{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Griffith Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":36.6,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10457951,"projectId":10133593,"letterContent":"This project has meant so much to me and to my students! The new books, classroom supplies, organizational materials, and lights have helped me create a space that feels welcoming, comfortable, and ready for learning. We have already started using the books during reading and lessons, the supplies for our everyday activities and projects, and the organizational materials to make things easier for students to find and use independently. I am especially grateful for the new books because I have students who are struggling with reading, and having books that are engaging, interesting, and appropriate for them can make such a difference. When students find a book that actually catches their attention, reading can feel less like a difficult task and more like something they want to explore. \r\n\r\nI am especially thankful because these resources are not just things sitting in our classroom—they are becoming part of my students' everyday learning experiences. We will continue using them for upcoming lessons, projects, reading, and hands-on activities, while encouraging students to take ownership of our classroom and the materials available to them. My students deserve a classroom where they feel cared for, where they have the tools they need, and where they can be curious, creative, and successful. Your generosity has made it possible for me to provide resources that can meet my students where they are and help them continue growing, especially those who may need a little extra encouragement along the way.","fullyFundedDate":1780649780894,"projectUrl":"project/more-than-a-classroom-a-fresh-start-for/10133593/","projectTitle":"More Than a Classroom: A Fresh Start for Future Scientists","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Pederson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10457951_orig.png?crop=896,896,x0,y68&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1775190328983","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10457951"},{"teacherId":8658076,"projectId":10328664,"letterContent":"Thank you for investing in our teachers and classrooms! This summer, the materials purchased through this project—including whiteboard markers, magnets, and organizational bins—were distributed to teachers to help them create organized, functional, and welcoming learning environments for their students.\r\n\r\nWhile these may seem like simple classroom supplies, they make a meaningful difference in a teacher's ability to prepare, organize, and maximize instructional time. Organization bins give teachers a place to store materials and keep frequently used resources accessible. Magnets allow teachers to display student work, learning targets, schedules, and instructional materials in an easy-to-see and flexible way. Whiteboard markers are an everyday necessity that allow teachers to model learning, provide directions, and engage students during instruction.\r\n\r\nProviding these materials at the beginning of the school year means our teachers can start the year prepared and focused on what matters most: teaching and building relationships with their students. An organized classroom also helps students know where materials belong, navigate their learning environment independently, and spend less time searching for supplies and more time learning.\r\n\r\nWe are incredibly grateful for the generosity that made these resources available to our teachers. Your support helps create classrooms that are organized, purposeful, and ready for learning from the very first day of school.\r\n\r\nThank you for supporting our teachers and helping our students thrive!","fullyFundedDate":1781555312170,"projectUrl":"project/make-learning-come-alive-at-our-school/10328664/","projectTitle":"Make Learning Come Alive at Our School","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Fortunate","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8658076"},{"teacherId":7247485,"projectId":10321912,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping bring our school garden to life! Because of your generosity, our students will have the supplies they need to get outside, get their hands dirty, and take an active role in creating and caring for a garden of their own.\r\n\r\nThese materials will give our students so many opportunities to learn beyond the walls of the classroom. They will be able to plant seeds, water and care for their plants, label what they are growing, prepare our garden beds, and watch their hard work turn into something they can actually see and be proud of. Our garden will be a place where students can learn about plant life cycles and the environment while also practicing responsibility, patience, teamwork, and caring for a shared space.\r\n\r\nWhat makes this project especially exciting is that the garden will reach far beyond just my fifth-grade classroom. We are working to create a space that students across our school can enjoy and learn from. For many of our students, this may also be one of their first opportunities to experience gardening firsthand. Your support is giving them an experience that I hope they will remember long after they leave our classrooms.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our students and helping us create a meaningful outdoor learning space for our school community. We cannot wait to start planting, growing, and learning together. We are incredibly grateful for your support and for helping our garden grow!","fullyFundedDate":1788575203064,"projectUrl":"project/help-me-grow-a-school-garden-for-student/10321912/","projectTitle":"Help Me Grow a School Garden for Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Burger","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7247485_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1736058227253","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/emily-burger"},{"teacherId":10457951,"projectId":10281066,"letterContent":"I am so grateful for the support that made this project possible. The calm lighting has become such a meaningful addition to our classroom, and I have already seen how something as simple as changing the lighting can make a difference in the way my students feel and learn.\r\n\r\nWe use the lights throughout the day, especially during independent work, small-group activities, and lessons when students need to slow down, focus, and really engage with their learning. The softer lighting has helped create a warmer and more peaceful classroom environment, and I love seeing my students settle in and feel comfortable in the space we share.\r\n\r\nWhen my students first saw the new lights, they were immediately excited. They noticed the difference right away, and it was so sweet to hear their reactions as they walked into a classroom that felt a little more calm and inviting. For me, the best part has been watching students recognize that our classroom is a space where their comfort and learning both matter!\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in my students and in our classroom. Your generosity has helped me create a space that feels more intentional, welcoming, and peaceful, and I truly appreciate the difference you are helping make in the everyday experiences of my students.","fullyFundedDate":1779051136592,"projectUrl":"project/calm-lights-for-bright-scientists/10281066/","projectTitle":"Calm Lights for Bright Scientists","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Pederson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10457951_orig.png?crop=896,896,x0,y68&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1775190328983","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10457951"},{"teacherId":7247485,"projectId":10321876,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping us add our giant bean bag chair to our classroom! As you can probably imagine, my students were VERY excited when they first saw it. It immediately became one of the most loved spots in our room, but I have also loved seeing it become exactly what I hoped it would be: a comfortable place where students can take a moment to reset when they need it.\r\n\r\nThroughout the school day, there are times when students feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or simply need a few minutes away from everything happening around them. Having a designated comfortable space gives them somewhere to calm down and regroup before returning to learning. I have already seen students use the bean bag, take the time they need, and then come back ready to participate again.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping me create a classroom that supports more than just academics. I want my students to know that it is okay to need a break and that learning how to recognize what they need and regulate themselves is important too. This giant bean bag may seem like a simple addition to our classroom, but it has quickly become a very special part of our space!","fullyFundedDate":1787148011900,"projectUrl":"project/a-cozy-corner-for-calm-minds/10321876/","projectTitle":"A Cozy Corner for Calm Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Burger","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7247485_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1736058227253","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/emily-burger"},{"teacherId":7247485,"projectId":10267159,"letterContent":"I am incredibly grateful for the support of this project, and especially grateful to have donors who continue to come back and support my students again and again. Knowing that someone has continued to believe in the things I am trying to create for my students means more than I can put into words. This time, that support helped us bring our Student Garden Crew to life!\r\n\r\nMy students were so excited to see the gardening supplies and even more excited when they realized these were materials they would actually get to use and be responsible for. We are using the tools and supplies to prepare our garden and begin growing our own plants. The seed starter trays and grow lights will let students see the process from a tiny seed all the way to a plant that is ready to move outside. From there, students will help with watering, caring for the plants, and maintaining our garden throughout the year.\r\n\r\nI am so excited to see what they do with this space. The garden is giving my students more than an opportunity to grow plants. It is giving them a place to practice responsibility, teamwork, patience, and leadership while contributing something meaningful to our school. Thank you for continuing to show up for my classroom and giving my students opportunities like this. Your support truly makes a difference in what I am able to provide for them.","fullyFundedDate":1780482087880,"projectUrl":"project/student-garden-crew/10267159/","projectTitle":"Student Garden Crew","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Burger","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7247485_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1736058227253","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/emily-burger"},{"teacherId":7247485,"projectId":10321731,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting my students and helping make our WIN time more meaningful! WIN is a time during our day when I am able to meet students where they are and give them extra support with the math skills they need most. Having the right materials available makes such a difference because students can spend that time actually practicing, working with me in small groups, and building their confidence.\r\n\r\nOne of my favorite parts of WIN is being able to work with students in smaller groups and really focus on their individual needs. Some students need extra practice with foundational skills, while others are ready to be challenged. Your support has helped me create a space where I can provide both. It has been so rewarding to watch students become more comfortable asking questions, taking risks, and realizing that struggling with a skill does not mean they cannot learn it.\r\n\r\nThank you for choosing to support my classroom and my students. These materials are being used throughout our WIN time and are helping me give my students the additional practice and support they deserve. I truly appreciate you investing in their learning!","fullyFundedDate":1786366839602,"projectUrl":"project/math-support-for-every-learner-during-wi/10321731/","projectTitle":"Math Support for Every Learner During Win Time","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Burger","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7247485_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1736058227253","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/emily-burger"},{"teacherId":9911495,"projectId":10091165,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom through DonorsChoose. Your generosity has helped create an exciting learning environment where my students can explore the life cycle of butterflies through hands-on experiences. With the plants, butterflies, butterfly books, and The Very Hungry Caterpillar plush on our bookshelf, students are able to connect what they read with what they observe in real life, making science and literacy come alive together.\r\n\r\nWatching the butterflies grow and change has sparked curiosity, thoughtful questions, and meaningful conversations among my students. The books and classroom materials encourage them to read, explore, and develop a deeper appreciation for nature. Your kindness has made a lasting impact on our classroom, and we are so grateful for your support. Thank you for helping create memorable learning experiences that my students will treasure.","fullyFundedDate":1778078542518,"projectUrl":"project/watching-nature-change-plants-pollinat/10091165/","projectTitle":"Watching Nature Change: Plants, Pollinators, and Life Cycles","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Sydney Kesler","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9911495_orig.jpg?crop=508,508,x451,y300&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1738176622103","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9911495"},{"teacherId":7247485,"projectId":10282398,"letterContent":"This project has already made such a positive impact on my students and our school community. Many of my students do not often get opportunities for hands-on outdoor learning, so having a space where they can plant, explore, and care for something together has been incredibly meaningful. The garden has quickly become a place where students feel excited, calm, and connected.\r\n\r\nMy students have loved helping prepare the garden beds, organize supplies, and talk about what they want to grow. Even students who sometimes struggle to stay engaged in the classroom have been eager to participate outside. It has encouraged teamwork, responsibility, problem-solving, and patience in such a natural way. Students are learning that growth takes time, care, and consistency, both in a garden and in themselves.\r\n\r\nThis project has also helped create a stronger sense of pride in our school. Students love showing the garden area to classmates, teachers, and visitors. It has sparked conversations about healthy habits, science, sustainability, and community. Watching students light up while working together outside has been one of the most rewarding experiences, and none of it would have been possible without the generosity of our donors. Thank you for helping create a space where learning truly grows outside.","fullyFundedDate":1780338263091,"projectUrl":"project/learning-grows-outside/10282398/","projectTitle":"Learning Grows Outside","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Burger","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7247485_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1736058227253","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/emily-burger"},{"teacherId":7247485,"projectId":10254959,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping bring calm lighting back into our classroom. Because of your support, my students will have LED lights that make our room feel softer, calmer, and more welcoming after our classroom is painted.\r\n\r\nMy students have always noticed the way our classroom feels, and lighting is one of those little things that makes a big difference. These lights will help us during independent work, small groups, quiet math practice, and moments when we need the room to feel a little more peaceful. They help make our classroom feel less harsh and more like a space where students can settle in and focus.\r\n\r\nI am so grateful that you helped us keep that cozy classroom feeling, even with everything coming down for painting. Thank you for supporting my students and helping make our classroom a place where they feel comfortable, cared for, and ready to learn.","fullyFundedDate":1778480688730,"projectUrl":"project/calm-lights-bright-minds/10254959/","projectTitle":"Calm Lights, Bright Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Burger","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7247485_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1736058227253","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/emily-burger"},{"teacherId":9563232,"projectId":10207076,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping bring organized math notebooks to our students. Because of your support, students now have the paper they need to build their own grid paper notebooks and use them during math each day. This may seem like a simple supply, but it has already made a big difference in how students organize their thinking, line up their numbers, and show their work clearly.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the materials, they were excited to have something that felt like it was made just for them. They quickly understood that these notebooks would help them slow down, keep their work neat, and avoid some of the small mistakes that can happen when math work is crowded or unorganized. It has been especially helpful for students who need more structure when solving multi-step problems.\r\n\r\nThese notebooks are now becoming part of our regular math routine. Students are using them to practice skills, explain their thinking, and build confidence as problem solvers. Your donation gave our students a tool that supports them every day, and we are so grateful for your kindness.","fullyFundedDate":1778295571572,"projectUrl":"project/building-strong-math-thinkers-with-organ/10207076/","projectTitle":"Building Strong Math Thinkers with Organized Notebooks","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Davis","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9563232_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1780080233643","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9563232"},{"teacherId":7247485,"projectId":10067881,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping provide bouncy bands for our classroom. My students were so excited when they saw that we had enough for every desk. We already knew how helpful they were from the ones we had before, but now every student can have access without anyone feeling left out.\r\n\r\nThese bouncy bands give students a quiet way to move while they work. In fifth grade, students are asked to focus for longer periods of time, solve challenging math problems, write in their notebooks, and stay engaged during lessons. Being able to move their feet quietly helps many students regulate their energy while still staying part of the learning.\r\n\r\nBecause of your donation, my classroom feels more fair, consistent, and supportive for all students. Thank you for helping make sure every student has the tools they need to focus, learn, and feel successful.","fullyFundedDate":1777302809248,"projectUrl":"project/supporting-every-student-as-our-classroo/10067881/","projectTitle":"Supporting Every Student as Our Classroom Grows","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Burger","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7247485_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1736058227253","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/emily-burger"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_58275","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":389,"numTeachers":32,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":14,"percentWhite":3,"percentIndigenous":6,"percentLatinx":70,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":3,"gradesServed":"K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"12.2:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":63.4,"schoolId":58275,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Griffith Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Griffith Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/arizona/balsz-elementary-school-district-31/griffith-elementary-school/58275"}