{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Bret Harte Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":34.6,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":5856159,"projectId":9087661,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous donation. Because of you, our makerspace stays open daily. Students can keep designing in Onshape, 3D printing, and building real prototypes instead of pausing for lack of supplies. Your support covers essentials—filament, wood, fasteners, and safety gear—so every student gets a turn, keeps iterating, and continues learning by doing. Thank you for believing in hands-on learning. Your gift keeps creativity alive in our classroom. It ensures every student can build and improve.","fullyFundedDate":1742923195196,"projectUrl":"project/materials-for-maker-space-classroom-proj/9087661/","projectTitle":"Materials for Maker Space Classroom Projects","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Monroy","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5856159_orig.jpg?crop=3360,3360,x1440,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1567702623753","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5856159"},{"teacherId":5856159,"projectId":9133918,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our engineering students now have professional-quality photos and videos of their work. The DJI camera let us document each stage of the engineering design process—sketching, prototyping, testing, and redesign.\r\n\r\nThe biggest impact has been the connection with families and our community. We shared highlight reels at Back-to-School Night and on our class updates, so families could see exactly what their students created. We'll continue to use the camera for showcases, competitions, and outreach throughout the year.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in our students' creativity and voice.","fullyFundedDate":1740945401774,"projectUrl":"project/capturing-innovation-showcasing-student/9133918/","projectTitle":"Capturing Innovation: Showcasing Student Engineering Projects","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Monroy","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5856159_orig.jpg?crop=3360,3360,x1440,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1567702623753","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5856159"},{"teacherId":3210270,"projectId":9132173,"letterContent":"I want to extend my deepest thanks for your generous support of our classroom project on DonorsChoose. Because of you, we were able to purchase project boards that became the foundation—literally and figuratively—of a powerful and transformative learning experience for my middle school students.\r\n\r\nThese boards were much more than just classroom supplies. They became platforms for student voices, creativity, and scientific exploration. They used the project boards to present their findings, offering well-researched, visually engaging presentations that sparked meaningful conversations within the classroom and beyond.\r\n\r\nMany students expressed that this was their first time truly understanding the real-world impact of climate change—not only through data and facts but through the lens of their own community. The boards gave them the space to share personal observations, make connections to what they see in their neighborhoods, and propose actions we can take to make a difference. \r\n\r\nYour donation didn't just fund materials—it empowered a generation of learners to think critically, act compassionately, and believe that their voices matter in the fight for our planet's future.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our students and helping bring this important project to life. Your kindness and commitment to education will have a lasting impact.","fullyFundedDate":1741102147304,"projectUrl":"project/engaging-students-in-climate-action-and/9132173/","projectTitle":"Engaging Students in Climate Action and Activism","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Tsougarakis","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3210270_orig.jpg?crop=1755,1756,x0,y169&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1740586730895","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mr-tsougarakis"},{"teacherId":8232970,"projectId":9112035,"letterContent":"Your generous donation made a profound impact on my students and our classroom. Your contribution allowed us to purchase jump ropes and Chinese shuttlecocks, bringing a unique blend of physical activity and cultural exploration directly to our students.\r\n\r\nStudents learned the vocabulary related to rope jump and kick shuttlecock, such as \"to kick, to jump, jump rope, shuttlecock, (different ways to jump and to kick), to compete, the first place\" (pls see the attached students' work). They practiced how to say them while they are doing the activities, in a authentic speaking environment to learn Mandarin. We practiced rope jump and shuttlecock kicking in a few classes (partial class time), then we had a class competition. The winners got prizes ( a high quality jump rope, which is also donated by you.) \r\n\r\nStudents were excited to know that they will have the \"kick and jump\" project, especially my period 1 class, in which there are a few energetic students who are hard to sit down. Students like the way of learning while playing style. After we finished this project, students asked to do jump rope and shuttlecock. Next year, besides to do the project again, I plan to use the jump rope and shuttlecock as incentive. If the whole class focus on classwork and finish the classwork early, we can go out to do these activities. I can also integrate these two games into a \"Cultural Games Festival\" project.","fullyFundedDate":1741968992996,"projectUrl":"project/jump-and-kick/9112035/","projectTitle":"Jump and Kick","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Tian","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8232970"},{"teacherId":6837879,"projectId":8157158,"letterContent":"Originaly, the request for these books was aimed for students who are English learners. \r\nTo my surprise, the kids went bonkers about reading stories from other countries, looking at the fonts of languages they did not know existed, and comparing differrent cultural similarities. \r\nNow there are students who want to learn other languages, cultures, and peoples, besides the ones they already know. \r\nThese books are a blessing. Thank you for bringing this project to life. It would not be possible without you.","fullyFundedDate":1707358848597,"projectUrl":"project/international-story-exchange/8157158/","projectTitle":"International Story Exchange","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Pigman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6837879_orig.jpg?crop=1994,1994,x123,y667&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1572385476728","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-pigman"},{"teacherId":6837879,"projectId":7756956,"letterContent":"My students, and staff, love to get work done in these chairs. \r\nI wish I could share a video of the exitement when the chairs arrived, but unfortunately, some students in the video could not be blurred for me to share. \r\nThese chairs are used daily for student study groups, tutoring, reading, playing chess during lunch, and, naps. Yes, naps. I have caught a few folks taking short naps on them. \r\nWe have more students, who never attended the libray before, now visit the library during lunch becuase they want to spend time in a comfortable scpace, aka: the chairs.\r\nThe chairs are trully a conversation piece and will be cherished for years to come. \r\nThank you.","fullyFundedDate":1701457557062,"projectUrl":"project/ohh-i-can-read-here/7756956/","projectTitle":"Ohh! I Can Read Here!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Pigman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6837879_orig.jpg?crop=1994,1994,x123,y667&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1572385476728","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-pigman"},{"teacherId":5811781,"projectId":7239373,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project, Tradition, Tradition! Learning More About Jewish Holidays. Your generosity brought meaningful and engaging texts into our classroom — and with them, a deeper understanding of Jewish culture and holidays.\r\n\r\nMany of our donors love to read books (we do, too!), but may not always know how books come alive in the classroom. With the new texts, we've been focusing on several key skills: identifying central themes, comparing cultural traditions, exploring vocabulary in context, and making text-to-self connections. These books are not just stories — they're invitations to ask questions, make connections, and reflect on how different communities celebrate and remember.\r\n\r\nReading in our classroom is an active, joyful process. We gather in small groups for shared reading and discussion, take notes in our reading journals, and even act out parts of the stories when we explore traditions like Passover or Hanukkah. Students love diving into new worlds, especially when the stories reflect real-life celebrations and values.\r\n\r\nOne student in particular — who previously struggled to engage with reading — has truly connected with a book about Shabbat traditions. He told me, \"This reminds me of when we have dinner with my grandma. We don't light candles, but it still feels special.\" These kinds of moments are priceless.\r\n\r\nThanks to you, we now have the tools to explore these beautiful stories and honor diverse traditions in meaningful ways. Your support helps us build not just literacy skills, but empathy, curiosity, and cultural awareness.","fullyFundedDate":1680050579535,"projectUrl":"project/tradition-tradition-learning-more-abou/7239373/","projectTitle":"TRADITION! Tradition: Learning More about Judaism","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Slatoff","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5811781_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1537395182805","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-slatoff"},{"teacherId":5811781,"projectId":7205180,"letterContent":"We are thrilled to share the transformative impact your generous support has had on our classroom through the Adaptive Technology: Open Ears project. The provision of high-quality headphones has significantly enhanced our students' learning experiences, particularly for those who require adaptive technology to access the curriculum effectively.\r\n\r\nEnhancing Learning Through Technology:\r\n\r\nIn today's educational landscape, technology plays a pivotal role in facilitating personalized learning. For our students, especially those with diverse learning needs, the integration of adaptive technology is crucial. The headphones have enabled these students to engage with audio-based learning tools, speech-to-text applications, and interactive educational software without distractions, fostering a more inclusive and supportive learning environment.\r\n\r\nStudent Engagement and Excitement:\r\n\r\nThe introduction of these headphones has sparked immense enthusiasm among our students. They are particularly excited about the ability to immerse themselves in interactive lessons and educational games that cater to their individual learning styles. This personalized approach has not only increased their engagement but also boosted their confidence in navigating technological tools independently.\r\n\r\nIndividual Success Stories:\r\n\r\nAlex, a student with auditory processing challenges, has shown remarkable improvement in comprehension and retention since using the headphones. The clarity of sound has minimized distractions, allowing Alex to focus better during lessons.\r\n\r\nMaria, who was initially hesitant about using technology, now eagerly participates in digital storytelling activities. The headphones have provided her with the privacy and confidence to record and listen to her narratives, enhancing her language skills.\r\n\r\nThese individual successes underscore the profound impact that adaptive technology, supported by your generosity, can have on students' educational journeys.\r\n\r\nGratitude and Future Outlook:\r\n\r\nWe extend our heartfelt gratitude for your contribution to this project. Your support has not only equipped our classroom with essential tools but has also empowered our students to embrace technology as a means to overcome learning barriers. As we continue to integrate adaptive technologies, we anticipate further advancements in student engagement and achievement.\r\n\r\nThank you once again for your commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for all students.\r\n\r\nWarm regards,","fullyFundedDate":1691040238074,"projectUrl":"project/adaptive-technology-open-ears/7205180/","projectTitle":"Adaptive Technology: Open Ears","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Slatoff","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5811781_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1537395182805","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-slatoff"},{"teacherId":5811781,"projectId":7239339,"letterContent":"We are thrilled to share the profound impact your generous contribution has had on our classroom through the LatinX Books: Stories of Heroes, Events, and Legends project. Your support has enriched our educational environment in meaningful ways.\r\n\r\nBilingual Library Section:\r\n\r\nWith the addition of the Spanish edition books, we've established a dedicated bilingual section in our classroom library. This space has become a haven for our bilingual students, allowing them to explore literature in their native language and fostering a deeper connection to their cultural heritage. This initiative has not only enhanced their reading skills but also bolstered their confidence and sense of belonging.\r\n\r\nHero Biography Projects:\r\n\r\nThe biography books have been instrumental in our monthly \"Hero Projects.\" Each student selects a hero to read about and presents their findings to the class. This activity has broadened their perspectives, introduced them to diverse role models, and inspired them to set ambitious goals. The enthusiasm and engagement during these presentations have been truly heartwarming.\r\n\r\nYour support has been pivotal in creating these enriching experiences. We are deeply grateful for your commitment to our students' education and personal growth.\r\n\r\nWarm regards,","fullyFundedDate":1679398089797,"projectUrl":"project/latinx-books-stories-of-heroes-events/7239339/","projectTitle":"LatinX Books: Stories of Heroes, Events and Legends","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Slatoff","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5811781_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1537395182805","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-slatoff"},{"teacherId":5811781,"projectId":7129602,"letterContent":"I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for your generous contribution to our Black Wall Street Project: Learning Financial History initiative. Your support has fully funded our project, enabling us to provide our students with invaluable resources to explore significant financial historical events.\r\n\r\nWith your donation, our students will delve into the history of the Greenwood District and the 1921 Tulsa Massacre. They will analyze the economic impact of these events and, as part of Black History Month, create an educational bulletin board to share their insights with peers. This project not only enhances their understanding of financial literacy but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the resilience and contributions of Black communities.\r\n\r\nYour support also facilitates our students' ambitions to plan and budget for a school garden and to explore the role of government in financial systems. These endeavors will be documented in their budget journals, reinforcing practical financial skills.\r\nDonorsChoose\r\n\r\nYour generosity has a profound impact on our students' educational journey, empowering them with knowledge and skills that will serve them throughout their lives. We are immensely grateful for your commitment to enriching their learning experiences.\r\n\r\nThank you once again for your support.","fullyFundedDate":1677990334263,"projectUrl":"project/black-wall-street-project-learning-fin/7129602/","projectTitle":"Black Wall Street Project : Learning Financial History","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Slatoff","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5811781_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1537395182805","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-slatoff"},{"teacherId":5856159,"projectId":5262934,"letterContent":"The new technology has been a game-changer for my students. It has allowed them to stay engaged in lessons, collaborate virtually, and create projects from home. The ability to access interactive software and tools has helped them feel more connected to the content and each other, making distance learning more effective and enjoyable.\r\n\r\nThe most exciting part for my students is using CAD software and other tools to bring their designs to life. They are thrilled to experience hands-on learning remotely, which has sparked their creativity and passion for innovation.\r\n\r\nSome students, especially those with an interest in technology, have really excelled with the new equipment. These tools have given them the confidence to lead projects, troubleshoot issues, and build important skills for their future careers. Thank you for making this possible!","fullyFundedDate":1610735115929,"projectUrl":"project/3d-modeling-while-distance-learning/5262934/","projectTitle":"3D Modeling While Distance Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Monroy","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5856159_orig.jpg?crop=3360,3360,x1440,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1567702623753","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5856159"},{"teacherId":6750382,"projectId":8686417,"letterContent":"My students often use these lap desks while sitting at their regular desk as an additional support when using their chromebooks, but they also use them when standing or moving around the classroom for group assignments. \r\n\r\nWe were very excited to receive the lap desk until I realized that the wrong color had been sent to us. While disappointed, my students voted to keep the color that we had received in order to avoid having to send them back and reorder all over again. In the end we acknowledged that the goal was to have the lap desk help make them more comfortable in class, which they do, and that the color was not necessary for use.","fullyFundedDate":1732242784575,"projectUrl":"project/lap-desks-of-leisure/8686417/","projectTitle":"Lap Desks of Leisure","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Smith","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6750382_orig.jpg?crop=785,785,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1566589200137","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-je-smith"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_20870","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":493,"numTeachers":26,"percentFrplEligible":72,"percentAsian":9,"percentBlack":17,"percentWhite":5,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":58,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"7 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"19.0:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":65.4,"schoolId":20870,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Bret Harte Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Bret Harte Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/hayward-unified-school-district/bret-harte-middle-school/20870"}
Join the 560 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Bret Harte Middle School is
a suburban public school
in Hayward, California that is part of Hayward Unified School District.
It serves 493 students
in grades 7 - 8 with a student/teacher ratio of 19.0:1.
Its teachers have had 384 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Boost support for our school's classrooms. Share this page with friends and family who want to make a difference. If you're a teacher, sign up to get started!
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. Each classroom request for funding was created by a classroom teacher and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
of students receive free or reduced price lunch
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
Source: the National Center for Education Statistics
84%
of students are Black, Latino, Native
American, or Asian
Data about school demographics comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. The numbers in this chart may not add up to 100% because of limitations in the available data.
Bret Harte Middle School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Dec 5, 2025
DonorsChoose makes it easy for anyone to help a teacher in need, moving us closer to a nation where students
in every community have the tools and experiences they need for a great education.
Bret Harte Middle School
$257,818
raised using DonorsChoose
384
projects
funded
49
teachers
funded
560
donors
33
projects
for
basic supplies
93
projects for
technology
68
projects for
books
28
projects
for
art supplies
Bret Harte Middle School has received support from
366 individuals from California and
194 individuals out-of-state.