{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Mary Buren Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":18.2,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":3590244,"projectId":9676739,"letterContent":"Our class has been using the VersaTiles during our math centers and they've already made a huge impact. I have a set that we use for ELA centers, and now I'm able to incorporate them into our math centers as well. One special moment was watching a pair of students work together to solve a math challenge. They were so excited to check their answers, talk through what they got wrong, and try again. Seeing them take ownership of their learning has been amazing.\r\nWhen my students first saw the materials, their faces lit up. They were eager to explore and immediately started asking, \"Can we use these today?\" The excitement has not worn off and they look forward to center time because the materials make learning engaging and fun.\r\nThanks to these resources, my students are also getting valuable practice with partner and group work. They're learning how to communicate, share responsibilities, and support one another. It has made center time not only more meaningful, but it has also taken a huge burden off of me because students can work independently and confidently.\r\nNext, we're using the materials to support our current lessons and reviewing past skills. Students will continue building their skills in math, especially by practicing checking their work, identifying mistakes, and improving their understanding. These resources are helping them become more independent learners. We are so grateful for your generosity.","fullyFundedDate":1757516419001,"projectUrl":"project/unlocking-math-confidence-through-versat/9676739/","projectTitle":"Unlocking Math Confidence Through VersaTiles","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Garcia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3590244_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1756992601251","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3590244"},{"teacherId":9099483,"projectId":9498727,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has come to life with creativity, color, and focus. We've already put our new materials to great use! One of our favorite projects so far has been building our Proud Bobcats at work writing wall. Students use their vocabulary notebooks, markers, and art supplies to publish their writing and proudly display it on our boards weekly. It has quickly become a space where students share their ideas, celebrate each other's work, and feel like real authors.\r\n\r\nWe've also created a daily routine that the students absolutely love: during the last few minutes of class, we all clean up together and then enjoy a short Play-Doh break. This simple transition has helped students unwind, reset, and end the day with joy. Even better, the second graders are learning to use their fidgets as tools, not toys—helping them stay focused and regulated during lessons.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the new supplies, their reactions were priceless—wide eyes, huge smiles, and lots of \"more boxes?\"Your kindness made our classroom feel special from the very start.\r\n\r\nNext, we'll be diving deeper into our writing unit. Students will continue building their personal dictionaries and using their materials to publish monthly writing pieces for our writing wall. These tools will support them all year long as they grow as writers, creators, and confident learners.\r\n\r\nThank you for giving my students the resources—and the excitement—to learn in ways that truly engage them. We are deeply grateful!","fullyFundedDate":1755700000882,"projectUrl":"project/play-doh-fidgets-and-glueoh-my/9498727/","projectTitle":"Play-Doh, Fidgets, and Glue—Oh My!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Smith","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9099483_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753110063247","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9099483"},{"teacherId":10028746,"projectId":9336630,"letterContent":"The Little SPOT books have had a tremendous impact on our students' social-emotional growth. From the moment I walk into the classroom with the books and plushies, the students' faces light up. They eagerly meet me on the carpet, ready to listen, learn, and share their thoughts. I have yet to meet a student who does not enjoy A Little SPOT book. Every child is able to connect with the stories in their own meaningful way. They love identifying which SPOT represents how they are feeling and sharing personal experiences. For example one student said, \"I have a happiness SPOT because I'm going to Chick-fil-A for my birthday!\" The stories, along with engaging activities, help students express their emotions, understand empathy, and practice kindness in ways that are both fun and relatable.\r\n\r\nThese materials have also helped me build a complete social-emotional learning (SEL) curriculum for our school. Each grade level can now receive up to six lessons that build upon the previous ones, with each lesson made and tailored to be relevant to their grade level and age-appropriate understanding, helping students deepen their emotional awareness and coping skills over time. Through the Little SPOT series, students are learning to identify their emotions, recognize body language and facial expressions, and communicate their feelings using phrases like, \"I feel ___ because ___.\" They are also practicing coping strategies and self-regulation techniques that support their overall well-being. Additionally, I have been able to provide teachers with resources that reinforce what we learn together to ensure that SEL continues beyond my visits. These books have truly transformed the way our students learn about emotions by creating classrooms filled with understanding, compassion, and confidence.","fullyFundedDate":1754270201278,"projectUrl":"project/help-our-little-spots-shine/9336630/","projectTitle":"Help Our Little SPOTs Shine!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ornelas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10028746_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1747161477748","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10028746"},{"teacherId":9936971,"projectId":9208768,"letterContent":"Our students have been excitedly using the new OT supplies in their Response to Intervention (RTI) sessions, and they have already made a big difference in participation and skill development. The materials have allowed us to target fine motor, visual motor, and self-regulation skills in fun and engaging ways. For example, during small group activities, students practiced strengthening their hands through games that involved connecting and pulling apart pieces, while also working on attention and turn-taking skills. These resources have made lessons more interactive and accessible, and they are supporting the individualized needs of students across different grade levels.\r\nWhen the students first saw the new materials, their faces immediately lit up. They were eager to explore and were quick to engage with the hands-on tools, often asking if they could use them again in the next session. For some students, the excitement helped them approach tasks they might normally avoid, and we saw a boost in both confidence and motivation. It has been wonderful to see students who typically struggle with fine motor or focus challenges become more willing to try and take pride in their work.\r\nThe next steps for our students are to continue building consistency with these skills and applying them to classroom learning. With the new supplies, we are now able to gradually increase the challenge level of activities to strengthen endurance and accuracy. For example, students who practiced tracing and connecting shapes with the new tools will soon apply those same skills to writing letters, numbers, and completing classroom assignments more independently. Thanks to your support, our students are not only developing essential skills but also gaining confidence that carries over into their daily learning experiences.","fullyFundedDate":1742914856858,"projectUrl":"project/occupational-therapy-intervention-tools/9208768/","projectTitle":"Occupational Therapy Intervention Tools","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Velker","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9936971_orig.jpg?crop=480,480,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742424328366","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9936971"},{"teacherId":9936971,"projectId":9210071,"letterContent":"Our students have been excitedly using the new OT supplies in their Response to Intervention (RTI) sessions, and they have already made a big difference in participation and skill development. The materials have allowed us to target fine motor, visual motor, and self-regulation skills in fun and engaging ways. For example, during small group activities, students practiced strengthening their hands through games that involved connecting and pulling apart pieces, while also working on attention and turn-taking skills. These resources have made lessons more interactive and accessible, and they are supporting the individualized needs of students across different grade levels.\r\nWhen the students first saw the new materials, their faces immediately lit up. They were eager to explore and were quick to engage with the hands-on tools, often asking if they could use them again in the next session. For some students, the excitement helped them approach tasks they might normally avoid, and we saw a boost in both confidence and motivation. It has been wonderful to see students who typically struggle with fine motor or focus challenges become more willing to try and take pride in their work.\r\nThe next steps for our students are to continue building consistency with these skills and applying them to classroom learning. With the new supplies, we are now able to gradually increase the challenge level of activities to strengthen endurance and accuracy. For example, students who practiced tracing and connecting shapes with the new tools will soon apply those same skills to writing letters, numbers, and completing classroom assignments more independently. Thanks to your support, our students are not only developing essential skills but also gaining confidence that carries over into their daily learning experiences.","fullyFundedDate":1743005730129,"projectUrl":"project/occupational-therapy-intervention-tools/9210071/","projectTitle":"Occupational Therapy Intervention Tools","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Velker","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9936971_orig.jpg?crop=480,480,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742424328366","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9936971"},{"teacherId":10010700,"projectId":9337016,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our students now have a Recess Retreat—a calm, welcoming space where they can take a break, recharge, and return to learning ready to do their best. The first time students saw the new materials, their excitement was contagious. One student said, \"This feels like my safe place!\" while others immediately began exploring the sensory tools and cozy seating. Their reactions made it clear how much they needed a space like this.\r\n\r\nWe are already seeing powerful moments during recess. For example, a group of students recently used the feelings chart and calming corner supplies to help a classmate who was upset. Instead of conflicts escalating, they now have strategies and resources to work through big feelings together. This has quickly become a favorite spot where students can practice self-regulation and kindness.\r\n\r\nNext, we'll be teaching students how to lead peer-led calming activities and introducing reflection journals so they can process their emotions in writing or drawing. These steps will continue building on the foundation of social-emotional learning your donation has made possible. We are so grateful for your support in creating a retreat that gives our kids the tools they need to thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1747056664034,"projectUrl":"project/recess-retreat/9337016/","projectTitle":"Recess Retreat","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Sanchez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10010700"},{"teacherId":10010700,"projectId":9306295,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom now has access to the new Safe Space, Strong Minds resources, and they've already made a wonderful impact. When my students first saw the materials, their faces lit up with excitement. One student exclaimed, \"This is our special corner!\" while another immediately grabbed a feelings card to share how they were doing. It's been heartwarming to see them use these tools to express themselves and build healthy social skills in a safe, supportive way.\r\n\r\nWe've started using the materials during our social-emotional learning time, and the kids are especially enjoying role-playing activities with the puppets and story cards. These moments give them a chance to practice empathy, problem-solving, and calming strategies in a fun, hands-on way. The resources are also helping me guide conversations about making good choices, respecting others, and understanding feelings—skills that will serve them far beyond the classroom.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we'll continue to weave these tools into daily lessons and even extend them into small group projects. One of our next steps is creating a \"kindness wall,\" where students can share positive actions they've practiced using what they've learned. Your support has truly helped lay the foundation for stronger minds and safer spaces in our classroom, and we are so grateful you chose to invest in our students' growth.","fullyFundedDate":1746458212464,"projectUrl":"project/safe-space-strong-minds/9306295/","projectTitle":"Safe Space, Strong Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Sanchez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10010700"},{"teacherId":9914372,"projectId":9518405,"letterContent":"I want to thank you for your donation to my students. Words are not enough to express how thankful I am. I opened the materials in front of my class so that they could see the new materials they would get to use and learn from. From the number caterpillar to the building with shapes to the waffle blocks, my students are loving these materials. I use them during my centers for English Language Arts and my Math stations as well. Students are being supported in learning patterns, shapes, letters, and so much more. \r\nBecause of your donation students are enjoying these materials and learning in fun innovative ways that go beyond a paper and pencil, especially at this young age. As they practice building and breaking things a part they are strengthening those fine motor skills that help them then write their name. \r\nOnce again thank you for your help as the materials will not only help my current students but the years to come as well as outside learning.","fullyFundedDate":1755700216858,"projectUrl":"project/learning-through-play/9518405/","projectTitle":"Learning through Play","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Salguero","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9914372_orig.jpg?crop=1495,1495,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753909718775","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/tk-salguero"},{"teacherId":9734429,"projectId":9098886,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity! The new materials you helped fund have made such a difference in our classroom. As soon as the supplies arrived, my students were beyond excited—many of them asked, \"Is this really for us?\" They couldn't wait to dive in and start using everything.\r\n\r\nOne special project that really showcased the impact of your donation was our California Missions and More unit. Students used the new supplies to create dioramas, write detailed reports, and even perform in a class play! The costumes and materials brought their work to life and gave them a sense of pride in what they were creating. It was amazing to see their creativity, teamwork, and confidence grow throughout the process.\r\n\r\nWe're now preparing for our next big project—personal narrative writing! Thanks to you, my students will have the tools and inspiration they need to keep learning in meaningful, hands-on ways. Your support reminds them that their ideas matter and that there are people who believe in their success.","fullyFundedDate":1739566294547,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-young-minds-with-essential-el/9098886/","projectTitle":"Empowering Young Minds with Essential ELA Tools!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Robles","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9734429_orig.jpg?crop=755,755,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1738898455741","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9734429"},{"teacherId":9514133,"projectId":8926138,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting \"Organized and Empowered: A Cubbie Project for Student Ownership.\" The new cubbies have completely changed the feel of our classroom. When students first saw them, they were thrilled—many commented that it felt like they finally had a space of their own. Since then, they've taken pride in keeping their areas organized, which has helped them take more responsibility for their materials and learning. During a recent research project, I noticed how much easier it was for students to stay on task because they had everything they needed right at their fingertips.\r\n\r\nRight now, we're working on a yearlong \"Learning Journey\" portfolio, and the cubbies have been the perfect place for students to store their reflections, drafts, and progress. It's been amazing to see how a simple organizational tool can support so much independence and confidence. Your generosity made this possible, and I'm truly grateful. Thank you for investing in our students!","fullyFundedDate":1733155605869,"projectUrl":"project/organized-and-empowered-a-cubbie-projec/8926138/","projectTitle":"Organized and Empowered: A Cubbie Project for Student Ownership","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Gutierrez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9514133_orig.png?crop=147,147,x0,y50&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1731011386770","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9514133"},{"teacherId":9551706,"projectId":8768512,"letterContent":"I am beyond grateful for your support in funding our classroom organization project! Thanks to your generosity, my students now have the materials they need to stay organized, responsible, and ready to learn each day.\r\n\r\nWith the book bins and rolling cart, students now have a dedicated place for their workbooks, homework, and resources. This simple yet effective system has already made a huge impact, allowing them to find their materials quickly and focus more on their learning. The file folders will help me track student progress efficiently, ensuring that each child receives the support they need. Additionally, the TPT gift card will provide engaging resources that will enrich our lessons and supplement our curriculum.\r\n\r\nThe transformation in our classroom has been incredible! Students are taking pride in their organization, building essential life skills, and feeling more confident in their learning. Your kindness has directly contributed to their success, and we cannot thank you enough for making this possible.","fullyFundedDate":1730401937665,"projectUrl":"project/organizing-our-way-to-success/8768512/","projectTitle":"Organizing Our Way to Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. De La Mora","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9551706_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y786&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1716169167597","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9551706"},{"teacherId":9537192,"projectId":8960077,"letterContent":"I want to extend my heartfelt thanks for your generous contribution to our classroom! Thanks to your support, our students now have a wonderful new rug and a variety of educational games that are already making a big difference in their learning. The moment my students saw the new materials, their faces lit up with excitement. The bright, colorful rug has become a gathering spot for our daily read-alouds, group discussions, and activities, creating a cozy and inviting space for all of us to come together and learn.\r\n\r\nThe educational games have quickly become a favorite part of our day. Students eagerly engage with them, whether they're working on letter recognition, number sense, or critical thinking skills. I've noticed how much more confident they've become in their learning, especially when they work together in small groups. The games encourage collaboration, communication, and problem-solving, and I can already see the progress they're making as they work to master new skills in a fun and interactive way.","fullyFundedDate":1739550073249,"projectUrl":"project/play-learn-connect-games-and-a-rug-fo/8960077/","projectTitle":"Play, Learn, Connect: Games and a Rug for Our Classroom!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Victor","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9537192_orig.jpg?crop=1290,1290,x0,y232&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1715143445993","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9537192"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_39969","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":715,"numTeachers":37,"percentFrplEligible":91,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":2,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":95,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 4","studentTeacherRatio":"19.3:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"TOWN","ncesMetroType":"TOWN_FRINGE"},"inStateSupporters":81.8,"schoolId":39969,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Mary Buren Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Mary Buren Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/guadalupe-union-school-district/mary-buren-elementary-school/39969"}