{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Westside Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":39.5,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":7351470,"projectId":9372548,"letterContent":"The classroom supplies donated to my students have had a remarkable and lasting impact on their learning and overall school experience. Each contribution has allowed me to create an environment where students feel supported, engaged, and motivated to succeed. What might seem like simple supplies—pencils, notebooks, markers, or organizers—actually serve as powerful tools that open the door to greater confidence, creativity, and academic growth.\r\n\r\nOne of the most significant benefits of donated supplies is the ability to ensure every student has what they need to participate fully in class. Many families face financial challenges that make it difficult to provide their children with all the recommended materials. Because of donations, my students never have to feel embarrassed about not having a pencil, notebook, or glue stick. Instead, they can focus on learning, knowing the materials they need will be available. This creates a classroom culture where all students begin on equal footing, no matter their circumstances.\r\n\r\nSupplies have also played an essential role in building an engaging learning environment. Highlighters, chart paper, dry-erase markers, and sticky notes make lessons interactive and hands-on. Students use these tools to track main ideas in reading, solve math problems collaboratively, and brainstorm in small groups. These resources encourage active participation and allow students to express their ideas in multiple ways. Something as simple as having their own dry-erase board has turned routine practice into a fun, motivating experience.\r\n\r\nThe impact of supplies extends into student creativity as well. Art materials, colored pencils, and construction paper allow students to demonstrate understanding in projects and presentations. When studying Virginia history, for example, students designed posters, maps, and models that brought content to life. Having access to these supplies not only deepened their understanding of the subject matter but also gave them pride in their work. Students often ask if they can take their projects home to share with their families—a clear sign that supplies inspire both engagement and ownership of learning.\r\n\r\nBasic classroom supplies have also supported organization and responsibility. Binders, folders, and storage bins help students keep track of assignments and materials, building independence and structure. For many children, staying organized is a challenge, but with the right tools, they are learning how to manage their work and take pride in their progress. These skills will serve them long beyond fourth grade.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, donated supplies send a powerful message: that others believe in my students. Knowing their classroom is equipped with what they need reinforces the idea that their education matters and that their community cares about them. This encouragement motivates students to work harder, show kindness, and value the opportunities provided to them.","fullyFundedDate":1748087184152,"projectUrl":"project/bare-necessities/9372548/","projectTitle":"Bare Necessities","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Reed","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7351470_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1695331242002","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7351470"},{"teacherId":7351470,"projectId":9370548,"letterContent":"The classroom supplies donated to my students have had a remarkable and lasting impact on their learning and overall school experience. Each contribution has allowed me to create an environment where students feel supported, engaged, and motivated to succeed. What might seem like simple supplies—pencils, notebooks, markers, or organizers—actually serve as powerful tools that open the door to greater confidence, creativity, and academic growth.\r\n\r\nOne of the most significant benefits of donated supplies is the ability to ensure every student has what they need to participate fully in class. Many families face financial challenges that make it difficult to provide their children with all the recommended materials. Because of donations, my students never have to feel embarrassed about not having a pencil, notebook, or glue stick. Instead, they can focus on learning, knowing the materials they need will be available. This creates a classroom culture where all students begin on equal footing, no matter their circumstances.\r\n\r\nSupplies have also played an essential role in building an engaging learning environment. Highlighters, chart paper, dry-erase markers, and sticky notes make lessons interactive and hands-on. Students use these tools to track main ideas in reading, solve math problems collaboratively, and brainstorm in small groups. These resources encourage active participation and allow students to express their ideas in multiple ways. Something as simple as having their own dry-erase board has turned routine practice into a fun, motivating experience.\r\n\r\nThe impact of supplies extends into student creativity as well. Art materials, colored pencils, and construction paper allow students to demonstrate understanding in projects and presentations. When studying Virginia history, for example, students designed posters, maps, and models that brought content to life. Having access to these supplies not only deepened their understanding of the subject matter but also gave them pride in their work. Students often ask if they can take their projects home to share with their families—a clear sign that supplies inspire both engagement and ownership of learning.\r\n\r\nBasic classroom supplies have also supported organization and responsibility. Binders, folders, and storage bins help students keep track of assignments and materials, building independence and structure. For many children, staying organized is a challenge, but with the right tools, they are learning how to manage their work and take pride in their progress. These skills will serve them long beyond fourth grade.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, donated supplies send a powerful message: that others believe in my students. Knowing their classroom is equipped with what they need reinforces the idea that their education matters and that their community cares about them. This encouragement motivates students to work harder, show kindness, and value the opportunities provided to them.","fullyFundedDate":1747855677171,"projectUrl":"project/diverse-classroom/9370548/","projectTitle":"Diverse Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Reed","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7351470_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1695331242002","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7351470"},{"teacherId":7351470,"projectId":9333535,"letterContent":"The classroom supplies donated to my students have had a remarkable and lasting impact on their learning and overall school experience. Each contribution has allowed me to create an environment where students feel supported, engaged, and motivated to succeed. What might seem like simple supplies—pencils, notebooks, markers, or organizers—actually serve as powerful tools that open the door to greater confidence, creativity, and academic growth.\r\n\r\nOne of the most significant benefits of donated supplies is the ability to ensure every student has what they need to participate fully in class. Many families face financial challenges that make it difficult to provide their children with all the recommended materials. Because of donations, my students never have to feel embarrassed about not having a pencil, notebook, or glue stick. Instead, they can focus on learning, knowing the materials they need will be available. This creates a classroom culture where all students begin on equal footing, no matter their circumstances.\r\n\r\nSupplies have also played an essential role in building an engaging learning environment. Highlighters, chart paper, dry-erase markers, and sticky notes make lessons interactive and hands-on. Students use these tools to track main ideas in reading, solve math problems collaboratively, and brainstorm in small groups. These resources encourage active participation and allow students to express their ideas in multiple ways. Something as simple as having their own dry-erase board has turned routine practice into a fun, motivating experience.\r\n\r\nThe impact of supplies extends into student creativity as well. Art materials, colored pencils, and construction paper allow students to demonstrate understanding in projects and presentations. When studying Virginia history, for example, students designed posters, maps, and models that brought content to life. Having access to these supplies not only deepened their understanding of the subject matter but also gave them pride in their work. Students often ask if they can take their projects home to share with their families—a clear sign that supplies inspire both engagement and ownership of learning.\r\n\r\nBasic classroom supplies have also supported organization and responsibility. Binders, folders, and storage bins help students keep track of assignments and materials, building independence and structure. For many children, staying organized is a challenge, but with the right tools, they are learning how to manage their work and take pride in their progress. These skills will serve them long beyond fourth grade.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, donated supplies send a powerful message: that others believe in my students. Knowing their classroom is equipped with what they need reinforces the idea that their education matters and that their community cares about them. This encouragement motivates students to work harder, show kindness, and value the opportunities provided to them.","fullyFundedDate":1747786296935,"projectUrl":"project/2025-incoming/9333535/","projectTitle":"2025 Incoming…","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Reed","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7351470_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1695331242002","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7351470"},{"teacherId":7351470,"projectId":9282976,"letterContent":"The classroom supplies donated to my students have had a remarkable and lasting impact on their learning and overall school experience. Each contribution has allowed me to create an environment where students feel supported, engaged, and motivated to succeed. What might seem like simple supplies—pencils, notebooks, markers, or organizers—actually serve as powerful tools that open the door to greater confidence, creativity, and academic growth.\r\n\r\nOne of the most significant benefits of donated supplies is the ability to ensure every student has what they need to participate fully in class. Many families face financial challenges that make it difficult to provide their children with all the recommended materials. Because of donations, my students never have to feel embarrassed about not having a pencil, notebook, or glue stick. Instead, they can focus on learning, knowing the materials they need will be available. This creates a classroom culture where all students begin on equal footing, no matter their circumstances.\r\n\r\nSupplies have also played an essential role in building an engaging learning environment. Highlighters, chart paper, dry-erase markers, and sticky notes make lessons interactive and hands-on. Students use these tools to track main ideas in reading, solve math problems collaboratively, and brainstorm in small groups. These resources encourage active participation and allow students to express their ideas in multiple ways. Something as simple as having their own dry-erase board has turned routine practice into a fun, motivating experience.\r\n\r\nThe impact of supplies extends into student creativity as well. Art materials, colored pencils, and construction paper allow students to demonstrate understanding in projects and presentations. When studying Virginia history, for example, students designed posters, maps, and models that brought content to life. Having access to these supplies not only deepened their understanding of the subject matter but also gave them pride in their work. Students often ask if they can take their projects home to share with their families—a clear sign that supplies inspire both engagement and ownership of learning.\r\n\r\nBasic classroom supplies have also supported organization and responsibility. Binders, folders, and storage bins help students keep track of assignments and materials, building independence and structure. For many children, staying organized is a challenge, but with the right tools, they are learning how to manage their work and take pride in their progress. These skills will serve them long beyond fourth grade.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, donated supplies send a powerful message: that others believe in my students. Knowing their classroom is equipped with what they need reinforces the idea that their education matters and that their community cares about them. This encouragement motivates students to work harder, show kindness, and value the opportunities provided to them.","fullyFundedDate":1746491333224,"projectUrl":"project/chair-necessities/9282976/","projectTitle":"Chair Necessities","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Reed","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7351470_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1695331242002","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7351470"},{"teacherId":7351470,"projectId":9261845,"letterContent":"The classroom supplies donated to my students have had a remarkable and lasting impact on their learning and overall school experience. Each contribution has allowed me to create an environment where students feel supported, engaged, and motivated to succeed. What might seem like simple supplies—pencils, notebooks, markers, or organizers—actually serve as powerful tools that open the door to greater confidence, creativity, and academic growth.\r\n\r\nOne of the most significant benefits of donated supplies is the ability to ensure every student has what they need to participate fully in class. Many families face financial challenges that make it difficult to provide their children with all the recommended materials. Because of donations, my students never have to feel embarrassed about not having a pencil, notebook, or glue stick. Instead, they can focus on learning, knowing the materials they need will be available. This creates a classroom culture where all students begin on equal footing, no matter their circumstances.\r\n\r\nSupplies have also played an essential role in building an engaging learning environment. Highlighters, chart paper, dry-erase markers, and sticky notes make lessons interactive and hands-on. Students use these tools to track main ideas in reading, solve math problems collaboratively, and brainstorm in small groups. These resources encourage active participation and allow students to express their ideas in multiple ways. Something as simple as having their own dry-erase board has turned routine practice into a fun, motivating experience.\r\n\r\nThe impact of supplies extends into student creativity as well. Art materials, colored pencils, and construction paper allow students to demonstrate understanding in projects and presentations. When studying Virginia history, for example, students designed posters, maps, and models that brought content to life. Having access to these supplies not only deepened their understanding of the subject matter but also gave them pride in their work. Students often ask if they can take their projects home to share with their families—a clear sign that supplies inspire both engagement and ownership of learning.\r\n\r\nBasic classroom supplies have also supported organization and responsibility. Binders, folders, and storage bins help students keep track of assignments and materials, building independence and structure. For many children, staying organized is a challenge, but with the right tools, they are learning how to manage their work and take pride in their progress. These skills will serve them long beyond fourth grade.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, donated supplies send a powerful message: that others believe in my students. Knowing their classroom is equipped with what they need reinforces the idea that their education matters and that their community cares about them. This encouragement motivates students to work harder, show kindness, and value the opportunities provided to them.","fullyFundedDate":1746491152708,"projectUrl":"project/supplies-and-smiles/9261845/","projectTitle":"Supplies and Smiles","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Reed","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7351470_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1695331242002","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7351470"},{"teacherId":7351470,"projectId":9281973,"letterContent":"T he items purchased for the upcoming school year will greatly enhance the overall learning environment, classroom experience, and school culture. These resources were selected to support students' social-emotional well-being, promote organization and engagement, and help create a space where every child feels valued, comfortable, and ready to learn. While academic success is a priority, these non-instructional items are just as important in helping students thrive throughout the year. \r\n\r\nI am so thankful for you!","fullyFundedDate":1746491292105,"projectUrl":"project/2025-2026-loading/9281973/","projectTitle":"2025-2026 Loading","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Reed","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7351470_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1695331242002","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7351470"},{"teacherId":7351470,"projectId":9298408,"letterContent":"Our Kindness Garden will be more than just a physical space—it will be a symbol of the values we hope to grow in every corner of our school: kindness, empathy, responsibility, and community. As a student-led initiative, this garden will empower students to take ownership of a project that not only beautifies our school grounds, but also plants seeds of positive change in the hearts of everyone who visits.\r\n\r\nThe Kindness Garden will be a place where students are reminded daily of the importance of treating others with compassion and respect. Each plant, stone, or decoration will be intentionally placed to represent messages of kindness, encouragement, and inclusivity. For example, students may paint rocks with inspirational quotes or kindness reminders, create signs with caring messages, or dedicate plants to acts of goodness they've witnessed. These visible affirmations will uplift anyone who walks through the garden—students, staff, and visitors alike. It will serve as a peaceful, reflective space that helps promote emotional well-being and a stronger sense of community.\r\n\r\nWhat sets our garden apart is that it will be entirely student-led. From the planning stage to planting, and from maintenance to community engagement, students will take the lead. This means they will be responsible for designing the layout, researching plant types, collaborating on themes, and organizing planting schedules. By taking on these leadership roles, students will build confidence, practice teamwork, and develop problem-solving and planning skills. Involving students in every step also means the garden will reflect their voices and their unique vision for what kindness means in our school.\r\n\r\nThe process of creating and caring for the garden will also foster stronger relationships among students. Working together toward a common, meaningful goal helps build a culture of cooperation and shared purpose. Students from different grade levels can be paired as garden buddies or mentors, giving older students the chance to lead by example and younger students the opportunity to look up to positive role models. These cross-grade connections strengthen our school community and encourage a culture where every student feels valued.","fullyFundedDate":1746491264043,"projectUrl":"project/kindness-garden/9298408/","projectTitle":"Kindness Garden","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Reed","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7351470_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1695331242002","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7351470"},{"teacherId":7351470,"projectId":9305836,"letterContent":"The addition of our hydration station has been a refreshing and healthy upgrade to our school environment, promoting better hydration and wellness among students and staff. Central to its success is the everyday use of refillable water bottles, which has transformed how we approach drinking water throughout the school day. These bottles are more than just convenient containers—they are essential tools that support health, sustainability, and learning.\r\n\r\nFirst and foremost, refillable water bottles help ensure that students stay hydrated throughout the day. Dehydration can negatively affect energy levels, focus, and overall well-being. By encouraging students to bring and use water bottles, we are helping them develop healthy habits that support their physical and mental performance. With easy access to the hydration station, students no longer have to wait for a water fountain break; instead, they can refill their bottles as needed and stay alert and refreshed in the classroom.\r\n\r\nOne major benefit we've observed is the improvement in student focus and behavior. When students are properly hydrated, they are better able to concentrate, retain information, and participate actively in lessons. Teachers have noted fewer complaints of headaches and fatigue, and many students report feeling more energized. The simple act of sipping water throughout the day supports cognitive function and keeps students engaged in learning.\r\n\r\nRefillable bottles also promote personal responsibility. Students are now in charge of bringing their water bottles to school, refilling them as needed, and taking care of them. This small, daily responsibility builds a sense of independence and accountability. Many students take pride in choosing a water bottle that reflects their personality, and they are learning the value of staying hydrated in a way that feels both personal and practical","fullyFundedDate":1746491213920,"projectUrl":"project/water-bottles-for-hydration-station/9305836/","projectTitle":"Water Bottles for Hydration Station","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Reed","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7351470_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1695331242002","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7351470"},{"teacherId":7351470,"projectId":9136192,"letterContent":"The launch of our school-wide literacy project has been a transformative force in our learning community. What began as an effort to improve reading and writing outcomes has grown into a shared vision that touches every classroom, engages every learner, and brings families and educators together around a common goal—literacy success for all students.\r\n\r\nOne of the most significant impacts of the literacy project has been the consistent, school-wide focus on reading and writing. Across all grade levels, students are immersed in a rich literacy environment where daily reading and writing are not isolated subjects but integral parts of the school day. This consistency has strengthened skill development, built confidence, and allowed students to progress more smoothly from one grade to the next. Teachers now collaborate more intentionally, using common language and strategies to support students' growth, ensuring continuity and coherence throughout the school.\r\n\r\nStudent engagement has also increased dramatically as a result of the project. By incorporating diverse texts, student choice, and interactive learning experiences, we have seen a shift in attitudes toward reading and writing. Students are not only learning to read—they are learning to enjoy it. They are writing not just for assignments, but to express themselves, share ideas, and respond to the world around them. The introduction of classroom libraries, read-aloud routines, and student-led discussions has created an atmosphere where literacy feels accessible and exciting.\r\n\r\nIn addition, the project has contributed to academic gains. We have observed growth in reading comprehension, fluency, vocabulary development, and writing stamina. Benchmark assessments, classroom observations, and writing samples all indicate that students are meeting and exceeding grade-level expectations at higher rates than before. Importantly, these gains are not limited to high-performing students; the structured support embedded in the literacy project has helped struggling readers make meaningful progress as well.\r\n\r\nProfessional development has been another key component of the project's success. Teachers have received training in evidence-based reading instruction, writing workshops, and differentiated strategies to meet the diverse needs of learners. This investment in educator growth has created a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration. Teachers are more confident and equipped to deliver high-quality instruction and are working together across grade levels to analyze data, share best practices, and celebrate student success.","fullyFundedDate":1740768600791,"projectUrl":"project/literacy-service-project/9136192/","projectTitle":"Literacy Service Project","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Reed","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7351470_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1695331242002","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7351470"},{"teacherId":7351470,"projectId":9105640,"letterContent":"Receiving reward items in fourth grade can have a powerful impact on students' motivation, behavior, and academic performance. At this stage of development, children are beginning to mature emotionally and socially, yet they still respond positively to tangible recognition. When used effectively, reward items serve as a visible symbol of success, effort, and growth, helping to shape positive habits that extend beyond the classroom.\r\n\r\nIncentives provide students with a goal to work toward. For many fourth graders, the promise of a small prize—like a sticker, pencil, or special privilege—can be enough to keep them focused and engaged throughout the school day. It turns effort into something exciting. Rather than completing assignments just because they have to, students are more likely to put in genuine effort when they know there is a chance to be recognized. Over time, these positive experiences can increase their sense of competence and belief in their ability to succeed.\r\n\r\nMoreover, reward items can reinforce good behavior and classroom expectations. Teachers often use these items to promote skills like responsibility, kindness, cooperation, and respect. When a student is recognized for helping a classmate or following directions promptly, it reinforces the behavior for both that student and their peers. A classroom culture built on positive reinforcement tends to be more peaceful, focused, and supportive. Students begin to take pride in doing the right thing—not just because it's expected, but because they feel seen and valued when they do.\r\n\r\nIn addition to shaping individual behavior, reward items also strengthen relationships between teachers and students. A child who receives a thoughtful reward knows their teacher is paying attention to their efforts. It fosters trust and creates a connection. This can be especially important for students who struggle academically or socially. A well-timed reward can boost their confidence and remind them that they are capable and appreciated.\r\n\r\nHowever, it's important that reward items are used wisely. If overused or given without clear criteria, they can lose their impact. The key is to align rewards with meaningful goals and reinforce intrinsic motivation. Rather than focusing only on the item, teachers can pair it with verbal praise that highlights what the student did well. For example, \"You showed great perseverance on your math problems today—that's why you earned this prize.\" This approach ensures that students understand the value of their effort, not just the reward itself.\r\n\r\nOverall, the impact of receiving reward items in fourth grade is largely positive when done with intention and consistency. These items are more than just trinkets—they are tools that can inspire learning, encourage good choices, and build a sense of community. In the hands of a caring teacher, even the smallest reward can make a big difference in a child's day and, ultimately, their growth as a student and individual.","fullyFundedDate":1740006784121,"projectUrl":"project/rewards-for-4th/9105640/","projectTitle":"Rewards for 4th","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Reed","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7351470_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1695331242002","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7351470"},{"teacherId":7351470,"projectId":8816779,"letterContent":"As a fourth-grade teacher at Westside Elementary, I strive to create an engaging and interactive learning environment that supports my students' academic growth. The addition of a mobile whiteboard and essential classroom supplies has had a significant impact on both my teaching effectiveness and student learning outcomes. These tools have not only enhanced lesson delivery but have also fostered collaboration, organization, and a more dynamic classroom experience.\r\n\r\nOne of the most noticeable benefits of having a mobile whiteboard is the flexibility it provides in instruction. Unlike a fixed whiteboard at the front of the room, a mobile whiteboard allows me to move around the classroom, bringing the learning directly to students. This is particularly valuable during small group instruction, where I can model problem-solving strategies, provide guided practice, and reinforce concepts in real time. For students who struggle with attention or need additional support, this accessibility ensures they remain engaged and benefit from direct interaction.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, the mobile whiteboard serves as a powerful tool for student participation. During lessons, students are encouraged to write their responses, solve problems, and brainstorm ideas on the board. This hands-on approach builds confidence, especially for reluctant learners who may feel hesitant to share their thoughts verbally. By making learning more interactive, the whiteboard promotes student-centered instruction, allowing them to take ownership of their learning while developing communication and critical thinking skills.\r\n\r\nFurthermore, these resources have improved classroom management and organization. A well-stocked classroom ensures that instructional time is maximized, as students have the materials they need without unnecessary disruptions. When students have access to quality supplies, they are more likely to take pride in their work and stay engaged in their tasks. This sense of ownership fosters responsibility and independence, skills that are essential for their academic success.\r\n\r\nIncorporating these tools into my classroom has also strengthened collaboration among students. The mobility of the whiteboard encourages peer-to-peer discussions, as students can work together to solve problems, or engage in group projects. This cooperative learning approach not only enhances comprehension but also cultivates essential social skills such as teamwork and communication.\r\n\r\nThe impact of a mobile whiteboard and essential classroom supplies extends beyond just convenience—it transforms the way students learn and interact in the classroom. By making lessons more engaging, accessible, and interactive, these resources have enriched my students' educational experience and contributed to their overall success. As I continue to implement innovative teaching strategies, I am grateful for the tools that support my goal of fostering a dynamic and inclusive learning environment for all my students.","fullyFundedDate":1736453727621,"projectUrl":"project/mobile-whiteboard/8816779/","projectTitle":"Mobile Whiteboard","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Reed","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7351470_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1695331242002","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7351470"},{"teacherId":7351470,"projectId":9011461,"letterContent":"A well-chosen read-aloud book can have a significant impact on your 4th-grade class, fostering both academic growth and a love for reading. Here are some key benefits:\r\n\t1.\tBuilds Listening Comprehension – Students engage with rich vocabulary, complex sentence structures, and new ideas that might be challenging in independent reading.\r\n\t2.\tEncourages Critical Thinking – Through discussions, students analyze characters, themes, and conflicts, strengthening their inferencing and reasoning skills.\r\n\t3.\tExpands Vocabulary – Exposure to new words in context helps students naturally incorporate them into their speaking and writing.\r\n\t4.\tStrengthens Classroom Community – A shared reading experience encourages discussions, collaboration, and connections among students.\r\n\t5.\tModels Fluent Reading – Your expressive reading demonstrates pacing, tone, and pronunciation, helping students improve their own fluency.\r\n\t6.\tInspires Writing and Creativity – Reading strong narratives or informational texts can spark ideas for students' own writing projects.\r\n\r\nThe impact you've provided for my students with read aloud books and headphones is so important to their success.","fullyFundedDate":1735651025316,"projectUrl":"project/read-alouds/9011461/","projectTitle":"Read Alouds","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Reed","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7351470_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1695331242002","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7351470"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_34999","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":626,"numTeachers":42,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":56,"percentWhite":11,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":23,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"14.9:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_SMALL"},"inStateSupporters":60.5,"schoolId":34999,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Westside Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Westside Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/virginia/roanoke-city-school-district/westside-elementary-school/34999"}
Join the 915 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Westside Elementary School is
an urban public school
in Roanoke, Virginia that is part of Roanoke City School District.
It serves 626 students
in grades Pre-K - 5 with a student/teacher ratio of 14.9:1.
Its teachers have had 452 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Boost support for our school's classrooms. Share this page with friends and family who want to make a difference. If you're a teacher, sign up to get started!
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
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
79%
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.
Westside 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.
Westside Elementary School
$169,449
raised using DonorsChoose
452
projects
funded
81
teachers
funded
915
donors
62
projects
for
basic supplies
47
projects for
technology
79
projects for
books
16
projects
for
art supplies
Westside Elementary School has received support from
554 individuals from Virginia and
361 individuals out-of-state.