{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"William L Sheppard Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":23.8,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9642412,"projectId":9730606,"letterContent":"Thanks to the generosity of our donors, our classroom now has a steady supply of supportive snacks for students. These snacks have made a big difference in our daily routine, helping students stay focused, energized, and ready to learn throughout the day. One meaningful moment was when a student who often struggles with hunger arrived in class and was able to participate fully because a snack was available. Moments like this show just how much a small gesture can positively impact a student's learning and confidence.\r\nFurthermore, having snacks available supports both the academic and social environment in our classroom. Students are more engaged during lessons, more patient during group work, and more willing to collaborate with their peers. The simple act of having a snack available creates a sense of care and community, helping students feel valued and supported.\r\nLooking ahead, these snacks will continue to help students stay focused on science experiments, reading assignments, and group projects. Your generosity not only meets a basic need but also strengthens the classroom community and encourages students to approach challenges with energy and confidence.","fullyFundedDate":1762266277860,"projectUrl":"project/supportive-snacks-initiative/9730606/","projectTitle":"Supportive Snacks Initiative","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Edwards","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9642412_orig.jpg?crop=315,315,x0,y11&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723231674082","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9642412"},{"teacherId":9642412,"projectId":9792809,"letterContent":"Thanks to the generous support from our donors, our classroom now has new hoops and an air pump for our balls, which has made a big difference in student morale and engagement. Students use the balls during breaks, group activities, and team-building exercises, so they have a fun and active way to recharge between lessons. When they first saw the fully inflated balls, their excitement was contagious, and it immediately created a more positive and energetic classroom atmosphere.\r\nFurthermore, having this equipment encourages collaboration and friendly competition, which strengthens relationships among students and helps them work together more effectively during science projects. As we continue with our lessons, students are using these moments of play to refocus and approach challenges with more enthusiasm. These simple resources have transformed small breaks into opportunities for motivation and connection, supporting both the social and emotional growth of our students.","fullyFundedDate":1761021243469,"projectUrl":"project/helping-students-stay-active-basketball/9792809/","projectTitle":"Helping Students Stay Active: Basketball Equipment Project","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Edwards","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9642412_orig.jpg?crop=315,315,x0,y11&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723231674082","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9642412"},{"teacherId":9642412,"projectId":9632322,"letterContent":"Getting magnets and batteries for science class can have a big impact on students' learning and engagement. Magnets allow students to explore the invisible forces of magnetism, helping them understand concepts like attraction, repulsion, and magnetic fields in a hands-on way. Being able to manipulate magnets and see how they interact with different materials makes abstract ideas more concrete and memorable. It also encourages curiosity and experimentation, as students can test their own questions about what materials are magnetic or how magnets affect each other.\r\nBatteries, on the other hand, give students the opportunity to explore electricity and circuits in a tangible way. By connecting batteries to wires, bulbs, or small motors, students can see firsthand how energy flows and powers devices. This hands-on experience strengthens understanding of concepts like current, voltage, and energy transfer, which can be difficult to grasp through textbook explanations alone. It also teaches problem-solving skills, as students figure out how to complete circuits and troubleshoot why something might not be working.\r\nOverall, having magnets and batteries in the classroom transforms lessons from passive learning to active experimentation. Students are more engaged because they are able to interact directly with the materials, make predictions, observe outcomes, and draw conclusions. These activities foster critical thinking, creativity, and a deeper understanding of scientific principles that can inspire a lifelong interest in science.","fullyFundedDate":1758202629445,"projectUrl":"project/powering-creativity-and-discovery-in-the/9632322/","projectTitle":"Powering Creativity and Discovery in the Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Edwards","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9642412_orig.jpg?crop=315,315,x0,y11&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723231674082","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9642412"},{"teacherId":10172802,"projectId":9591768,"letterContent":"My school is Title 1 school. Majority of my students are from low-socioeconomic families. For many of them school is the only place to learn and play. These resources are very crucial for them to experience learning like their middle class peers. I am excited to help my students achieve their potential for which they need these essential supplies. My students and I sincerely appreciate all your support. \r\n\r\nWhen my students say the first batch of donations, they were thankful. But beyond that they are eager to use the supplies to be successful in the learning endeavors.","fullyFundedDate":1758142052456,"projectUrl":"project/7th-and-8th-grade-science-class/9591768/","projectTitle":"7th and 8th Grade Science Class","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Suresh","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10172802"},{"teacherId":9642412,"projectId":9460934,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of inspirational neon signs, biology-themed decor, and classroom accents. These vibrant and engaging materials have truly transformed our learning environment, making it more inviting, motivating, and educational for our students.\r\n\r\nThe \"We Can Do Hard Things\" neon sign serves as a daily reminder to encourage perseverance and a growth mindset, inspiring students to push through challenges with confidence. The DNA double helix neon sign and the plush cell models bring science concepts to life, helping students visualize and better understand complex biology topics in a fun and memorable way.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, the artificial ivy and LED string lights have brightened up our classroom space, creating a calming and stimulating atmosphere that supports focus and creativity.\r\n\r\nYour thoughtful contribution has not only enhanced the aesthetic of our classroom but also deepened students' engagement and excitement for learning science. We are truly grateful for your support in creating a positive and inspiring educational environment.","fullyFundedDate":1755710387804,"projectUrl":"project/glow-grow-transforming-our-science-cl/9460934/","projectTitle":"Glow & Grow: Transforming Our Science Classroom Atmosphere","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Edwards","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9642412_orig.jpg?crop=315,315,x0,y11&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723231674082","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9642412"},{"teacherId":9642412,"projectId":9626963,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project that combines hydroponics with raising chickens to teach students about sustainable agriculture and renewable energy. Your generosity has given our students invaluable hands-on experience in biology, environmental science, and green technology.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, students will be able to set up and maintain hydroponic systems and care for chickens from eggs to mature hens. This will help them understand food systems from plant growth to animal care, while exploring how renewable energy powers sustainable farming practices. They will gain critical skills in data collection, problem-solving, and teamwork, skills that prepare them for future careers in STEM and renewable energy fields.\r\n\r\nYour contribution will make science come alive for our students and inspire them to pursue pathways in environmental sustainability and technology. We are deeply grateful for your support and belief in our students' potential.","fullyFundedDate":1755753654712,"projectUrl":"project/the-hydroponics-project-learning-plant/9626963/","projectTitle":"The Hydroponics Project: Learning Plant Science Firsthand","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Edwards","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9642412_orig.jpg?crop=315,315,x0,y11&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723231674082","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9642412"},{"teacherId":9642412,"projectId":9584239,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of personal care items, including disposable toothbrushes with toothpaste, baby wipes, feminine pads, pimple patches, and hair ties. Your kindness is making a powerful impact on the health, comfort, and confidence of our students and families.\r\n\r\nMany of our students face challenges that make it difficult to access basic hygiene products. With your support, they will have the essential supplies they need to maintain their personal care and dignity. Cleanliness and self-care directly contribute to their overall well-being and focus in the classroom, helping them feel more confident and ready to learn. Your gift is not just about providing items, it's about fostering an environment where students can thrive physically, emotionally, and academically. We are incredibly grateful for your commitment to supporting our community and improving the lives of those we serve.\r\n\r\nThank you again for your generosity and for making a meaningful difference!","fullyFundedDate":1755710742480,"projectUrl":"project/the-little-things-that-make-a-big-differ/9584239/","projectTitle":"The Little Things That Make a Big Difference for Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Edwards","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9642412_orig.jpg?crop=315,315,x0,y11&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723231674082","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9642412"},{"teacherId":9642412,"projectId":9526318,"letterContent":"These classroom resources have greatly enhanced both student learning and organization. The whiteboard and magnetic marker holder support interactive lessons and help students focus during group activities. Rainbow turn-in trays and VELCRO dots make it easier for students to organize materials, turn in assignments independently, and take responsibility for their work.\r\n\r\nThe squishy party favors and wooden push pin clips provide hands-on learning opportunities, classroom incentives, and creative ways to display student work. While the spring tension rods help hide storage to help keep an organized look and display projects effectively, creating a visually engaging and structured learning environment.\r\n\r\nOverall, these materials have allowed for smoother classroom management, increased student engagement, and a more interactive and motivating learning experience for all students.","fullyFundedDate":1754406654425,"projectUrl":"project/calm-collected-and-squishy-building-a/9526318/","projectTitle":"Calm, Collected, and Squishy: Building a Positive Classroom Community","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Edwards","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9642412_orig.jpg?crop=315,315,x0,y11&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723231674082","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9642412"},{"teacherId":9642412,"projectId":9472067,"letterContent":"The PBIS HUB has had a tremendous impact on my classroom by giving students tangible rewards that motivate and reinforce positive behavior. I am using the stickers, fidgets, and candies as part of our PBIS system to recognize students for following class rules, participating actively, and showing kindness to peers. For example, during a recent lesson, several students who were usually hesitant to participate eagerly earned stickers and small fidgets for contributing thoughtful answers, which encouraged others to engage as well.\r\n\r\nWhen my students first saw the new rewards in the PBIS HUB, they were thrilled and immediately excited to earn them. The variety of items sparked enthusiasm and created a positive, motivating atmosphere in the classroom.\r\n\r\nThe next steps for my students will be to continue working toward PBIS goals while building self-regulation and positive classroom habits. By consistently using the HUB, students are learning the value of effort, responsibility, and collaboration, and they are excited to continue earning rewards as they meet new challenges.","fullyFundedDate":1755061556967,"projectUrl":"project/rewards-and-regulation-building-a-class/9472067/","projectTitle":"Rewards and Regulation: Building a Classroom PBIS Hub","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Edwards","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9642412_orig.jpg?crop=315,315,x0,y11&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723231674082","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9642412"},{"teacherId":9642412,"projectId":9455741,"letterContent":"The new coloring tools have made a big difference in my classroom by giving students a hands-on way to engage with the material. We are using the markers, colored pencils, and crayons to create detailed diagrams, label models, and visually organize notes, which helps students better understand and remember complex concepts. For example, during a recent lesson on the human body, students used the coloring tools to label and color different organ systems on worksheets and diagrams. Seeing the organs and systems in color made the lesson more interactive and easier to grasp.\r\n\r\nWhen my students first saw the new materials, their faces lit up with excitement. Many immediately wanted to start using the tools, and I noticed an increase in focus and participation, especially from students who are typically more reserved. The colors sparked creativity and helped them take ownership of their learning.\r\n\r\nThe next steps for my students will be to continue using the coloring tools for upcoming lessons, such as creating detailed study guides and visual summaries of complex topics. This will allow them to reinforce their understanding while also practicing organization and attention to detail, building both their content knowledge and their confidence as learners.","fullyFundedDate":1753840550593,"projectUrl":"project/colorful-creations-exploring-life-scien/9455741/","projectTitle":"Colorful Creations: Exploring Life Science Through Art","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Edwards","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9642412_orig.jpg?crop=315,315,x0,y11&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723231674082","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9642412"},{"teacherId":9642412,"projectId":9453311,"letterContent":"When these new flexible seating options arrived, my students were immediately drawn to them. The hammock chair quickly became a favorite spot for reading, group discussions, and quiet reflection. The chair bands have been especially helpful for students who need to move while they work, several students mentioned that the bands help them stay focused without feeling restless.\r\n\r\nThe first day the materials were set up, students walked in with wide eyes and excitement. Many commented that the classroom felt more inviting and comfortable, and they immediately began choosing the new seating areas for their work. These resources have transformed the way students interact in class by giving them choices that fit their needs and helping them take ownership of their learning environment.\r\nOur next steps are to incorporate these seating options into upcoming group projects in Anatomy and Physiology, where students will be able to collaborate in more relaxed, supportive spaces. Thanks to your generosity, my classroom is not only more functional but also more welcoming, giving every student a place where they can focus and thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1753658149636,"projectUrl":"project/helping-students-thrive-with-flexible-se/9453311/","projectTitle":"Helping Students Thrive with Flexible Seating Options","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Edwards","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9642412_orig.jpg?crop=315,315,x0,y11&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723231674082","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9642412"},{"teacherId":9168984,"projectId":8616816,"letterContent":"Truly your supplies have helped me be able to give my students the experience they deserve. Being able to provide them with the necessary supplies they need in order to grow truly was something amazing to see and is one of the main reasons I became a teacher to begin with. \r\nOne of the biggest things the supplies did for my classroom was it helped give my classroom the atmosphere where students want to grow through trying, and this truly wouldn't be capable without the supplies. Overall the donations truly have helped give my students the energy and motivation they deserve and need in order to grow into the amazing human beings we know they can be.","fullyFundedDate":1731523271739,"projectUrl":"project/after-school-creative-zone/8616816/","projectTitle":"After School Creative Zone","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Villalovos","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9168984"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_4677","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":463,"numTeachers":24,"percentFrplEligible":85,"percentAsian":34,"percentBlack":1,"percentWhite":2,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":59,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"19.3:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":76.2,"schoolId":4677,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about William L Sheppard Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"William L Sheppard Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/alum-rock-elementary-school-district/william-l-sheppard-middle-school/4677"}