{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Viking Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":32.5,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":3717683,"projectId":9937683,"letterContent":"Thank you for helping bring new copies of Percy Jackson into our classroom. My students were so excited to receive these books. Our old class sets had been used for over six years and were falling apart, which made it harder for students to stay engaged and take pride in reading. Having fresh, clean books made reading feel special again and gave students something they were genuinely excited to open each day.\r\n\r\nPercy Jackson is one of those rare books that immediately hooks students, especially middle schoolers. They connect with the humor, adventure, and characters, while I love how well it ties into our curriculum through mythology, theme, character analysis, and deeper discussions about identity and perseverance. Reading in our classroom looks like students annotating, discussing in groups, making predictions, and connecting the text to both history and their own lives.\r\n\r\nOne of my favorite parts each year is watching reluctant readers become invested in the story. Every year, I have at least two students who discover that they actually love reading because of Percy Jackson. That kind of shift matters. Your generosity helped create those moments, and I am truly grateful for the impact you have made in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1769177359489,"projectUrl":"project/percy-jackson-takes-over-sixth-grade/9937683/","projectTitle":"Percy Jackson Takes Over Sixth Grade","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Solis","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3717683_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1624416103788","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/s-solis"},{"teacherId":4866835,"projectId":10130672,"letterContent":"The book donation you made to my project is positively affecting students across multiple grade levels. I teach reading intervention to struggling readers in 1st -3rd grades. The titles you bought for my reading groups are engaging stories, but, more importantly, they are at students' instructional levels, so they can build confidence as they read!\r\n\r\nThe best part of my job is watching a student's face light up when they read independently and realize that they understand the content. They will often make comments of surprise or tell me a connection they have to the story. When they discover their own agency in reading and understanding a story, it is empowering. They often want to keep reading and have been asking me for more stories.\r\n\r\nThe characters Frog and Toad are timeless, and students can relate to themes of friendship, loneliness, fear, and perseverance. They are witty and understated, and students really enjoy reading about them. My hope is that by reading the books you donated, their love and interest in reading will be sparked, and they will continue to grow into lifelong readers. Thank you so much for your generosity and for investing in my students.","fullyFundedDate":1773863257089,"projectUrl":"project/more-books-please/10130672/","projectTitle":"More Books, Please!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Co","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4866835"},{"teacherId":9565198,"projectId":10084335,"letterContent":"When my students first saw the new food supplies, their faces lit up with excitement. They immediately began asking how they could help and who they would be able to support. It was a powerful moment that showed just how naturally compassionate they are.\r\n\r\nWe are using these resources to create a student-led food station in our classroom. Students are taking turns organizing the space, checking inventory, and helping distribute snacks to classmates in a respectful and discreet way. They are learning how to take responsibility, work as a team, and lead with empathy as they support one another.\r\n\r\nOne special moment was when a student quietly offered to help restock the station and said, \"I want to make sure everyone has something.\" That moment truly captured the heart of this project.\r\n\r\nNext, we will continue building this initiative by having students reflect on their experiences through writing and class discussions. We will also connect this work to our social-emotional learning by talking about kindness, community, and the impact of helping others. My goal is for students to understand that even small acts of care can make a big difference.\r\n\r\nThanks to your support, our classroom is becoming a place where students not only learn academically, but also grow into thoughtful, caring leaders.","fullyFundedDate":1772553548599,"projectUrl":"project/feed-a-mind-change-a-life/10084335/","projectTitle":"Feed a Mind, Change a Life","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Rodriguez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9565198_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1718088913805","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9565198"},{"teacherId":9637529,"projectId":9721900,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom has become more organized, interactive, and engaging! The hand wipes have helped us keep our learning space clean and safe, especially after using shared materials. The folders have allowed students to better organize their work and take ownership of their learning.\r\n\r\nThe excitement was immediate! When students saw the fresh supplies—especially the colorful sticky notes and new markers—they couldn't wait to start using them. Several students said it made them feel like \"real authors\" and \"real teachers\" when they were able to post their thinking on the board. Having individual folders also made them feel more responsible and proud of their work. It may seem simple, but to them, it felt special and motivating.\r\n\r\nYour contribution has not just provided supplies—it has strengthened classroom community, increased engagement, and empowered students to take pride in their learning. We are so grateful for your support and belief in our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1763474811530,"projectUrl":"project/tools-for-learning-health-and-organiza/9721900/","projectTitle":"Tools for Learning, Health, and Organization","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Camarena","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9637529"},{"teacherId":9565198,"projectId":10042418,"letterContent":"My students and I recently used the new resources during our first-ever multicultural celebration at our school. This event brought together students from Pre-K through sixth grade, creating a truly special learning experience. The materials helped students explore, discuss, and proudly share aspects of their cultures through projects, presentations, and classroom activities. It was incredibly meaningful to see students make real-world connections between what they learn in class and their own identities.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, they were genuinely excited and curious. Many immediately began asking questions, sharing personal stories, and engaging with the resources. The excitement was contagious — students felt seen, valued, and eager to participate. It sparked conversations that went far beyond the lesson itself.\r\n\r\nThanks to the generosity of our donors, our next steps involve building on this momentum. Students will continue exploring global cultures through research projects, collaborative activities, and cross-grade discussions. We plan to deepen their understanding of diversity, empathy, and cultural appreciation while strengthening critical thinking and communication skills.\r\n\r\nWe are truly grateful to our donors for making these meaningful learning experiences possible.","fullyFundedDate":1769177365473,"projectUrl":"project/a-celebration-of-culture-identity/10042418/","projectTitle":"A Celebration of Culture & Identity","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Rodriguez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9565198_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1718088913805","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9565198"},{"teacherId":10244478,"projectId":9689688,"letterContent":"Our students are using the new scooter and tunnel during daily sensory and gross motor activities. One special moment happened during our obstacle course time, when a student who is usually hesitant with movement independently climbed through the tunnel and then scooted across the room with a huge smile on their face. We also use these resources during structured play to practice turn-taking, following directions, and body awareness, all while having fun and building confidence.\r\nWhen the students first saw the scooter and tunnel, their reactions were full of excitement and curiosity. There were smiles, clapping, and eager requests to try them out right away. Some students immediately explored the tunnel, while others carefully watched their peers before joining in. It was wonderful to see how motivated and engaged they were, and how proud they felt when they successfully used the new materials.\r\nNext, our students will continue using the scooter and tunnel as part of our ongoing lessons focused on sensory regulation, motor planning, and social interaction. We are expanding our obstacle courses to include more steps and challenges, encouraging students to follow multi-step directions and work together with peers. These activities support not only physical development, but also communication, confidence, and independence as our students continue to grow and learn.\r\nThank you for giving our donors a glimpse into our classroom and for making these meaningful learning experiences possible.","fullyFundedDate":1763474783760,"projectUrl":"project/scooting-and-crawling-our-way-to-strong/9689688/","projectTitle":"Scooting and Crawling Our Way to Strong Bodies!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Martinez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10244478"},{"teacherId":9565198,"projectId":9963232,"letterContent":"My students have been enthusiastically using the Lunar New Year books, decorations, and treats to deepen their understanding of culture, traditions, and global celebrations. One of our favorite moments was reading the books together and discussing the meaning behind the holiday symbols. Students then connected their learning by writing reflections about new traditions they discovered and creating themed decorations that are now proudly displayed in our classroom.\r\n\r\nWhen my students first saw the materials, their excitement was immediate. The vibrant decorations sparked so much curiosity, and the fortune cookies with chocolate coins added a joyful, memorable touch. Many students eagerly shared their own family traditions, while others were fascinated to learn about a celebration that was new to them. It created such a warm and engaging classroom atmosphere.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, students will continue building on this experience through reading, writing, and social studies connections. They will compare cultural celebrations, explore themes of diversity and inclusion, and engage in writing activities that encourage them to reflect on traditions, community, and global awareness.\r\n\r\nThank you for giving my students not just resources, but meaningful learning experiences they will remember.","fullyFundedDate":1766439579186,"projectUrl":"project/ring-in-the-lunar-new-year-in-our-classr/9963232/","projectTitle":"Ring in the Lunar New Year in Our Classroom!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Rodriguez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9565198_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1718088913805","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9565198"},{"teacherId":10244414,"projectId":9689573,"letterContent":"Words cannot even begin to express the joy the sensory table brings my students with autism. They love the feeling of the sand on their hands and could literally play for hours. So far, we have only had sand in the sensory table, but we are looking forward to putting water in it once it warms up! The students love when we put different types of animals in the sensory table, and bury them so they have to go hunting for them! \r\n\r\nA big majority of my students are nonverbal, but when they first saw the sensory table and were able to touch the sand, there were lots of excited screams! I truly believe that this sensory table has enhanced their communication because they are constantly using their voice to express the fun they are having in the sand and with the animals. It has also encouraged my students to learn how to play with others. They have been taught that they have to share and use personal space at the sensory table so they can all enjoy it, and they have learned it so well! \r\n\r\nAt this moment, in my classroom, we are working heavily on coping strategies when denied a preferred item. As a young child with autism, it can be extremely hard to regulate your emotions when things don't go your way. This sensory table has greatly helped us in teaching them how to regulate their emotions because they are now becoming aware that there are certain times for the sensory table and times where they do not have access. They are all progressing in being able to cope with that! Emotions are so important!","fullyFundedDate":1763474809945,"projectUrl":"project/little-hands-big-discoveries-a-sensory/9689573/","projectTitle":"Little Hands, Big Discoveries: A Sensory Table for Our Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Bommersbach","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10244414_orig.jpg?crop=1134,1134,x0,y79&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757109115312","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10244414"},{"teacherId":8290322,"projectId":9768726,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting my Transitional Kindergarten classroom! In TK, my 4 and 5 year-old students are full of energy, curiosity, and an incredible desire to move. Because of your generosity, we have been able to channel that energy into meaningful learning experiences that build strong bodies and ready minds.\r\nAt this age, developing gross motor skills—like throwing, catching, kicking, balancing, and dancing—is essential for both physical development and school readiness. With the new balls and dance ribbons you helped provide, my students have been having so much fun as they are engaging in purposeful, hands-on movement activities that strengthen coordination, balance, and body control. These foundational skills not only support physical health but also contribute to cognitive growth and emotional regulation.\r\nThanks to you, I have been able to bring joyful, high-energy movement into my classroom in ways that are both developmentally appropriate and academically meaningful. I am so grateful for your generosity and belief in my students. You have definitely made a difference in their early learning foundation which will have a lasting and positive impact on their education.","fullyFundedDate":1763474735107,"projectUrl":"project/movement-matters-for-learning-readiness/9768726/","projectTitle":"Movement Matters for Learning Readiness","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Mitsuyoshi","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8290322_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1657596732336","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8290322"},{"teacherId":9565198,"projectId":9867705,"letterContent":"My students are using the garden materials to create our very first classroom garden. One special moment was when students worked together to plant seeds and carefully label what they planted. They took turns measuring soil, watering plants, and discussing what plants need to grow. This hands-on experience has helped students connect science concepts to real life while learning responsibility, teamwork, and patience.\r\nThe students were thrilled and full of curiosity when they first saw the garden materials. Many asked excited questions like, \"What are we planting?\" and \"When will it grow?\" For many of my students, this is their first experience planting and caring for something, and they immediately felt proud and invested in the project.\r\nThe next steps for my students include observing plant growth, recording changes in journals, and learning about plant life cycles. Students will measure plant height, discuss environmental needs, and reflect on how caring for our garden connects to science, math, and responsibility. Thanks to our donors, this garden will continue to grow into a meaningful learning space where students develop curiosity, compassion, and a love for hands-on learning.","fullyFundedDate":1763474840740,"projectUrl":"project/help-our-first-garden-grow/9867705/","projectTitle":"Help Our First Garden Grow!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Rodriguez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9565198_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1718088913805","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9565198"},{"teacherId":9565198,"projectId":9845839,"letterContent":"My second graders are using the new math materials daily during whole-group lessons, small-group instruction, and math centers. One meaningful moment was during a place value lesson when students used hands-on tools to build numbers, explain their thinking, and compare values with a partner. Being able to physically model math concepts helped students deepen their understanding and confidently explain their strategies using math vocabulary.\r\nThe students were extremely excited and eager to use the materials right away. Many shared that the tools made math feel more fun and easier to understand. Having their own materials helped students feel more confident, independent, and motivated to participate in math lessons.\r\nThe next steps for my students include strengthening their skills in addition and subtraction, building a deeper understanding of place value, and applying strategies to solve word problems. With these math materials, students will continue working collaboratively and independently to model their thinking, explain their reasoning, and grow as confident mathematicians. Thanks to our donors, my students have the tools they need to succeed and enjoy learning math.","fullyFundedDate":1763474781673,"projectUrl":"project/helping-my-students-see-the-magic-in-mat/9845839/","projectTitle":"Helping My Students See the Magic in Math","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Rodriguez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9565198_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1718088913805","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9565198"},{"teacherId":9565198,"projectId":9782747,"letterContent":"My students are using the new books and materials daily during reading, writing, and small-group instruction. One meaningful moment was during independent reading time, when students eagerly selected their own books and immediately became immersed in reading. We've also used the materials for shared reading and response activities, where students discuss characters, make predictions, and write about what they've learned. Having access to these resources has helped create a more engaging and literacy-rich classroom environment.\r\nThe excitement was incredible. Students were thrilled to see new books and supplies and couldn't wait to explore them. Many students proudly said, \"I've never read this one before!\" Having new, high-quality materials made them feel valued and motivated, and it sparked a genuine excitement for reading and learning.\r\nThe next steps for my students include strengthening reading comprehension, expanding vocabulary, and building confidence as readers and writers. With these books and materials, students will continue participating in guided reading groups, independent reading, and writing projects that encourage critical thinking and creativity. Thanks to our donors' generosity, my students have the tools they need to grow academically and develop a lifelong love for reading.","fullyFundedDate":1763474804209,"projectUrl":"project/comfort-care-and-books-for-bright-lear/9782747/","projectTitle":"Comfort, Care, and Books for Bright Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Rodriguez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9565198_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1718088913805","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9565198"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_77753","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":649,"numTeachers":28,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":13,"percentBlack":7,"percentWhite":10,"percentIndigenous":1,"percentLatinx":61,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":1,"percentMultiracialImputed":5,"gradesServed":"Pre-K - 6","studentTeacherRatio":"23.2:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":67.5,"schoolId":77753,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Viking Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Viking Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/fresno-unified-school-district/viking-elementary-school/77753"}