{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Gila Vista Junior High School","outOfStateSupporters":36.7,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":1014220,"projectId":8211570,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our **\"Building Thinking Classrooms\"** project! When my students first saw the new materials, they were eager to explore and quickly realized that math class was going to look—and feel—different. The excitement was immediate as they grabbed markers, moved to their whiteboard stations, and began collaborating on challenging problems. The room came alive with conversation, creative ideas, and true problem-solving energy. Students who were once hesitant to share are now confidently explaining their reasoning and learning from one another.\r\n\r\nWe've been using these new resources to engage students in group tasks that promote deep thinking and communication. During a recent lesson on slope, for example, students worked at the boards in random groups, exploring different methods to find rates of change. It was inspiring to watch them debate strategies, justify answers, and build understanding together. The vertical whiteboards and hands-on activities have completely transformed how my students approach learning—they're no longer waiting for answers but actively discovering them.\r\n\r\nOur next steps involve continuing to build this culture of collaboration and curiosity. Students are beginning to design their own problems and lead group discussions, taking greater ownership of their learning. Thanks to your generosity, my classroom has become a true community of thinkers where every student feels empowered to contribute. Your support has made math not only more engaging but also more meaningful—and for that, we are deeply grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1713670229694,"projectUrl":"project/building-thinking-classrooms/8211570/","projectTitle":"Building Thinking Classrooms","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Anderson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1014220_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1504536066872","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/krisyuma"},{"teacherId":1014220,"projectId":9595344,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our **\"Student Rewards\"** project! When my students first saw the new reward items, their faces lit up with excitement. They couldn't believe that their hard work and positive behavior would now be celebrated in such fun and meaningful ways. The rewards have brought an extra level of motivation to our classroom, encouraging students to stay focused, participate more actively, and support one another.\r\n\r\nWe've been using the rewards to reinforce both academic effort and positive character traits. During math lessons, students earn points and small prizes for demonstrating teamwork, perseverance, and creative problem-solving. One memorable moment was when a group of students stayed after class to help peers understand a challenging concept—knowing they could earn recognition for kindness and leadership truly inspired them. The reward system has transformed our classroom culture into one that celebrates growth and effort just as much as results.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, we plan to continue integrating the reward system into our goal-setting activities. Students are setting personal learning targets and tracking their progress, earning incentives as they achieve milestones. Your generosity has not only helped make learning more enjoyable but has also built confidence, community, and a sense of pride among my students. Thank you for making such a positive difference in their educational journey!","fullyFundedDate":1757520348193,"projectUrl":"project/student-rewards/9595344/","projectTitle":"Student Rewards","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Anderson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1014220_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1504536066872","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/krisyuma"},{"teacherId":1014220,"projectId":9165873,"letterContent":"Dear Donors,\r\nThank you so much for your generous support of our **\"Empowering Students Through Standing Whiteboards\"** project! My students were absolutely thrilled when they first saw the new whiteboards set up around the classroom. Their faces lit up with excitement as they realized these weren't just new tools—they were opportunities to learn in a more active and engaging way. Many couldn't wait to grab a marker and start solving problems, drawing graphs, and explaining their thinking to classmates.\r\n\r\nWe now use the standing whiteboards daily for group problem-solving, review games, and hands-on math discussions. During a recent lesson on proportional relationships, students worked collaboratively at the boards, testing ideas and making quick revisions as they visualized patterns together. The energy in the room was incredible—students who were once hesitant to share are now leading discussions and taking ownership of their learning.\r\n\r\nOur next steps involve using the boards for student-led lessons and peer teaching activities. Students are already brainstorming creative ways to use the boards for explaining math concepts through visuals, diagrams, and real-world examples. Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has transformed into a vibrant, interactive space where learning feels dynamic and collaborative. We are truly grateful for your support in helping our students build confidence, communication skills, and a love for math.","fullyFundedDate":1751413610949,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-students-through-standing-whi/9165873/","projectTitle":"Empowering Students Through Standing Whiteboards","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Anderson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1014220_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1504536066872","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/krisyuma"},{"teacherId":5291015,"projectId":9212331,"letterContent":"Thank you so much to everyone who supported our project and helped provide practice pads for our students! These pads give our young percussionists the chance to practice rhythm, stick control, and technique in a way that is both effective and classroom-friendly. For many students, this is their very first time learning percussion, and having the right tools allows them to build strong foundations without feeling overwhelmed. Already, we are seeing more confidence and focus as they develop their skills. Your generosity has made it possible for every student to participate, practice, and grow. We are deeply grateful for your support in helping our music program thrive!","fullyFundedDate":1746786528902,"projectUrl":"project/equipping-our-percussionists-for-success/9212331/","projectTitle":"Equipping Our Percussionists for Success!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Ramos","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5291015_orig.jpg?crop=2406,2406,x0,y72&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723655900756","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/gvmusic"},{"teacherId":5291015,"projectId":9212324,"letterContent":"Thank you so much to everyone who supported our project and helped bring tuners and metronomes into our classroom! These may seem like simple tools, but they are absolutely essential for helping students grow as musicians. The tuners are teaching students how to listen more carefully and adjust their sound, while the metronomes are giving them the structure and rhythm skills they need to perform with confidence. Already, students are more focused, engaged, and excited to see their progress. Your generosity has made a lasting difference in their learning, and we are so grateful for your belief in the power of music education.","fullyFundedDate":1746786492731,"projectUrl":"project/keeping-the-beat-staying-in-tune/9212324/","projectTitle":"Keeping the Beat, Staying in Tune!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Ramos","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5291015_orig.jpg?crop=2406,2406,x0,y72&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723655900756","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/gvmusic"},{"teacherId":5291015,"projectId":9212343,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support in helping us bring new bell kits into our classroom! These instruments are already making a huge difference for our students. For many of them, this is their very first experience learning to read music and perform on an instrument, and having quality bell kits gives them the tools they need to grow in both confidence and skill. Your donation has helped create a more inclusive and exciting learning environment where every student can participate and feel successful. We are deeply grateful for your kindness and belief in our program—it means so much to our school and community!","fullyFundedDate":1746786509656,"projectUrl":"project/helping-our-percussionists-hit-the-right/9212343/","projectTitle":"Helping Our Percussionists Hit the Right Notes!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Ramos","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5291015_orig.jpg?crop=2406,2406,x0,y72&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723655900756","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/gvmusic"},{"teacherId":5291015,"projectId":9212296,"letterContent":"Our students rely on essential supplies like reeds, valve oil, and cork grease every day to keep their instruments playing smoothly and sounding their best. Without these necessities, students face frustrating challenges—stuck valves, squeaky notes, or broken reeds—that interrupt learning and practice. By providing these items, you ensure every musician can focus on improving technique and making music without setbacks. Your support helps maintain our instruments' health, boosts student confidence, and keeps our band sounding vibrant and united throughout the school year.","fullyFundedDate":1746786480083,"projectUrl":"project/instrument-necessities/9212296/","projectTitle":"Instrument Necessities","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Ramos","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5291015_orig.jpg?crop=2406,2406,x0,y72&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723655900756","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/gvmusic"},{"teacherId":5291015,"projectId":9212295,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support in funding new stage lights for our performances! Your gift has transformed our concerts by creating a professional atmosphere that truly highlights our students' hard work and talent. With improved lighting, our performers feel more confident and engaged, and audiences are captivated by the enhanced visual experience. These lights not only brighten the stage but also brighten our students' spirits, encouraging creativity and pride in their performances. Your kindness is making a lasting impact on our music program—thank you!","fullyFundedDate":1746786513597,"projectUrl":"project/students-in-the-spotlight/9212295/","projectTitle":"Students In The Spotlight","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Ramos","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5291015_orig.jpg?crop=2406,2406,x0,y72&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723655900756","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/gvmusic"},{"teacherId":5291015,"projectId":8903307,"letterContent":"I am truly overwhelmed with gratitude for your generous support of our trumpet mute project. Because of you, our student musicians now have the tools they need to expand their skills, explore new sounds, and perform with greater versatility. What was once only possible in professional settings is now part of our classroom every single day — and it's all thanks to your kindness.\r\n\r\nBefore this project, our brass players were limited to one main tone color: the open trumpet sound. While that sound is beautiful, it is only one part of the trumpet's vast expressive range. Many pieces our students perform — whether in concert band, jazz band, or small ensembles — call for different timbres to match the style or mood. Without mutes, students couldn't fully experience or perform those musical nuances. They would have to \"pretend\" certain effects, missing a key part of the music-making process.\r\n\r\nThe mutes you helped provide — including straight, cup, and Harmon mutes — have already transformed our rehearsals. The very first time the students tried them, I watched eyes widen and smiles spread as they discovered how dramatically the sound changes. Suddenly, a piece we've been rehearsing for weeks had a completely different character. It felt like we were unlocking hidden layers of the music together.\r\n\r\nOne of my favorite moments so far was during our jazz band rehearsal. Our lead trumpet player inserted the Harmon mute for a solo section, and the entire ensemble lit up at the warm, intimate, \"Miles Davis\" style tone that filled the room. Students immediately started asking questions about when and how to use each mute, exploring the creative possibilities. This curiosity is exactly what music education is all about — students taking ownership of their artistry.\r\n\r\nYour support didn't just give us equipment; it gave us new opportunities to teach style, dynamics, balance, and musical color. The mutes also encourage students to listen more carefully to each other. They're learning how to blend when some players are muted and others are open, a skill that will serve them in any ensemble they join in the future.\r\n\r\nI also want to highlight how meaningful it is for my students to know that people outside our school community care about their growth. Many of them were astonished to hear that strangers, simply out of kindness, contributed to their education. Your generosity sends a powerful message: their hard work matters, and there are people rooting for them. That encouragement can be life-changing for a young musician.\r\n\r\nOn behalf of my students, their families, and our entire music program, thank you for believing in us. Your contribution will be heard — quite literally — in every concert we perform for years to come. Each time our trumpets switch to a new mute, adding depth and color to the music, we will remember that it was made possible by your generosity.","fullyFundedDate":1733846620367,"projectUrl":"project/mute-the-trumpets/8903307/","projectTitle":"Mute the Trumpets","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Ramos","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5291015_orig.jpg?crop=2406,2406,x0,y72&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723655900756","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/gvmusic"},{"teacherId":5291015,"projectId":8443378,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your incredible generosity in providing music books for our band program! These books, filled with melodies from some of our favorite films, are not only helping my students improve their musical skills but also sparking their enthusiasm and love for music.\r\n\r\nHearing them play familiar themes from movies they adore has brought a new energy to our rehearsals. It's amazing to see their faces light up as they connect the music they're learning to the stories they love. These books are a wonderful tool for teaching technique, expression, and creativity, and they've made learning so much more fun for everyone.\r\n\r\nYour support means the world to us, and we are so grateful for your investment in our students' growth and inspiration. Thank you for helping us make music magical!","fullyFundedDate":1724083873264,"projectUrl":"project/music-for-band/8443378/","projectTitle":"Music for Band","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Ramos","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5291015_orig.jpg?crop=2406,2406,x0,y72&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723655900756","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/gvmusic"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_39603","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":509,"numTeachers":24,"percentFrplEligible":58,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":15,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":81,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"21.2:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_SMALL"},"inStateSupporters":63.3,"schoolId":39603,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Gila Vista Junior High School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Gila Vista Junior High School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/arizona/yuma-elementary-school-district-1/gila-vista-junior-high-school/39603"}