{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"El Toro Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":11.8,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":158403,"projectId":9845341,"letterContent":"Your donation to our project has opened a world of possibilities to our classroom! I have been able to purchase Teachers Pay Teachers projects that havereally enriched my classroom. \r\n\r\nOne such project is our year long Biography Banners for the US Monthly Heritage Months (Hispanic, Native Americans, Black History, Women, Asian Pacific, etc.) Students LOVE these resources and chance to learn about these inspiring leaders who were previously unknown to them. It not only allows us rich discussions and sharing as a class, but it hits many of the 4th grade research and writing standards in a unique way. I love how it builds their confidence in research and writing.\r\n\r\nAnother use has been the fun element it brings into our classroom. I've been able to purchase fun, game type activities that focus on specific standards. One project we just worked with was Multiplication squares where students used dice and, taking turns, multiplied the numbers together and tried to get as many squares to beat their opponents. Students have fun and think that it's just play but they are also practicing specific skills. It also helps them strategize and practice working in groups and teams.","fullyFundedDate":1763562922085,"projectUrl":"project/resources-needed-for-online-learning/9845341/","projectTitle":"Resources Needed for Online Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lewis","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp158403_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1459740520382","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/christine-lewis"},{"teacherId":158403,"projectId":9541110,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for you generous donation to our classroom project. Because of you, we are able to have the items that help keep us organized in a fun way.\r\n\r\nOne if these is our Grandma and Grandma pencils. Even in the in 4th grade, students lose pencils and even break pencils that are loaned to them. It's been an ongoing problem. I saw the idea of grandparent pencils. Using the Ticonderoga First Pencils (thicker) and naming them with grandparents' names, students seem to have more respect when borrowing. I was able to ask a few of my students from different ethnic backgrounds what they called their grandparents and used those nicknames. It's been a positive in class! No one wants to lose Grampa Opa.","fullyFundedDate":1761783679667,"projectUrl":"project/organize-the-chaos/9541110/","projectTitle":"Organize the Chaos","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lewis","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp158403_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1459740520382","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/christine-lewis"},{"teacherId":10240127,"projectId":9679014,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom is now a calmer and more welcoming place for learning. We use the soft blue rug every day for read-alouds and independent reading. When students first saw it, they were eager to sit, relax, and begin reading right away.\r\n\r\nThe seat pocket organizers have helped students keep materials organized and easy to find. This has increased independence and made transitions smoother. As we build reading stamina and literacy skills, these resources support focus and confidence. Thank you for making such a meaningful difference!","fullyFundedDate":1761754179010,"projectUrl":"project/cozy-reading-area-and-organized-classroo/9679014/","projectTitle":"Cozy Reading Area and Organized Classroom Materials","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Dutra","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10240127"},{"teacherId":3484386,"projectId":9949029,"letterContent":"My students are so excited to receive their new materials for the New Year! Thank you, from all of us, for continuing to provide enrichment activities and the materials needed to make these projects and our learning - come to life! These lessons provide meaningful extensions that connect with our reading, language arts, science, social studies, and math instruction. \r\n\r\nWe love our new pencils, the replacement stickers makes our writing books extra special, the tissue paper will be used for many art projects, and the heavy-duty pencil sharpener that works perfectly for both regular and colored pencils. The pipe cleaners will serve many purposes in our classroom, from art projects to counting collections in math. We also plan to use them in science when we create our pollinators. As for the 100th Day stickers, all 3 classes will enjoy them and we can't wait to celebrate our 100th day of school! Thank you again for your generosity and kindness in supporting our public schools.","fullyFundedDate":1768027165905,"projectUrl":"project/materials-for-enrichment-lessons/9949029/","projectTitle":"Materials for Enrichment Lessons","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":10259791,"projectId":9712330,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students have been able to experience books in meaningful, hands-on ways that go far beyond listening to a story. Our new Halloween-themed texts introduced early literacy skills such as vocabulary development, sequencing, comprehension, and making real-world connections. After reading books about jack-o'-lanterns and pumpkins, we extended our learning by carving a real pumpkin together, exploring its insides, and discussing what we observed. These activities helped students build language skills, ask questions, and connect stories to hands-on experiences—an essential part of learning at the TK level.\r\n\r\nReading in our classroom happens in many joyful ways. During daily read-aloud time, an adult models expressive reading, asks open-ended questions, and encourages students to make predictions and share ideas. Throughout the day, students also engage in storytelling and \"reading\" on their own in the classroom library, using pictures to retell stories and act out parts with peers. These moments build confidence, oral language, and a love of books.\r\n\r\nMany students have been especially drawn to the Halloween books because of their fun themes and familiar experiences. Some children who are still developing confidence with speaking eagerly point to pictures and retell parts of the stories, while others ask to hear the same book again and again. Your support has helped create excitement around reading and has made learning memorable, meaningful, and fun for my little learners. Thank you for making this experience possible! 🎃📚🍂","fullyFundedDate":1759944995972,"projectUrl":"project/spooktacular-stories-for-little-learners/9712330/","projectTitle":"Spooktacular Stories for Little Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. August","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10259791_orig.jpg?crop=1242,1242,x0,y202&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1758426226308","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msaugustclass"},{"teacherId":10259791,"projectId":9713582,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, reading in our Transitional Kindergarten classroom has become even more meaningful and engaging. The fall-themed books introduced rich vocabulary, seasonal concepts, and early comprehension skills such as listening, predicting, and making connections. We don't just read the books—we extend them into hands-on learning experiences. After reading stories about pumpkins, my students helped create their own classroom pumpkin patch filled with a variety of pumpkins and gourds. They explored textures, sizes, and colors before each child selected one to take home, turning a simple read-aloud into a memorable, real-world learning experience.\r\n\r\nReading in our classroom most often looks like an adult reading aloud while students gather together, listening closely, asking questions, and reacting with excitement to each page. These shared read-aloud moments build attention, language development, and a love of books. After story time, the books are placed in our cozy library area where students revisit the stories by \"reading\" the pictures, retelling events, and talking with peers about what they notice.\r\n\r\nEvery student has been especially engaged with these new books. They eagerly sit for each story and often ask to reread their favorites. Even students who are still developing verbal language skills enjoy exploring the illustrations and participating through gestures and expressions. Because of your support, reading has become a joyful, community-centered part of our day that sparks curiosity and builds early literacy skills.","fullyFundedDate":1758814140376,"projectUrl":"project/falling-into-reading-autumn-books-for-t/9713582/","projectTitle":"Falling Into Reading: Autumn Books for TK Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. August","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10259791_orig.jpg?crop=1242,1242,x0,y202&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1758426226308","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msaugustclass"},{"teacherId":3484386,"projectId":9925754,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for providing our classroom with wonderful enrichment items that will help all of my students engage more deeply as we explore cultures from around the world. We are excited to incorporate these materials into our lessons as we learn about each country we study.\r\n\r\nWe especially appreciate the magnetic sentence strips that will support our writing practice, the scented bookmarks that make reading even more enjoyable, and all of the other thoughtful items that will enhance our learning each day.\r\n\r\nThank you again for your generosity and for making such a meaningful difference in our classroom! Happy Holidays to all of our Donor Choose supporters!","fullyFundedDate":1764600197337,"projectUrl":"project/supplies-for-enrichment-lessons/9925754/","projectTitle":"Supplies for Enrichment Lessons","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":10259791,"projectId":9712331,"letterContent":"The resources from this project have made a meaningful impact in our TK classroom by bringing hands-on, sensory learning to life. Our students are using the materials daily through themed sensory bins, including an apple pie sensory bin, a fall sorting sensory bin, and a pumpkin patch. These activities allow students to scoop, pour, sort, and explore while building fine motor skills, language development, and early math concepts. One special moment was watching students work together to \"make apple pie,\" describing textures and colors while practicing turn-taking and problem-solving. The children also loved linking their fall lessons into touching and sorting real squash!\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, they were immediately drawn in with excitement and curiosity. Their eyes lit up as they gathered around the bins, eager to touch, explore, and ask questions. Many students who are typically hesitant to participate jumped right in, showing confidence and engagement through sensory play. The materials created an inviting environment where learning felt joyful and accessible for every child.\r\n\r\nAs we moved forward, these sensory bins continued to support our lessons on fall themes, sorting, counting, and descriptive language. Students will expand their learning by making predictions, retelling experiences through drawings and storytelling, and connecting sensory play to books and classroom discussions. Thanks to your generosity, our classroom is a place where students can explore, create, and grow through meaningful hands-on learning.","fullyFundedDate":1758556966490,"projectUrl":"project/falling-into-learning-with-sensory-play/9712331/","projectTitle":"Falling Into Learning With Sensory Play!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. August","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10259791_orig.jpg?crop=1242,1242,x0,y202&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1758426226308","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msaugustclass"},{"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"}],"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":88.2,"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"}