{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Gaspar de Portola Charter Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":7.7,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":5178092,"projectId":9690746,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for granting our students this project--new Hunger Games novels! Students can access the book online, but the page numbers are different, and we refer to the same pages, incidents, chapters, events using the written text. Many of my students opted to bring this text home to read, particularly because they often had assignments to complete on it, such as their final end-of-the-unit essay. Because so many people have watched the movie, I have the students write a compare-and-contrast essay between the movie and the text version of the story. Included in that needs to be their analysis of a major theme, or character development, or plot or setting development. To get to that point, we review both the movie and text together in class (with permission slips for the movie, due to its rating), and students do multiple vocabulary exercises, as well as character development and theme development activities on a weekly basis. Having the book in their hands, being able to follow along on the pages, getting participation points for reading out loud or knowing answers to questions, and being able to take the book home for review or to finish their work was invaluable to my students. In these pictures, you see several of your texts that were returned to me after our unit was completed (different classes finished at different times). You should have heard the \"ahh!\" and quiet \"ooh\"s when I passed out the fresh copies of the text. Students were so delighted--our library books were so old, pages were torn out, the covers were literally peeling apart...Thank you for this experience with the students!","fullyFundedDate":1760166207797,"projectUrl":"project/learning-to-love-reading-by-empowering-s/9690746/","projectTitle":"Learning to Love Reading by Empowering Student Choice","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Weber","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5178092_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1518393267393","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5178092"},{"teacherId":5178092,"projectId":9627529,"letterContent":"Thank you SO very much for this thoughtful funding of my \"Sitting Pretty Helps Students Learn\" project. It really did make a year-long difference in my room! Students asked to move to the standing desk, or especially to use the wobbly chair, even at their desks, because it helped them focus to be able to fidget or adjust their weight on a wiggly chair or at a standing desk. Attached are pictures of small-group learning in their choice of seating, and students got creative with using the wobbly chair at the standing desk! They agreed to take turns among themselves (supervised by me), but these two and the bean bag are welcome additions. Often my students will ask to sit in the bean bag, which I have up close to the projector screen, so they can be closer to it or just to be comfortable. This way, students around them can still see the screen, since the bean-bag is near the floor, and students with vision problems don't have to be embarrassed by that in front of everyone. They take notes quietly and then move back to their seats to use those notes on their thinking-and-writing activity. \r\n\r\nMy students are so much more comfortable, and I have more accurate work from them to show for it! They are definitely more engaged with this comfortable furniture. Thank you!!","fullyFundedDate":1760549485184,"projectUrl":"project/sittin-pretty-helps-kids-read/9627529/","projectTitle":"Sittin' Pretty Helps Kids Read","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Weber","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5178092_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1518393267393","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5178092"},{"teacherId":8248303,"projectId":10100700,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation! \r\n\r\nProviding collared shirts for our Academic Pentathlon students had a significant impact on both their confidence and their sense of belonging during competition. For many of our students, this was their first time participating in an academic competition of this scale. Wearing matching collared shirts helped create a sense of team unity and pride, allowing students to feel like they were representing their school as a cohesive group. The shirts ensured that all students were appropriately and professionally dressed for the event, regardless of their family's ability to purchase competition attire. Students stood taller, took greater pride in their participation, and felt that they truly belonged among the hundreds of competitors from schools across the region. The shirts also helped identify our team during events such as the Super Quiz, fostering school spirit and making students feel recognized for their hard work and dedication throughout the year. Overall, the collared shirts contributed to a more equitable, professional, and memorable competition experience for our students.\r\n\r\nAs a first-year Academic Pentathlon program composed entirely of sixth-grade students, the collared shirts helped establish a strong team identity and reinforced that they were part of something special. The students were proud to wear their shirts, and it helped elevate the importance of the competition while celebrating the countless hours they dedicated to studying and preparing throughout the year.","fullyFundedDate":1771466217698,"projectUrl":"project/poppin-the-collar-for-the-academic-penta/10100700/","projectTitle":"Poppin the Collar for the Academic Pentathlon Competition","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Braverman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8248303_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753980640023","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsbraverman11"},{"teacherId":10191509,"projectId":9650179,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous contribution toward purchasing New Kid for my new kids! Your support helps us place engaging, meaningful books directly into the hands of young readers at an important stage in their academic and personal growth. Graphic novels have a unique ability to inspire students, build reading confidennce, and encourage a lifelong love of learning, and your kindness is making that possible. \r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, our students are excited to read. Graphic novels help students strengthen literacy skills and create opportunities for connection both inside and outside the classroom. We are deeply grateful for your investment in our students and our school community. Thank you for helping us create an encouraging and enriching experience for every new middle schooler. \r\n\r\nSincerely, \r\nTrish Kiernan","fullyFundedDate":1757377680813,"projectUrl":"project/new-kid-for-the-new-kids/9650179/","projectTitle":"New Kid for the New Kids","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Kiernan","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10191509"},{"teacherId":5102269,"projectId":10124209,"letterContent":"The sheep heart dissection has quickly become one of the most impactful learning experiences in our classroom this year. When students first saw the materials, their reactions ranged from excitement and curiosity to complete amazement. Many students had never seen a real organ up close before, and it immediately sparked thoughtful questions and genuine engagement with the lesson.\r\n\r\nOne powerful classroom moment occurred when students carefully opened the hearts and compared the thickness of the left and right ventricles. After learning about how the heart pumps blood throughout the body, students were able to physically see why one side of the heart is more muscular than the other. Watching students connect textbook concepts to real-life anatomy in such an authentic way was incredibly rewarding.\r\n\r\nThe materials gave students the opportunity to practice real scientific skills such as observation, teamwork, critical thinking, and inquiry. Students took pride in using proper lab tools and procedures while collaborating with their groups to identify different structures of the heart. Even students who are usually quiet in class became actively involved in discussions and eager to share discoveries with their classmates.\r\n\r\nAs we continue this unit, students will use what they learned during the dissection to deepen their understanding of the cardiovascular system and how it works together with the respiratory and digestive systems to keep the body functioning. They will complete follow-up activities that include labeling diagrams, analyzing blood flow, and applying their knowledge to health and wellness topics. These hands-on experiences are helping students see science as something real, exciting, and connected to t","fullyFundedDate":1772487934850,"projectUrl":"project/sheep-heart-dissection/10124209/","projectTitle":"Sheep Heart Dissection","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Bugyik","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5102269"},{"teacherId":5102269,"projectId":9624422,"letterContent":"Our students were incredibly excited when the sheep heart dissection materials arrived. For many of them, this was their very first opportunity to participate in a real dissection, and the anticipation in the classroom was amazing. The moment students walked in and saw the lab setup, they immediately began asking questions and sharing what they already knew about the heart and circulatory system. Their curiosity and enthusiasm made the experience even more meaningful.\r\n\r\nOne especially memorable classroom moment happened when students were able to identify and trace the path of blood flow through the chambers of the heart using actual specimens. Concepts that can sometimes feel abstract in a textbook suddenly became real and tangible. Students worked collaboratively to identify valves, ventricles, arteries, and veins while making connections to how their own bodies function every day. Many students commented that this was one of the most engaging science activities they had ever done.\r\n\r\nThe materials allowed students to fully immerse themselves in hands-on learning and scientific observation. Even students who were initially nervous became fascinated once they began exploring and working with their lab groups. It was incredible to watch students build confidence, ask deeper questions, and truly think like scientists.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, students will continue building on this experience by connecting what they observed during the dissection to larger lessons about body systems, circulation, respiration, and overall human health. They will be analyzing how the cardiovascular system works together with other body systems and applying their knowledge through follow-up labs, diagrams, and collaborative projects. These resources have helped create meaningful, unforgettable learning experiences that bring science to life for our students, and we are so grateful for the support that made this possible.","fullyFundedDate":1755747288990,"projectUrl":"project/dissection-fun/9624422/","projectTitle":"Dissection Fun","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Bugyik","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5102269"},{"teacherId":10191509,"projectId":9893378,"letterContent":"Your generosity has made a meaningful difference in our classroom, and we are incredibly grateful for your support. Because of your contribution, our students now have access to iPads that open the door to interactaive learning, creativity and new opportunities for growth. These tools are already helping to engage students in exciting ways, making lessons more dynamic and accessible for every learner.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in our students' future and believing in the power of education. Your kindness and commitment inspire us every day, and we are truly fortunate to have such supportive donors in our community. The impact of your gift will be felt far beyond the classroom, empowering students with skills and confidence that will last a lifetime.","fullyFundedDate":1763664812029,"projectUrl":"project/geniuses-for-stem/9893378/","projectTitle":"Geniuses for STEM","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Kiernan","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10191509"},{"teacherId":10191593,"projectId":9898194,"letterContent":"Your generous donation of Chromebooks has made a meaningful difference in our classroom. Because of your support, my students have reliable access to the technology they need to research, collaborate, and complete assignments more effectively. Our classroom was previously limited to the access of extra devices, especially with technological issues. Now, we are able to provide the additional support necessary so that all the students can be engaged. Having these additional Chromebooks available during class has opened the door for them to participate more fully in digital learning activities and build essential technology skills.\r\n\r\nBeyond academics, these Chromebooks have also helped boost my students' confidence and engagement. They are excited to explore new tools, work together on projects, and take greater ownership of their learning. Your generosity has created opportunities that truly enrich their educational experience, and it is deeply appreciated. Thank you for investing in our classroom and helping empower this next generation of learners.","fullyFundedDate":1763692533188,"projectUrl":"project/technology-for-our-room/9898194/","projectTitle":"Technology for Our Room!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Altamira","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10191593_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1763274159977","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/altamira108"},{"teacherId":10191509,"projectId":9892227,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for the thoughtful contribution toward our classroom iPad. Your generosity has made an immediate and meaningful impact on our students' learning experience. With the new technology, we are able to bring lessons to life through interactive apps, creative projects, and engaging educational tools that support different learning styles. Your gift is not just a device-it is an opportunity for exploration, creativity, and growth in our classroom every day.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, our students have greater access to resources that enhance collaboration, research, and skill-building in ways that perpare them for the future. We are deeply greateful for your kindness and belief in the importance of education. Please know that your support is making a difference and we truly appreciate yur partnership in helping our students succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1763936835314,"projectUrl":"project/genius-hour-stem-for-students/9892227/","projectTitle":"Genius Hour STEM for Students!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Kiernan","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10191509"},{"teacherId":10091428,"projectId":9683917,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom! Because of you, my students are using the new resources every single day during small groups, independent work time, and partner activities. One of my favorite moments was watching them use the materials during a collaborative lesson — they were fully engaged, explaining their thinking, and actually excited to keep working. It made such a difference in their confidence and participation.\r\n\r\nWhen they first saw the new supplies, they were SO excited. A few of them kept asking, \"Are these really ours?\" They couldn't wait to open everything and start using it right away. Seeing their reactions reminded me how much these kinds of resources matter. They felt proud and special knowing that someone cared enough to invest in them.","fullyFundedDate":1762405649871,"projectUrl":"project/ms-gonzalezs-classroom/9683917/","projectTitle":"Ms. Gonzalez's Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gonzalez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10091428"},{"teacherId":5016537,"projectId":9337970,"letterContent":"Your support for this project will help transform the classroom into a more engaging, welcoming space that supports student learning and confidence. Educational math posters will reinforce key concepts daily, giving students visual reminders that strengthen understanding and retention, especially for those who benefit from visual learning. Decorative whiteboard borders will help create a more organized and inviting learning environment, improving focus and reducing distractions during instruction. Together, these visual tools will boost motivation, encourage positive learning habits, and help all students feel supported as they build confidence and persistence in math throughout the year.","fullyFundedDate":1753113872184,"projectUrl":"project/bright-minds-need-bright-walls/9337970/","projectTitle":"Bright Minds Need Bright Walls","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Shin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5016537"},{"teacherId":5016537,"projectId":9614890,"letterContent":"Your support for this project will create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment where every student has the opportunity to succeed. The Bose speaker bar will ensure that lessons, explanations, and instructional videos are heard clearly throughout the classroom, benefiting students with auditory processing challenges or hearing differences and helping all learners stay engaged. The noise-cancelling headphones will provide students with ADHD or sensory sensitivities a way to reduce distractions and focus on learning at their own pace. Together, these tools promote equity, increase student focus and confidence, and help students build the persistence and self-regulation skills they need not only in math class, but throughout their academic journey.","fullyFundedDate":1755547881597,"projectUrl":"project/bringing-math-to-life-with-sound-support/9614890/","projectTitle":"Bringing Math to Life With Sound Support for Every Learner","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Shin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5016537"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_7051","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":1580,"numTeachers":69,"percentFrplEligible":49,"percentAsian":13,"percentBlack":3,"percentWhite":42,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":32,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":7,"gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"22.9:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":false,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":92.3,"schoolId":7051,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Gaspar de Portola Charter Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Gaspar de Portola Charter Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/los-angeles-unified-school-district/gasper-de-portola-middle-school/7051"}