficulty staying engaged are especially benefiting from the visual support. These students are more confident contributing to class conversations because the technology helps them access the material in a different, more approachable way. Overall, the new TV has created a more inclusive and engaging learning environment for all students.","fullyFundedDate":1769177439541,"projectUrl":"project/bringing-history-to-life-a-tv-for-engag/9868859/","projectTitle":"Bringing History to Life: a TV for Engaging Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Marote","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10337357"},{"teacherId":7946213,"projectId":10111395,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous donation to fund a TV for the classroom. This technology will allow students to will make a meaningful difference in my students' learning experience. The new television will allow us to enhance lessons with educational videos, interactive presentations, , and collaborative activities that engage students in exciting ways. Access to this technology helps create a more dynamic and inclusive classroom environment where all students can learn and grow. \r\n\r\nCurrently students are sewing. How-to videos are displayed and help with their understanding of how to create a lanyard or pencil case that students are proud to manufacture. Students are thankful that the videos can be seen from all parts of the room and students use this technology to help them learn. Next school year and years to come, my students will be able to view cooking video presentations and class activities that will be engaging for all learners.","fullyFundedDate":1771784278644,"projectUrl":"project/tv-for-a-brighter-future/10111395/","projectTitle":"TV for a Brighter Future","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Estrella","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7946213"},{"teacherId":2689760,"projectId":10104879,"letterContent":"Thank you very muchfor making this project possible. This glow in the dark golf event is a great oppurtiunity for our school to include not only our students and staff but the community as a whole. The even was so succesful this year that we will be making it an annual event. The holes were created by different teachers and clubs at our school and were set up by students. On the event night the everything was student led. The feedback was all positive. It is events like this that make school not only fun and memorable but also part of the community. This was made possible due to hard work and donations from you. We thank you.","fullyFundedDate":1771558381022,"projectUrl":"project/glow-in-the-dark-golf-event/10104879/","projectTitle":"Glow in the Dark Golf Event","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Moreau","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mr-moreau"},{"teacherId":8824902,"projectId":10242673,"letterContent":"The calculators help my students access grade-level math content with greater confidence and independence. Many of my students struggle with basic computation, which can make higher-level problem solving feel overwhelming. By using calculators as a support tool, students are able to focus on understanding math concepts, applying strategies, and building critical thinking skills instead of becoming frustrated by calculations alone. This technology helps remove barriers to learning and allows students to participate more fully in classroom activities and discussions.\r\n\r\nMy students are especially excited about having tools that help them feel successful and capable in the classroom. The calculators give them immediate support and reduce anxiety during math lessons, which makes them more willing to participate and try challenging problems. The art supplies are equally exciting because they provide opportunities for creativity, self-expression, and hands-on learning. Many students light up when they are able to show their understanding through art and creative projects rather than only traditional written assignments.\r\n\r\nSeveral of my students have already shown increased confidence and engagement when using supportive tools like calculators and creative materials. One student who often became discouraged during math activities is now more willing to attempt multi-step problems because the calculator helps reduce frustration. Other students who struggle to express themselves verbally or in writing have especially connected with the art materials, using creative projects to communicate ideas, emotions, and understanding in meaningful ways. These resources help students feel included, capable, and motivated to learn.","fullyFundedDate":1778644500719,"projectUrl":"project/math-meets-masterpieces-equipping-creat/10242673/","projectTitle":"Math Meets Masterpieces: Equipping Creative Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Todd","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8824902_orig.jpg?crop=946,946,x624,y644&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1773871413106","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/kumu-todd"},{"teacherId":9607598,"projectId":10103615,"letterContent":"Through your generous donation, I am able to provide standing classrooms for my students. Movement is such an integral part to learning research has found. By having standing classrooms, I can incorporate movement into my learning opportunities. My students are more engaged as a result.\r\n\r\nThank you also for providing snacks for my students who come from high poverty homes. Many of my students rely on our school provided food for their meals, and through your donations, I am able to supplement their food with snacks they can eat at recess. Snacking is a social part of school, and my students \"fit in\" with their peers when they hsve snacks to eat.\r\n\r\nThank you from the bottom of my heart for all that you have donated to improve the lives of my students.","fullyFundedDate":1771447022075,"projectUrl":"project/mrs-jos-creative-classroom/10103615/","projectTitle":"Mrs. Jo's Creative Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Jo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9607598"},{"teacherId":8824902,"projectId":10128369,"letterContent":"Your generosity has made a meaningful and lasting impact on our classroom in a very important way. The new file cabinet is now being used to securely store IEP-related documents and other confidential student records, helping us maintain an organized, safe, and compliant learning environment.\r\n\r\nBefore having this dedicated space, managing sensitive paperwork was more challenging and time-consuming. Now, all documents are clearly organized and easily accessible when needed for planning, meetings, and providing targeted support. This has allowed me to spend less time managing paperwork and more time focusing directly on student needs.\r\n\r\nWhile students may not access the cabinet themselves, they benefit from it every day. Having well-organized IEP materials means I can quickly reference accommodations, track progress, and ensure each student is receiving the support they need. This has already made a difference during lesson planning and small-group instruction, where I can be more intentional and responsive.\r\n\r\nWhen the cabinet arrived, I felt an immediate sense of relief knowing that I now have a secure and reliable system in place. It has brought a new level of professionalism and care to how we manage important information in our classroom.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, this organization system will continue to support IEP meetings, progress monitoring, and collaboration with specialists and families. It allows me to stay proactive and focused on helping each student grow and succeed.\r\nThank you for supporting not just our classroom, but the systems that ensure every student receives the individualized attention and care they deserve.","fullyFundedDate":1776173939247,"projectUrl":"project/securing-success-lockable-storage-for-s/10128369/","projectTitle":"Securing Success: Lockable Storage for Student Confidentiality","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Todd","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8824902_orig.jpg?crop=946,946,x624,y644&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1773871413106","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/kumu-todd"},{"teacherId":2683011,"projectId":10110401,"letterContent":"Here is an update you can share with your donors that brings the impact of their gift to life:\r\n\r\nWhen my students first walked into the gym and saw the walls filled with 1'X1' mirrors securely mounted to the wall, their jaws completely dropped. One student literally gasped and said, \"Wait, are we in a real fitness studio now?\" They were so incredibly excited and immediately started testing out by lifting weight in front of the glass. \r\n\r\nWe are currently in the middle of our \"Rhythm and Movement\" unit, and these resources have completely revolutionized how I teach it. Last week, I was teaching a complex step-aerobics routine. In the past, students in the back row would get lost or frustrated because they couldn't hear me over the music or see my footwork.\r\n\r\nThis time, using the Bietrun wireless microphone, I was able to walk around the room, gently correcting form while giving verbal cues that everyone could hear perfectly. We used the blue painter's tape to mark out grid spaces on the floor so everyone had a safe, designated movement zone. The most magical moment was watching a student who normally hides in the back of the class step right up to one of the new mirrors. \r\n\r\n\r\nAs a culminating project for this unit, I have the students video tape their lifts for the bench press, Lat pull down, cable rope pull downs, biceps curls, shoulder press, lunges, and crunches. The next step is for them to use the \"mirror wall\" to practice their synchronization and spacing. They are also using the blue painter's tape to map out their group formations on the floor. In two weeks, they will perform these lifts for the rest of the class. Finally they will use their laptops to video tape their lifts.\r\n\r\n Thanks to the steady supply of batteries you provided, our mic and speaker system will be fully charged and ready for me to enthusiastically MC their final performances!\r\n\r\nThank you again for bringing this level of joy, safety, and professionalism into our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1771769796477,"projectUrl":"project/the-safe-sound-weight-room-project/10110401/","projectTitle":"The Safe & Sound Weight Room Project","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Gancinia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2683011_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1674089783447","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2683011"},{"teacherId":8824902,"projectId":10135853,"letterContent":"Having a colored printer allows me to create engaging visual aids that enhance my students' learning experience. By incorporating color into materials such as charts, diagrams, and handouts, I can highlight key concepts, organize information more clearly, and make lessons more visually appealing. This not only helps capture students' attention but also supports different learning styles, especially for those who benefit from visual cues. As a result, my classroom becomes more interactive and effective, enabling students to better understand and retain the material being taught.\r\nMy students are excited to be able to print their projects in color, which makes their work feel more vibrant and meaningful. It motivates them to put in extra effort because they know their final product will look polished and engaging. Color printing also allows them to better express their ideas and highlight important information. This is especially helpful for visual learners who benefit from colorful images and organized layouts. Overall, having access to color printing increases their creativity, confidence, and enthusiasm for learning. \r\n\r\nMy artistic and creative students are especially warmed to having a colored printer and having the chance to print their projects in color.","fullyFundedDate":1773979651629,"projectUrl":"project/seeing-is-believing-visual-tools-for-di/10135853/","projectTitle":"Seeing is Believing: Visual Tools for Diverse Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Todd","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8824902_orig.jpg?crop=946,946,x624,y644&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1773871413106","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/kumu-todd"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_50785","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":857,"numTeachers":56,"percentFrplEligible":51,"percentAsian":17,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":4,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":25,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":26,"percentMultiracialImputed":24,"gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"15.3:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"TOWN","ncesMetroType":"TOWN_REMOTE"},"inStateSupporters":59.4,"schoolId":50785,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Waiakea Intermediate School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Waiakea Intermediate School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/hawaii/hawaii-school-district/waiakea-intermediate-school/50785"}