{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"El Camino Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":28.6,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9562292,"projectId":9416073,"letterContent":"These basic art and classroom supplies have had a powerful impact on our autism preschool classroom, and we are so grateful for them. The crayons, glue sticks, construction paper, and tissue paper allow our students to fully engage in creative, hands-on learning experiences that are critical for their development. Many of our students learn best through sensory exploration and fine motor practice, and having access to a wide variety of materials means they can practice grasping, coloring, cutting, gluing, and building projects that connect to their IEP goals. The pencil grips and toddler-friendly crayons also make it easier for students with different motor abilities to participate successfully, giving them the confidence to create and express themselves alongside their peers.\r\n\r\nBecause of these resources, our classroom has been able to do more collaborative art projects, which promote social interaction, sharing, and turn-taking skills. Students are excited to use the bright colors and different textures, and teachers can better support lessons by having all the essential supplies on hand. The storage cases and paint trays also keep materials organized, making it easier for children to independently choose and put away items, building responsibility and independence. We are thankful because these supplies have not only made our lessons more engaging but have also enriched daily routines by creating opportunities for creativity, skill-building, and joyful learning.","fullyFundedDate":1751058739600,"projectUrl":"project/colorful-creations-for-growing-minds/9416073/","projectTitle":"Colorful Creations for Growing Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Fadwa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9562292_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1718215969197","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9562292"},{"teacherId":9562292,"projectId":9416061,"letterContent":"These educational toys and classroom tools have made a meaningful impact on our autism preschool classroom, and we are grateful to have access to them. The pull-back cars, wooden bead sequencing sets, puzzles, and color-and-shape matching eggs provide hands-on, engaging ways for our students to practice fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and cognitive development. These materials give students the chance to explore through play while also working on goals such as matching, sorting, problem-solving, and sequencing. The magnets with adhesive backing add another layer of flexibility, allowing us to create interactive matching boards, visual schedules, and custom learning tools that can be tailored to each child's needs.\r\n\r\nBecause our students learn best through active engagement and repetition, these resources have transformed lessons into interactive, motivating experiences. The toys help promote social play, sharing, and turn-taking, while also supporting independent practice. Having such a variety of durable and developmentally appropriate materials allows us to create structured yet playful learning opportunities every day. We are thankful because these resources not only enrich our classroom environment but also give our students the tools they need to grow in confidence, independence, and readiness for future learning.","fullyFundedDate":1751058739393,"projectUrl":"project/visual-connections-for-growing-minds/9416061/","projectTitle":"Visual Connections for Growing Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Fadwa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9562292_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1718215969197","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9562292"},{"teacherId":9562292,"projectId":9416067,"letterContent":"Using Scotch Thermal Laminating Pouches and a laminating machine has made a noticeable difference in our autism preschool classroom, and we are truly grateful for these resources. Because many of our students learn through matching activities, laminated materials give them the opportunity to engage with visuals in a durable and consistent way. Cards for letters, numbers, shapes, and pictures can now be used daily without tearing or wearing down, which has helped us focus more on teaching and less on replacing materials. Having these tools has provided our students with stronger access to learning and has supported their ability to practice skills like matching, sorting, and identifying in a hands-on, meaningful way.\r\n\r\nWe are thankful because the impact goes beyond durability—it has created more opportunities for student independence and success. Laminated visuals are easy to clean and pair well with Velcro or dry-erase markers, making them flexible enough for repeated practice and interactive activities. This has improved engagement during small group lessons, center time, and one-on-one instruction. The consistency and quality of the materials help students stay motivated and confident, and as teachers, we are grateful to see how such a simple resource has made such a powerful difference in our students' growth and daily classroom experience.","fullyFundedDate":1751058739378,"projectUrl":"project/laminating-for-learning/9416067/","projectTitle":"Laminating for Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Fadwa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9562292_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1718215969197","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9562292"},{"teacherId":8835662,"projectId":9280519,"letterContent":"I just want to say a huge thank you for your incredible generosity and support of our classroom. Because of you, our learning space looks and feels completely different — in the best possible way.\r\n\r\nThanks to your donations, we now have flexible seating and much-needed supplies that are making a real difference for my students with autism. These changes have transformed our room into a place where students feel comfortable, supported, and excited to learn.\r\n\r\nWe've already put everything to good use! Each student now has their own supply kit with adaptive tools that help them work independently and with confidence. During our current unit on \"Community Helpers,\" students are creating visual storybooks using the new markers, glue sticks, and paper you helped provide. They're drawing, writing, cutting, and proudly sharing their creations with the class. The level of focus and pride they're showing is something I wish you could see in person — it's incredible.\r\n\r\n\r\nYou've given these students more than supplies — you've given them comfort, dignity, and the tools they need to shine. From all of us in Room [#], thank you for believing in our kids and for helping create a classroom that truly works for them.","fullyFundedDate":1746785987033,"projectUrl":"project/focused-flexible-and-ready-to-learn/9280519/","projectTitle":"Focused, Flexible, and Ready to Learn!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Garcia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8835662_orig.jpg?crop=343,343,x39,y76&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1667888870899","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8835662"},{"teacherId":9562292,"projectId":9416080,"letterContent":"The resources provided through this project have already made a tremendous impact on my preschool autism classroom. The adjustable chart stand has allowed me to display posters, visuals, and teaching materials at a level where my students can clearly see and engage with them, rather than having them too high on the wall or in my hands while teaching. The magnetic storage pockets keep our classroom organized, making it easier for my students to find and access materials during lessons. The alphabet line bulletin board set has also helped create a print-rich environment that supports early literacy and number recognition skills in a way that is both engaging and accessible for young learners.\r\n\r\nThe heavy-duty electric pencil sharpener has been another valuable addition to our classroom. It keeps our pencils ready for writing, coloring, and fine motor activities, saving time and ensuring that students always have the tools they need to participate. These resources not only improve classroom organization and efficiency but also make learning more interactive and developmentally appropriate for my students. Your generosity has provided meaningful tools that help me focus more on teaching and supporting my students' growth in communication, academics, and independence each day.","fullyFundedDate":1751058739522,"projectUrl":"project/tools-for-learning-celebrating-and-cre/9416080/","projectTitle":"Tools for Learning, Celebrating, and Creating","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Fadwa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9562292_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1718215969197","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9562292"},{"teacherId":9562292,"projectId":8975830,"letterContent":"Incorporating sensory items such as sensory bottles, peanut seats, and trampolines into the classroom has had a profound impact on my autistic students, particularly in the areas of self-regulation, focus, and overall engagement. The sensory bottle provides a calming visual and tactile experience, helping students self-soothe during moments of frustration or overstimulation. The peanut seat supports core stability and allows movement while sitting, which has significantly improved attention and participation during tabletop activities. The trampoline has been especially beneficial for students who seek proprioceptive input, providing a safe and structured way to release energy, regulate emotions, and improve coordination. These sensory tools cater to individual needs, helping students remain engaged and comfortable in the learning environment.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, organized storage bins have made these sensory supports more accessible and effective in daily routines. Having designated spaces for each item allows students to independently choose what they need for self-regulation, promoting autonomy and reducing frustration. The availability of these tools has also fostered smoother transitions between activities, as students can use sensory supports before engaging in structured tasks. The overall classroom atmosphere has become more inclusive and supportive, ensuring that each child has the necessary resources to succeed in both academic and social-emotional development. Through these sensory interventions, my students have demonstrated improved self-regulation, increased participation, and a greater sense of security within the classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1732893808093,"projectUrl":"project/sensory-steps-and-active-senses/8975830/","projectTitle":"Sensory Steps and Active Senses","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Fadwa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9562292_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1718215969197","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9562292"},{"teacherId":9562292,"projectId":8975328,"letterContent":"Providing art materials like construction paper, paint, and dot-to-dot paint has had a significant impact on my students' engagement, creativity, and fine motor development. These materials allow them to explore textures, colors, and shapes in a hands-on way, which is especially beneficial for my students with sensory needs. For some, painting with brushes or dot-to-dot markers provides a calming sensory experience, while others benefit from the structured yet open-ended nature of creating with construction paper. Engaging in art activities helps strengthen their hand muscles, improve their grip, and develop important pre-writing skills, all while allowing them to express themselves in a nonverbal way.\r\n\r\nBeyond skill development, these materials have also played a crucial role in building my students' confidence and social interaction. Art projects encourage them to make choices, follow multi-step directions, and share materials with peers, fostering both independence and cooperative play. The sense of accomplishment they feel after completing a painting or collage boosts their self-esteem and encourages them to participate more in classroom activities. Additionally, using a variety of art materials allows for differentiation, ensuring that every child can engage at their own level and experience success. Through these creative experiences, my students are not only learning new skills but also finding joy in expressing themselves.","fullyFundedDate":1732800581350,"projectUrl":"project/creative-colors-exploring-art-and-imagi/8975328/","projectTitle":"Creative Colors: Exploring Art and Imagination","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Fadwa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9562292_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1718215969197","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9562292"},{"teacherId":9562292,"projectId":8975317,"letterContent":"A flannel board and flannel stories provide preschoolers with a rich, hands-on learning experience that enhances their engagement, comprehension, and communication skills. The visual and tactile elements of flannel pieces allow young children to interact with stories in a meaningful way, reinforcing key literacy concepts such as sequencing, vocabulary development, and storytelling. By manipulating characters and objects on the board, preschoolers strengthen their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination while also building a deeper understanding of narrative structure. Additionally, flannel stories offer an inclusive approach to learning, as they cater to various learning styles—visual, auditory, and kinesthetic—making them an effective tool for diverse classrooms.\r\n\r\nBeyond literacy, flannel boards also support social and emotional development by encouraging group participation, turn-taking, and collaborative storytelling. When children engage in retelling or creating their own stories using flannel pieces, they develop confidence in self-expression and public speaking. These activities promote active listening and comprehension as children anticipate what happens next in a story or recall details from a previous lesson. Furthermore, flannel boards can be integrated into other subject areas, such as math (counting and sorting) or science (lifecycles and weather patterns), making them a versatile classroom resource. Ultimately, the interactive nature of flannel boards nurtures creativity, curiosity, and a love for storytelling, laying a strong foundation for early learning success.","fullyFundedDate":1732800580917,"projectUrl":"project/growing-language-through-play-and-learni/8975317/","projectTitle":"Growing Language Through Play and Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Fadwa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9562292_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1718215969197","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9562292"},{"teacherId":8835662,"projectId":8817137,"letterContent":"I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the fine motor and sensory supplies provided for our 1st and 2nd grade autism class. These materials have made a significant impact on our students' development and well-being.\r\n\r\nThe fine motor tools, such as the grip aids and putty, have helped our students improve hand-eye coordination, strengthen their fine motor skills, and increase their independence in daily tasks. These supplies are essential for fostering a sense of accomplishment and building confidence in their abilities.\r\n\r\nThe sensory items, such as weighted lap pads and flexible seating have been a tremendous asset in providing our students with the sensory regulation they need. These resources help them stay focused, calm, and engaged, particularly during times of overstimulation. The positive effects of these tools are evident as we see our students more able to manage their emotions and interact with their peers and teachers.\r\n\r\nThank you for your support in providing these invaluable resources. They truly make a difference in the lives of our students, helping them to grow, learn, and thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1732732171935,"projectUrl":"project/supporting-finegross-motor-needs/8817137/","projectTitle":"Supporting Fine/Gross Motor Needs","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Garcia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8835662_orig.jpg?crop=343,343,x39,y76&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1667888870899","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8835662"},{"teacherId":9562292,"projectId":8975321,"letterContent":"The students loved all the math toys your donated to our classroom. Here are two pictures of two activities and how did they impact the students .\r\nThe ice cone matching activity develops number sense by connecting numerical symbols to quantities in a fun and engaging way. Children match numbered ice cream scoops to cones with corresponding representations (e.g., dots or stars), reinforcing their ability to associate abstract numbers with concrete quantities. This hands-on activity enhances counting skills, number recognition, and one-to-one correspondence. The playful, interactive design encourages focus and participation, helping children internalize numerical concepts in a way that feels natural and enjoyable. It also builds foundational math skills essential for future success, such as comparing quantities and recognizing numerical patterns.\r\n\r\nThe locks and keys activity strengthens number sense by requiring children to pair keys with numerical symbols to locks displaying the corresponding quantities (e.g., stars or dots). This process reinforces the relationship between numbers and their representations, enhancing counting, number recognition, and quantity matching. By physically manipulating the keys and locks, children engage in multisensory learning that supports fine motor development and memory retention. The problem-solving nature of the activity fosters critical thinking and persistence, while the hands-on exploration makes numerical concepts more accessible and engaging, encouraging children to build confidence in their number skills.","fullyFundedDate":1732808788855,"projectUrl":"project/math-magic-building-preschool-foundatio/8975321/","projectTitle":"Math Magic: Building Preschool Foundations Through Play","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Fadwa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9562292_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1718215969197","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9562292"},{"teacherId":9748694,"projectId":8779552,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for all of the materials and manipulatives you purchased to enhance my students' learning. We have used the whiteboards to write down cvc words, segment and blend cvc words, and we have use the die to play a cvc board game. Since using hands on manipulatives in the classroom, I have seen significant growth in my students' work and learning experience. \r\n\r\nWhen I introduced new materials to my students, they were so excited and eager to use them. Of course, I had to go over rules and expectations before doing so. Til this day, they still get ecstatic whenever I bring these tools out. This excitement could not have been done without your generous donations.\r\n\r\nSince we are a district that uses Kagan cooperative learning strategies, implementing manipulatives while doing so only enhances their learning to the next level. I plan to continue to use these resources to bring joy and excitement to learning at such a young age.","fullyFundedDate":1732636852531,"projectUrl":"project/the-world-of-early-learning-starts-in-ki/8779552/","projectTitle":"The World of Early Learning Starts in Kindergarten","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Aguilar","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9748694"},{"teacherId":9562292,"projectId":8782615,"letterContent":"In our classroom, students are enhancing their fine motor skills through engaging activities with busy boards. These interactive boards, equipped with zippers, latches, buttons, and switches, allow students to practice hand manipulation and strengthen finger coordination in a hands-on, enjoyable way. The diverse components of the busy board encourage the use of fine motor muscles while also promoting problem-solving and independent exploration. By engaging with these tools, students are learning to grasp, pinch, twist, and slide, all of which are foundational skills needed for tasks such as writing, dressing, and cutting.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, sensory steps provide a dynamic way for students to develop their fine motor and tactile processing skills. By navigating through textured paths and stepping on various sensory surfaces, they are working on balance, coordination, and body awareness. Activities like picking up sensory objects or moving them along a path combine gross and fine motor development, requiring precision and focus. These steps also offer an excellent opportunity to engage students' tactile senses, helping them adapt to different textures while strengthening their grip and hand-eye coordination in an interactive, multisensory environment.","fullyFundedDate":1732740492205,"projectUrl":"project/moving-with-purpose-gross-and-fine-moto/8782615/","projectTitle":"Moving With Purpose: Gross and Fine Motor Skills in Action","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Fadwa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9562292_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1718215969197","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9562292"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_26359","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":478,"numTeachers":22,"percentFrplEligible":72,"percentAsian":4,"percentBlack":4,"percentWhite":4,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":85,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 6","studentTeacherRatio":"21.7:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":71.4,"schoolId":26359,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about El Camino Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"El Camino Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/ontario-montclair-school-district/el-camino-elementary-school/26359"}