{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Ranchero Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":27.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10418155,"projectId":10058091,"letterContent":"Technology has made a meaningful difference in my classroom, especially for students who do not have access to these tools at home. The donated printer has allowed students to print high-quality images for their American History projects, including poster boards about their favorite Founding Fathers. Being able to print pictures helped bring their projects to life and made their presentations more engaging and visually appealing. The donated paper and pencils were also essential, giving students the materials they needed to research, organize their notes, and draft their ideas before creating their final posters. The most exciting part for students was seeing their hard work come together in a professional-looking final product. Many of my students do not have printers at home, so having access to one at school made them feel supported and confident in completing their assignments. Several students who typically struggle with projects were especially motivated because they could include printed images that enhanced their creativity and pride in their work. This technology not only supported academic learning but also helped build confidence and excitement about history.","fullyFundedDate":1769415660478,"projectUrl":"project/paper-pencils-and-printing-for-student/10058091/","projectTitle":"Paper, Pencils, and Printing for Student Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Jimenez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10418155_orig.jpg?crop=2493,2493,x0,y116&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1769463386520","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10418155"},{"teacherId":10418175,"projectId":10058182,"letterContent":"Thanks to your incredible generosity, our classroom snack supply is now a meaningful part of our daily learning environment. Students use the snacks during long class periods, assessments, and small-group work time, especially when we're diving into challenging Social Studies topics like primary source analysis or debates. One moment that really stood out was during a document-based discussion. Students were more focused, collaborative, and willing to participate because they weren't distracted by hunger. Something as simple as a snack helped create a calm, supportive space where everyone could engage.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the snacks, their reactions said it all. Huge smiles, quiet \"thank yous,\" and a noticeable sense of relief. Several students shared that having snacks at school helps them concentrate better and feel more comfortable asking questions or contributing to class. It was clear they felt seen and cared for, which made an immediate difference in classroom morale.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, our next steps include continuing hands-on, discussion-based lessons where students work collaboratively and think critically about history and current events. With their basic needs met, students are better prepared to tackle upcoming projects, including group presentations and inquiry-based research. Your support didn't just provide snacks. It helped create a classroom environment where students feel supported, focused, and ready to learn. Thank you for giving us that gift.","fullyFundedDate":1769398051421,"projectUrl":"project/fueling-young-minds/10058182/","projectTitle":"Fueling Young Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Davis","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10418175_orig.jpg?crop=640,640,x0,y38&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1769617775939","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10418175"},{"teacherId":10052932,"projectId":9851160,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our classroom through DonorsChoose. The popcorn machine has been an absolute hit with our students and has made a meaningful impact on their learning.\r\n\r\nWe were able to connect the popcorn machine to financial literacy by having students calculate costs, pricing, and profits, helping them apply real-world math skills in an engaging way. Students also designed and created buttons using the button maker during art enrichment, allowing them to express creativity while learning about design and messaging.\r\n\r\nIn addition, we integrated the popcorn machine into history lessons on propaganda, where students analyzed how visuals, slogans, and incentives are used to influence audiences. This hands-on experience helped make abstract concepts more concrete and memorable for our learners.\r\n\r\nYour generosity created joyful, engaging, and interdisciplinary learning opportunities that our students will remember. Thank you for believing in our classroom and for investing in meaningful, creative education","fullyFundedDate":1769177614237,"projectUrl":"project/a-sweet-history-reward-pop-press-spi/9851160/","projectTitle":"A Sweet History Reward: Pop, Press & Spin Through Time","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Alexi","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10052932_orig.jpg?crop=1737,1737,x231,y802&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1769634282957","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10052932"},{"teacherId":10295731,"projectId":9876840,"letterContent":"In this project, students wanted to be able to use permanent markers for their classroom projects. They were very excited about having the opportunity to be able to use these markers. It was a project on the book Holes, but also one on themselves, as their work was about how they were unique in their own ways. Many of the students were able to express themselves. This is something that has been a really good tool to have for not only now but also for the future, so that students can have the opportunity to use them in the classroom and help them to be unique in their own way. Thank you again for this opportunity and blessing! Blessings to you for your kindness and your gift!","fullyFundedDate":1764615182924,"projectUrl":"project/ela-creativity/9876840/","projectTitle":"ELA Creativity","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Martinez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10295731"},{"teacherId":10279366,"projectId":9758700,"letterContent":"I am working with an amazing group of students with a wide range of abilities and disabilities. My students' academic levels range from early preschool to late first grade, so I design lessons that meet each student where they are while focusing on practical skills that build confidence and independence. As a mom to a child with autism, this work is deeply personal to me, and I strive to create meaningful learning experiences every day.\r\n\r\nOne of our favorite and most impactful activities is practicing simple cooking skills using tools like the toaster and microwave. These lessons help students learn safety, follow directions, recognize numbers, and experience the pride of doing things independently. When students first use these materials, their excitement and sense of accomplishment are incredible to see. \r\n\r\nAs a first-year teacher, I have poured my heart, and many of my own resources, into building a supportive and engaging classroom. Your generosity helps make these life-changing experiences possible. Thank you for believing in inclusive education and for helping my students gain skills they will use every day.","fullyFundedDate":1764615182893,"projectUrl":"project/support-first-year-special-education-tea/9758700/","projectTitle":"Support First-Year Special-Education Teacher Building Life Skills for Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Trujillo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10279366_orig.jpg?crop=952,952,x34,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1759089412627","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/trujillo-lifeskills"},{"teacherId":10052932,"projectId":9901122,"letterContent":"The new books introduced important skills such as reading for understanding, identifying key details, and learning how real historical events affect real people. Students practiced asking questions, making connections, and using evidence from the text to support their thinking. These books also helped introduce lessons around empathy, perspective, and understanding history through individual stories rather than just facts.\r\n\r\nReading in my classroom is interactive and supportive. Students read independently, with partners, and sometimes as a whole group. We pause to talk about what we are learning, look closely at illustrations and photographs, and connect the text to what we already know. Many students also respond through writing, drawing, or discussion, which helps them process what they are reading in meaningful ways.\r\n\r\nSeveral students have been especially drawn to the Who Was series, particularly Who Was Anne Frank?. For many, this was their first exposure to the Holocaust, and they were deeply engaged and thoughtful while reading. Students asked questions, showed empathy, and made connections to fairness, courage, and standing up for others. Seeing students choose these books independently and want to talk about what they learned has been incredibly powerful.","fullyFundedDate":1767988390429,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-readers-with-adapted-history/9901122/","projectTitle":"Empowering Readers With Adapted History Books","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Alexi","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10052932_orig.jpg?crop=1737,1737,x231,y802&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1769634282957","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10052932"},{"teacherId":10052932,"projectId":9873847,"letterContent":"Since receiving the items from this project, there has been a profound and immediate impact on students and the learning environment. Students now have access to snacks, which has helped support focus, regulation, and positive behavior throughout the day. Basic safety needs have also been addressed—using duct tape to secure chargers and extension cords has significantly reduced tripping hazards, creating a safer classroom environment for all students.\r\n\r\nClassroom supplies such as tissues have been especially valuable during flu season, helping limit the spread of germs and keeping students healthy and present for instruction. Having consistent access to essential materials has allowed us to fully support our students without interruption. We no longer need to scramble to find pencils or materials, as everything is readily available when students need it.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, whiteboard markers have been a major instructional support, allowing students to actively participate in writing activities and access learning in a hands-on, engaging way. Overall, these resources have removed barriers, increased student engagement, and allowed the classroom to function smoothly and safely while prioritizing student well-being and learning.","fullyFundedDate":1767988390618,"projectUrl":"project/help-students-in-need-basic-supplies-for/9873847/","projectTitle":"Help Students in Need-Basic Supplies for Our SpEd/GED Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Alexi","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10052932_orig.jpg?crop=1737,1737,x231,y802&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1769634282957","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10052932"},{"teacherId":10295731,"projectId":9780782,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for the opportunity to be able to have both the books War Horse and A Dog's Purpose. It is a blessing to have these books in the classroom as both of these stories teach compassion and also a different perspective than our own. I work as a special education teacher, and a lot of the time these students do not get exposure to different types of novels and my students really enjoyed reading War Horse. We read at a slow pace so that they may understand it, and many were very intrigued with the book and also enjoyed it. We also did many fill-in-the-blank notes so that they may understand what it is that is going on. Many who do not enjoy reading truly enjoyed reading this book. I am hoping to start a Dog's Purpose this semester before State Testing, but again, thank you so much for this blessing. Blessing to you! Thank you!","fullyFundedDate":1763001495685,"projectUrl":"project/compassion-through-novels/9780782/","projectTitle":"Compassion Through Novels","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Martinez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10295731"},{"teacherId":10052932,"projectId":9639833,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support in providing Chromebook chargers and markers for our classroom. While many donors are familiar with technology at home, these tools play an especially important role in a school setting. The Chromebook chargers ensure that students can stay connected and continue learning throughout the day without interruptions. This allows them to research, write, collaborate, and practice skills consistently, helping them build confidence and independence in their learning.\r\n\r\nThe most exciting part for students is knowing their devices are always ready when they need them. Several students who rely heavily on technology for writing, reading support, or organization have especially benefited, as they no longer worry about losing learning time due to low batteries. The markers have also brought new energy to our classroom by supporting hands-on lessons, group work, and creative expression, encouraging students who may be shy to participate more actively.","fullyFundedDate":1762266356099,"projectUrl":"project/help-us-stay-connected-and-creative/9639833/","projectTitle":"Help Us Stay Connected and Creative","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Alexi","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10052932_orig.jpg?crop=1737,1737,x231,y802&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1769634282957","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10052932"},{"teacherId":10052932,"projectId":9733470,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support! My students have absolutely loved diving into our new books. We recently finished reading The Magic Finger and are now halfway through Flipped. They are completely engaged—laughing, discussing, and eagerly predicting what will happen next!\r\n\r\nThrough these stories, my students are not only developing a love for reading but also building essential skills. They're expanding their vocabularies, improving their comprehension, and learning how to analyze characters and themes. We've also had wonderful conversations about empathy, perspective, and making good choices—skills that extend far beyond the classroom.\r\n\r\nReading time has become one of the happiest parts of our day. You can see the joy on their faces when they make connections, discover new words, or share their opinions about the story. Several students who were once reluctant readers now ask if we can read \"just one more chapter.\"\r\n\r\nYour support has truly made a difference. These books have brought excitement, confidence, and curiosity into our classroom. Thank you for helping my students grow as readers and thinkers!","fullyFundedDate":1760376998491,"projectUrl":"project/turning-pages-together-books-special-e/9733470/","projectTitle":"Turning Pages Together - Books Special Education Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Alexi","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10052932_orig.jpg?crop=1737,1737,x231,y802&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1769634282957","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10052932"},{"teacherId":10052932,"projectId":9633303,"letterContent":"I'm honestly overwhelmed by the difference a simple pair of headphones has made in my classroom.\r\n\r\nThanks to your generous donation, my students now have the tools they need to focus, engage, and truly learn. Since receiving the headphones, I've seen a noticeable improvement not just in test scores, but in their confidence and excitement to learn.\r\n\r\nWith tools like Edpuzzle and other interactive resources, they're more involved than ever. They're listening, participating, and asking deeper questions. They're enjoying the learning process something that felt out of reach before.\r\n\r\nIt might seem like a small thing, but it has made a huge impact. The classroom feels more alive. The students are more independent. And I'm finally able to meet their individual needs in a way I couldn't before.\r\n\r\nThank you so much for believing in us and giving us this opportunity. You've helped create a space where learning feels personal, fun, and possible. I'm beyond grateful and so are my students.","fullyFundedDate":1758247418586,"projectUrl":"project/headphones-for-every-learner/9633303/","projectTitle":"Headphones for Every Learner","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Alexi","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10052932_orig.jpg?crop=1737,1737,x231,y802&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1769634282957","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10052932"},{"teacherId":10052932,"projectId":9631853,"letterContent":"I want to take a moment to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your generosity and support. As a first-year special education teacher, I walked into this school year with excitement, big dreams, and a little bit of nervousness. Thanks to your kindness, my students and I have been able to accomplish more than I ever imagined, and I am so grateful for the opportunity you've given us. Your donation has already transformed the way learning feels in our classroom. One of my students who uses a wheelchair is now able to move around the classroom with more ease, and that simple change has made a huge impact on his ability to fully participate. Seeing him navigate the room more independently has been inspiring not only for me, but also for his peers, who are learning the importance of inclusion, accessibility, and kindness.\r\nThe new supplies have brought so much excitement and joy to our daily lessons. Something as simple as skin-tone crayons and colored pencils has meant the world to my students. One child smiled and said, \"Now I can make my character look just like me.\" That moment reminded me of how important representation is, even in the smallest details, and how much it matters to kids to see themselves in their work.We have also started reading the novel Holes, and my students are absolutely loving it. They have embraced the characters so fully that they pretend to be them during transitions, acting out scenes and playfully quoting lines. They are laughing, smiling, and, most importantly, engaged in reading in a way I've never seen before. Even students who used to hesitate during reading time are now excited to turn the page and see what happens next.\r\nThe posters, projects, and creative activities we've been able to do with the materials you helped provide have made learning come alive. The classroom feels more colorful, more welcoming, and more interactive. My students are showing greater focus, faster transitions, and more pride in their work. These may seem like small changes, but in the life of a child—especially a child who may not always feel seen or heard—they are huge.I am overwhelmed with gratitude for your generosity. As a new teacher, it means so much to know that there are people outside of our school walls who care about my students and believe in their potential. Your support has lifted not only their spirits but mine as well. You've given me hope and encouragement, and you've shown my students that they are worthy of investment, love, and opportunity.\r\nThank you for giving us the tools to grow, the chance to dream, and the joy of learning together. We will continue to use these resources every day, and we will always remember that there are people like you who believe in us.","fullyFundedDate":1755912254979,"projectUrl":"project/new-teacher-big-impact-tools-for-specia/9631853/","projectTitle":"New Teacher, Big Impact-Tools for Special Education Middle School","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Alexi","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10052932_orig.jpg?crop=1737,1737,x231,y802&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1769634282957","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10052932"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_55222","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":1149,"numTeachers":45,"percentFrplEligible":88,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":6,"percentWhite":19,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":70,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"7 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"25.5:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":72.7,"schoolId":55222,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Ranchero Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Ranchero Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/hesperia-unified-school-district/ranchero-middle-school/55222"}
Join the 33 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Ranchero Middle School is
a suburban public school
in Hesperia, California that is part of Hesperia Unified School District.
It serves 1,149 students
in grades 7 - 8 with a student/teacher ratio of 25.5:1.
Its teachers have had 28 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Boost support for this school! Share this page with friends, family, alumni, and fellow supporters. Every connection helps teachers get the supplies they need and shows how much your community cares about its students.
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for public school teachers.
Every donation funds real needs — pencils, books, lab equipment, art supplies, and more — helping students learn and thrive. We ship supplies directly to the school, and you'll see exactly where each dollar goes.
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
76%
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.
Ranchero Middle School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Feb 15, 2026
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.
Ranchero Middle School
$19,318
raised using DonorsChoose
28
projects
funded
14
teachers
funded
33
donors
5
projects
for
basic supplies
9
projects for
technology
4
projects for
books
1
project
for
art supplies
Ranchero Middle School has received support from
24 individuals from California and
9 individuals out-of-state.