{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"South Gate Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":19.8,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10278273,"projectId":9757308,"letterContent":"To Rachelle and Scott,\r\nI am writing this letter to express my gratitude for your support of our project Whiteboard Brings Student Diagrams to Life. Our previous whiteboard was rarely used due to water damage as well as wear and tear that made cleaning the board between periods challenging and messy. It was not magnetic so tape was used to place materials on the whiteboard which contributed to the wear and tear.\r\nWith your funding of the new, magnetic whiteboard student participation is more accessible, transitions from one board activity to another are quicker as the board is cleaned, and materials can easily be added using magnets. The board is on the side of the classroom which allows access for students to approach it rather than the front of the room where the main whiteboards are already utilized. Students have used the board in a variety of ways: icebreakers, warmup surveys at the beginning of class, to draw images and diagrams to share understanding and make connections, as well as end of lesson exit slips. Students can approach the board individually or in pairs to contribute to the class discussion. This allows students at different levels who may be reluctant to participate a chance to work with a partner if they need more time to build understanding. This has been especially rewarding to see Inclusion students and students whose primary language is Spanish engage more often in whole class lessons. Having used the board for about a month or two I look forward to developing more strategies for the future.\r\nOnce again, thank you for funding our whiteboard. It may seem like a small gift but it has and will continue to have a significant impact on our students' engagement and learning in the classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1769173785911,"projectUrl":"project/whiteboard-brings-student-diagrams-to-li/9757308/","projectTitle":"Whiteboard Brings Student Diagrams to Life!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Kilroy","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10278273"},{"teacherId":1264877,"projectId":9720581,"letterContent":"Due to your incredible generosity, our classroom has been transformed into a more positive, motivating, and supportive learning environment. The rewards, incentives, and prizes you provided have quickly become a meaningful part of our classroom. I use these to recognize students who demonstrate effort, kindness, stay on task, show improvement, make responsible choices, and participate in class discussions. In all, students are rewarded if they are caught doing something good! Throughout the week, students are rewarded by receiving tickets. \r\n\r\nSpecial moments stand out during our \"Friday Store\", where students exchange their tickets for prizes. Watching their excitement as they proudly and carefully select their rewards is truly heartwarming. It's not just about the prizes, but about feeling seen, valued, and successful. \r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the prizes, their faces lit up with excitement and curiosity. They immediately began asking how they could earn rewards and what they needed to do to earn a prize. This created an instant shift in our classroom culture. Students became more motivated, focused, and encouraging toward one another.\r\n\r\nYour support has not only given supplies, but you have helped create a more positive and safe learning environment where students feel empowered to succeed every day.","fullyFundedDate":1768532410610,"projectUrl":"project/rewards-for-success-building-a-positive/9720581/","projectTitle":"Rewards for Success: Building a Positive and Safe Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. C. Vazquez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1264877_orig.png?crop=271,271,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1566147636303","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/cvazquez"},{"teacherId":1264877,"projectId":9720524,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom has been transformed into a space where students truly become scientists. With our new lab materials, my students are actively engaging in hands-on investigations as \"medical detectives\". Instead of simply learning about germs and disease, they were able to safely grow their own bacteria samples, observe patterns, and analyze results just like real microbiologists. \r\n\r\nIn this activity, students swabbed their petri dishes with bacteria and placed paper discs containing different antibiotics. They hypothesized which antibiotic would prohibit the growth of bacteria most effectively. After a few days, students made observations and measured the zone of inhibition for each antibiotic disc. When the results began to appear in the Petri dishes, the classroom was filled with excitement! Students were amazed to see the invisible world come to life. They eagerly compared findings, and asked thoughtful questions. Students presented their learning as \"medical reports\", thus strengthening both their scientific reasoning and communication skills. \r\n\r\nYour support has not only provided materials, but it has also opened the door to meaningful, memorable learning experiences. You have helped my students see themselves as scientists, thinkers, and problem solvers. Thank you for making this possible and for investing in their future.","fullyFundedDate":1768531456864,"projectUrl":"project/stem-future-medical-detectives-hands-o/9720524/","projectTitle":"STEM: Future Medical Detectives: Hands-On Investigations","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. C. Vazquez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1264877_orig.png?crop=271,271,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1566147636303","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/cvazquez"},{"teacherId":1346870,"projectId":10061119,"letterContent":"We are greatly appreciative for you generosity. Our materials arrived and immediately students were excited to see that we finally have our much needed pencil sharpener. In a high use environment they often break down but this one is specifically for high capacity use. \r\n\r\nStudents were also ecstatic to see new prizes for our prize box. Recognizing students for their hard work and effort Erik's wonders versus pointing out areas where they need improvement. These prizes go a long way in motivating students to excel during classroom instruction and producing quality work. \r\n\r\nThe pens are being put to use in our shared material area where student may check out pens and le corks when they forget to bring their materials. We are eternally grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1771001742545,"projectUrl":"project/sharpener-pens-and-prizes/10061119/","projectTitle":"Sharpener, Pens and Prizes","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Espinosa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1346870_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1596691915404","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/cespinosa"},{"teacherId":626652,"projectId":9487335,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of The First Rule of Punk .This book has made a remarkable impact on my 8th-grade ELD students this year. Through reading this engaging novel, my students discovered a genuine love of reading for pleasure which is something that doesn't always come easily in language development classrooms. The relatable characters resonated deeply with our diverse learners, allowing them to see themselves reflected in the story.\r\n\r\nThis connection transformed reading from a skill-building exercise into a joyful experience that students were genuinely excited to discuss. We held this book club after school and I thought it would be hard to retain their attention after a long day, but in fact it boosted my attendance. My students looked forward to reading every single day!\r\nBeyond fostering a love of reading, it also helped sharpen their critical discussion and communication skills. As my students engaged with the book's themes of identity, belonging, and cultural pride, they participated in meaningful conversations about their own experiences. These discussions pushed them to articulate their thoughts, listen actively to their peers, and build upon one another's ideas. Your donation didn't just provide books; it created a bridge between literature and personal connection, empowering my students to grow as readers, thinkers, and communicators. Thank you for believing in our students and investing in their futures.","fullyFundedDate":1759432252776,"projectUrl":"project/class-novel-the-first-rule-of-punk/9487335/","projectTitle":"Class Novel: The First Rule of Punk","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Mayra Chamorro","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp626652_orig.jpg?crop=652,653,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1588286614079","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/626652"},{"teacherId":573963,"projectId":9616823,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generosity and support of our classroom. Because of you, my students are learning science through hands-on discovery instead of just reading about it.\r\nWith the solar STEM kits, magnetic tools, and microscope slides, students are building models, designing investigations, and exploring cells—many for the first time. Their excitement has been incredible, and several students shared that it feels like a \"real science lab.\"\r\nYour support has motivated students to take on new projects, including designing engineering solutions connected to renewable energy and ecosystems. You have sparked curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning, and we are truly grateful for the opportunities you've made possible.","fullyFundedDate":1757541120250,"projectUrl":"project/igniting-curiosity-hands-on-steam-for-m/9616823/","projectTitle":"Igniting Curiosity: Hands-On Steam for Middle School Scientists","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Martinez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp573963_orig.png?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754680362737","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/573963"},{"teacherId":1223392,"projectId":9748020,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous donations, our classroom has been transformed into a more efficient and engaging learning environment. The quad notebooks have become essential tools for my students as they track their progress and take detailed notes during our math project-based learning units. The excitement was palpable when students first received their materials—especially when they realized they could keep their work organized and see their growth over time. One memorable moment was when a group of students proudly flipped through their notebooks to show how their understanding of linear equations had evolved from rough sketches to polished, well-documented solutions.\r\n The printing paper and toner cartridge have allowed students to bring their final drafts to life, giving them a sense of pride and ownership in their work. Being able to print and present their projects has elevated the quality and seriousness of their efforts. Additionally, the universal laptop charger has been a game-changer—keeping our Chromebooks powered throughout the day so students can research, collaborate, and create without interruption. As we move into our next unit on data analysis, students will continue using these resources to document their findings and present their conclusions. Your support has made a lasting impact, and we are deeply grateful!","fullyFundedDate":1758681235154,"projectUrl":"project/math-journals-for-stem/9748020/","projectTitle":"Math Journals for STEM","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Machado, J","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1223392_orig.png?crop=454,454,x0,y21&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1731094811572","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1223392"},{"teacherId":1063581,"projectId":9433122,"letterContent":"I want to express my sincere gratitude for the beads and white paper you helped provide for my students. The excitement in the room was immediate as they opened the supplies and began creating. The beads have been used for calm-down activities, while the white paper has become a canvas for sketches, designs, and creative thinking.\r\nThese materials have brought a sense of joy and focus to our classroom. It's been wonderful to see my students engaged, proud of their work, and eager to share what they've made. What may seem like simple supplies have truly made a lasting impact on their learning experience.\r\nThank you for your generosity and for supporting my students. Your kindness continues to make a difference every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1756849597036,"projectUrl":"project/fueling-creativity-one-bead-at-a-time/9433122/","projectTitle":"Fueling Creativity, One Bead at a Time","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Solorzano","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1063581_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1449813542085","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1063581"},{"teacherId":5293212,"projectId":8495894,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous donations, our classroom now has headphones that are making a real difference in how our students learn. Many of our donors might use technology at home, but the way we use it in schools is very focused on helping each student learn in the best way for them.\r\n\r\nThese headphones help students by completely canceling out background noise, allowing them to concentrate fully on important lessons without distractions. Whether they're working on math apps, listening to audiobooks in science, or taking tests, the headphones make it easier for students to hear questions clearly and focus deeply.\r\n\r\nWhat excites my students most about this new technology is how it makes learning more fun and engaging. The headphones open up a world of interactive activities, making lessons feel like an adventure rather than a chore.\r\n\r\nI've noticed that auditory learners—who make up about 30% of the class—have especially embraced the headphones. These students learn best by listening and discussing, and the headphones give them the perfect tool to access information in their preferred style. Overall, the headphones are helping every student learn more effectively, with a personalized touch that respects their unique learning needs.\r\n\r\nThank you for supporting a project that truly transforms learning experiences!","fullyFundedDate":1725887533382,"projectUrl":"project/learning-math-and-science-using-headphon/8495894/","projectTitle":"Learning Math and Science Using Headphones!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Castro","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5293212_orig.jpg?crop=1249,1249,x826,y1380&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1687830342959","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5293212"},{"teacherId":9871407,"projectId":9001709,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our project, \"Empowering our Youth for a Greener, Healthier Future.\" Your contributions have truly made a difference in our classroom, providing resources that inspire and engage our students in meaningful environmental learning.\r\n\r\nWith the new materials, we've been able to dive deeper into hands-on projects about sustainability and healthy living. One memorable moment was when students used the STEM kits to create a scale model of a home and be able to integrate solar panels to increase awareness about the impact of renewable energy. Watching their excitement as seeds sprouted showed how these resources bring lessons to life in a tangible way. \r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the new supplies, their eyes lit up with curiosity and enthusiasm. They felt empowered to take action and understood that even small steps can contribute to a greener future. This enthusiasm has sparked ongoing discussions about how they can make healthier choices for themselves, our community, and the planet.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, our next steps include integrating these resources into a larger project where students will create presentations about sustainable habits and community health initiatives. They will research local environmental challenges and propose actionable solutions, building skills in collaboration, critical thinking, and public speaking. Thanks to your support, our students are not only learning about the environment—they are becoming advocates for change.\r\n\r\nWe are deeply grateful for your investment in their education and growth. Your generosity is planting seeds of knowledge and hope that will grow far beyond our classroom walls.","fullyFundedDate":1734731676631,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-our-youth-for-a-greener-heal/9001709/","projectTitle":"Empowering our Youth for a Greener, Healthier Future","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Cervantes","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9871407"},{"teacherId":9693556,"projectId":8683070,"letterContent":"I would like to express my sincere gratitude for your generous donation to my English class. Your contribution is invaluable in enhancing the learning experience for my students. I firmly believe that incorporating art into language arts offers a unique opportunity for students to express their creativity and individuality through literature. This integration not only enriches their understanding of the texts but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the beauty of language.\r\nFurthermore, I am pleased to share that my students have thoroughly enjoyed engaging with the resources provided by your generous donations. These materials have allowed them to explore their artistic selves while deepening their connection to literature. Your support plays a crucial role in inspiring young minds and facilitating their growth as both readers and creators. Thank you once again for your kindness and commitment to education.","fullyFundedDate":1725888088109,"projectUrl":"project/artistic-activities-provide-students-wit/8683070/","projectTitle":"Artistic Activities Provide Students With a Break From Traditional learning.","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Espinoza","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9693556"},{"teacherId":9821835,"projectId":8913206,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for donating the book Ghost to our program. Your generosity has significantly contributed to our ELPAC scores and enhanced the learning experience for our students. We genuinely appreciate your support and commitment to their education; you have changed their lives through a powerful read. The three academic requirements for reclassification include an ELPAC score of 4, an i-Ready score per grade level, and a grade of C or higher in an English/English Language Development course. \r\n\r\nOf 113 students, Potential Long Term English Learners and Long Term English Learners, a total of 50 received the highest score of 4 on the ELPAC, 44 received a score of 3, 16 received a score of 2, and 3 received a score of 1. A few more scores may come in as we approach the end of the year. However, this is the heart of our data for our PLTEL and LTEL students. I must say, these are AMAZING results. Thank you for contributing to this change! \r\n\r\nAs we approach the end of the year, our i-Ready data is still pending. However, from the beginning of the year to mid-year, there was improvement in our English Learners.\r\n32% of 6th graders, 54% of 7th graders, and 42% of 8th graders met their typical growth. \r\n \r\nAlthough we have not yet completed the end of the school year and our reclassification rate is pending, I am pleased to share the exciting news that we have already surpassed last year's reclassification rate. We look forward to seeing the final percentile. \r\n \r\nThank you once again from the bottom of my heart. On a personal note, I have to share the book Ghost engaged even the few most mischievous students. They were reading and did not want to stop. You have forever changed the lives of students and have passed forward the gift of reading.","fullyFundedDate":1730699824490,"projectUrl":"project/change-lives-through-a-powerful-read/8913206/","projectTitle":"Change Lives Through a Powerful Read","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Mendoza","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9821835"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_7527","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":1264,"numTeachers":72,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":2,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":97,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"17.6:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":80.2,"schoolId":7527,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about South Gate Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"South Gate Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/los-angeles-unified-school-district/south-gate-middle-school/7527"}