{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Seaside Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":15.9,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":7201406,"projectId":9937294,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our classroom. Because of you, my energetic and hardworking group of 8th graders now have the materials they need to fully engage in reading and learning. The new texts, along with supplies like card stock, markers, and composition books, have helped us strengthen important literacy skills such as comprehension, critical thinking, annotation, and discussion. In our classroom, reading is not a quiet, isolated activity—it is interactive and collaborative. Students read closely, take notes, and then work together to create posters that represent their understanding, which leads to rich discussions and deeper connections with the text.\r\n\r\nIt has been especially rewarding to see certain students come alive with these new resources. Some who were previously hesitant to participate are now more confident in sharing their ideas during discussions and contributing to group work. Others take pride in organizing their thoughts in their notebooks or leading their group's poster creation. In a Title I school like ours, access to these materials makes a meaningful difference, helping all students feel prepared and capable. Because of your support, reading in our classroom is engaging, creative, and inclusive, and my students are continuing to grow both academically and confidently.","fullyFundedDate":1769177816305,"projectUrl":"project/basic-supplies-3/9937294/","projectTitle":"Basic Supplies #3","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bouhaja","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7201406_orig.png?crop=836,836,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1588637767606","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-bouhaja"},{"teacherId":7201406,"projectId":9921932,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our classroom project. Because of you, our classroom has become a more organized, motivating, and student-centered space. We are using the new cabinets and organizational bins daily to store and manage our PBIS rewards, which has made a huge difference in how smoothly our classroom runs. Instead of cluttered counters, everything now has a place, and students can independently access and return items. One memorable moment was when we first opened our PBIS store with the new setup—students were so excited to see everything neatly displayed. They carefully selected rewards like Legos, stamps, and small games, and it was amazing to see how proud they were of earning them through their hard work and positive behavior.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the materials, their reactions were full of excitement and curiosity. They immediately noticed how organized everything looked and were eager to explore the different rewards. Many students commented on how \"official\" and \"real\" the PBIS store felt, which made the experience even more meaningful for them. The variety of rewards, from fun items like basketball hoops and kawaii lamps to creative tools, has motivated students to stay focused, make positive choices, and take pride in their achievements.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, our next steps are to continue building on this system by incorporating goal-setting and reflection into our PBIS program. Students are beginning to set personal goals for behavior and academic growth, working toward earning rewards while also reflecting on their progress. We are also planning to have students help manage and organize the PBIS store, giving them leadership opportunities and a deeper sense of ownership. Because of your support, our classroom is not only more organized but also a place where students are motivated to succeed and take responsibility for their learning.","fullyFundedDate":1765730258108,"projectUrl":"project/pbis-and-organization/9921932/","projectTitle":"PBIS and Organization","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bouhaja","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7201406_orig.png?crop=836,836,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1588637767606","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-bouhaja"},{"teacherId":7201406,"projectId":9889048,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our project and for helping us continue to build a culture of kindness and care at SMS. When the materials first arrived, the excitement in the classroom was immediate and truly heartwarming. Students were eager to explore the stress items, art kits, fidget tools, and other resources, and many of them instantly began talking about how they could use these items to support others. What stood out the most was that their excitement was not just about receiving something new—it was about giving. They were genuinely motivated to use these materials to uplift their peers and make a positive impact across our school community.\r\n\r\nWe are using these resources as part of a kindness initiative where students intentionally go around campus to offer support to other students. They select items such as stress balls, fidget tools, or small art kits and thoughtfully give them to peers who may be feeling stressed, anxious, or simply in need of encouragement. One powerful moment that stood out was when a group of students noticed a peer who seemed overwhelmed and quietly invited them to join them. They offered a fidget item and sat together, creating a safe and supportive space. That small act made a big difference—it showed that the student was seen, valued, and not alone. Moments like this have become more common, and it has been incredible to witness students taking initiative in building a more compassionate school environment.\r\n\r\nAt SMS, a Title I school, many of our students face challenges outside of the classroom, and these resources help us address the emotional side of learning. We know that students are better able to grow academically when they feel safe, supported, and connected. This project has allowed me to not only support students emotionally but also empower them to take ownership of creating a positive and inclusive school culture. Students who may not have always seen themselves as leaders are now stepping into that role by spreading kindness and checking in on others.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, our next steps are to continue growing this initiative by giving students more opportunities to lead and organize acts of kindness across campus. Students are beginning to plan structured ways to identify peers who may need support and are brainstorming ways to create consistent \"kindness moments\" throughout the week. We are also connecting this work to classroom lessons on empathy, community, and emotional well-being so that students understand the deeper meaning behind their actions. Because of your generosity, our students are not only receiving support—they are learning how to give it. Thank you for helping us create a school environment where every student feels seen, valued, and cared for.","fullyFundedDate":1764860583123,"projectUrl":"project/support-kindness-and-academic-support-at/9889048/","projectTitle":"Support Kindness and Academic Support at SMS Part 2","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bouhaja","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7201406_orig.png?crop=836,836,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1588637767606","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-bouhaja"},{"teacherId":9603803,"projectId":9522575,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting our DonorsChoose project and helping create a more flexible and engaging learning environment for our students. The computer chair and standing desk have given students meaningful seating choices that support focus and comfort, allowing them to take ownership of how they learn best. Our surge protectors are ensuring that classroom technology runs safely and smoothly, keeping learning uninterrupted.\r\n\r\nThe stress balls and fidgets have already made a positive difference in helping students regulate their energy and stay on task, while the incentive toys encourage effort, responsibility, and a growth mindset. Because of your generosity, our classroom is now better equipped to support both academic success and emotional well-being. We are truly grateful for your investment in our students!","fullyFundedDate":1757540127253,"projectUrl":"project/back-to-school-essentials/9522575/","projectTitle":"Back-to-School Essentials","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. T","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9603803_orig.png?crop=689,689,x641,y259&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1747319224170","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9603803"},{"teacherId":9603803,"projectId":10029729,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom is coming alive with movement, laughter, and hands-on learning through this project. Your support has made it possible for our students to experience math in a way that is engaging, interactive, and meaningful.\r\n\r\nWith the new materials you helped provide, students are no longer just sitting and solving problems on paper. They are wiping answers away and trying again, wiggling their way through movement-based math activities, and writing their thinking with confidence. The dry-erase tools allow students to practice without fear of making mistakes—simply wipe and try again! This has built both resilience and excitement around learning.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our students and investing in their success. Your kindness is making a lasting impact—one wipe, one wiggle, and one written answer at a time.","fullyFundedDate":1771516648453,"projectUrl":"project/write-wipe-and-wiggle-math-in-action/10029729/","projectTitle":"Write, Wipe, and Wiggle: Math in Action","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. T","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9603803_orig.png?crop=689,689,x641,y259&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1747319224170","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9603803"},{"teacherId":10377721,"projectId":9949550,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project, \"Classroom Organization and PBIS Rewards for Middle Schoolers.\" Because of your generosity, our classroom feels more structured, positive, and student-centered. We are using the organizational materials daily to keep supplies accessible and learning spaces tidy, which has helped my 7th and 8th graders transition more smoothly between activities. The PBIS rewards have been especially powerful. Students earn points for meeting expectations, staying engaged during lessons, and supporting one another. One of my favorite moments was watching a group of students remind each other to stay on task during writing lab so they could earn their reward together—it turned accountability into teamwork.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the excitement was immediate. Middle schoolers are honest, and their reactions said it all—they noticed the difference right away. Several students commented that the room felt \"official\" and \"put together,\" and they were especially curious about how they could earn rewards. It sparked meaningful conversations about responsibility, effort, and classroom community. Instead of focusing on consequences, we're now able to focus more on growth and positive choices.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, we're continuing to build routines that support independence and academic confidence. My students are currently working on analytical writing and collaborative projects, and the improved organization and PBIS system are helping them stay focused and motivated. The next step is increasing student leadership—allowing them to help manage supplies, track rewards, and model expectations for their peers. Your support has made our classroom more than just organized—it has made it more empowering. Thank you for investing in my students and in the positive culture we are building together.","fullyFundedDate":1769177813199,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-organization-and-pbis-rewards/9949550/","projectTitle":"Classroom Organization and PBIS Rewards for Middle Schoolers","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Pezzella","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10377721_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1772038029378","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10377721"},{"teacherId":10347413,"projectId":9950440,"letterContent":"This project has impacted my students immensely. My students now have constant access to snacks they enjoy which help keep their stomachs full! In our class we have set up a corner where students can easily access the snacks that you generously donated to our site at any and all times during the school day. \r\n\r\nWhen we first received the items my students were ecstatic. They could not believe how much food and water we received and they were very excited to get the pantry set up. Once we got the pantry set up in our classroom students would come in and enjoy getting to make a choice from all the different yummy snack options whenever they needed. This pantry has helped keep a lot of our students full and my students as well as myself are so grateful to have this opportunity to create a project that is so meaningful to the community. With these snacks students now have full bellies, are more focused, and feel that overall they have a strong sense of support within our school community.","fullyFundedDate":1765558208428,"projectUrl":"project/school-food-pantry-to-fuel-the-brain/9950440/","projectTitle":"School Food Pantry to Fuel the Brain","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Mackey","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10347413_orig.jpg?crop=2400,2400,x0,y136&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1762796769412","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mackeyy"},{"teacherId":9464094,"projectId":9629518,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom. Because of your generosity, our students are now able to use the new resources as part of our daily routines and PBIS reward system. Students earn points by completing their assigned tasks, following directions, and demonstrating positive behavior. They are then excited to visit our classroom store where they can choose biscuits, chips, juice, and motivational stickers. This has given them a meaningful goal to work toward, and we have seen a noticeable increase in participation, task completion, and positive interactions with peers and adults.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the students were incredibly happy and motivated. Many of them immediately asked how they could earn points, and even students who usually struggle with engagement began trying harder to finish their work. The rewards are not just snacks to them; they represent success, responsibility, and pride in their accomplishments. The motivational stickers have been especially helpful because students proudly keep them on their folders and desks as reminders that they did a great job.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, we will continue using the PBIS store to reinforce positive behavior, independence, and classroom routines. Our goal is to help students build self-management skills, make good choices, and feel confident in their abilities both inside and outside the classroom. Your kindness has created a supportive environment where students feel encouraged, valued, and excited to come to school each day.","fullyFundedDate":1758903216307,"projectUrl":"project/motivation-in-every-bite-and-prize/9629518/","projectTitle":"Motivation in Every Bite and Prize","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. MJ","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9464094_orig.jpg?crop=3000,3000,x506,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755805307217","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9464094"},{"teacherId":9603803,"projectId":9599507,"letterContent":"This project has made a positive and immediate impact on my classroom by allowing me to fully stock our PBIS store with fidgets and student school supplies. Students earn PBIS points for demonstrating positive behaviors such as perseverance, teamwork, and responsibility, and they can use those points to \"shop\" for incentives. One meaningful moment was watching students carefully choose a fidget or supply they had earned, knowing their positive choices led to that reward. These materials have helped reinforce expectations while supporting focus and self-regulation during learning.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the PBIS store filled with new items, their excitement was contagious. They were eager to learn how they could earn points and showed increased motivation to stay on task, follow expectations, and support one another. The fidgets have been especially helpful for students who need a sensory outlet, allowing them to stay engaged without disrupting instruction. School supplies as incentives also promote responsibility and pride in their learning tools.\r\n\r\nBecause of this project, I am able to consistently reinforce positive behavior and build a supportive classroom culture. Moving forward, students will continue working toward PBIS goals while applying these behaviors during academic lessons, collaborative projects, and independent work. These resources help students understand that positive choices matter and are recognized, creating a classroom environment where students feel motivated, supported, and ready to learn every day.","fullyFundedDate":1757525740090,"projectUrl":"project/filling-our-pbis-store-with-fun-and-moti/9599507/","projectTitle":"Filling Our PBIS Store with Fun and Motivation","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. T","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9603803_orig.png?crop=689,689,x641,y259&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1747319224170","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9603803"},{"teacherId":9603803,"projectId":9323530,"letterContent":"This project has made a powerful difference in my math classroom by giving students access to headphones that support individualized learning through myPath. myPath is an adaptive math program that identifies each student's learning gaps and provides targeted lessons to help them build missing skills while staying connected to our grade-level curriculum. With headphones, students can listen to directions, examples, and feedback without distractions, allowing them to fully engage and learn at their own pace.\r\n\r\nThe most exciting part for students is the independence that comes with using myPath. They enjoy being able to focus, replay explanations when needed, and experience success as the program adjusts to their individual needs. Headphones help students stay immersed in their learning, which increases confidence and motivation—especially when tackling challenging math concepts.\r\n\r\nThese headphones have been especially impactful for students who need extra support or a quieter learning environment. Students who were previously hesitant or easily distracted are now more focused and willing to persevere through difficult problems. By removing background noise and allowing students to work comfortably and independently, this project has helped bridge learning gaps and empowered students to grow as confident math learners.","fullyFundedDate":1756605023387,"projectUrl":"project/tech-tools-for-my-students/9323530/","projectTitle":"Tech Tools for my Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. T","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9603803_orig.png?crop=689,689,x641,y259&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1747319224170","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9603803"},{"teacherId":9588674,"projectId":9326856,"letterContent":"The Visual Tools for Student Success project has made a noticeable difference in how my students engage with learning. The visual resources, such as graphic organizers, models, and reference charts, have helped make abstract concepts clearer and less overwhelming. Students are better able to organize their thinking, explain their reasoning, and approach problems with more confidence because they have clear supports to fall back on.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the materials, their reaction was immediate appreciation. Several students shared that they liked having the resources readily available and that it felt reassuring to know they could always reference them when they needed reminders. Instead of stopping to ask for help, students now independently check the visuals during lessons and independent work, which has increased both participation and independence, especially for English Learners.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, these resources are now a regular part of our classroom routine. Our next steps include using the visuals more intentionally during group discussions and written explanations as we move into our next unit. Students will continue applying these tools to justify their thinking, communicate their ideas clearly, and take greater ownership of their learning. Your support has helped create a more accessible, supportive classroom where all students can succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1755999083859,"projectUrl":"project/visual-tools-for-student-success/9326856/","projectTitle":"Visual Tools for Student Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. SARMIENTO","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9588674_orig.jpg?crop=960,960,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723826755039","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/alexcysarm"},{"teacherId":4705879,"projectId":9571025,"letterContent":"The generosity of our donors has had a profound impact on the relationships built within our front office. By providing stress squishy balls, snacks, and small comforts, our office has transformed into a welcoming and supportive hub where students feel genuinely cared for. These simple items signal to students that this is a safe place—somewhere they can take a breath, decompress, and reset when the day becomes overwhelming.\r\n\r\nBecause of these donations, students are more inclined to visit the office not only when they need assistance, but when they simply need a warm, friendly space to connect. The availability of snacks and calming tools has helped break down barriers, allowing students to approach the counselors and administration with openness and trust. This has strengthened rapport, helping us build meaningful relationships rooted in care, consistency, and emotional support.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, your contributions have helped us cultivate an environment of belonging. Students feel seen, valued, and welcomed when they step into the front office, and those positive interactions ripple outward into their academic day. The items you provided have become tools for connection—helping us nurture student wellbeing, encourage communication, and reinforce that our school community is here to lift them. Your kindness truly makes a difference in the daily lives of our Eagles.","fullyFundedDate":1758636578550,"projectUrl":"project/creating-comforting-sel-counseling-exper/9571025/","projectTitle":"Creating Comforting SEL Counseling Experiences","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Armfield-Webb","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4705879_orig.jpg?crop=200,200,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754839348410","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4705879"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_90520","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":532,"numTeachers":38,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":4,"percentBlack":5,"percentWhite":8,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":78,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"7 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"14.0:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":84.1,"schoolId":90520,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Seaside Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Seaside Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/monterey-peninsula-unified-school-district/fitch-middle-school/90520"}
Join the 277 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Seaside Middle School is
a suburban public school
in Seaside, California that is part of Monterey Peninsula Unified School District.
It serves 532 students
in grades 7 - 8 with a student/teacher ratio of 14.0:1.
Its teachers have had 159 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
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
87%
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.
Seaside Middle School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Apr 9, 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.
Seaside Middle School
$93,559
raised using DonorsChoose
159
projects
funded
38
teachers
funded
277
donors
34
projects
for
basic supplies
22
projects for
technology
12
projects for
books
12
projects
for
art supplies
Seaside Middle School has received support from
233 individuals from California and
44 individuals out-of-state.