{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Emerson Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":24.6,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9274143,"projectId":9362461,"letterContent":"Introducing a JBL speaker into my physical education classroom has had a noticeable impact on student participation, energy levels, and willingness to engage in dance-based activities. Music instantly changes the atmosphere of the space, making it feel more welcoming, fun, and less intimidating—especially for students who may be hesitant to move or express themselves. With clear, high-quality sound, students can easily hear the rhythm and tempo, which helps them stay on beat and feel more confident when learning new movements. This has been especially important during introductory dance units, where timing and comfort are key to participation. The speaker allows me to incorporate a wide range of music styles that reflect student interests, helping build connections and increase buy-in from diverse groups of learners.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, music has encouraged more students to step outside their comfort zones. When a familiar or favorite song plays, students are more likely to join in, try new steps, and stay actively involved. It also supports classroom management by creating natural cues for starting, stopping, and transitioning between activities. Overall, the JBL speaker has transformed my classroom into a more engaging and inclusive environment where students feel motivated to move, participate, and explore dance with greater confidence.","fullyFundedDate":1752586506633,"projectUrl":"project/music-helps/9362461/","projectTitle":"Music Helps!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Ortiz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9274143_orig.jpg?crop=590,590,x436,y81&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1694790438727","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9274143"},{"teacherId":9274143,"projectId":9350284,"letterContent":"The addition of plyometric boxes and jump ropes in my physical education classroom has significantly increased student activity levels, engagement, and overall enthusiasm for fitness. These pieces of equipment are simple, versatile, and highly effective at promoting continuous movement, which is essential in maximizing active time during class. Plyo boxes provide students with opportunities to develop lower-body strength, coordination, and explosiveness through exercises like step-ups, box jumps, and modified movements that can be scaled to any ability level. Because they can be adjusted in height or used in different ways, all students—from beginners to more advanced—can participate safely and successfully. Jump ropes, on the other hand, offer a fast-paced, cardiovascular-focused activity that keeps students constantly moving while improving rhythm, timing, and endurance. One of the biggest benefits of both tools is how easily they can be incorporated into stations, circuits, or individual challenges, reducing downtime and eliminating long wait periods that often decrease participation.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, these activities naturally encourage goal-setting and self-improvement. Students can track how many jumps they complete or how many repetitions they achieve on a box, creating a sense of accomplishment and motivation to improve. The instant feedback they receive—whether it's clearing a rope consistently or successfully completing a jump—builds confidence and keeps them engaged. Another major impact has been the increase in student choice and autonomy; students often gravitate toward these stations because they are fun, challenging, and allow for personal pacing. This sense of ownership over their activity leads to higher effort levels and more sustained participation throughout the class period. Furthermore, both plyo boxes and jump ropes require minimal setup and can be used in a variety of ways, making transitions between activities quick and efficient. Overall, incorporating these tools has created a more dynamic, inclusive, and active learning environment where students are consistently moving, challenged, and motivated to improve their fitness.","fullyFundedDate":1753894871445,"projectUrl":"project/push-it-to-the-limit/9350284/","projectTitle":"Push It to the Limit!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Ortiz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9274143_orig.jpg?crop=590,590,x436,y81&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1694790438727","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9274143"},{"teacherId":9274143,"projectId":9340988,"letterContent":"The introduction of chain basketball nets in my physical education classroom has had a surprisingly powerful impact on student participation, engagement, and overall enthusiasm for basketball-related activities. At first glance, switching from traditional nylon nets to metal chain nets may seem like a minor equipment change, but in practice it has created a noticeable shift in how students interact with the game. One of the most immediate differences is the sensory feedback that chain nets provide; the distinct metallic \"swish\" or clank when a shot goes in offers instant, satisfying reinforcement that students find exciting and motivating. This auditory reward has made shooting feel more meaningful, especially for beginners who may not always see consistent success. As a result, students are more willing to take shots, try new skills, and stay engaged for longer periods of time. Additionally, chain nets are far more durable than traditional nets, which is particularly important in a high-traffic PE setting where equipment is used by multiple classes throughout the day. Previously, worn or broken nets often led to frustration or even disengagement, as students felt the equipment was not worth their effort. With chain nets, that issue has been virtually eliminated, creating a more consistent and reliable playing environment that encourages participation.\r\n\r\nBeyond durability and sensory appeal, chain nets have also contributed to a more authentic basketball experience, which resonates strongly with students. Many associate chain nets with outdoor courts and pickup basketball culture, and bringing that element into the PE setting has made activities feel more \"real\" and less like a forced exercise. This authenticity has been especially impactful for students who may not typically engage in structured sports but are drawn to the informal, street-style feel of the game. It has helped bridge the gap between organized physical education and recreational play, making students more comfortable and willing to participate. Furthermore, the sound and visual feedback from chain nets have made it easier to run certain drills and games, as students can clearly recognize successful shots without needing constant teacher confirmation. This has increased the pace of activities, reduced downtime, and allowed for smoother transitions between drills, all of which contribute to higher overall participation rates.\r\n\r\nAnother important benefit has been the way chain nets influence classroom management and student behavior. Because students are more engaged and excited, there are fewer off-task behaviors and less need for redirection. The novelty of the nets initially sparked curiosity, but over time that curiosity has evolved into sustained interest. Students who were previously hesitant to join in basketball units are now more likely to participate, often encouraged by the fun and rewarding experience the nets provide. In addition, the durability of chain nets reduces maintenance interruptions, meaning more class time is spent actively moving rather than fixing or replacing equipment. This increased activity time is crucial in a PE setting, where maximizing movement is a primary goal.\r\n\r\nOverall, the shift to chain basketball nets has proven to be a simple yet highly effective way to boost participation in my PE classroom. By enhancing the sensory experience, increasing equipment reliability, creating a more authentic playing environment, and improving overall engagement, this small change has had a significant positive impact on student involvement. It serves as a reminder that even minor adjustments to equipment and environment can play a major role in shaping student attitudes toward physical activity and can ultimately lead to a more active, inclusive, and enjoyable PE experience for all students.","fullyFundedDate":1752858822595,"projectUrl":"project/we-playing-basketball/9340988/","projectTitle":"We Playing Basketball!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Ortiz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9274143_orig.jpg?crop=590,590,x436,y81&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1694790438727","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9274143"},{"teacherId":8614157,"projectId":9697998,"letterContent":"A sincere thank you to the Campbell Foundation for your continued support of our PE program. When the dodgeballs we initially selected were out of stock, I used the replacement funds to purchase a classroom equipment repair toolkit and push-up platforms for circuit training. The repair kit allows us to extend the life of our equipment, teaching students responsibility and care for shared resources. The push-up platforms enhance our fitness circuits by improving form, increasing challenge, and keeping workouts engaging. Your flexibility and generosity continue to strengthen our program and positively impact student learning and activity.","fullyFundedDate":1763474741818,"projectUrl":"project/galaxy-dodgeballs-in-phys-ed/9697998/","projectTitle":"Galaxy Dodgeballs in Phys Ed.","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Garcia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8614157_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757521910865","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/garciape"},{"teacherId":8614157,"projectId":9860585,"letterContent":"A huge thank you to the Campbell Foundation for providing our new volleyballs! These high-quality volleyballs have transformed our PE lessons by giving every student more opportunities to practice, compete, and build confidence. With enough equipment for small-group drills, students stay active instead of waiting in line, maximizing learning time and skill development. The improved grip and consistency also help students focus on proper technique, teamwork, and game strategy. Your generosity supports a positive, energetic environment where students feel encouraged to participate, grow, and enjoy being active. We truly appreciate your continued support of our program!","fullyFundedDate":1763474759281,"projectUrl":"project/volleyball-fun-in-pe/9860585/","projectTitle":"Volleyball Fun in Pe!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Garcia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8614157_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757521910865","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/garciape"},{"teacherId":8614157,"projectId":9696949,"letterContent":"Thanks to the Campbell Foundation for the generous gift of our new Bluetooth speaker! This addition has completely elevated the energy in our PE class. Music keeps students motivated, engaged, and moving with purpose during workouts, games, and fitness circuits. It helps set the tone, improve focus, and create a fun, positive atmosphere where everyone feels excited to participate. Clear audio also allows me to give instructions and run activities more efficiently. Your support is helping us build an encouraging environment where students stay active, connected, and inspired every single day. We are truly grateful!","fullyFundedDate":1763474859389,"projectUrl":"project/music-speaker-vibes-in-pe/9696949/","projectTitle":"Music Speaker Vibes in PE!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Garcia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8614157_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757521910865","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/garciape"},{"teacherId":8614157,"projectId":9566466,"letterContent":"These metal cabinets have made a significant impact on my PE class by creating a safer, more organized learning environment. With secure storage for equipment, students can quickly access materials and transitions between activities run smoothly, maximizing active time. Lockable cabinets reduce distractions, prevent equipment loss, and promote student responsibility. Knowing equipment is stored safely builds trust and structure, allowing students to focus on skill development, teamwork, and effort. A clean, organized space sets clear expectations, supports classroom management, and fosters a positive atmosphere where students feel confident, respected, and ready to learn through movement and physical activity.","fullyFundedDate":1763474820335,"projectUrl":"project/lockable-storage-in-physical-education/9566466/","projectTitle":"Lockable Storage in Physical Education!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Garcia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8614157_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757521910865","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/garciape"},{"teacherId":8614157,"projectId":9562447,"letterContent":"Sports repair equipment such as paracord, and electrical tape has a strong impact on maintaining safe, effective, and engaging physical education programs. These simple tools allow teachers to quickly repair goals, nets, cones, and worn equipment, extending their lifespan and reducing class downtime. Paracord is durable and versatile, making it ideal for securing nets, fixing straps, creating boundaries, or building temporary activity stations. Electrical tape is useful for reinforcing grips, marking boundaries, color-coding equipment, and covering sharp edges to improve safety. Together, these tools save money, keep equipment usable, and ensure students can stay active with fewer interruptions, maximizing learning time and overall enjoyment in PE.","fullyFundedDate":1763474702575,"projectUrl":"project/sports-equipment-repair/9562447/","projectTitle":"Sports Equipment Repair","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Garcia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8614157_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757521910865","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/garciape"},{"teacherId":1982132,"projectId":9797478,"letterContent":"My students have been able to express their thoughts and feelings through art. The canvas and paint made it possible for students to be creative. They used a variety of colors and ideas and created beautiful paintings. \r\n\r\nThey absolutely loved the stained glass and had an opportunity to interact with each other while being creative on how they painted their glass. \r\n\r\nFor the plaster we haven't had the opportunity to use it yet, but I am planning on them making a starfish and coloring it. We have done this in the past and has turned out nicely and the students enjoy it.","fullyFundedDate":1763474839608,"projectUrl":"project/future-artists/9797478/","projectTitle":"Future Artists","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ramirez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1982132_orig.jpg?crop=960,960,x0,y150&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1649442367170","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1982132"},{"teacherId":8614157,"projectId":9697042,"letterContent":"The Nex Playground has become an amazing resource for our PE program, especially on rainy days or during heat advisories when going outside isn't safe. It gives students a fun, active, and engaging way to learn while staying indoors. The interactive games encourage movement, improve coordination, and build teamwork skills. Students stay motivated and excited to participate, even when we're confined to the gym. The Nex Playground truly supports meaningful physical activity and enhances student learning in PE.","fullyFundedDate":1763474764698,"projectUrl":"project/indoor-pe-activity-for-class/9697042/","projectTitle":"Indoor PE Activity for CLASS!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Garcia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8614157_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757521910865","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/garciape"},{"teacherId":8614157,"projectId":9710514,"letterContent":"The JBL speaker has greatly improved the flow and energy of my PE class. Its clear, powerful sound makes it easy for every student to hear instructions, even from far across the gym or field. Playing music during warm-ups boosts motivation and keeps students engaged, while steady volume during drills helps maintain focus. Its portability lets me move it anywhere quickly, making transitions smoother and activities more organized. Overall, it creates a more upbeat, efficient, and enjoyable environment for everyone.","fullyFundedDate":1763474846931,"projectUrl":"project/turn-up-learning-speaker-in-physical-ed/9710514/","projectTitle":"Turn Up Learning: Speaker in Physical Ed!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Garcia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8614157_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757521910865","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/garciape"},{"teacherId":8614157,"projectId":9704015,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping our school esports program with the new ethernet cables, ports, and cable hiders! These upgrades have made a huge difference for our team. Before, we had to deal with lag and random disconnects, which made practices and matches frustrating. Now, our games run super smooth, and we can finally focus on teamwork, communication, and improving our skills. The cable hiders also make our space look cleaner and more professional. Everyone feels more confident and excited to compete. We really appreciate your generosity and support, it's helped our esports team level up in the best way possible!","fullyFundedDate":1759637120628,"projectUrl":"project/improve-our-esports-connection/9704015/","projectTitle":"Improve Our eSports Connection","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Garcia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8614157_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757521910865","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/garciape"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_79249","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":809,"numTeachers":35,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":1,"percentBlack":13,"percentWhite":5,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":76,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":1,"gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"23.1:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":75.4,"schoolId":79249,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Emerson Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Emerson Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/bakersfield-city-school-district/emerson-middle-school/79249"}