{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Mar Vista Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":20.4,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9691776,"projectId":10456282,"letterContent":"Your generous donation has provided a binder portfolio for each of my sixth graders. Binders are a great way to organize and display their final drafts. My students have turned in several assignments since school began, and these binders will allow us to organize their work chronologically all year. As the year progresses, they will have a variety of narratives, essays, poems, artwork, and letters to show off their achievements. This project will also give them the opportunity to reflect on their progress all year. Thanks to your generosity, they will have a meaningful, lasting time capsule of their sixth grade year. We couldn't have done this without you generosity. We are so grateful for your support of our classroom. Your support of this project has allowed us to create an important memento. Thank you, thank you, thank you!","fullyFundedDate":1788267440444,"projectUrl":"project/ready-set-showcase/10456282/","projectTitle":"Ready, Set, Showcase!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Asha","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9691776_orig.jpg?crop=2232,2232,x0,y111&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1725333929060","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9691776"},{"teacherId":219861,"projectId":10408484,"letterContent":"Thank you for helping fund our classroom project to add a new small table and flexible seating options. This addition has successfully completed our classroom seating arrangement in a cohesive, functional manner.\r\n\r\nBefore your generous support, our room lacked the specific configuration needed to balance independent work spaces with small-group collaboration. The introduction of this new table bridges that gap seamlessly. It matches the scale and layout of our existing furniture while defining a dedicated hub for targeted small-group instruction and collaborative student projects.\r\n\r\nHaving this cohesive layout has transformed our daily routine. Students now move smoothly between whole-group instruction and localized learning stations without congestion or distraction. The arrangement provides every child with a comfortable, purposeful spot to focus, whether they are working independently or engaging in peer discussions.\r\n\r\nYour contribution has created an organized, inviting environment where students feel supported and equipped to learn. Thank you for investing in our classroom and helping us build a space that truly works for every learner.","fullyFundedDate":1787250718738,"projectUrl":"project/completing-our-calm-classroom-a-seat-fo/10408484/","projectTitle":"Completing Our Calm Classroom: A Seat for Every Student!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Risa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp219861_orig.jpg?crop=737,737,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1785193542782","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/219861"},{"teacherId":9691776,"projectId":10456305,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting our classroom and school with your generous donation! The headphones will give my students many opportunities, especially with reading and math. We have access to math videos to reinforce daily lessons, which help all students feel confident with new concepts. We also have access to audiobooks which allow students to listen along while they read books, which boosts comprehension. The art materials allow students to connect with our ancient history units and to enhance our learning with art projects. It makes a world of difference to have this support of our classroom in the community. So very grateful!","fullyFundedDate":1787250719012,"projectUrl":"project/ready-set-learn/10456305/","projectTitle":"Ready, Set, Learn!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Asha","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9691776_orig.jpg?crop=2232,2232,x0,y111&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1725333929060","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9691776"},{"teacherId":219861,"projectId":10265457,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your incredible generosity! Because I looped with my class this year, I have the joy of teaching the same wonderful group of students, just a grade older in our 2/3 combo classroom. Returning to a familiar teacher and environment is so comforting for them, and your gift made our space even better than they remembered.\r\n\r\nThanks to you, we were able to add a brand-new table that flawlessly matches our classroom's color scheme. It brings such a wonderful sense of cohesiveness and calm to our room. When the physical space feels organized and visually balanced, my students feel more grounded and ready to tackle the new challenges of 2nd and 3rd grade. Thank you for investing in our continued journey together and for making our classroom feel complete!","fullyFundedDate":1778457941027,"projectUrl":"project/a-solid-foundation-creating-a-cohesive/10265457/","projectTitle":"A Solid Foundation: Creating a Cohesive Space for Focused Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Risa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp219861_orig.jpg?crop=737,737,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1785193542782","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/219861"},{"teacherId":219861,"projectId":10260756,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your incredible generosity! Walking into Room 6 feels completely different now, thanks to your support. The new table you provided perfectly matches our existing furniture, bringing a wonderful sense of calmness and visual order to our learning environment. When our classroom feels cohesive, the students feel more grounded and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, the new wobble stools have been a massive hit! Not only do they match our room's color theme beautifully, but they also give my students the gentle movement they need to stay focused and engaged throughout the day. You haven't just provided furniture; you've helped create a peaceful, inviting space where my students can truly thrive. Thank you for believing in our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1777983278080,"projectUrl":"project/pull-up-a-chair-completing-our-flexible/10260756/","projectTitle":"Pull Up a Chair: Completing Our Flexible Learning Space","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Risa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp219861_orig.jpg?crop=737,737,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1785193542782","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/219861"},{"teacherId":9570491,"projectId":9431846,"letterContent":"I want to extend my most sincere thanks for your contribution to our classroom. Your support has allowed us to overcome a small logistical hurdle and turn it into a major victory for our students. Although the original stools I had selected were no longer available, I was able to use the funds to purchase a beautiful new classroom table and a coordinating wobble stool. While this was a shift from the initial plan, the impact on our daily routine has been profound.\r\n\r\nIn a flexible seating classroom, the core philosophy is centered on \"choice.\" We believe that when students have the agency to choose a workspace that fits their current task or their physical needs, they become more engaged and more responsible for their own learning. \r\n\r\nOne of the most immediate changes this project brought about was the visual transformation of our space. It may seem like a small detail, but the fact that this table brightens up our classroom is incredibly significant. Classrooms can often feel sterile or cluttered, but adding a fresh, clean workspace makes the room feel more professional and inviting. When a classroom looks organized and \"bright,\" students tend to treat the space with more respect. The aesthetic of a room plays a huge role in a student's emotional well-being; walking into a space that feels intentional and cared for helps them settle in and prepare to focus on their lessons.\r\n\r\nThe wobble stool was the perfect finishing touch. Not only does it help match the modern aesthetic of our new table, but it provides a vital alternative type of seating. Every student is different—some work best on the floor, some at a traditional desk, and others need the sensory input that a wobble stool provides. This stool allows for subtle movement, which helps students with high energy stay on task without being a distraction to their peers. \r\n\r\nBecause of you, our classroom is brighter, our seating options are better, and our students are more comfortable. Thank you for investing in our classroom community and for helping us create a space where every student can find a place to thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1760791978458,"projectUrl":"project/wobble-stools-for-a-calm-student-center/9431846/","projectTitle":"Wobble Stools for a Calm, Student-Centered Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Risa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9570491_orig.jpg?crop=393,393,x0,y44&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1722003923440","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/risa-schwartz"},{"teacherId":9636134,"projectId":9543957,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom through DonorsChoose! Your generosity made it possible for us to bring meaningful prizes and incentives into our learning environment—and they are already making a huge impact on my students.\r\n\r\nThese incentives have helped create a more positive, motivated, and engaging classroom culture. Students are working hard not just for rewards, but because they feel seen, encouraged, and excited about their progress. Whether it's earning a small prize for meeting a goal or receiving recognition for positive behavior, these moments have boosted confidence and helped students stay focused on learning.\r\n\r\nFor many of my students, these incentives make school feel more fun, welcoming, and achievable. I've seen hesitant students participate more, shy students take academic risks, and groups of students cheer each other on. Your donation didn't just provide physical prizes—it helped build community, strengthen motivation, and make success feel attainable for every child.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our classroom and investing in the day-to-day experiences that matter so much. Your kindness has truly made a difference.","fullyFundedDate":1757519766078,"projectUrl":"project/motivation-matters-rewards-to-inspire-m/9543957/","projectTitle":"Motivation Matters: Rewards to Inspire Middle School Students!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Wafford","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9636134"},{"teacherId":9636134,"projectId":9628912,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our classroom! Because of your donation, my students now have access to hands-on math and science games that bring learning to life in exciting, meaningful ways.\r\n\r\nThese new materials are already making a huge difference. Students who once felt unsure or hesitant are now eagerly jumping into activities, collaborating with classmates, and using problem-solving skills in real time. The games encourage them to think creatively, explore new ideas, and build confidence as mathematicians and scientists.\r\n\r\nIn our class, learning doesn't just happen on paper—it happens through movement, discovery, and play. Your kindness has helped create a space where every student can engage, experiment, and feel successful. You've given them tools that make learning fun and memorable, and we are truly grateful.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our classroom and investing in my students' futures. Your support means more than you know.","fullyFundedDate":1758324579044,"projectUrl":"project/hands-on-math-science-games-for-engage/9628912/","projectTitle":"Hands-On Math & Science Games for Engaged Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Wafford","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9636134"},{"teacherId":9636134,"projectId":9209969,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity in providing our classroom with new book sets! My students are already so excited to dive into these stories together. Having multiple copies of the same book allows us to read, discuss, and explore ideas as a community of learners. It helps build a love for reading while also strengthening comprehension and \r\ncritical thinking skills.\r\n\r\nFor many students, having access to high-interest books makes all the difference in how engaged and motivated they feel. These book sets give us opportunities for shared reading, literature circles, and meaningful discussions that we simply could not have without your support.\r\n\r\nYour gift has not only provided books, but also created opportunities for deeper connections, curiosity, and confidence in reading. Thank you for believing in my students and in the power of literature to shape young minds.","fullyFundedDate":1744250688628,"projectUrl":"project/help-build-our-literature-circle-library/9209969/","projectTitle":"Help Build our Literature Circle Library","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Wafford","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9636134"},{"teacherId":9636134,"projectId":9086495,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation to our classroom! Because of you, my students now have access to a full set of headphones that we will use daily in math and science. These headphones make a huge difference in our learning environment by allowing students to focus during online lessons, practice individualized skills at their own pace, and participate in interactive activities without distraction.\r\n\r\nAlready, I have seen students more engaged and excited to learn when they can hear clearly and work independently. For many of them, this is the first time they've had quality headphones to use at school, and it gives them a sense of ownership and pride in their work.\r\n\r\nYour kindness and support remind my students that there are people who care deeply about their education and success. Thank you for helping us create a more focused, supportive, and engaging classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1742648494358,"projectUrl":"project/help-us-purchase-headphones-for-our-clas/9086495/","projectTitle":"Help us Purchase Headphones for Our Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Wafford","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9636134"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_40068","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":260,"numTeachers":20,"percentFrplEligible":93,"percentAsian":3,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":50,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":37,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":1,"percentMultiracialImputed":6,"gradesServed":"Pre-K - 7","studentTeacherRatio":"13.0:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":79.6,"schoolId":40068,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Mar Vista Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Mar Vista Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/pajaro-valley-unified-school-district/mar-vista-elementary-school/40068"}
Join the 108 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Mar Vista Elementary School is
a suburban public school
in Aptos, California that is part of Pajaro Valley Unified School District.
It serves 260 students
in grades Pre-K - 7 with a student/teacher ratio of 13.0:1.
Its teachers have had 46 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Supporting this school will directly impact historically underfunded classrooms.
Public School
Grades Pre-K - 7
260 Students
20 Teachers
6860 Soquel DrContact info is sourced from our partners at MDR Education, and DonorsChoose updates our site ahead of each school year.
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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
40%
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.
Mar Vista Elementary School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Sep 10, 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.
Mar Vista Elementary School
$17,092
raised using DonorsChoose
46
projects
funded
12
teachers
funded
108
donors
9
projects
for
basic supplies
5
projects for
technology
2
projects for
books
1
project
for
art supplies
Mar Vista Elementary School has received support from
86 individuals from California and
22 individuals out-of-state.