{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Hilltop Special Services Center","outOfStateSupporters":29.7,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":678524,"projectId":9892347,"letterContent":"Our culturally rooted garden—Three Sisters—has been transformed by your philanthropic support to aid students with a tangible, cross-curricular education. With your support, students will be able to learn while they garden. With new tools, students will be able to plant, tend, and harvest heirloom corn, beans, and squash, linking science, literacy, art, and culture under to protection of the umbrellas. This will allow students to study soil health, sketch and explore nutrition and sustainability, under the comfort of the beautiful teal-colored umbrellas.","fullyFundedDate":1763170670800,"projectUrl":"project/3-sisters-seeds-gardening-tools/9892347/","projectTitle":"3 Sisters Seeds - Gardening Tools","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Alter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp678524_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1469010642151","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/alterj"},{"teacherId":678524,"projectId":9793160,"letterContent":"Your generosity has transformed our Garden — Sun Protection and Continued Growth project. With two shade umbrellas funded by your gift, our sunny balcony garden is now a vibrant outdoor classroom where students explore science, nutrition, art, and literacy through hands-on gardening. Students, teachers and others in the school community can now gather beneath the shade, eyes wide, recording observations in journals and sketching plant life—some tracing leaves they vividly described at home through family food traditions. The shade turned heat into focus, turning moments of curiosity into collaborative exploration.\r\n\r\nStudents have been learning about plant parts, and will learn about growth cycles, and seasonal foods. They will be able to collect plant samples, measure growth, and create plant posters that link to garden produce to family recipes from our diverse cultures. The next steps are to extend this work with a reflective science notebook series, and possibly a garden \"recipe book\" that pairs plants with traditional dishes, and a collaborative mural celebrating our cultural diversity. Your support has started a ripple—thank you for helping our students to start to grow, observe, and imagine in an outdoor space that invites inquiry.","fullyFundedDate":1762805644003,"projectUrl":"project/garden-sun-protection-and-continued-gr/9793160/","projectTitle":"Garden — Sun Protection and Continued Growth","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Alter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp678524_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1469010642151","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/alterj"},{"teacherId":678524,"projectId":9758929,"letterContent":"Thank you for funding two benches for our 3 Sisters Garden. Your generosity creates a welcoming outdoor classroom where students observe, reflect, and connect.\r\n\r\nYour support enriches the space for Three Sisters indigenous plant growth and helps students record plant growth, moisture, and biodiversity, then write reflective journals. When the benches arrived, students were excited they'd be used in school gardening.\r\n\r\nYour support also brings joy to science and the beauty of nature, enriching every lesson.","fullyFundedDate":1760903037883,"projectUrl":"project/benches-for-the-3-sisters-garden/9758929/","projectTitle":"Benches for the 3 Sisters Garden","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Alter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp678524_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1469010642151","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/alterj"},{"teacherId":678524,"projectId":9653646,"letterContent":"Thank you! Your gift to our Three Sisters Gathering Space has already been transformed. Next semester we will open up the garden for science learning as a school community. Students will plant corn, beans, and squash, then use the new tables to sketch plant growth, record observations, and share recipes for a start. Students are excited to use the furniture as part of their outdoor class. Students will be able to research companion planting and host a community harvest sharing to celebrate culture and stewardship.","fullyFundedDate":1759075839594,"projectUrl":"project/gathering-space-for-the-3-sisters-garden/9653646/","projectTitle":"Gathering Space for the 3 Sisters Garden","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Alter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp678524_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1469010642151","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/alterj"},{"teacherId":678524,"projectId":9655310,"letterContent":"Thank you for bringing the 3 Sisters Food Harvest to life. Your gift of water-capturing containers, planter boxes, soil, and heirloom seeds will transform our classroom into a living lab of culture, science, and stewardship.\r\n\r\nThe new resources such as the planter boxes will be installed on campus, and help with rain-capture containers to be set up for irrigation, and heirloom corn, bean, and squash seeds are planted using the new soil.\r\n\r\nThis will provide hands-on learning for students to measure soil moisture, record germination, sketch plant growth, and read about traditional companion planting and nutrition.\r\n\r\nYour donation will do more than supply materials — it will create a space where curiosity, culture, and responsibility grow together. Students will be able to practice scientific observation, connecting to cultural foodways, and building community ties. The project supports long-term lessons in ecology, nutrition, history, and art. Thank you, we deeply appreciate your support.","fullyFundedDate":1758410942862,"projectUrl":"project/3-sisters-food-harvest/9655310/","projectTitle":"3 Sisters Food Harvest","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Alter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp678524_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1469010642151","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/alterj"},{"teacherId":678524,"projectId":9381935,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting Hygiene Equity at our school. Your generosity has given our students accessible hygiene kits that are changing how they approach health, responsibility, and community. We've integrated the kits as an ongoing resource for our high school students so they can maintain their personal hygiene, see the link between hygiene and public health, and share personal routines for self-care with their peers. The kits also enable independent peer-to-peer service, where students learn to support the hygiene needs of each other to maintain clean, healthy spaces across the school. Indirectly, your support has become a touchstone for responsibility and care, reinforcing that health is a shared value and a collective effort.\r\n\r\nWhen our students first saw the materials, they were energized by having real access to meet their hygiene needs. They asked thoughtful questions and offered ideas—like when they would get ongoing access to the kits and why hand hygiene matters during flu season—and many peers volunteered to demonstrate and support one another. This enthusiasm translated into meaningful collaboration: students organized hygiene-awareness among their peers, created demonstrations, and partnered with our Wellness department to ensure accuracy and safety. The resources have helped the school community shift from passive learning to active peer support, with students taking ownership of peer education and community impact. Students understand that a simple and best practice is actionable routines that could be used at home and at school. The energy by the students was contagious, and it reminded us all that knowledge shared fosters confidence and healthier habits.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, the next steps for our school are to expand the Hygiene Equity project into broader access across grades and departments, amplifying advocacy for better hygiene practices throughout the school community. Our goal is to create a sustainable framework where hygiene equity becomes embedded in daily routines, school policies, and school community outreach. \r\n\r\nYour generosity has planted the seed for ongoing inquiry, empathy, and action, and we're excited to see where this journey takes us. We are grateful for your trust and the opportunity to model civic responsibility in a tangible, impactful way. The impact of your support extends beyond supplies; it empowers students to think critically about public health, collaborate effectively with peers and educators, and serve with compassion in their everyday lives.\r\n\r\nThank you again for your commitment to our students' well-being and learning. Your contribution has not only provided essential resources but also inspired our students to ask better questions about their health and hygiene, work together more effectively, and contribute to a healthier, more equitable school community.","fullyFundedDate":1748396839957,"projectUrl":"project/hygiene-equity/9381935/","projectTitle":"Hygiene Equity","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Alter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp678524_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1469010642151","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/alterj"},{"teacherId":678524,"projectId":9381952,"letterContent":"The colorful storage carts and new materials will transform our classroom — this area finally has room to breathe and the space is more accessible. Students can now organize their work into labeled trays and manage projects independently, a clear sign of the ownership and pride these carts inspire.\r\n\r\nWith these resources part of our daily routines, next steps are will be underway. The carts allow students to practically manage assignments, and easy access to materials supports independent work that prepares them for self-management. Thank you — your support did more than buy furniture; it created space for students to become a self-managing community.","fullyFundedDate":1750449368082,"projectUrl":"project/cart-of-wonders/9381952/","projectTitle":"Cart of Wonders","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Alter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp678524_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1469010642151","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/alterj"},{"teacherId":678524,"projectId":9383925,"letterContent":"Thank you for helping bring mobility, organization, and greater access to our Entrepreneurship Career, Technology and Education (CTE) program. With the MYOYAY 3-Tier Utility Cart as a dedicated mobile station for our Glowforge laser cutter and air vent machines, students now move equipment safely and efficiently between classrooms and maker spaces. In practice this will mean more frequent, hands-on design sessions for students to sketch and laser-cut leather prototypes, test finishes, and iterate on patterns within a single class period instead of losing time transporting equipment or waiting for access. \r\n\r\nThis improved logistics will translate directly into deeper learning: more prototype cycles, better collaboration, and the ability to integrate lessons on entrepreneurship, cost calculation, and personal storytelling into authentic product development.","fullyFundedDate":1750727311081,"projectUrl":"project/mobile-innovation-hub/9383925/","projectTitle":"Mobile Innovation Hub","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Alter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp678524_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1469010642151","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/alterj"},{"teacherId":678524,"projectId":9384100,"letterContent":"Each student brings a rich tapestry of backgrounds and perspectives, fueling vibrant discussions and inspiring collective growth. By introducing tools such as leather sheets and other items for their leather projects, I aim to provide hands-on experiences that validate their abilities, help them develop new skills, and empower them to create meaningful and impactful work. These resources enable students to actively participate in making products, which allows them to better share their culture and the importance of voicing their unique perspectives. Crafting leather goods or similar items becomes a powerful form of self-expression, boosting confidence and affirming their voices.\r\n\r\n Many of my students come from backgrounds with different barriers, often marked by social and financial struggles, but I am excited to equip them with practical tools that not only validate their abilities but also foster personal growth.\r\n\r\nThis approach helps them share their culture through entrepreneurial projects, which builds their skills and confidence. It also prepares them to be brave advocates for their learning. Their strength and courage to face their challenges make them truly special. I believe that providing these hands-on opportunities can be transformative—allowing them to tell their stories, share their voices, and create change.","fullyFundedDate":1755699541232,"projectUrl":"project/a-tapestry-of-creativity-and-discovery/9384100/","projectTitle":"A Tapestry of Creativity and Discovery","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Alter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp678524_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1469010642151","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/alterj"},{"teacherId":678524,"projectId":9023550,"letterContent":"I hope this letter finds you well! I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for your contribution to our \"Hygiene: Fresh & Fabulous\" project. Thanks to your generous support, my students now have access to essential hygiene resources that have truly made a difference in our school. On \"Love Yourself Day\" (Valentine's Day), we were able to provide each student with hygiene kits filled with the materials you helped supply. This initiative not only highlighted the importance of personal hygiene but also addressed the need for vital toiletries that many students unfortunately go without.\r\nWhen the students first received their kits, their appreciation was palpable. They eagerly explored the items, like soap, toothbrushes, and shampoo, with genuine excitement. It was incredibly heartwarming to see their enthusiasm as they realized they now had access to the self-care items necessary for maintaining their hygiene and well-being. These kits also serve as an excellent opportunity for our school nurse to reinforce the significance of these practices in their daily lives.\r\nLooking ahead, we are excited to sustain this momentum by seeking additional support through grant writing to provide future hygiene kits. Students will continue to learn about the science behind germs and how proper hygiene can prevent illness, especially as they embrace their roles as teen mothers. Your support has not only reinforced the importance of self-care but also equipped them with the essential hygiene resources they need. Thank you once again for being such a vital part of our classroom journey!","fullyFundedDate":1738696383709,"projectUrl":"project/hygiene-fresh-fabulous/9023550/","projectTitle":"Hygiene: Fresh & Fabulous","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Alter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp678524_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1469010642151","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/alterj"},{"teacherId":678524,"projectId":8829196,"letterContent":"I want to extend my thanks for your generous donation of Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks, Clorox Disinfecting Wipes, Crayola Kid's Markers, and Mott's Fruit Flavored Snacks to our classroom. These contributions, though they may seem small, play a crucial role in meeting our students' needs. With the glue sticks, we can ensure that students have the proper materials for their creative projects without any setbacks. For instance, during an art project, the quick access to glue sticks will allow everyone to seamlessly collaborate and express themselves artistically.\r\n\r\nThe students were thrilled when they first saw the snacks. The Mott's Fruit Snacks provided a delightful energy boost after a busy morning of learning. The vibrant colors of the Crayola Kid's Markers never go unnoticed, as students love to be creative. Knowing that their basic needs are being met builds their trust and confidence in the classroom. These simple resources not only foster a nurturing environment but also encourage collaboration and support among the students as they share and enjoy what they have.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, the supplies you've provided will greatly enhance our upcoming projects and help students with their creative work. Additionally, the disinfecting wipes will help us maintain a clean and safe learning environment, which is essential for everyone's well-being. Your contributions make a tangible difference. Thank you for your support.","fullyFundedDate":1727329662774,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-essentials-shipment-2024-09-2/8829196/","projectTitle":"Classroom Essentials Shipment: 2024-09-26","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Alter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp678524_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1469010642151","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/alterj"},{"teacherId":678524,"projectId":9023548,"letterContent":"I want to extend my thanks for your donation of a box of band-aids to our classroom. This seemingly small contribution always helps our students' meet their needs. With the band-aids readily available, we've been able to address minor scrapes and cuts promptly, allowing students to not be concerned about their minor injuries. For instance, during a project where students were working with scissors, a few minor accidents could occur. Thanks to your donation, we were able to have quick bandage access, ensuring their need is cared for and could continue their creative work without interruption.\r\n\r\nWhen students know that their basic safety needs can be met, it builds their trust. Something as simple as band-aids not only helped foster a nurturing environment but also encouraged them to be more mindful of each other's well-being.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, this simple act of kindness will help students have their basic first aid need met by caring for minor injuries. Your contribution has not only provided us with a practical resource. Thank you once again for your support; it truly makes a difference in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1735628591231,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-essentials-shipment-2024-12-3/9023548/","projectTitle":"Classroom Essentials Shipment: 2024-12-31","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Alter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp678524_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1469010642151","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/alterj"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_18730","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":57,"numTeachers":null,"percentFrplEligible":49,"percentAsian":14,"percentBlack":3,"percentWhite":42,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":33,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"US Census Data for the surrounding geographic area","gradesServed":"7 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":null,"demographicsDataSource":"Census ZCTA","equityFocus":false,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":null},"inStateSupporters":70.3,"schoolId":18730,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Hilltop Special Services Center on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Hilltop Special Services Center","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/-county-run-/hill-top-high-school/18730"}