{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"John F Kennedy High School","outOfStateSupporters":13.4,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":5110720,"projectId":9823576,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our leadership students are actively using these new supplies to turn their ideas into meaningful, school-wide experiences. One of the first projects they completed was planning a lunchtime community-building event that included a portable soccer goal and Skee-Ball station. Students designed the layout, created sign-up rotations, and facilitated games that encouraged participation from classmates who might not typically attend school events. The candy was used intentionally as a welcoming incentive, helping student leaders start conversations and build connections with peers.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, their excitement was immediate and genuine. They quickly began brainstorming new ways to use the equipment for upcoming events like Spirit Days, Earth Day activities, and Pride celebrations. Many students commented on how professional and \"real\" the supplies made their work feel, validating their roles as leaders and event planners rather than just participants.\r\n\r\nNext, students are applying these resources to a current lesson focused on leadership skills such as collaboration, communication, and inclusivity. They are developing full event proposals that include goals, logistics, and reflections on student engagement. These materials will continue to be used throughout the year as students refine their ability to lead with purpose, create welcoming spaces, and positively impact our school community. Your support has empowered them to move from ideas to action, and the ripple effect is being felt across campus every day.","fullyFundedDate":1760819107124,"projectUrl":"project/lead-play-inspire-supplies-for-succes/9823576/","projectTitle":"Lead, Play, Inspire: Supplies for Success","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Richard-Gantka","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5110720_orig.jpg?crop=1200,1200,x0,y84&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1701375133184","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5110720"},{"teacherId":7680414,"projectId":9372779,"letterContent":"I would like to sincerely thank you for the generous grant that funded the headphones for my classroom. Your support has made a meaningful and immediate impact on my students' learning experience.\r\n\r\nThe headphones have been incredibly helpful in my class. They allow students to focus more deeply during independent work, language practice, and digital learning activities without distractions. Many of my students benefit from being able to replay instructions, listen at their own pace, and engage more confidently with audio-based lessons. This has been especially valuable for differentiated instruction and supporting students with diverse learning needs.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, my classroom is a more focused, inclusive, and engaging learning environment. The headphones are not just a tool—they are helping students build independence, confidence, and academic skills.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in our students and for believing in the power of educational resources to make a difference. Your support is truly appreciated.","fullyFundedDate":1755728662826,"projectUrl":"project/the-power-of-headphones/9372779/","projectTitle":"The Power of Headphones","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. N. Velarde","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7680414_orig.jpg?crop=1200,1200,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1620501083463","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7680414"},{"teacherId":7680414,"projectId":9356271,"letterContent":"I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for your generous donation of the Teachers Pay Teachers gift cards. Your support has had a meaningful and immediate impact on my classroom, and I am truly thankful for your kindness and commitment to education.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, I was able to purchase a variety of fun, engaging, and high-quality grammar activities that directly support my students' learning needs. These resources have enhanced my lessons in ways that would not have been possible otherwise. Teachers Pay Teachers offers creative materials designed by educators who truly understand the classroom, and your gift card allowed me to select activities that align perfectly with my students' skill levels and learning styles.\r\n\r\nThe grammar activities I purchased are interactive, visually appealing, and thoughtfully structured to reinforce important language concepts. Instead of traditional worksheets, students are now learning through games, hands-on tasks, and collaborative activities that encourage participation and discussion. These resources have transformed grammar instruction from something that can feel challenging or repetitive into an experience that students genuinely look forward to.\r\n\r\nOne of the most rewarding outcomes has been seeing how much the students enjoy these activities. Many of them have expressed excitement during lessons and are more eager to participate, ask questions, and take academic risks. Students who were previously hesitant about grammar concepts are now more confident and engaged. This increased motivation has led to improved understanding, stronger retention of material, and a more positive attitude toward learning overall.\r\n\r\nYour donation has also allowed me to better meet the diverse needs of my students. The resources I purchased include differentiated activities that support a range of learners, including students who need extra reinforcement as well as those who are ready for enrichment. Having access to these materials helps ensure that all students feel supported, challenged, and successful.\r\n\r\nBeyond academic benefits, your gift has positively influenced the classroom environment. Lessons are more dynamic, collaborative, and joyful. Students work together, celebrate their progress, and develop a stronger sense of confidence in their abilities. These moments remind me why meaningful resources matter so much and how generous support from donors like you can shape students' educational experiences in lasting ways.\r\n\r\nAs an educator, I strive to create lessons that are engaging, inclusive, and effective. Your donation has directly supported that mission and has helped me provide opportunities that go beyond what limited classroom budgets often allow. Please know that your contribution was used thoughtfully and intentionally, with students' best interests at the center of every decision.\r\n\r\nThank you again for your generosity and belief in teachers and students. Your support has made a tangible difference in my classroom, and I am deeply grateful for the impact you have had on my students' learning and enthusiasm. I hope this letter gives you a glimpse into how meaningful your gift has been and how appreciated it truly is.","fullyFundedDate":1755728499811,"projectUrl":"project/grammar-matters/9356271/","projectTitle":"Grammar Matters!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. N. Velarde","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7680414_orig.jpg?crop=1200,1200,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1620501083463","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7680414"},{"teacherId":7029548,"projectId":5915537,"letterContent":"I am so grateful for your generosity and support of my recent DonorsChoose project! Because of your donations, my students now have access to a wonderful collection of new books that are already sparking curiosity and excitement in our classroom.\r\n\r\nThe moment the boxes arrived, my students were eager to dive in and explore. Seeing them browse the shelves, recommend titles to friends, and settle into quiet reading time with genuine enthusiasm has been the best reward. These books are helping us build a stronger reading culture where every student can find a story that speaks to them.\r\n\r\nYour contribution has made a lasting impact—not just on our classroom library, but on the confidence and joy my students feel as readers. Thank you for believing in the power of stories and for helping make reading an experience my students truly look forward to each day.\r\n\r\nYour kindness reminds my students that there are people out there who care about their learning and their future. We are all so thankful for your support!","fullyFundedDate":1634821097807,"projectUrl":"project/great-books-for-reluctant-readers/5915537/","projectTitle":"Great Books for Reluctant Readers","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Valenzuela","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7029548"},{"teacherId":7029548,"projectId":4828406,"letterContent":"I am so grateful for your generosity and support of my recent DonorsChoose project! Because of your donations, my students now have access to a wonderful collection of new books that are already sparking curiosity and excitement in our classroom.\r\n\r\nThe moment the boxes arrived, my students were eager to dive in and explore. Seeing them browse the shelves, recommend titles to friends, and settle into quiet reading time with genuine enthusiasm has been the best reward. These books are helping us build a stronger reading culture where every student can find a story that speaks to them.","fullyFundedDate":1583502569119,"projectUrl":"project/diversifying-intensifying-my-classroo/4828406/","projectTitle":"Diversifying & Intensifying My Classroom Library!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Valenzuela","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7029548"},{"teacherId":10084744,"projectId":9765726,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your donation to my classroom library. Many students have already begun reading the books we received due to your generous donation. \r\n\r\nEvery Tuesday, students have 30 minutes of silent reading time. During this time, students select any book of their choosing to read. Many students have opted for the new books in my classroom library that we received through DonorsChoose, and have expressed excitement about the selection. My classroom library now consists of a wide selection of books (non-fiction, young adult, historical fiction, classics, contemporary, etc). My students have a wide selection to choose from that meets their needs and interests. \r\n\r\nAdditionally, I have created a digital classroom library that provides students with the synopsis, Goodreads reviews, and my personal rating for each book! This way, students can get an idea of the books that are offered to them and check them out to read at home if they'd like.\r\n\r\nMy students have been particularly interested in books by the authors Sylvia Moreno-Garcia and Neal Shusterman. And of course, they're excited to read The Hunger Games series, which will always be a classic.","fullyFundedDate":1759089988487,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-library-pt-2/9765726/","projectTitle":"Classroom Library pt. 2","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Saberan","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10084744"},{"teacherId":5110720,"projectId":9663701,"letterContent":"This project had a powerful and lasting impact on our students' learning and leadership development. With the materials funded through Lead, Play, Inspire: Supplies for Success, our student leaders were able to bring their ideas to life in ways that were previously out of reach. These resources empowered them to take ownership of school events, engage their peers creatively, and develop real-world skills in collaboration, communication, and project management.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, we were able to host National Coming Out Day and have several inclusive and community-building events planned for later in the year. These events not only celebrate important causes—like Earth Day and Pride—but also promote school spirit and student connection. \r\n\r\nThe Polaroid film, stickers, and crafting materials like markers, and clay will allow students to create memorable, hands-on experiences. Our Skee-Ball game was a student favorite at our recent Coming Out Day event. The fidget toys and fun prizes encouraged participation from a wide range of students, including those who are often more hesitant to get involved.\r\n\r\nOur student leaders are genuinely excited to have the opportunity to bring their ideas to life in creative, meaningful, and impactful ways. With access to the new materials, they are no longer limited by a lack of supplies or resources—instead, they can focus on imagining events and experiences that truly reflect their passions and values. Whether it's planning a movie night under the stars with the inflatable screen and colorful lighting, creating personalized keepsakes with Polaroid photos and craft supplies, or organizing vibrant celebrations for Pride and Earth Day, they now have the tools to turn vision into reality.\r\n\r\nThis opportunity has energized them and sparked a new level of ownership and enthusiasm in their leadership work. They're excited not just to plan events, but to create inclusive, joyful spaces where all students feel welcome, seen, and connected. These materials have opened the door for more ambitious and engaging projects, and our leaders are eager to make the most of every possibility.","fullyFundedDate":1759074475296,"projectUrl":"project/leading-with-purpose-supplies-for-succe/9663701/","projectTitle":"Leading with Purpose: Supplies for Success","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Richard-Gantka","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5110720_orig.jpg?crop=1200,1200,x0,y84&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1701375133184","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5110720"},{"teacherId":10084744,"projectId":9705413,"letterContent":"My students absolutely love the materials they received from this project! They've already completed one of the puzzles and love grabbing fidget/sensory toys at the start of class. Having these tools has really helped keep them focused, engaged, and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nDuring a time when teenagers are so quick to pull out their phones and turn to social media for entertainment, these items have really helped students disconnect and engage not only with the material but also with one another. The charging station items encourage students to put their phones away at the start of class, promoting focus and engagement during lessons. The card games, puzzles, and board games encourage students to interact with one another, promoting peer engagement and collaboration\r\n\r\nOnce again, thank you for your donation!","fullyFundedDate":1757902685204,"projectUrl":"project/tools-for-classroom-engagement-pt-2/9705413/","projectTitle":"Tools for Classroom Engagement pt. 2","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Saberan","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10084744"},{"teacherId":10084744,"projectId":9676111,"letterContent":"My students absolutely love the materials they received from this project! They've already completed one of the puzzles and love grabbing fidget/sensory toys at the start of class. Having these tools has really helped keep them focused, engaged, and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nDuring a time when teenagers are so quick to pull out their phones and turn to social media for entertainment, these items have really helped students disconnect and engage not only with the material but also with one another. The charging station items encourage students to put their phones away at the start of class, promoting focus and engagement during lessons. The card games, puzzles, and board games encourage students to interact with one another, promoting peer engagement and collaboration\r\n\r\nOnce again, thank you for your donation!","fullyFundedDate":1757167435592,"projectUrl":"project/tools-for-classroom-engagement/9676111/","projectTitle":"Tools for Classroom Engagement","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Saberan","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10084744"},{"teacherId":10084744,"projectId":9715235,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your donation to my classroom library. Many students have already begun reading the books we received due to your generous donation. \r\n\r\nEvery Tuesday, students have 30 minutes of silent reading time. During this time, students select any book of their choosing to read. Many students have opted for the new books in my classroom library that we received through DonorsChoose, and have expressed excitement about the selection. My classroom library now consists of a wide selection of books (non-fiction, young adult, historical fiction, classics, contemporary, etc). My students have a wide selection to choose from that meets their needs and interests. \r\n\r\nAdditionally, I have created a digital classroom library that provides students with the synopsis, Goodreads reviews, and my personal rating for each book! This way, students can get an idea of the books that are offered to them and check them out to read at home if they'd like.\r\n\r\nMy students have been particularly interested in books by the authors Sylvia Moreno-Garcia and Neal Shusterman. And of course, they're excited to read The Hunger Games series, which will always be a classic.","fullyFundedDate":1758649434564,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-library/9715235/","projectTitle":"Classroom Library","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Saberan","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10084744"},{"teacherId":8926960,"projectId":8558115,"letterContent":"I want to extend my deepest gratitude for your generous donation of fidgets, sensory toys, and other supportive items for my high school students. Your thoughtful contributions have had a meaningful impact on my students' social and emotional well-being. These tools have become a valuable part of our daily support strategies, helping students manage stress, improve focus, and regulate their emotions during the school day. Many students who previously struggled with self-regulation have shown noticeable improvement in their ability to participate in class and engage more positively with peers and staff.\r\n\r\nThe availability of these resources has also helped create a more inclusive and supportive environment. Through this donation I was also given the opportunity to provide my students with items they can take with them and use in the classroom when dysregulated. The surprise and gratitude that these students demonstrate is amazing to see. I was able to use the item in individual session, counseling groups, and when they just needed a break from class to de-escalate. The items you provided have empowered students to better understand and respond to their own emotional needs. Your kindness has not only equipped us with useful tools but has also shown our students that there are people in the community who care about their growth and success. Thank you again for your incredible support.","fullyFundedDate":1723686139551,"projectUrl":"project/creating-a-safe-space-for-my-students-m/8558115/","projectTitle":"Creating a Safe Space for My Students. Mental Health Matters!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Trejo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8926960"},{"teacherId":7680414,"projectId":9081183,"letterContent":"I want to sincerely thank you for your generous donation of colorful paper to our Spanish classroom. Your gift made a meaningful impact on my students and the learning environment we strive to create every day.\r\n\r\nThanks to your contribution, students were able to bring their creativity to life through vibrant projects such as leyendas from Latin America, interactive activities on stem-changing verbs, and beautifully crafted family trees. These projects allowed students not only to practice the language but also to explore and celebrate Hispanic culture in meaningful and personal ways.\r\n\r\nThe paper you donated added a layer of excitement and pride to their work, making the classroom more engaging and dynamic. It's amazing how something as simple as colorful paper can transform learning into a memorable and enriching experience.\r\n\r\nFrom all of us, thank you again for your kindness and support. You've made a difference in our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1746786971465,"projectUrl":"project/paper-please/9081183/","projectTitle":"Paper Please!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. N. Velarde","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7680414_orig.jpg?crop=1200,1200,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1620501083463","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7680414"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_7012","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":2215,"numTeachers":97,"percentFrplEligible":76,"percentAsian":6,"percentBlack":1,"percentWhite":10,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":79,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"9 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":"22.8:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":86.6,"schoolId":7012,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about John F Kennedy High School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"John F Kennedy High School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/los-angeles-unified-school-district/john-f-kennedy-high-school/7012"}