{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Thomas Starr King Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":12.1,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8402538,"projectId":10015401,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping us restock the tools we use every day in our classroom. Because of your generosity, my students now have access to fresh pencils, sheet protectors, oil pastels, and other essential supplies that we rely on constantly for reading, writing, and creative projects. These materials are already being used across subjects — from protecting student writing in binders, to illustrating responses to literature, to creating visual models in our Environmental STEAM lessons. Having a fully stocked classroom allows learning to flow smoothly without interruptions when supplies run out.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the new supplies, they were genuinely excited — especially the art materials. Several immediately asked what projects we would be using the oil pastels for, and others were relieved to know they wouldn't have to worry about not having a pencil or the right materials to participate. For many students, simply knowing that everything they need is available in the classroom helps them feel more confident and ready to learn each day.\r\n\r\nOur next steps are to continue using these supplies in upcoming writing units, literature projects, and interdisciplinary STEAM activities. Students will be creating illustrated reading responses, protecting their work in organized binders, and collaborating on visual projects connected to science and social studies. Your support ensures that every student has equal access to the basic tools they need to succeed, and it has made our classroom a more welcoming, creative, and productive place to learn.","fullyFundedDate":1768492497435,"projectUrl":"project/restocking-the-tools-students-use-every/10015401/","projectTitle":"Restocking the Tools Students Use Every Day","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Soffer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8402538_orig.jpg?crop=1417,1417,x27,y227&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1649108380101","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/annasoffer"},{"teacherId":8402538,"projectId":9950689,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for making this project possible. Because of your generosity, I was able to print full class sets of the short stories and texts we will read throughout the entire school year. These materials are currently being assembled into individual student binders by parent volunteers, and soon each student will have their own personal collection of literature to use every day in class. This project will allow us to move away from relying so heavily on screens and instead work directly with physical texts that students can annotate, revisit, and truly make their own.\r\n\r\nWhen I told my students that they would no longer need to read most of their stories on their devices, their reaction was immediate and enthusiastic. Many cheered, and several told me they were excited to \"actually hold the stories\" and not stare at a screen during reading time. For many students, especially those who struggle with focus or eye strain, this change already feels like a relief. They are eager to receive their binders and start using them.\r\n\r\nOur next steps are to begin our first literature unit using these binders, focusing on close reading, annotation, discussion, and performance. Students will build skills across multiple texts while keeping everything organized in one place that they can return to all year long. Your support is helping create a more focused, engaging, and joyful reading experience for my students, and I am deeply grateful for your investment in their learning.","fullyFundedDate":1765573814202,"projectUrl":"project/hands-on-reading-printed-text-binders-f/9950689/","projectTitle":"Hands-On Reading: Printed Text Binders for Experiential, Real-World Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Soffer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8402538_orig.jpg?crop=1417,1417,x27,y227&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1649108380101","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/annasoffer"},{"teacherId":1315198,"projectId":9638155,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our \"Teenage Declaration of Independence project\". Because of your generosity, my students were able to fully engage in a creative, collaborative experience that truly brought history to life. In this project, students work in pairs to write a \"teen version\" of the Declaration of Independence, modeling the structure, tone, and purpose of the original document while connecting it to issues that matter to them. Using the funded resources, students analyzed the historical text more deeply, planned together, drafted thoughtfully, and revised their work with pride. This project is always a \"winner,\" and this year was no exception.\r\n\r\nWhen students first began the project, their excitement was immediate. They loved the opportunity to collaborate with a partner and to have the freedom to be creative while still engaging in rigorous historical thinking. I saw students debating word choice, referencing the original document on their own, and enthusiastically sharing their ideas with classmates. Many came up with insightful and surprisingly sophisticated grievances and declarations, showing both humor and a strong understanding of the principles behind the original document.\r\n\r\nThanks to your support, students are now moving forward with greater confidence as we continue our unit on the founding of the United States. The skills they practiced—analyzing primary sources, working collaboratively, and expressing ideas clearly—are carrying over into our next lessons and projects. Your contribution gave students a meaningful, memorable learning experience, and I am incredibly grateful for the impact you've made on our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1764697340719,"projectUrl":"project/teenage-declaration-of-independence-pro/9638155/","projectTitle":"Teenage Declaration of Independence Project!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Cimino","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1315198_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1472163173026","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/gatmscimino"},{"teacherId":8921885,"projectId":9618426,"letterContent":"The SRLA students are enjoying the snacks as they continue preparing for the Los Angeles Marathon. These much-needed, healthy snacks and water are helping fuel their weekly and long weekend runs, and we cannot thank you enough for your generous support.\r\n\r\nThe students were genuinely excited to see the donation and deeply appreciative to know that others care about them and believe in their goals. As they train, they run weekly—sometimes in the rain—and challenge themselves by participating in 5K races and half marathons along the way. Their dedication and perseverance are inspiring.\r\n\r\nWe are incredibly proud of our students, and your generosity plays a meaningful role in helping them stay motivated, energized, and confident as they work toward the marathon. Thank you again for believing in our students and supporting their journey.","fullyFundedDate":1755749076137,"projectUrl":"project/beyond-the-finish-line-262-miles-that/9618426/","projectTitle":"Beyond the Finish Line: 26.2 Miles That Change Lives","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gardea","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8921885"},{"teacherId":1892941,"projectId":9727778,"letterContent":"Thank you for donating to our ink project. I have been able to have printed materials for my students as a way to go away from using to much technology. Using printed assignments, I can see where students need help and I can address it more effectively. I am able to write feedback on their assignments that is relevant to the particular assignment in the parts where I see a challenge. That is difficult to do on online assignments. \r\n\r\nThe students can benefit a lot more from feedback from work on their own materials as well so they can refer back to their assignments when they review their scores and when they use these materials to study.","fullyFundedDate":1758867212329,"projectUrl":"project/printing-for-student-success-supplying/9727778/","projectTitle":"Printing for Student Success: Supplying Essential Ink for Classroom Use","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Doezema","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1892941_orig.png?crop=532,532,x0,y33&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1724088567831","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-sanchezrodriguez"},{"teacherId":8402538,"projectId":9848601,"letterContent":"This project has made a meaningful difference in how my students learn and engage each day. With access to Blooket Plus, I can turn assessments into interactive games that motivate students to participate, collaborate, and think critically. Instead of passively answering questions, students actively apply their knowledge, receive immediate feedback, and stay engaged—even during review or assessment days. WeWillWrite Premium has strengthened students' writing by giving them structured practice with evidence-based responses, which directly supports the kind of analytical writing they need for lab reports and cross-curricular assignments.\r\n\r\nWhat excites students most is how approachable and motivating these tools feel. Students who are typically hesitant to participate are more willing to take risks in both writing and assessment because the platforms feel supportive rather than intimidating. Several students who struggle with organization or confidence have especially warmed to WeWillWrite, as it breaks writing into manageable steps and helps them clearly connect claims, evidence, and reasoning.\r\n\r\nThe physical supplies included in this project also support learning in important ways. Easy access to sharpeners, erasers, and clean whiteboards reduces frustration and keeps lessons flowing smoothly. Together, these tools create a classroom environment where students can focus on learning, collaboration, and creativity instead of worrying about missing or worn-out supplies.","fullyFundedDate":1763564437687,"projectUrl":"project/stem-essentials-for-engaged-and-supporte/9848601/","projectTitle":"STEM Essentials for Engaged and Supported Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Soffer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8402538_orig.jpg?crop=1417,1417,x27,y227&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1649108380101","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/annasoffer"},{"teacherId":103337,"projectId":9130691,"letterContent":"My Homeroom sets up the umbrellas every morning, and takes them down every afternoon after lunch. They provide this shade for classes, and as well as lunch area for students. The kids even love sitting under them in the rain. The umbrellas are a huge success, and add utility and calm to our outdoor area. \r\nMy students take great pride in setting them up for everyone, and love that they are the only students sanctioned to operate them. They have also created a space for the SPED classes to work outside, and a great set up for our gardening adventures together. \r\nThank you so much! \r\nMs. Williams","fullyFundedDate":1741998055718,"projectUrl":"project/shady-outdoor-classroom/9130691/","projectTitle":"Shady Outdoor Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Williams","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp103337_272x272.png?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1471220894572","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/sonja-williams"},{"teacherId":8405236,"projectId":8585102,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for donating a printer and paper to our classroom. Your thoughtful support allows me to create clear, engaging, and well-organized materials that truly enhance student learning each day, giving them resources that make lessons easier to follow and more enjoyable to participate in. Because of your generosity, I can prepare high-quality handouts, visual supports, and instructional guides that help students stay focused, confident, and prepared for every activity we do. Your kindness brings a meaningful and lasting impact to our classroom, and we are sincerely grateful for the care, encouragement, and positivity you've shared with our learning community.","fullyFundedDate":1726762119009,"projectUrl":"project/all-learning-styles-welcome/8585102/","projectTitle":"All Learning Styles Welcome","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jamiez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8405236_orig.jpg?crop=480,480,x151,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1679717385363","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8405236"},{"teacherId":8402538,"projectId":9733377,"letterContent":"Thank you for giving my students access to Quill Premium. This resource has transformed how my sixth graders learn grammar and sentence structure. Instead of just seeing errors, they now get instant, clear explanations that help them revise with confidence. Students love tracking their progress and celebrating each skill they master. Even reluctant writers are logging in eagerly and taking pride in their growth. Your support has made writing feel more accessible, empowering, and enjoyable for all of them.","fullyFundedDate":1759265532869,"projectUrl":"project/unlocking-student-voices-with-quill-prem/9733377/","projectTitle":"Unlocking Student Voices with Quill Premium","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Soffer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8402538_orig.jpg?crop=1417,1417,x27,y227&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1649108380101","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/annasoffer"},{"teacherId":9026329,"projectId":9269042,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our 8th graders have been diving into hands-on science learning with so much excitement! The new materials have transformed our classroom into a space where creativity and curiosity thrive.\r\nWhen students first saw the materials, their faces lit up. They immediately began brainstorming designs and couldn't wait to start building. For many, it was the first time they connected classroom science concepts to something hands-on and fun.\r\nThank you for helping make science come alive for my students — your contribution has truly sparked curiosity and confidence in every young scientist in our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1750773744010,"projectUrl":"project/science-projects-help-8th-graders-learn/9269042/","projectTitle":"Science Projects help 8th Graders Learn","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ortiz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9026329_orig.jpg?crop=1206,1205,x0,y277&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1683339349624","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9026329"},{"teacherId":107631,"projectId":9453789,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your incredible generosity! Because of your support, my students were able to receive the three-subject notebooks and index cards they needed for our classroom. This donation ensured that every student has a high-quality, uniform notebook to use for both their English and science classes. It eliminated the financial burden of purchasing these essential supplies for their families and created an equitable learning environment where everyone started the year with the same tools. The students were excited to receive their notebooks and immediately began personalizing them.\r\n\r\nThe impact of your donation extends beyond just providing supplies; it has fostered a more organized and focused learning experience in both subjects. Having one notebook for both classes has made it easier for students to transition between classes and keep their work consolidated and neat. The index cards are being used by students to create vocabulary practice cards each week and as note cards for presentations. We are deeply grateful for your investment in our classroom and for helping us create a more level playing field for every learner. Thank you for making this project a reality!","fullyFundedDate":1754007247152,"projectUrl":"project/a-smooth-start-to-a-new-year/9453789/","projectTitle":"A Smooth Start to a New Year","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Mitsuse","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp107631_orig.jpg?crop=674,674,x1523,y565&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1565670853038","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/rmitsuse"},{"teacherId":791028,"projectId":9461222,"letterContent":"Thank you again for all the essential items you made possible through your donation. The classroom supplies, the snacks for when students get a little hangry and the magazines have made all the difference for the start of this school year. \r\n\r\nThe students especially enjoy the magazines and we eagerly await the new issue each month. We've learned many fascinating things. They really enjoyed this one article about angler fish, the monster like fish that live at the bottom of the ocean and have a lantern to light their way. Super cool!\r\n\r\nAgain, thank you. We are very grateful for your support.","fullyFundedDate":1754110941219,"projectUrl":"project/just-the-basics/9461222/","projectTitle":"Just the Basics!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Alexovics","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp791028_orig.png?crop=282,282,x1,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753997370433","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/791028"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_7350","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":1594,"numTeachers":80,"percentFrplEligible":71,"percentAsian":14,"percentBlack":2,"percentWhite":18,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":60,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"19.9:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":87.9,"schoolId":7350,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Thomas Starr King Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Thomas Starr King Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/los-angeles-unified-school-district/thomas-starr-king-middle-school/7350"}
Join the 1,743 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Thomas Starr King Middle School is
an urban public school
in Los Angeles, California that is part of Los Angeles Unified School District.
It serves 1,594 students
in grades 6 - 8 with a student/teacher ratio of 19.9:1.
Its teachers have had 369 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Share and help support Thomas Starr King Middle School
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.
Thomas Starr King Middle School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Feb 6, 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.
Thomas Starr King Middle School
$293,797
raised using DonorsChoose
369
projects
funded
82
teachers
funded
1,743
donors
48
projects
for
basic supplies
80
projects for
technology
56
projects for
books
29
projects
for
art supplies
Thomas Starr King Middle School has received support from
1,532 individuals from California and
211 individuals out-of-state.