{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Buckeye Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":68.8,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8373589,"projectId":10060437,"letterContent":"Introducing Katherine Applegate's The One and Only Ivan series into a Library is often a transformative experience for students. These books do more than just tell a story; they act as a bridge between literacy and emotional intelligence. The series is written from the perspective of animals—Ivan (a gorilla), Bob (a dog), and Ruby (an elephant). This \"non-human\" lens allows students to see the world through Ivan's eyes and helps students understand the concept of a \"silent voice.\" Students learn to identify with characters who have experienced trauma, fostering a deeper sense of compassion for both animals and their peers. From a collection-building standpoint, The One and Only Ivan is a Newbery Medal winner. Having award-winning titles that are also \"high-interest\" ensures your library meets high standards of literary quality while actually being checked out and read by the students. My Students were super excited to get the One and Only Ivan series, Wonder and We're All Wonders.","fullyFundedDate":1771196801465,"projectUrl":"project/the-one-and-only-ivan-series-for-my-libr/10060437/","projectTitle":"The One and Only Ivan Series for My Library!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Jodi Hice","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8373589"},{"teacherId":8373589,"projectId":8924797,"letterContent":"Rewarding positive behavior is a cornerstone of modern educational psychology. While some argue that learning should be its own reward, the strategic use of tangible prizes can serve as a powerful catalyst for building a thriving school culture. When implemented thoughtfully, prizes do more than just provide a momentary thrill; they act as a bridge between immediate impulses and long-term habit formation. Receiving a small prize triggers a release of dopamine, which helps the brain associate a specific action (like helping a peer or staying focused) with a positive outcome. Prizes serve as a physical marker of success. They signal to the student—and their peers—exactly what kind of behavior is valued in the classroom. Traditionally, school discipline has focused on what not to do, using detentions or reprimands to curb \"bad\" behavior. A prize-based system flips this script. By looking for the \"good,\" teachers shift the classroom energy from policing to coaching. This Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) approach reduces anxiety and fosters a sense of psychological safety, allowing students to take academic risks without the fear of constant scrutiny. In conclusion, prizes are a highly effective tool for reinforcing positive behavior. They provide the necessary scaffolding for students to develop the self-regulation and social skills required for adulthood. When the reward matches the effort, the classroom transforms from a place of \"must-do\" into a place of \"want-to.\"","fullyFundedDate":1739373531911,"projectUrl":"project/rewarding-positive-behaviors/8924797/","projectTitle":"Rewarding Positive Behaviors","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Jodi Hice","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8373589"},{"teacherId":8373589,"projectId":9569486,"letterContent":"Rewarding positive behavior is a cornerstone of modern educational psychology. While some argue that learning should be its own reward, the strategic use of tangible prizes can serve as a powerful catalyst for building a thriving school culture. When implemented thoughtfully, prizes do more than just provide a momentary thrill; they act as a bridge between immediate impulses and long-term habit formation. Receiving a small prize triggers a release of dopamine, which helps the brain associate a specific action (like helping a peer or staying focused) with a positive outcome. Prizes serve as a physical marker of success. They signal to the student—and their peers—exactly what kind of behavior is valued in the classroom. Traditionally, school discipline has focused on what not to do, using detentions or reprimands to curb \"bad\" behavior. A prize-based system flips this script. By looking for the \"good,\" teachers shift the classroom energy from policing to coaching. This Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) approach reduces anxiety and fosters a sense of psychological safety, allowing students to take academic risks without the fear of constant scrutiny. In conclusion, prizes are a highly effective tool for reinforcing positive behavior. They provide the necessary scaffolding for students to develop the self-regulation and social skills required for adulthood. When the reward matches the effort, the classroom transforms from a place of \"must-do\" into a place of \"want-to.\"","fullyFundedDate":1760574086052,"projectUrl":"project/library-refresh/9569486/","projectTitle":"Library Refresh","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Jodi Hice","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8373589"},{"teacherId":8373589,"projectId":9415637,"letterContent":"On behalf of my students and our entire physical education department. I want to express my deepest gratitude for the generous donation of new sports equipment. The arrival of the circular markers, hula hoops, bowling pins, dodgeballs, and the pickle ball set has done much more than just fill our storage bins; it has fundamentally transformed the energy and learning potential within our gymnasium.\r\n\r\nFor several years, our school has made do with equipment that was, frankly , quite dated. When your PE gear is worn out or limited, it inadvertently limits the curriculum. It becomes difficult to inspire movement when the tools provided lackluster. However, the movement these new items were unveiled, the atmosphere shifted instantly. The students were beyond excited-there is a unique kind of joy that comes from seeing bright, high—quality equipment, and that enthusiasm has translated directly into a renewed engagement with physical activity.\r\n\r\nThe impact on student learning on student learning has been immediate and multifaceted. The circular rubber markers, while simple, have become the foundation for organized movement. They've allowed us to teach spatial awareness and 'home base' concept to our younger learners, while serving as agile targets and boundary markers for our older students. \r\n\r\nThe hula hoops and bowling pins have introduced a world of target games and coordination challenges. We've used the bowling pins to teach the mechanics of underhand rolling and accuracy, while the hula hoops have been repurposed for everything from traditional rhythmic movement to 'human tic-tac-toe and obstacle courses. These tools foster critical thinking and teamwork as students collaborate to solve movement puzzles.\r\n\r\nThe timing of this gift couldn't be better. I have a series of upcoming lessons designed around these specific tools. We are moving into a net games unit where the pickleball set will be the star, followed by a target and accuracy unit utilizing the pins and markers. Because of this donation, my students are no longer just getting through PE, they are thriving in it. They discovered new talents , building confidence and most importantly having fun while staying active. Thank you for investing in our students health and happiness. You haven't just provided gear you provided a spark for a healthier lifestyle.","fullyFundedDate":1760652927305,"projectUrl":"project/pe-sports-equipment/9415637/","projectTitle":"PE Sports Equipment","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Jodi Hice","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8373589"},{"teacherId":8373589,"projectId":9759855,"letterContent":"The act of encouraging students to read is one of the most powerful interventions an educator or even a parent can make. It goes beyond the simple mechanics of literacy, it's fostering a genuine love for reading. When students move from reading because they have to, to reading because they want to, the impact is amazing, when students read regularly they are exposed to millions more words per year and it increases their vocabulary and understanding of complex sentence structure , which directly translate to better writing and speaking skills. When my students saw these books they were so excited to check them out and continue to ask me what new books we received in the library. It makes my heart so happy to be able to share with my students the news when I receive book donations. These books are what help with keeping my students interested in reading and I love to see all my students coming in more frequently to check out books.","fullyFundedDate":1767475713504,"projectUrl":"project/encouraging-student-to-read/9759855/","projectTitle":"Encouraging Student to Read!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Jodi Hice","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8373589"},{"teacherId":8373589,"projectId":9345867,"letterContent":"The school library is often described as the heart of a school, but without a vibrant, curated collection of books the kids aren't really interested in books. While modern libraries are involving into media center, my library is not only a library but also assist with technology stuff. The impact of these books extends far beyond simple information regain. They are foundations to academic success, the most immediate impact of robust library is on literacy and academic performance . Access to a wide variety of books-fictions, non-fiction, graphic novels and biographies will help with a higher reading proficiency. Reading in my library looks like , students coming throughout the day and checking a book out and returning in 2 weeks or if they complete it sooner. All of my students love to see all the new books that I get for them, they get so excited.","fullyFundedDate":1758744076135,"projectUrl":"project/library-books/9345867/","projectTitle":"Library Books!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Jodi Hice","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8373589"},{"teacherId":9802940,"projectId":9442604,"letterContent":"The donated headphones have made a meaningful impact in our classroom by helping students stay focused and engage more deeply with their learning. They allow students to listen to instructional videos, math explanations, and audio supports at their own pace without distractions, which has been especially helpful during independent work and small-group instruction. As a result, students are more confident, productive, and willing to take ownership of their learning.\r\n\r\nStudents are especially excited to have their own set of headphones to use consistently. They enjoy the independence of controlling the volume and replaying instructions when needed, which makes learning feel more interactive and accessible. Having this tool has also increased student motivation and enthusiasm during technology-based activities.\r\n\r\nSeveral students have particularly benefited from the headphones, especially those who need repeated directions, language supports, or a quieter learning environment. Students who previously struggled with focus are now more engaged and able to persevere through challenging tasks. Overall, the headphones have helped create a more inclusive, supportive, and equitable learning environment for all students.","fullyFundedDate":1756562840017,"projectUrl":"project/organized-minds-confident-learners/9442604/","projectTitle":"Organized Minds, Confident Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Utrera","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/utrera"},{"teacherId":8646075,"projectId":9233785,"letterContent":"I want to express my thanks for the donations that allowed my students to receive access to books that will help them. These early reader and primary books are great to help students strengthen their reading and writing skills, build vocabulary, and also improve comprehension. All of these are essential for academic success across multiple subjects. \r\n\r\nFor many students, especially those in under resourced communities, donated books may be their only access to a variety of reading materials. Your donation helps close that gap and give more children the opportunity to grow through reading.","fullyFundedDate":1746786000133,"projectUrl":"project/reading-is-fun/9233785/","projectTitle":"Reading Is Fun!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Deckard","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8646075"},{"teacherId":8649004,"projectId":9184800,"letterContent":"I am thrilled to express my heartfelt gratitude for your generous contributions to our DonorsChoose project aimed at providing a classroom set of \"Everything You Need to Ace US History.\" Your support has made a profound impact on my students and our learning environment.\r\n\r\nThanks to your kindness, my students now have access to a comprehensive resource that not only enhances their understanding of US history but also ignites their passion for learning. This engaging material fosters critical thinking and discussion, allowing students to connect historical events to their own lives and the world around them.\r\n\r\nYour investment in their education empowers them to become informed citizens and lifelong learners. I have already witnessed an increase in their enthusiasm for history, and I am excited to see how this will translate into their academic growth.\r\n\r\nThank you once again for believing in our students and supporting their journey. Your generosity is truly making a difference!","fullyFundedDate":1746786397743,"projectUrl":"project/help-my-students-become-history-scholars/9184800/","projectTitle":"Help My Students Become History Scholars!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Jumper","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8649004_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1691212723057","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8649004"},{"teacherId":8373589,"projectId":9233505,"letterContent":"My students are loving the new books for my library for a variety of reasons including independent reading, classroom projects and engaging and reading challenges. The donated books have significantly boosted student engagement and create a renewed sense of excitement around reading. The arrival of new books has created a buzz in the library. Students are eager to see what's new and students checking out books is a clear sign of the donation positive impact. It has inspired students to spend more time in the library about themselves discovering new Authors and stories.","fullyFundedDate":1746787064123,"projectUrl":"project/my-library-really-needs-new-and-updated/9233505/","projectTitle":"My Library Really Needs New and Updated Books!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Jodi Hice","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8373589"},{"teacherId":8373589,"projectId":9401112,"letterContent":"Donating books can significantly help your students learn in the library by enriching the collection, diversifying reading materials, and promoting a culture of reading. Book donations directly increase the number and variety of books available to students. A larger collection means more options for all interest and reading levels. It allows the library to offer books in a wider range of topics, from fiction and non- fiction, history and arts. This expansion helps students find materials that generally interest them making the learning process more engaging and personal.","fullyFundedDate":1750885531140,"projectUrl":"project/inspire-the-love-of-reading/9401112/","projectTitle":"Inspire the Love of Reading!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Jodi Hice","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8373589"},{"teacherId":9802940,"projectId":9039131,"letterContent":"Your contributions have transformed our 6th grade math classroom in ways I cannot overstate! The organizational supplies have been a game-changer for our geometry unit. Last week, students used the graph paper you provided to plot coordinate pairs and discover the properties of quadrilaterals firsthand. When Mateo, who typically struggles with abstract concepts, successfully mapped and measured his own quadrilateral design using our new colored pencils, his face lit up with pride. \"Mrs. Garcia, I can actually see why this works now!\" he exclaimed to the class.\r\nWhen the boxes of supplies first arrived, my students' reactions were priceless. Many rushed to organize their new binders with dividers, creating sections for different math concepts with genuine excitement. \"This is mine to keep?\" asked Sofia in disbelief when handed her own set of highlighters. For many of my students at our Title I school, these were the first new school supplies they'd ever owned. The ownership and responsibility they've developed has directly translated to increased engagement and homework completion rates.\r\nLooking ahead, we're preparing for our \"Math in the Real World\" project where students will use their new dry-erase markers on laminated blueprints to design scale models of their dream playgrounds. They'll calculate area, perimeter, and costs while working in collaborative groups—made possible by having sufficient supplies for everyone. The organizational bins you funded will store their in-progress work between sessions, allowing for more complex, multi-day projects than we've ever attempted before. Your generosity has opened doors to deeper learning experiences that will carry these students far beyond our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1737321332802,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-learners-essential-resources/9039131/","projectTitle":"Empowering Learners: Essential Resources for Our Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Utrera","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/utrera"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_58289","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":1043,"numTeachers":43,"percentFrplEligible":60,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":7,"percentWhite":14,"percentIndigenous":1,"percentLatinx":72,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"24.3:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"UNCLASSIFIED","ncesMetroType":"TOWN_FRINGE"},"inStateSupporters":31.2,"schoolId":58289,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Buckeye Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Buckeye Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/arizona/buckeye-elementary-school-district/buckeye-elementary-school/58289"}