{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Wilbur Cross Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":32.8,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10240099,"projectId":9678944,"letterContent":"When my special needs preschoolers first saw the new dramatic play sets and sensory bins, their joy was incredible. They immediately began exploring and building, and our classroom quickly filled with laughter and excitement. These materials have created a safe and engaging space where every child can learn through play while practicing cooperation, communication, and problem-solving as well as seeking their sensory need. One of my favorite moments was watching them set up a pretend kitchen and take turns cooking. It was amazing to see them learning social skills and math concepts without even realizing it.\r\nBecause of your generosity, my students have grown so much in their confidence and social skills. They now approach activities with curiosity and independence, and I have been able to design lessons that meet their unique needs while encouraging creativity and teamwork. As their confidence builds, we are excited to expand to our next DonorsChoose project, which will include puzzles, books, and more to keep their love of learning growing. Thank you for making such a meaningful difference in their lives.","fullyFundedDate":1758812731120,"projectUrl":"project/play-learn-and-grow-together-in-pre-k/9678944/","projectTitle":"Play, Learn, and Grow Together in Pre-K!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Dailey","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10240099_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757018464840","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/daileydoseoflearning"},{"teacherId":2456739,"projectId":9607810,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom has been transformed into a space where students feel calm, engaged, and ready to learn. The calming corner with comfy seating and weighted stuffed animals has become a safe haven for students who need a moment to regulate their emotions. The sensory bins, water table, and fidget sets are now part of our daily routine, helping students explore textures, strengthen fine motor skills, and stay focused. The social-emotional books have sparked meaningful conversations during morning meetings, and the noise-canceling headphones have made a huge difference for students who struggle with sensory overload.\r\nWhen my students first saw the new materials, their excitement was priceless! They immediately gravitated toward the calming corner, hugging the weighted animals and settling into the cozy chairs. Others eagerly explored the sensory bins, smiling as they discovered new textures. One student who often feels overwhelmed by noise put on the headphones and said, \"It's quiet now!\" It was heartwarming to see how quickly these resources made them feel safe and supported.\r\nOur next steps include incorporating these tools into structured sensory breaks and a social-emotional learning project. Students will use the books to create \"Feelings Journals,\" where they can draw and write about their emotions. These resources will continue to help my students build independence, confidence, and emotional awareness. Your generosity has truly made a lasting impact, and we are so grateful for your kindness.","fullyFundedDate":1755696118000,"projectUrl":"project/a-sensory-journey-through-learning/9607810/","projectTitle":"A Sensory Journey Through Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ford","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2456739"},{"teacherId":9730319,"projectId":9060896,"letterContent":"Thank you for donating to this project. Because of your donations we were able to provide all our middle school students with a sketchbook, including those that joined us throughout the year. \r\n\r\nI deeply appreciate how quickly this project was funded as this allowed me to quickly cover the gaps when new students arrived. The additional stock of sketchbooks meant I also had a reserve to give out even to those students who started at Cross near the end of the year. \r\n\r\nI have many new lessons and improvements I plan to make for the Wilbur Cross Art program so please keep your eyes out for future projects.","fullyFundedDate":1737480831387,"projectUrl":"project/additional-sketchbooks-for-new-students/9060896/","projectTitle":"Additional Sketchbooks for New Students","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Scott","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9730319_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1726418443466","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mr-scott-art"},{"teacherId":9730319,"projectId":9075056,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping us bring ceramics to the students at Wilbur Cross School! \r\n\r\nMy students loved our month long unit working with clay and developing their sculpture skills. \r\n\r\nThis unit offered our students who may have not been as confident about 2-dimensional mediums like drawing and painting a chance to approach art 3-dimensionally. Students across grade levels were able to work hands on developing sculptures ranging from simple pinch pots and bowls to complex figures and scenes. They painted these air dry sculptures and the art club members helped me glaze student work. \r\n\r\nThis unit was a huge undertaking which I hope to bring back with some adjustments based on lessons I learned while teaching it. We might switch to a less messy alternative to air dry clay, but the tools and supplies your donations provided will be able to be used for years to come. \r\n\r\nPlease keep an eye out for new campaigns to support the Wilbur Cross Art curriculum soon.","fullyFundedDate":1739411851129,"projectUrl":"project/help-provide-wc-students-with-ceramic-su/9075056/","projectTitle":"Help Provide WC Students With Ceramic Supplies","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Scott","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9730319_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1726418443466","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mr-scott-art"},{"teacherId":9730319,"projectId":8828093,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous donations and apologies for the extremely late thank you. It has been hectic balancing teaching full time, parenting, grad school, and working over the summer. \r\n\r\nBecause of your generous donations we were able to provide sketchbooks to every middle school student at Wilbur Cross School. \r\n\r\nThese sketchbooks gave our students a sense of ownership and a place to track their progress. Our students took them home at the end of the year and now that a new school year has started some of our returning students have shown me their sketchbooks that they filled with new art and ideas over the summer. \r\n\r\nLook for more campaigns for my classroom and Cross as a whole coming soon.","fullyFundedDate":1729536203460,"projectUrl":"project/sketchbooks-for-art-class-grades-6-8/8828093/","projectTitle":"Sketchbooks for Art Class Grades 6-8","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Scott","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9730319_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1726418443466","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mr-scott-art"},{"teacherId":9570728,"projectId":9120884,"letterContent":"Thank you for your kindness and generosity. You have made such an impact on these students and their learning, and for that, I am grateful. My students are able to store their materials and workbooks close enough to their desks so that they do not need to continuously get up and grab something. The pouches are extremely sturdy and well made.\r\nOn top of that, I am able to create anchor charts that are not only informative, but also visually appealing and interesting for students to look at. The organization bins help to add a pop of color while also keeping important cleaning supplies safe and within reach.\r\n\r\nThank you so very much!","fullyFundedDate":1742734922339,"projectUrl":"project/3rd-grade-journey-to-organization/9120884/","projectTitle":"3rd Grade Journey to Organization","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ford","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9570728_orig.jpg?crop=2000,2000,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1718626816046","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9570728"},{"teacherId":2456739,"projectId":9141310,"letterContent":"I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for your generous support of my classroom project, A Classroom Where Science and Reading Ignite Learning. Thanks to your kindness, my students now have access to a vibrant and engaging learning environment that brings science and literacy to life.\r\n\r\nWith your donation, we were able to purchase a variety of fiction and nonfiction books that spark curiosity and deepen understanding. These books have become a gateway for my students to explore the world around them, encouraging both independent reading and meaningful discussions.\r\n\r\nIn addition, the models of the heart, eye, and brain have transformed our science lessons into hands-on experiences that captivate young minds. The dissection kits have allowed students to explore biology in a tangible way, fostering excitement and inquiry. The new book displays have made our reading materials more accessible and inviting, helping to create a classroom where learning feels both dynamic and joyful.\r\n\r\nYour support has made a lasting impact—not just on our classroom resources, but on the confidence and enthusiasm of every child who walks through our door. Thank you for believing in my students and in the power of education to change lives.","fullyFundedDate":1741612327579,"projectUrl":"project/curiosity-unleashed-a-classroom-where-s/9141310/","projectTitle":"Curiosity Unleashed: A Classroom Where Science and Reading Ignite Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ford","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2456739"},{"teacherId":8802926,"projectId":9101117,"letterContent":"I am so grateful for your support. Thanks to your donations students are able to have a large supply of the essential daily materials they need. I am able to provide each student with two pencils and a sharpener. Students have enough tissue for the allergy season. Also, students are able to use the wipes to clean their tables every morning after they eat their breakfast. In addition, the whiteboard helped me during small group instruction. I am able to call up to 5 students for small group instruction.","fullyFundedDate":1746648225588,"projectUrl":"project/essential-materials/9101117/","projectTitle":"Essential Materials","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Tineo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8802926_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723304974789","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8802926"},{"teacherId":9462535,"projectId":9072155,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our classroom! Because of you, my 4th graders now have access to engaging and high-quality books and supplies that are making a real difference in how they read, think, and connect with both literacy and the classroom environment as a whole.\r\n\r\nIn our classroom, reading is not just a quiet activity. It can be a vibrant, shared experience. We use these new texts to build key reading skills such as identifying themes, analyzing characters, and making inferences. Many of the books you've helped provide spark rich discussions and opportunities to practice strategies like summarizing informational texts and asking thought-provoking questions. We also focus on vocabulary development and reading fluency through repeated readings and partner work. The bilingual books were ESPECIALLY loved by my English Language Learners who were THRILLED to see and read books in their native language!\r\n\r\nA typical reading block in our class might begin with a short read-aloud, followed by small-group discussions, independent reading time, and comprehension questions. The students love collaborating and sharing with each other. The new books have given them fresh material to get excited about, and it's truly transformed the energy in our reading time.\r\n\r\nOne student in particular, who used to shy away from books due to his language barrier, has been hooked by all of the Lil' Libros books, especially the books that taught him all about Tegucigalpa, Panama City, and San Juan! He now swimmingly collaborates with his peers and is quick to help when there is confusion or new information to be found. \r\n\r\nSimilarly, the arts, crafts, and supplies have absolutely been loved by every single student. Whether it's for a brain break or a creative project, students love exploring the Craft Set and letting their imagination run wild! Your donation has encouraged joy and curiosity into our classroom. Thank you for believing in our students and helping to build their love of learning!","fullyFundedDate":1739734881625,"projectUrl":"project/books-and-supplies-for-growing-minds/9072155/","projectTitle":"Books and Supplies for Growing Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Cartagena","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9462535_orig.jpg?crop=1242,1242,x0,y554&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1737318474364","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9462535"},{"teacherId":2456739,"projectId":9091502,"letterContent":"I am writing to share the positive impact our new outdoor classroom has had on my students and their learning experiences. Since the installation of the necessary seating, our students have eagerly embraced the opportunity to engage in lessons outside. This change has not only enhanced their learning but also fostered a deeper connection with nature.\r\n\r\nThe students have expressed their excitement and gratitude for the projector, screen, and learning materials (i.e. a class set of clip boards and experiment journals). This opportunity to participate in hands-on learning activities in an outdoor setting has definitely been a nice treat for my students. They have enjoyed exploring various scientific concepts in a more interactive and dynamic environment. The outdoor classroom has provided them with a unique space to observe, experiment, and collaborate, making their learning experiences more memorable and impactful.\r\n\r\nAs we approach the end of the school year, we are planning to wrap up our science unit on force and motion with a series of outdoor activities. This will allow the students to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios and further solidify their understanding of the subject. We believe that concluding the unit in the outdoor classroom will be a fitting culmination of their hard work and enthusiasm throughout the year.\r\n\r\nThank you for your continued support in making this vision a reality. We look forward to sharing more success stories as our students continue to thrive in this innovative learning environment.\r\n\r\nSincerely,\r\nRaynetta Ford\r\nWilbur Cross School","fullyFundedDate":1738545024676,"projectUrl":"project/fresh-air-education-creating-a-dynamic/9091502/","projectTitle":"Fresh Air Education: Creating a Dynamic Outdoor Classroom”","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ford","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2456739"},{"teacherId":9815730,"projectId":8902725,"letterContent":"The new resources have truly revolutionized our classroom experience. One of the most exciting projects we've undertaken is a detailed study of plant growth. With the new lab equipment, students are now able to measure and record the growth of plants under various conditions, such as different light exposures and soil types. This hands-on approach has not only made the lessons more engaging but also allowed students to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. Their curiosity and enthusiasm have soared, and it's been incredibly rewarding to see them take on the role of young scientists with such dedication.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the new materials, their reactions were priceless. There was a collective gasp of excitement, followed by a flurry of questions and ideas about how to use the equipment. One student even remarked, \"This feels like a real science lab!\" This initial excitement has translated into a deeper interest in the subject matter and more active participation in class discussions. Moving forward, we plan to expand this project to include data analysis and presentation skills, helping students not only understand the scientific method but also develop critical thinking and communication skills. The new resources have truly been a game-changer for our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1733424192055,"projectUrl":"project/feel-safe-in-the-calm-down-corner/8902725/","projectTitle":"Feel Safe in the Calm Down Corner","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Risley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9815730"},{"teacherId":8709384,"projectId":8817956,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for the books you have contributed to our library. It has been great to have students see books that they can identify with and that directly relate to them. I have seen it inspire new readers in our school!\r\nWhen the packages arrived, I let students open them and they were very excited. Many of them have helped me create/build our new school library and they sincerely appreciate people caring enough to send them books!\r\nWe have finished grade leveling all of our books and cataloging them. Our next steps are to shelve the books and train a few parent volunteers on the check-out system. It is a very exciting time at our school and thank you for being a part of it!!","fullyFundedDate":1729215173785,"projectUrl":"project/build-a-library-for-our-school/8817956/","projectTitle":"Build a Library for Our School!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. O'Driscoll","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8709384"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_43434","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":318,"numTeachers":29,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":36,"percentWhite":6,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":54,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"11.0:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":67.2,"schoolId":43434,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Wilbur Cross Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Wilbur Cross Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/connecticut/bridgeport-public-schools/wilbur-cross-elementary-school/43434"}