{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Waimea Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":46.5,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":7823652,"projectId":9564511,"letterContent":"I truly appreciate all the ways you have supported my classroom this school year. We are off to an amazing start. The students absolutely love the fish tank. We use this every morning for circle time and we also use it when we have independent computer time. They call them our class fish. \r\n\r\nThey have also enjoyed all the new additions to our calming corner. All of the sensory items have been amazing. They really love the light covers as well. It really gives use a sense of calm. The kids love the different options as well, especially the clouds since we learned about them in science this year. \r\n\r\nThe students were so excited to see our classroom transformed! They say \" this is the best classroom ever!\" Thank you for making this happen for us! Mahalo!","fullyFundedDate":1757548215006,"projectUrl":"project/calm-and-collective-classroom/9564511/","projectTitle":"Calm and Collective Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Southerland","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7823652"},{"teacherId":393541,"projectId":9439907,"letterContent":"My students have used the pattern blocks for our first day of school activity when they entered the classroom and got settled. Then we used it as an ice breaker/ getting to know you activity. Students really enjoyed being able to use the blocks to create different images. We will be using them again when we learn about fractions in the next month or two.\r\n I have used the double sided glue tape to glue in their weekly writing assignments in their notebooks. It has made it easier to get students booklets done each week. The brochure stand has been used to store our vocabulary four square sheets and our students shoutouts. This has made it easier for students and I to access these sheets. \r\nWe will continue to use these resources throughout the school year","fullyFundedDate":1752781297144,"projectUrl":"project/starting-the-school-year-right/9439907/","projectTitle":"Starting the School Year Right!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Carvalho","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/393541"},{"teacherId":393541,"projectId":9153518,"letterContent":"My students and I have used most of these resources since the start of the school year. We have should the pattern blocks for our soft start at the beginning of the school year and as part of a getting to know you activity. My students enjoyed using the pattern blocks to create different images and use it as an ice breaker activity to share out. We also use the folders and composition books for our content area work. The folders hold worksheets for work what we have done and the composition books are used as our vocabulary booklet. Students place vocabulary sheets in it to store the vocabulary words we learn in both reading and math. They enjoy using the half composition books for this.\r\n The snacks of been given to students when they don't have a snack and are hungry in the morning time before lunch. They love the cheddar favorite popcorn the most. I have used the stickers and eraser as an incentive to motivate students to improve in class and as a prize for our weekly homework raffle ticket incentive. They are excited and look forward to Fridays for the raffle tickets and to see if they will be picked.\r\n I will soon be using the sharpies for our Thanksgiving activity related to the story Balloons over Broadway. Students will use the sharpies to create a image on foil. Then I will laminate their foil and turn it into a balloon for students to have it for our own balloons over broadway parade just before Thanksgiving.","fullyFundedDate":1741964498646,"projectUrl":"project/materials-for-all-learning/9153518/","projectTitle":"Materials for All Learning!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Carvalho","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/393541"},{"teacherId":3814946,"projectId":9772581,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for transforming our math intervention classroom, which serves small groups of second through fifth graders! These math games have led to concrete exploration of difficult math concepts. Because these materials are so versatile, they allow us to address the diverse needs of our multi-grade learners simultaneously. We are currently utilizing the Math Games to practice these newly acquired skills, allowing students at every level to internalize basic facts and operational fluency in a low-stress, fun environment.\r\n\r\nThe next steps for our intervention groups involve applying this conceptual understanding to achieve mastery using the new Fluency Texts and Activities. Now that they can see why the math works, we are focused on building speed and efficiency tailored to their individual skill gaps. We are setting up a \"Fluency Challenge\" where students across the grades will use the varied, engaging practice materials you funded to confidently recall the facts critical to their level. This will solidify the strong mathematical foundation they need for all future success, and we couldn't have done it without your incredible generosity. Thank you for giving these diverse students the confidence to call themselves mathematicians!","fullyFundedDate":1759202956386,"projectUrl":"project/make-math-moments-that-count/9772581/","projectTitle":"Make Math Moments that Count","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Raz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3814946_orig.jpg?crop=328,328,x27,y69&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1646607267462","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/missraz"},{"teacherId":10106045,"projectId":9524403,"letterContent":"I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for your generous support in helping fund new chairs for our classroom. Your contribution has had an immediate and meaningful impact on our students' daily learning experience.\r\n\r\nBefore the upgrade, many of our chairs were worn and uncomfortable, which made it difficult for students to stay focused during lessons and group work. Thanks to your generosity, our classroom now has sturdy, comfortable, and flexible seating that truly supports student engagement and collaboration.\r\n\r\nThe difference has been remarkable—students settle into lessons more quickly, stay attentive longer, and take greater pride in their learning environment. Several have even commented on how much more comfortable and \"grown-up\" the classroom feels. It's amazing how something as simple as a new chair can boost both morale and motivation.\r\n\r\nYour kindness has not only improved our physical classroom space but also reminded our students that their education is valued and supported by our community. Thank you for helping create a positive and inspiring place to learn.","fullyFundedDate":1757548214896,"projectUrl":"project/new-chairs-will-enhance-our-learning-in/9524403/","projectTitle":"New Chairs Will Enhance Our Learning in Our Classroom!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Seo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10106045_orig.jpg?crop=3456,3456,x0,y80&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754034822370","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10106045"},{"teacherId":10106045,"projectId":9524324,"letterContent":"I want to extend my heartfelt thanks for your generous contribution to our classroom library refresh. Your support has made it possible to bring new, engaging, and diverse books into our students' hands—stories that inspire curiosity, empathy, and a lifelong love of reading.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, our shelves are now filled with books that better reflect our students' interests and the world around them. Already, I've seen the excitement on their faces as they discover new titles and share recommendations with one another. It's wonderful to witness how a refreshed library can reignite a passion for learning and imagination.\r\n\r\nThank you again for investing in our students and for recognizing the power of books to shape young minds. Your kindness will have a lasting impact on our classroom community.","fullyFundedDate":1755454467734,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-library-refresh/9524324/","projectTitle":"Classroom Library REFRESH","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Seo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10106045_orig.jpg?crop=3456,3456,x0,y80&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754034822370","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10106045"},{"teacherId":7714877,"projectId":9502161,"letterContent":"Everyday we feel the impact of your generous donation at our school. Students who come to school without a breakfast or a snack are benefiting from the food we now have to distribute. The water bottles and stickers have been a big hit with our students who are in need of a replacement water bottle. These all contribute to the well-being of some of our most vulnerable students. \r\nWe are so thankful for people such as you who have brightened the lives and ease the burden on the families of our students by providing some of the essentials that our students need to thrive.\r\n\r\nThank you for making a significant difference in the lives of our precious children.","fullyFundedDate":1754334359251,"projectUrl":"project/fueled-for-school/9502161/","projectTitle":"Fueled For School","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Cristy","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7714877_orig.jpg?crop=439,439,x74,y12&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1647034175434","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-athan"},{"teacherId":7567942,"projectId":8886472,"letterContent":"The class set of abaci had a tremendous impact on my students' fear of math. About 50% of the class is approaching grade level math. This includes about 25% who are performing math at first grade and Kindergarten levels. The lower students are the children to whom these abaci were primarily targeted, but that did not stop the entire class from enjoying their new way of counting and calculating. \r\n\r\n Because the abacus has beads that move and make noise, the entire class thought that they were toys, so engagement was high. They were surprised to learn of the abacus' ancient origins. At least one student in the class already knew how to operate the abacus, so she became my helper in implementing this project. Slowly, a few more students were able to help their peers with understanding the instrument.\r\n\r\n\tI was able to work with the students to learn a new, albeit ancient, way to count, add, and subtract within ten and one hundred. Like most third-graders, they love to manipulate the beads and reset button to hear the sounds they can make. It had quite the calming effect for my fidgety bunch of curious learners. The project is ongoing, however, so that the students maintain their newly found skill using the abacus and begin to internalize the movements for future endeavors in mental math. As they become more skilled, their stress levels and fear of math diminish.","fullyFundedDate":1729435018296,"projectUrl":"project/abaci-to-calm-their-minds/8886472/","projectTitle":"Abaci to Calm their Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jones","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7567942"},{"teacherId":9552222,"projectId":9701848,"letterContent":"Mahalo for your incredible generosity and support of our classroom! The materials you helped provide have made a lasting difference for my students, especially those with special needs, by giving them hands-on opportunities to learn, create, and grow.\r\nThe impact has been felt in so many ways:\r\n\r\nWhen we learned about different cultures, students loved making dreamcatchers. It was a meaningful and creative project that sparked both curiosity and pride in their work.\r\n\r\nOur new class pets—fish—have brought a sense of calm and comfort to the classroom. Students enjoy caring for them, and their presence creates a welcoming, peaceful environment.\r\n\r\nOn rainy days, the indoor recess games were a lifesaver! They gave students a fun way to stay engaged, connected, and active even when we couldn't go outside.\r\n\r\nThe adjustable table has been a wonderful alternative for students who need to move but still stay focused. Having flexible seating has truly helped students regulate themselves while remaining engaged in their learning.\r\n\r\nThe classroom clock and magnetic anchor rods have also been a great addition, helping us stay organized and keep our routines smooth and structured.\r\nBecause of your kindness, my students are not only learning core skills but also developing creativity, responsibility, and self-regulation. You've given them tools that help them feel successful, supported, and excited to come to school every day.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students and helping create a space where every child can thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1757861593889,"projectUrl":"project/tools-for-thinkers-makers-and-movers/9701848/","projectTitle":"Tools for Thinkers, Makers, and Movers","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lani","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9552222_orig.jpg?crop=1977,1977,x0,y65&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1716159693855","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-laniormsby"},{"teacherId":9552222,"projectId":9497741,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our sensory room has become a safe and supportive space for my special needs students to grow, regulate, and connect. The materials you helped provide have already made a remarkable difference in our classroom.\r\n\r\nThe punching bag has given students a positive outlet when they're feeling frustrated or anxious. Having the gloves means they can release that energy safely, without hurting their hands. This tool has been an incredible resource for emotional regulation, allowing students to return to learning calm and focused.\r\n\r\nOur basketball breaks have quickly become a favorite. When the class stays on task, we take 5 minutes to shoot hoops. These small moments encourage teamwork, communication, and joy. Students cheer each other on, celebrate successes, and feel more connected as a group. It's amazing to watch how something so simple can foster such a strong sense of belonging.\r\n\r\nYour support has truly enriched our classroom environment. Because of you, my students not only have tools to manage their emotions but also opportunities to build confidence, strengthen relationships, and experience success in and out of the classroom.\r\n\r\nMahalo for believing in them and for making this impact possible.","fullyFundedDate":1755710208085,"projectUrl":"project/strong-bodies-and-calm-minds-sensory-ro/9497741/","projectTitle":"Strong Bodies and Calm Minds: Sensory Room for Special Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lani","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9552222_orig.jpg?crop=1977,1977,x0,y65&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1716159693855","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-laniormsby"},{"teacherId":3814946,"projectId":9698393,"letterContent":"I am absolutely thrilled to share an update with you from our classroom, all thanks to your generous support of our project, \"A 'Groovy' Way to Master Handwriting!\"\r\n\r\nThe day the books arrived was pure excitement. When my students first saw the grooved workbooks and the special pens, they gasped. They thought the disappearing ink was real magic! They immediately dove in, loving how the pre-cut lines guided their hands. For many of my young learners, the process of forming letters can be frustrating, but these books instantly turned practice into a low-stress, reusable game. Their excitement made this essential foundational skill feel like a reward, not a chore.\r\n\r\nNow that our students are gaining control over their pencil grips and mastering basic letter and number formation in the grooved books, we are ready for the next step which is independent writing.\r\n\r\nThank you for being a champion of early education. You didn't just donate books, you gave my students the confidence and the skills to become successful writers.","fullyFundedDate":1757548216548,"projectUrl":"project/a-groovy-way-to-master-handwriting/9698393/","projectTitle":"A \"Groovy\" Way to Master Handwriting!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Raz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3814946_orig.jpg?crop=328,328,x27,y69&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1646607267462","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/missraz"},{"teacherId":9552222,"projectId":9454758,"letterContent":"This year, I have many students with autism and sensory students in my classroom, and your generosity has made an immediate difference for them.\r\n\r\nThe painter's tape has been an incredible support for my autistic students. On their twin desks, a simple line of blue tape down the center creates a clear visual boundary, helping them stay mindful of their space and avoid conflict with classmates. We've also used the tape on the classroom floor to mark a safe \"movement zone.\" This gives students the freedom to stand or move around without disturbing others, turning what could be seen as disruptive into a positive, self-regulating strategy.\r\n\r\nThe kinetic sand has been a huge hit with my sensory seekers. They are drawn to the texture, the movement, and the calming feel of it in their hands. It's become a powerful tool to help students reset, refocus, and feel calm enough to re-engage in learning.\r\n\r\nAs a special education teacher, I juggle data tracking, IEP meetings, notes, and reminders daily. The planner you provided has been a game-changer in helping me stay organized and focused so I can better meet the needs of every student in my room.\r\n\r\nThank you for making these small but mighty tools possible. Because of your support, my students have the structure, sensory outlets, and learning environment they need to succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1752781297561,"projectUrl":"project/sand-tape-and-teacher-plansoh-my/9454758/","projectTitle":"Sand, Tape, and Teacher Plans—Oh My!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lani","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9552222_orig.jpg?crop=1977,1977,x0,y65&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1716159693855","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-laniormsby"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_50787","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":474,"numTeachers":34,"percentFrplEligible":60,"percentAsian":9,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":6,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":20,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"13.9:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"RURAL","ncesMetroType":"RURAL_DISTANT"},"inStateSupporters":53.5,"schoolId":50787,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Waimea Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Waimea Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/hawaii/hawaii-school-district/waimea-elementary-school/50787"}
Join the 357 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Waimea Elementary School is
a rural public school
in Kamuela, Hawaii that is part of Hawaii School District.
It serves 474 students
in grades Pre-K - 5 with a student/teacher ratio of 13.9:1.
Its teachers have had 399 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. Each classroom request for funding was created by a classroom teacher and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
of students receive free or reduced price lunch
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
Source: the National Center for Education Statistics
29%
of students are Black, Latino, Native
American, or Asian
Data about school demographics comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. The numbers in this chart may not add up to 100% because of limitations in the available data.
Waimea Elementary School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Dec 5, 2025
DonorsChoose makes it easy for anyone to help a teacher in need, moving us closer to a nation where students
in every community have the tools and experiences they need for a great education.
Waimea Elementary School
$317,319
raised using DonorsChoose
399
projects
funded
58
teachers
funded
357
donors
39
projects
for
basic supplies
46
projects for
technology
35
projects for
books
31
projects
for
art supplies
Waimea Elementary School has received support from
191 individuals from Hawaii and
166 individuals out-of-state.