{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"El Toro Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":12.4,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"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"},{"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"}],"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"}