{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"William McKinley Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":61.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":2457022,"projectId":9596265,"letterContent":"On behalf of our students, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you for your generous donation of the sports equipment. Your support means more than simply providing new gear- it helps create opportunities for our students to learn, stay active and develop confidence through physical activity.\r\nThe equipment you provided will be used daily and will truly enhance our program. Our students are already excited and motivated to participate, and your contribution plays a major role in making that possible,\r\nThank you again for your kindness, generosity, and commitment to our school community. We are sincerely grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1756693697388,"projectUrl":"project/having-a-ball-in-physical-education/9596265/","projectTitle":"Having a Ball in Physical Education","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Eckman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp2457022_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1492896994683","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-eckman"},{"teacherId":8989502,"projectId":9457216,"letterContent":"Our new organizational tools have already transformed the way learning happens in our classroom. Students now have their own drawers with supplies and learning materials geared specifically to their reading and math levels. Students are now able to transition more independently using these drawers and the visual schedules I have now been able to laminate. Our new classroom divider also provides a space free of distractions for my small groups and doubles as a white board. The charging station has also been amazing; our laptops and AAC devices are now always ready, which means students can jump right into communication and academic tasks without delays.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, these resources will continue to support students in meeting their IEP goals through more structured and predictable routines. The dividers help create peaceful workspaces, while the individualized drawers keep each student's tools within reach, encouraging independence and confidence. Thanks to your generosity, our classroom is becoming a more organized, calm, and supportive environment.","fullyFundedDate":1756174537793,"projectUrl":"project/setting-up-a-supportive-classroom-for-al/9457216/","projectTitle":"Setting Up a Supportive Classroom for All Learners to Thrive","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Bavas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8989502_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723831704328","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mariabavas"},{"teacherId":10079350,"projectId":9734167,"letterContent":"Thanks to your incredibly generous support, our classroom has become a much more inviting, calming, and student-centered space. The new rug and pillows have transformed our reading area and sensory corner into true comfort zones where students can relax, refocus, and engage with learning in a way that feels safe and supportive. My students use the rug daily for morning meetings, partner reading, and quiet breaks. One of my favorite moments so far was watching a student who often struggles with sensory regulation lie down on the soft rug with a pillow, take a few deep breaths, and then happily rejoin our math group. Having a comfortable space that meets their sensory needs has made a world of difference.\r\n\r\nThe students' reactions when the rug and pillows arrived were priceless. Many of them immediately ran their hands across the rug, saying it felt \"so soft\" and \"like home.\" They were excited to help set up the sensory corner, arranging the pillows and choosing their new favorite spots. The pride they took in helping create this space shows just how meaningful these resources are to them.\r\n\r\nAs we continue working through our reading and social-emotional learning units, the new comfy spaces are already supporting better focus, smoother transitions, and increased independence. The rug cleaner ensures that we can keep this area fresh, clean, and safe for all students throughout the year. Thanks to your generosity, our classroom now has a dedicated space where students can calm their minds, build confidence, and dive into learning with comfort and joy. Your kindness truly helped create a place where every child can thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1762266292848,"projectUrl":"project/a-rug-to-hug-our-classroom/9734167/","projectTitle":"A Rug to Hug Our Classroom!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Paul","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10079350_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1752522144785","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/room8-mspaul"},{"teacherId":10079350,"projectId":9630629,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom has transformed into a more comfortable, welcoming, and student-centered learning space. The new bean bags, soft seat covers, and pillows have quickly become some of the most loved items in our room. My students use them daily during independent reading, calm-down breaks, and small-group activities. One of my favorite moments was watching a student who normally struggles to stay focused during reading curl up in a bean bag with his book and stay engaged for the entire session—something he's never been able to do before. The soft seating gives students a safe, soothing place to learn and recharge.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the new materials, their faces lit up. Many of them immediately asked, \"Can we sit on these right now?\" They were excited to try each seat, pick favorites, and talk about how \"cozy\" it felt to learn this way. For some of my students with sensory or anxiety needs, having a soft, comfortable spot has already made transitions smoother and increased their willingness to participate in structured activities.\r\n\r\nAs we continue our current reading and social-emotional learning units, these new seating options will help students stay regulated, motivated, and confident. They now have spaces where they can focus, decompress, and participate meaningfully in class. Your generosity didn't just give us furniture—it created a more inclusive and supportive environment where every student can grow. Thank you for helping our classroom become a place where comfort and strong learning go hand in hand.","fullyFundedDate":1758636638959,"projectUrl":"project/soft-seats-for-strong-learning/9630629/","projectTitle":"Soft Seats for Strong Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Paul","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10079350_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1752522144785","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/room8-mspaul"},{"teacherId":10079350,"projectId":9874317,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom has become a calmer, more supportive space for every student. The snacks you provided have been a game-changer during our school day—many of my students need frequent, structured snack breaks to stay regulated, focused, and ready to learn. Now, instead of feeling overwhelmed or hungry, students can grab a healthy snack and return to their work with renewed energy. One of my favorite moments was watching a student who normally struggles with transitions independently take a snack, sit down with his reading group, and complete the entire activity without any anxiety or frustration. That stability came directly from having what he needed, right when he needed it.\r\n\r\nThe students' reactions to the calming items—like the fidget spinners, weighted blankets, and breathing buddies—were priceless. They were amazed to see tools that felt made for their needs. One student immediately curled up with a blanket during our mindfulness block, while another excitedly showed me how he uses his breathing buddy to slow his breathing when he feels nervous. These items have become essential parts of our daily routine, giving students concrete, reliable strategies to manage big feelings and stay engaged in learning.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward with our current lessons in reading, math, and social-emotional learning, these resources will continue supporting smoother transitions, calmer work periods, and increased independence. Your generosity has empowered my students to feel safe, supported, and confident—and that foundation is helping them grow academically and emotionally each day. Thank you for making such a meaningful difference in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1762874349706,"projectUrl":"project/a-little-snack-a-lot-of-love/9874317/","projectTitle":"A Little Snack, A Lot of Love","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Paul","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10079350_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1752522144785","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/room8-mspaul"},{"teacherId":10079350,"projectId":9630151,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom mini-fridge has already made a meaningful difference in our daily routines. My students and I use it every single day to store healthy snacks that help them stay focused, regulated, and ready to learn. For many of my students, having quick access to snacks—without leaving the classroom—helps prevent frustration, distraction, and sensory overload. One of my favorite moments so far was watching a student who usually struggles with transitions proudly open the fridge, choose his snack, and return to learning without any tears or interruptions. It may seem small, but for him, that independence was huge.\r\n\r\nThe students were so excited when they first saw the mini-fridge. Several of them clapped, and one student even said, \"We have our own kitchen now!\" They love the sense of ownership, and it has become a calming, predictable part of their day. Our snack routine now feels smoother, safer, and more dignified for students who rely on structure and consistency.\r\n\r\nAs we continue moving through our current lessons, the fridge supports our classroom in ways that go beyond snacks—it helps create an environment where students feel cared for, prepared, and ready to learn. We'll be using it throughout the year for food-based activities, sensory-friendly cooking lessons, and ensuring our kids always have the nourishment they need to stay engaged. Your kindness truly reached our classroom in the most meaningful way, and we are so grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1758292902509,"projectUrl":"project/chilled-and-ready-to-learn/9630151/","projectTitle":"Chilled and Ready to Learn","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Paul","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10079350_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1752522144785","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/room8-mspaul"},{"teacherId":10079350,"projectId":9501684,"letterContent":"When our new snacks arrived, my students' faces lit up! They were so excited to help unpack the boxes—each snack felt like a little gift waiting to be shared. It didn't take long for our snacks to become a beloved part of our day. Now, instead of mid-morning grumbles or distracted minds, we have calm, focused learners who feel cared for and ready to tackle their goals.\r\n\r\nThese snacks have made such a difference in keeping our classroom positive and productive. For many of my students, a quick snack break isn't just about food—it's about regulation, routine, and refocusing. I've seen students who used to struggle to stay engaged come back from snack time re-energized and proud to keep learning. It's amazing what a little granola bar or applesauce can do for confidence and concentration!\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, my students can focus on what really matters—learning, growing, and believing in themselves. You've turned snack time into success time, and for that, we're endlessly grateful. Thank you for fueling our classroom with both snacks and smiles!","fullyFundedDate":1755688207412,"projectUrl":"project/power-up-snacks-self-care-for-active/9501684/","projectTitle":"Power Up: Snacks & Self-Care for Active Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Paul","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10079350_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1752522144785","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/room8-mspaul"},{"teacherId":10079350,"projectId":9486784,"letterContent":"When my students first walked into the classroom and saw the new sensory corner, their faces lit up with excitement. They were immediately drawn to the cozy rugs and bean bag chairs, and many of them took turns exploring the new space. For students who sometimes struggle with big feelings or need a quiet place to refocus, having this special corner has been a game-changer. It's already becoming one of the most loved and used spots in our classroom.\r\n\r\nWe use the sensory space daily—whether it's a student curling up in a bean bag chair with a book, practicing calming strategies on the soft rug, or exploring the sensory tools to help regulate emotions. During one recent lesson, a student who was having a hard time transitioned into the sensory corner, spent a few quiet minutes there, and was then able to return ready to learn. It's amazing to see how this space supports not just academic growth, but also social and emotional well-being.\r\n\r\nThanks to your generosity, my students now have a place where they feel safe, supported, and comfortable. Our next steps include teaching students to use the space independently as part of their self-regulation skills, and we're excited to keep incorporating the sensory corner into our daily routines. You've given us more than furniture—you've given my students the tools they need to succeed in both learning and life.","fullyFundedDate":1753791038466,"projectUrl":"project/feelings-matter-a-sensory-space-for-eve/9486784/","projectTitle":"Feelings Matter: A Sensory Space for Every Student","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Paul","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10079350_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1752522144785","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/room8-mspaul"},{"teacherId":9819855,"projectId":9201228,"letterContent":"How we're using the new resources:\r\nOur 6th graders have already transformed the bean bags and book donations into a \"reading corner\" that feels like their own mini-library. During independent reading and \"First Chapter Friday,\" students take turns choosing a bean bag and diving into one of the new books. It has quickly become a favorite spot for both small-group reading circles and quiet reflection time.\r\n\r\nStudents' first reaction:\r\nWhen the students first walked in and saw the bean bags and books, their faces lit up. Several immediately asked, \"Can we try them today?\" The excitement was so contagious that we had to schedule a rotation so everyone got a turn. Many said it finally felt like \"a real reading lounge\" in our classroom.\r\n\r\nNext steps for our learning:\r\nRight now, we are launching a book talk project where students will select one of the new titles, read it in the bean bag corner, and then create a short presentation or digital flyer to recommend the book to their classmates. These donations are helping us build a culture of reading and discussion that goes beyond the textbook and into real student choice!","fullyFundedDate":1750386528269,"projectUrl":"project/bean-bags-books-creating-a-reading-ha/9201228/","projectTitle":"Bean Bags & Books: Creating a Reading Haven","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Robbins","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9819855_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1732678944530","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9819855"},{"teacherId":9819855,"projectId":9117225,"letterContent":"I would like to extend my sincere thanks for your generous contribution of chart paper to our classroom. Your support plays a vital role in enhancing our learning environment and providing the resources necessary to engage students in meaningful and creative ways.\r\n The chart paper has already made a significant impact—whether used for anchor charts, student brainstorming sessions, or collaborative projects, it helps foster interactive learning and visual understanding. Your thoughtfulness directly contributes to our students' academic growth and success.\r\nThank you again for your kindness and continued support of our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1739819947991,"projectUrl":"project/charting-a-path-to-learning-anchors-awa/9117225/","projectTitle":"Charting a Path to Learning, Anchors Away!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Robbins","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9819855_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1732678944530","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9819855"},{"teacherId":8989502,"projectId":8673185,"letterContent":"This project made a huge difference in my classroom by giving my students the tools they needed to succeed. With the color printer and ink, I was able to create colorful, personalized materials—like visual supports, communication systems, and social stories—that helped my students thrive. \r\n\r\nThe color-coded materials made it easier for my students to follow their schedules and routines, which helped reduce anxiety. For students who needed extra help processing information, the vibrant visuals made everything more engaging and understandable. Non-verbal students especially benefited from the color-coded communication tools, allowing them to express themselves more clearly and independently. \r\n\r\nSocial stories with bright colors also helped grab the students' attention and made it easier for them to understand social situations and behaviors. This was crucial in helping them build social skills and gain confidence. \r\n\r\nOverall, the project created a more structured, supportive, and visually engaging classroom. It allowed me to provide each student with the unique resources they needed to learn and grow. Thanks to the colorful tools, my students felt more confident in their learning, and I saw them make amazing progress academically, socially, and emotionally.","fullyFundedDate":1729711904996,"projectUrl":"project/printing-possibilities-bringing-color-t/8673185/","projectTitle":"Printing Possibilities: Bringing Color to Our Special Ed Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Bavas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8989502_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723831704328","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mariabavas"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_90834","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":306,"numTeachers":32,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":1,"percentBlack":43,"percentWhite":1,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":53,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"9.6:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":38.7,"schoolId":90834,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about William McKinley Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"William McKinley Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/pennsylvania/philadelphia-city-school-district/william-mckinley-elementary-school/90834"}