{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Yough Intermediate Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":24.8,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":4242519,"projectId":9799703,"letterContent":"The seating for the flexible outdoor classrooms has had a meaningful impact on my students—academically, socially, and emotionally. For the most part this spring my students have been spending most of their lunch periods outside; the impact is a bit different from a structured \"outdoor classroom\"—but it's still meaningful.\r\n\r\nBeing outside encourages more natural interaction, helping students build friendships and feel less pressure than in a crowded cafeteria setting. It also allows for movement and fresh air, which can reduce stress, improve mood, and lead to fewer behavior issues. As a result, students often return to class calmer and more focused, supporting stronger engagement in afternoon learning. While outdoor lunch is less academically structured, its positive impact on student well-being and readiness to learn makes it a valuable part of the school day.","fullyFundedDate":1770899366997,"projectUrl":"project/outdoor-flexible-seating/9799703/","projectTitle":"Outdoor Flexible Seating","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Kelly","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/melissa-kelly"},{"teacherId":10219589,"projectId":10043751,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting this project and helping me create a resource space for my students. I've set up a designated area in a cupboard where all of the items are organized, and students can ask to access what they need. This structure has helped keep the space respectful and intentional, while still ensuring that support is always available. Students have quickly understood how it works and have used it appropriately.\r\n\r\nOne of the most meaningful impacts has been how students now come to me knowing that resources are available. What started as a simple system has opened the door for trust and conversation. Students have asked thoughtful questions about why these items are there, which has led to important discussions about taking care of ourselves and supporting one another. Over time, it has helped make it feel less uncomfortable or \"taboo\" to ask for something they need but may not have.\r\n\r\nThese resources have also helped me better connect with my students. By removing small but important barriers, I'm able to keep students engaged and focused while also showing them that they are supported beyond academics. Moving forward, this space will continue to be a quiet but meaningful part of our classroom. Thank you for helping create an environment where students feel comfortable, respected, and ready to learn.","fullyFundedDate":1768949754168,"projectUrl":"project/helping-students-focus-by-supporting-the/10043751/","projectTitle":"Helping Students Focus by Supporting Their Needs","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Berestecki","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10219589_orig.jpg?crop=493,493,x30,y21&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1756343068302","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10219589"},{"teacherId":5335013,"projectId":10053606,"letterContent":"The classroom snack closet has quickly become an essential part of our daily routine. Students know they can quietly grab a snack when needed, which has helped remove the distraction of hunger. I've seen a noticeable difference in focus and participation, especially during morning classes. One moment that stood out was a student who typically struggled to stay engaged early in the day; after grabbing a snack, they were able to fully participate in a lesson and even volunteered to share their ideas. Small moments like that are happening more and more because students feel supported and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nAt the same time, the ELECFREAKS micro:bit Ring:bit kits have brought a new level of excitement to our STEM lessons. When students first saw the kits, their reactions were immediate—lots of excitement, curiosity, and questions about what they would get to build. We recently used the kits alongside Microsoft MakeCode to create simple programmed vehicles, and students were fully engaged in coding, testing, and improving their designs. It was incredible to watch them problem-solve in real time, collaborate with peers, and take pride in getting their projects to work.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, students will continue building on these skills by designing more advanced projects that combine coding and engineering concepts. They'll be working in teams to create solutions to real-world challenges, strengthening not only their technical skills but also their communication and critical thinking. The snack closet will continue to ensure that all students are physically ready to participate in these experiences each day.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has helped create a classroom where students feel supported, capable, and excited to learn. You've truly helped address both immediate needs and future opportunities for my students—thank you for making that possible.","fullyFundedDate":1769318491024,"projectUrl":"project/fueling-minds-coding-futures-snack-cl/10053606/","projectTitle":"Fueling Minds & Coding Futures: Snack Closet and Micro:bit Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Smith","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5335013_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1524148671635","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5335013"},{"teacherId":4052036,"projectId":10044255,"letterContent":"The grant for our classroom snack closet has made a meaningful impact on both my students and our school community. Many of my students come to school each day carrying more than just backpacks—they often carry worries about whether they will have enough food for the day. With the support of this grant, we were able to create a \"take what you need\" snack closet where students can quietly grab a snack during the school day or take something home for later. This resource has helped students stay focused, feel supported, and know that our classroom is a safe and caring place where their needs matter.\r\n\r\nWe use the snack closet daily, and it has quickly become an important part of our classroom routine. Students know they can respectfully access the closet without embarrassment, which has helped create a sense of trust and comfort. One specific classroom moment that stood out was when a usually quiet student stopped after class and simply said, \"Thank you—I didn't have breakfast today.\" That small moment was a powerful reminder of how something as simple as a granola bar or crackers can make a huge difference in a child's day. Having these resources available allows me to focus more on teaching and less on worrying about students trying to learn while hungry.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the snack closet, their reactions were filled with excitement, gratitude, and relief. Many smiled and immediately asked if the snacks were really for them, while others were quietly thankful just knowing the option was there. Some students were excited to help organize the shelves and make the space feel welcoming for everyone. The DonorsChoose Community has made a lasting difference in our classroom by helping meet a basic need that directly impacts student learning and well-being. Because of their generosity, students feel cared for, valued, and better prepared to succeed each day.","fullyFundedDate":1768969524638,"projectUrl":"project/snack-attack/10044255/","projectTitle":"Snack Attack","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Boban","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4052036_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1485452450014","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-boban"},{"teacherId":4052036,"projectId":9746693,"letterContent":"Receiving the grant for new sewing machines and materials has made a tremendous impact on my middle school Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) classes. Before this opportunity, many of our sewing machines were outdated, unreliable, and difficult for students to use, which often caused frustration and limited hands-on learning. With the new machines and fresh supplies, students are now able to focus on building skills and creativity instead of struggling with broken equipment. The classroom environment has become more positive, engaging, and productive.\r\n\r\nThe new sewing machines have allowed students to gain confidence as they learn practical life skills such as hand sewing, machine sewing, measuring, following directions, and problem-solving. Students who were once hesitant to try sewing are now excited to participate and take pride in completing projects successfully. Having enough quality materials for every student has also created equal opportunities for all learners, ensuring that each child can fully participate regardless of personal resources at home. These experiences help students develop patience, responsibility, and a sense of accomplishment that carries beyond the classroom.\r\n\r\nThis grant has not only improved our classroom instruction, but it has also inspired students to see sewing and FCS as valuable lifelong skills. Many students have shared how they are using what they learned at home to repair clothing, create gifts, or help family members. The excitement and pride they feel when finishing a project is truly rewarding to witness as a teacher. This grant has provided lasting benefits for our students, and we are incredibly grateful for the support that has helped make these meaningful learning experiences possible.","fullyFundedDate":1767218422986,"projectUrl":"project/sew-much-fun/9746693/","projectTitle":"Sew Much Fun","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Boban","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4052036_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1485452450014","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-boban"},{"teacherId":9278401,"projectId":10053356,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generosity in funding materials for my classroom. We have set up review puzzles, a bingo game with prizes, and have been using dry erase boards in our learning, all thanks to you! \r\n\r\nMy students are encouraging each other to learn and to complete assignments as they work to earn prizes as we review skills for our upcoming state tests. They were excited to help each other and earn rewards as they practice. \r\n\r\nAdditionally, as we begin to read our final novel of the year, some of some of the materials will assist us in setting up a literary café to discuss various portions of the novel. We are hoping by discussing this novel in groups students will have the opportunity to see the novel through various perspectives, and a deepen their understanding of literature.","fullyFundedDate":1769317931913,"projectUrl":"project/addressing-basic-needs-to-improve-academ/10053356/","projectTitle":"Addressing Basic Needs to Improve Academic Focus and Engagement","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. HENRY","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9278401_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1696294108852","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9278401"},{"teacherId":2859921,"projectId":10047735,"letterContent":"I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for all of your donations and support. I truly appreciate everything and will always remember the day all of the materials arrived to our room. My students were so excited that they would now have access to these much needed materials. We are currently using these materials everyday and my students are able to focus on learning. My students don't have to worry about having these materials when they walk into my room. They can relax and focus on learning each and everyday. Thank you again for your contributions and support.","fullyFundedDate":1769186464501,"projectUrl":"project/small-essentials-big-impact-for-fifth-g/10047735/","projectTitle":"Small Essentials, Big Impact for Fifth Graders","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. DePhillips","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2859921_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1701449039004","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2859921"},{"teacherId":8270766,"projectId":10047499,"letterContent":"My students were extremely surprised and grateful when they saw all of the materials that were donated through this project! \r\nThey were so thankful to have not only deodorant sticks, but also deodorizing wipes, baby wipes, dry conditioner, and body spray to feel clean and fresh all day long at school! These items are especially useful after the girls have worked hard in gym class and are sweating before they must go back to their regular class schedule.\r\nSeveral of my students needed socks, especially during the cold winter days when they were wearing Crocs to school without any socks at all to keep their feet warm. They are so thankful now to have warm feet and socks to wear with any type of shoes. \r\nThe girls are always using the hair claw clips and elastic bands. They are happy to be able to keep their hair out of their eyes. Now that there are some warmer days, they are enjoying pulling their hair back and up off of their neck to keep themselves cooler. \r\nIt was a very special feeling to see the girls surprised looks on their faces when they discovered that someone would donate these materials just to help them have a more positive learning experience everyday. I think that many of their lives were touched by the generosity of strangers. We are most grateful for your kindness and willingness to impact our school in this way!","fullyFundedDate":1769219797520,"projectUrl":"project/dignity-care-meeting-basic-needs-for/10047499/","projectTitle":"Dignity & Care: Meeting Basic Needs for Our Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Metzger","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8270766_orig.jpg?crop=1512,1512,x181,y473&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1694628612099","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8270766"},{"teacherId":7797783,"projectId":10042307,"letterContent":"We can't thank you enough for your generosity! My students are loving their new learning environment.\r\n My kiddos are using the gaming chairs for their \"cool down\" think about it area. The rocking motion from the chairs help them to get a movement break. The bean bag chair is used for their free time to read or work on computer skills-I had to make a schedule because everyone wants that comfort at the end of the day. The snacks are a life saver. I have a student that is recently homeless and I'm thankful I can provide him and his siblings healthy snacks when the leave school.\r\nThank you again for selecting my classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1768849587420,"projectUrl":"project/self-care-in-the-school-setting/10042307/","projectTitle":"Self-care in the School Setting","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. B.","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7797783_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1768330668620","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7797783"},{"teacherId":2957107,"projectId":10042300,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for donating to \"Meeting Needs: Warmth, Care, and Hunger Relief in Our Community\". This grant will have a profound and lasting impact on my students by addressing the essential needs that directly influence their ability to learn and thrive. By providing access to warmth, nourishment, and personal care items, this support goes beyond academics—it affirms to students that they are seen, valued, and deserving of comfort and dignity.\r\n\r\nWhen students no longer have to worry about being cold, hungry, or lacking basic necessities, they are able to fully engage in their learning. Their focus sharpens, their confidence increases, and their willingness to participate grows. These resources create a sense of stability and safety that many students may not consistently experience outside of school, allowing the classroom to become a place where they can truly flourish.\r\n\r\nThe impact of this grant will be evident not only in improved academic performance, but also in the strengthened sense of community within the classroom. Students who feel cared for are more likely to show kindness, take risks in their learning, and support one another. Ultimately, this grant helps remove barriers, uplift student well-being, and empower each child to reach their full potential.","fullyFundedDate":1769103723167,"projectUrl":"project/meeting-needs-warmth-care-and-hunger/10042300/","projectTitle":"Meeting Needs: Warmth, Care, and Hunger Relief for Our Community","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Knepp","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2957107_orig.jpg?crop=1726,1726,x0,y92&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1651161050463","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2957107"},{"teacherId":3934444,"projectId":10021531,"letterContent":"The Providing Snacks and Chargers DonorsChoose grant had a meaningful impact on both student well-being and classroom engagement. By ensuring students had access to snacks, basic needs were met, allowing them to stay focused, energized, and ready to learn throughout the day. This was especially important during longer class periods, after-school activities, and enrichment opportunities, where hunger can often become a distraction.\r\n\r\nThe availability of chargers also made a significant difference in maintaining consistent access to instructional technology. Students no longer had to worry about devices losing power, which reduced interruptions and allowed for smoother participation in digital assignments, research, and collaborative projects.\r\n\r\nOverall, this grant helped create a more supportive and equitable learning environment. Students were better able to concentrate, participate fully, and engage in higher-level thinking tasks without the barriers of hunger or limited device access. The resources not only supported academic success but also showed students that their needs are valued, fostering a more positive and productive classroom culture.","fullyFundedDate":1768615460077,"projectUrl":"project/helping-students-start-the-day-ready/10021531/","projectTitle":"Helping Students Start the Day Ready","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Pazer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3934444_orig.jpg?crop=362,362,x0,y178&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1727459475189","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3934444"},{"teacherId":4184099,"projectId":10047379,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your thoughtful and generous care package! Your donation of fruit snacks, Gatorade, Kleenex, and hand sanitizer has made an immediate and meaningful impact in our classroom.\r\n\r\nWe've already begun using these items every day. The fruit snacks and Gatorade have been especially helpful in keeping students energized and focused, particularly as rewards. The Kleenex and hand sanitizer have become essential parts of our daily routine, helping us maintain a clean and healthy classroom environment.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the care package, they were genuinely excited and grateful. It may seem simple, but having these supplies readily available made them feel supported and cared for.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, these resources will continue to support both our learning and well-being. With fewer interruptions and more comfort, students are able to stay engaged and focused on their work. We're currently working on collaborative classroom projects, and having these essentials on hand allows us to spend more time learning and less time worrying about basic needs.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has helped create a more positive, prepared, and supportive classroom environment. Thank you for making a difference in our students' daily lives!","fullyFundedDate":1769143014409,"projectUrl":"project/comfort-care-essential-items-for-stud/10047379/","projectTitle":"Comfort & Care: Essential Items for Students in PE","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Kish","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4184099_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1500555822124","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4184099"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_91253","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":541,"numTeachers":46,"percentFrplEligible":76,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":1,"percentWhite":90,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":1,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"5 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"11.8:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"RURAL","ncesMetroType":"RURAL_FRINGE"},"inStateSupporters":75.2,"schoolId":91253,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Yough Intermediate Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Yough Intermediate Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/pennsylvania/yough-school-district/yough-middle-school/91253"}