{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"El Toro Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":12.4,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":3484386,"projectId":9885845,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support and for providing our classroom with such wonderful supplies. My students are especially excited about the alphabet pop-it fidget letters - they're already becoming a fun and effective way to support early literacy skills. \r\n\r\nMy students already love to use the pop-its to spell their new words each week during center rotations. The Velcro sticky strips, liquid glue, craft sticks, googly eyes, and construction paper will open the door to endless hands-on projects and creative learning opportunities for my students as well!\r\n\r\nThank you again for your thoughtfulness and generosity. Your kindness has brought so much joy and possibilities into our classroom. I am truly grateful for your investment in my students and their growth this year! We can't thank you enough.","fullyFundedDate":1762837765282,"projectUrl":"project/hands-on-learning-supplies/9885845/","projectTitle":"Hands-On Learning Supplies","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Hillesland","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3484386_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1594936383312","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3484386"},{"teacherId":3484386,"projectId":9799276,"letterContent":"I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude for your generous support of our classroom project. Your contributions have made a significant impact on my students' learning environment. The plushy pillows have provided my students with the comfort they need to focus and engage in their studies, creating a cozy space that fosters creativity and collaboration. Additionally, the clay has helped to inspire their imaginations, allowing them to express themselves and explore their artistic talents, as well as, providing therapeutic relaxation in the classroom.\r\n\r\n Moreover, the Expo markers provide an invaluable tool for our daily writing and phonics activities, enabling my students to practice and improve their skills effectively. With your kindness, you have equipped my classroom with essential tools that promote both creativity and academic growth. Thank you for believing in my students and supporting their journey toward success. Your generosity truly makes a big difference in their learning growth. Thanks again!","fullyFundedDate":1760463287727,"projectUrl":"project/plushy-pillows-and-supplies/9799276/","projectTitle":"Plushy Pillows and Supplies","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Hillesland","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3484386_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1594936383312","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3484386"},{"teacherId":7285061,"projectId":9531232,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping make our flexible seating project a reality! Your generosity has already transformed our classroom into a more welcoming, engaging, and inclusive learning space.\r\n\r\nSince adding the stools, cushioned floor seats, lap desks, and storage cart, students have been excited to explore new ways to focus and learn. It's been amazing to watch them choose the spot where they work best—some gravitate toward stools where they can gently move while they think, others curl up on a cushion with a book, and some prefer spreading out on the floor with a lap desk for writing. This choice and movement are helping students stay engaged, build independence, and take ownership of their learning.\r\n\r\nFor many of my students, this project has also provided the sensory support they need to feel calm and regulated during the school day. The classroom feels more comfortable and responsive to everyone's needs, and students are showing more focus and confidence in their work.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has helped create a space where every child can feel like they belong and have what they need to succeed. Thank you for believing in my students and helping us build a classroom where they can truly thrive!","fullyFundedDate":1758209952431,"projectUrl":"project/comfort-and-choice-in-the-classroom/9531232/","projectTitle":"Comfort and Choice in the Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Solvason","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7285061_orig.jpg?crop=614,614,x158,y408&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1736282472115","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7285061"},{"teacherId":3484386,"projectId":9723952,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation to my project! Because of you, my students now have playground balls, basketballs, and soccer balls that bring so much energy and joy to recess. The laughter, teamwork, and excitement on the playground are a direct result of your kindness and generosity.\r\n \r\n I am equally grateful for the calming squishy toys and Play-Doh. These thoughtful additions give my students and others a chance to unwind, recharge, and enjoy their quiet recess moments in meaningful ways. Whether they're running around on the blacktop or creating something at the picnic tables, every student has a way to feel included and happy.\r\n\r\n Your generosity has made a real difference in our daily school life. Thank you for investing in my students and building confidence while they play and/or create during recess!","fullyFundedDate":1758467034902,"projectUrl":"project/needed-recess-materials/9723952/","projectTitle":"Needed Recess Materials","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Hillesland","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3484386_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1594936383312","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3484386"},{"teacherId":3484386,"projectId":9691103,"letterContent":"To all of my wonderful donors who supported us on this project, I can't thank you enough. Because of your generosity, my students will get to use hands-on materials that make math and science fun, exciting, and more engaging, and easier to understand. These tools gave them the chance to explore and discover in ways that inspire their curiosity and confidence. They were so excited when they saw the counting collection materials! \r\n\r\n Most of all... your kindness shows my students that there are people out there who believe in them and their future and that means the world to us. Thank you again to all of our Donors Choose supporters and the Ripple company for providing us with lots of STEM materials. We truly appreciate your support in creating an enriching environment for all of the students.","fullyFundedDate":1757550388642,"projectUrl":"project/stem-exploration/9691103/","projectTitle":"STEM Exploration","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Hillesland","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3484386_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1594936383312","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3484386"},{"teacherId":7285061,"projectId":9490668,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom and helping bring these wonderful materials to life for my students! In our 2nd grade inclusion classroom, students have a wide range of learning styles, needs, and strengths. The light tables, alphabet manipulatives, and sand trays you have funded will allow me to create hands-on, engaging learning opportunities that reach every child where they are.\r\n\r\nThe light tables will transform early literacy and math lessons into interactive experiences that spark curiosity and focus. Students can explore letters, numbers, shapes, and patterns in a visually stimulating way that makes abstract concepts more concrete. The sand trays will offer sensory-rich activities that build fine motor strength and hand-eye coordination, which are critical for writing development. They also provide a calming and regulating experience, helping students refocus when they are feeling overwhelmed.\r\n\r\nBeyond academics, these tools encourage collaboration, communication, and problem-solving. Students will work together to create words, explore patterns, and share discoveries, building both their social and emotional skills. The charging station will keep our digital learning tools organized and ready for independent learning, helping students take responsibility for their materials.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has made it possible for me to create a classroom environment that is engaging, inclusive, and supportive of every student's learning journey. These resources will be used daily and will have a lasting impact on my students' academic success and love of learning. Thank you for believing in them!","fullyFundedDate":1757741562112,"projectUrl":"project/sensory-tools-for-growing-minds/9490668/","projectTitle":"Sensory Tools for Growing Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Solvason","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7285061_orig.jpg?crop=614,614,x158,y408&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1736282472115","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7285061"},{"teacherId":7285061,"projectId":9490736,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our second-grade classroom has been transformed into a vibrant learning space where students can explore the exciting world of landforms! The nonfiction books, visual definition cards, and interactive maps you provided have made our science unit engaging, hands-on, and accessible for every learner.\r\n\r\nThe books and cards allow students to explore mountains, valleys, plains, volcanoes, and other landforms in ways that match their reading levels and learning styles. Students are building vocabulary, strengthening reading comprehension, and developing critical thinking skills as they compare landforms, ask questions, and make real-world connections. The culturally diverse books have sparked meaningful discussions about how landforms shape the environment, food, culture, and daily life around the world, helping students understand the global significance of geography.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, I was able to bring science to life in ways that foster curiosity, engagement, and inclusion. Students are excited to explore, share discoveries, and participate in hands-on activities with the landform cards and maps. Your generosity has not only enhanced their academic skills but also nurtured empathy, cultural awareness, and a lifelong love of learning about the world.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping make our classroom a space where every student can thrive and feel inspired!","fullyFundedDate":1757656148679,"projectUrl":"project/exploring-our-earth-landforms-through-b/9490736/","projectTitle":"Exploring Our Earth: Landforms Through Books & Visuals","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Solvason","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7285061_orig.jpg?crop=614,614,x158,y408&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1736282472115","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7285061"},{"teacherId":7285061,"projectId":9531102,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom is now more focused, organized, and supportive for every learner! The headphones, noise-canceling earmuffs, and clipboard organizers you funded have made a noticeable difference in how smoothly our days run and how engaged students are during lessons.\r\n\r\nThe new headphones allow my students to work independently during reading, research, and online learning without being distracted by background noise. For students with sensory sensitivities or those who are easily distracted, the noise-canceling options have been a game changer — they now have the ability to block out extra sounds and concentrate, which has boosted their confidence and independence. These tools have also been incredibly helpful during testing, ensuring that every student can focus and do their best work.\r\n\r\nThe clipboard organizers have brought a new level of order and accessibility to our classroom. Students can now quickly grab what they need for lessons, partner work, and movement breaks, reducing downtime and promoting independence. This has led to smoother transitions, more time on task, and a calmer classroom environment.\r\n\r\nYour gift has allowed me to create a learning space that meets the needs of all students, especially in our inclusion classroom where every child deserves to feel supported and set up for success. Thank you for believing in my students and for helping us create a calm, focused, and organized space where every learner can thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1754853731653,"projectUrl":"project/clear-sound-calm-space/9531102/","projectTitle":"Clear Sound, Calm Space","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Solvason","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7285061_orig.jpg?crop=614,614,x158,y408&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1736282472115","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7285061"},{"teacherId":7285061,"projectId":9531151,"letterContent":"Thanks to your incredible generosity, our second grade inclusion classroom is now buzzing with excitement! The bearded dragon books, plush, and gentle reminder sign you funded are helping us turn curiosity about our class pet into meaningful learning opportunities every single day.\r\n\r\nThe books you provided meet a wide range of reading levels, ensuring that every student can access information in a way that is engaging and appropriate for them. Whether they are reading a simple picture book or diving into detailed nonfiction, my students are building vocabulary, strengthening comprehension, and learning to research and share facts. Our class pet has become a springboard for reading, writing, and science discussions—students are asking thoughtful questions, making connections, and feeling proud of their growing knowledge.\r\n\r\nThe plush bearded dragon has been especially impactful for students with sensory needs or hesitations about handling a live animal. It allows them to interact safely and feel included in class pet activities, building confidence and comfort. The sign near our habitat is a daily reminder to approach our dragon with care and respect, teaching responsibility and mindfulness in a very real way.\r\n\r\nYour gift has transformed our classroom into a place where students not only learn about science and animals, but also practice empathy, responsibility, and teamwork. Thank you for helping us create an inclusive and inspiring environment where every child can feel connected, valued, and excited to learn.","fullyFundedDate":1757647576412,"projectUrl":"project/discovering-our-bearded-dragon/9531151/","projectTitle":"Discovering Our Bearded Dragon","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Solvason","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7285061_orig.jpg?crop=614,614,x158,y408&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1736282472115","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7285061"},{"teacherId":7285061,"projectId":9490325,"letterContent":"I am deeply grateful for your generous donations of a soft area rug, calming lamps, and a breathing lamp meditation tool. These items have truly transformed our classroom into a calm, inviting, and safe space where students feel ready to learn and grow.\r\n\r\nThe addition of the rug has given my students a cozy gathering place where they can come together for lessons, partner work, or quiet reading. Having a soft, welcoming area on the floor makes our classroom feel more like home and helps students relax and focus on learning.\r\n\r\nThe lamps provide warm, gentle lighting that replaces the harsh glare of overhead fluorescents. This small change has made a big difference—students are more comfortable, less restless, and able to sustain focus for longer periods of time. The lighting creates a calm and peaceful atmosphere that sets the tone for our day.\r\n\r\nThe breathing lamp has been especially powerful. When students feel overwhelmed or anxious, the gentle glow and guided breathing cycles give them a visual tool to slow down, self-regulate, and reset. It has quickly become a favorite strategy for students who need a quiet moment to calm their bodies and minds.\r\n\r\nTogether, these resources have created a classroom environment where my students feel safe, supported, and cared for. They are able to engage in learning more fully because their emotional and physical needs are being met. The difference is noticeable every single day, and it is thanks to your kindness and generosity.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students and giving them a space where they can thrive both academically and emotionally.","fullyFundedDate":1753980294433,"projectUrl":"project/light-the-room-lift-the-mood/9490325/","projectTitle":"Light the Room, Lift the Mood","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Solvason","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7285061_orig.jpg?crop=614,614,x158,y408&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1736282472115","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7285061"},{"teacherId":3762920,"projectId":9271133,"letterContent":"On behalf of my students and myself, I want to express our sincere gratitude for your generous donation of playdough, whiteboard markers, copy paper and hand sanitizer to our reading intervention classroom at El Toro Health Science Academy.\r\nWe are so excited to use the playdough to help build sight words and to create a more engaging reading center, this will provide hands-on learning opportunities for our learners. The copy paper will help provide decodable readers for the students to take home to have for extra reading practice at their specific reading skill. And always having hand sanitizer in the classroom helps all of us to stay healthy so we can continue to learn to our best ability. Your support for education is truly appreciated and makes a tangible difference in our students' learning experience. \r\nThank you again for your kindness and support!","fullyFundedDate":1746787278225,"projectUrl":"project/ultimate-reading-intervention-experience/9271133/","projectTitle":"Ultimate Reading Intervention Experience","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Geistdorfer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3762920"},{"teacherId":3484386,"projectId":9558903,"letterContent":"We are so thankful for your generous support of our Donors Choose project! Because of your kindness, my 2nd grade classroom now has the supplies we need—pencils, erasers, dry erase markers, pens, and brand-new counting items for math. Even though these may seem like small things, they make a huge difference in our daily learning and exploration. With these tools, my students can fully dive into their activities, express their creativity, and feel excited about what they're learning each day.\r\n\r\n Already, our class has been busy putting these supplies to work—drawing colorful art projects, practicing our math skills using counting collections manipulatives, and building stronger connections in our math standards. The joy and excitement I see in my students is all because of your support. You've helped create a classroom where learning feels fun, inspiring, and full of possibilities! Thank you for believing in us and for making such a positive impact in our classroom. We are truly blessed to have your support!","fullyFundedDate":1755538638928,"projectUrl":"project/new-supplies-for-fall-2025/9558903/","projectTitle":"New Supplies for Fall 2025!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Hillesland","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3484386_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1594936383312","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3484386"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_4850","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":462,"numTeachers":15,"percentFrplEligible":38,"percentAsian":8,"percentBlack":1,"percentWhite":25,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":50,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"30.8:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":87.6,"schoolId":4850,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about El Toro Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"El Toro Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/morgan-hill-unified-school-district/el-toro-elementary-school/4850"}
Join the 306 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
El Toro Elementary School is
a suburban public school
in Morgan Hill, California that is part of Morgan Hill Unified School District.
It serves 462 students
in grades Pre-K - 5 with a student/teacher ratio of 30.8:1.
Its teachers have had 135 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Boost support for our school's classrooms. Share this page with friends and family who want to make a difference. If you're a teacher, sign up to get started!
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. Each classroom request for funding was created by a classroom teacher and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
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
59%
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.
El Toro Elementary School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Dec 5, 2025
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.
El Toro Elementary School
$69,478
raised using DonorsChoose
135
projects
funded
28
teachers
funded
306
donors
18
projects
for
basic supplies
23
projects for
technology
30
projects for
books
8
projects
for
art supplies
El Toro Elementary School has received support from
268 individuals from California and
38 individuals out-of-state.