John Muir Middle School in Los Angeles, California on DonorsChoose

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A student who typically struggles to stay in his seat chose a quiet fidget cube and whispered, \"This helps my hands feel busy so my brain can listen.\" That day, he completed his entire task without needing extra redirection, something that had rarely happened before. Students reacted with pure joy when they first saw the materials; many immediately reached for items that offered comfort and grounding, and several students commented that the classroom \"felt different,\" \"more calm,\" and \"more fun to learn in.\" These tools gave students a sense of ownership over their learning and helped them understand that their sensory needs are valid and supported. Donors received a small glimpse into our room by supporting this project, and I'm excited to share what comes next: we are currently beginning our \"Focus & Flow Learning Routines,\" where students will practice choosing the regulation tools that best help them transition. 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From the moment the book holder, supply organizers, and new storage tools were set up, the classroom immediately felt more inviting and less overwhelming for students who can become distracted or dysregulated when materials are cluttered or difficult to find. The new organizers in place, everything from pencils and markers to reading tools and task folders had their own designated spot. One student, who often felt frustrated when he couldn't find supplies, walked to his station, saw the neatly arranged pens and highlighters, and said, \"I know exactly what to grab now—this makes it easier.\" That moment was powerful, because having predictable access to materials significantly reduces anxiety and gives students more mental energy to focus on learning. The organizers and labeled bins created a level of accessibility that empowered students to take ownership of their learning. Their reactions to the new materials were enthusiastic and genuine. 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About this school

John Muir Middle School is an urban public school in Los Angeles, California that is part of Los Angeles Unified School District. It serves 685 students in grades 6 - 8 with a student/teacher ratio of 17.6:1. Its teachers have had 43 projects funded on DonorsChoose.

Equity Focus School

Support towards this school will directly impact historically underfunded classrooms.

Public School

Title 1

Grades 6 - 8

685 Students

39 Teachers

5929 S Vermont Ave

Los Angeles, CA 90044 View local requests

http://www.muir-lausd-ca.schoolloop.com/

Direct, proactive support

Empower teachers at John Muir Middle School to request what their students need.

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Ms. Vero, a DonorsChoose teacher for 9 years.

Kindergarten teacher at PS81 - Robert J. Christen School in Bronx, NY

John Muir Middle School Teachers on DonorsChoose

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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.

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John Muir Middle School Demographics

95%

of students receive free or reduced price lunch

Source: the National Center for Education Statistics

96%

of students are Black, Latino, Native American, or Asian

Schools in districts that mainly serve students of color receive substantially less state and local support than similar districts that serve primarily White students. Learn more about this gap, why it exists, and how you can help close it.

John Muir Middle School Support on DonorsChoose Last updated Dec 21, 2025

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