{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Garfield Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":16.2,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9376416,"projectId":9628015,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project, \"Recycling, Composting, Water Conservation and Hands-on Math!\" Your generosity has brought excitement, curiosity, and purpose to our classroom.\r\n\r\nThe moment the materials arrived, my students were eager to get started. They immediately began exploring how recycling and composting work, measuring water usage, and recording data in math journals. It's been incredible to see how math, science, and environmental awareness have come together through hands-on learning.\r\n\r\nEvery time a student weighs our compost, counts recyclables, or graphs how much water we save, they're not just practicing math—they're learning how small actions can make a big difference for our planet. You've helped them see themselves as young scientists and environmental leaders.\r\n\r\nYour kindness has inspired us all. The students are learning that there are people beyond our classroom who believe in their potential and care about their education. From all of us—thank you for helping us make learning meaningful, relevant, and full of heart.","fullyFundedDate":1755794762592,"projectUrl":"project/recycling-composting-water-conservatio/9628015/","projectTitle":"Recycling, Composting, Water Conservation and Hands-on Math!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Sergio Simarro","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9376416_orig.jpg?crop=2472,2472,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1700533896772","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9376416"},{"teacherId":9642882,"projectId":9744200,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous donation, our students have had the incredible opportunity to experience stories in a whole new way through the audio story player and the packs of story cards! \r\n\r\nThis technology has opened doors for so many of our students, particularly those who are still emerging readers. Being able to listen to stories allows them to build comprehension, expand vocabulary, and let their imaginations bring the books to life in their minds. For many of our students, this is the first time they've had regular access to something like this, and it's made such a positive difference in their excitement for reading.\r\n\r\nThe most exciting part for students has been being able to \"read\" independent, even if they aren't yet reading fluently yet. They love following along with the story cards and retelling what they've heard. Diary of a Wimpy Kid has been a huge hit; students laugh, and talk about the characters. \r\n\r\nWe've especially seen our reluctant readers and English learners light up during these listening sessions. They're engaged, confident, and eager to share what they've understood, something that hasn't always come easily before.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping make reading joyful and accessible for every student in our classroom. Your support truly helps us bring stories to life!","fullyFundedDate":1761925720211,"projectUrl":"project/unlocking-reading-success-with-audio-boo/9744200/","projectTitle":"Unlocking Reading Success with Audio Books","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Torres","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9642882_orig.jpg?crop=1451,1451,x537,y712&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1737059717547","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9642882"},{"teacherId":9056603,"projectId":9379835,"letterContent":"The take-home iPad has been such an amazing tool for our students! They look forward to their turn each week and eagerly anticipate when it will be their time to bring it home. This project has allowed our students to extend their learning beyond the classroom walls, giving them access to interactive resources that reinforce what we are learning in class. It's been wonderful to see their excitement and responsibility grow as they use technology to practice reading, math, and creative expression at home.\r\n\r\nTo make the most of this opportunity, I've created curated playlists that guide students through songs, videos, and digital activities aligned with our lessons. We've also pre-downloaded educational apps that support early literacy, letter recognition, and foundational math skills. Families have shared how much they enjoy engaging with their children's learning at home, and many students return to school proudly sharing what they practiced or discovered during their iPad time.\r\n\r\nThis project has truly strengthened the connection between school and home. Students are gaining confidence using technology for learning, and families feel more empowered to support their child's education. I look forward to adding another iPad to the rotation in the future, which will allow even more students to benefit from these tools and expand their learning opportunities. Thank you for making this meaningful learning experience possible—your generosity has opened new doors for curiosity, creativity, and growth in our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1755706923608,"projectUrl":"project/take-home-ipad-for-learning-beyond-the-c/9379835/","projectTitle":"Take-Home iPad for Learning Beyond the Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Acuna German","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9056603_orig.jpg?crop=613,613,x619,y488&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1738625206289","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-acuna-german"},{"teacherId":9056603,"projectId":9597031,"letterContent":"The new star reward system has been such a wonderful addition to our classroom! The large classroom star chart includes about 20–25 stars, meaning students really have to work hard and collaborate as a team to earn each one. From the moment they saw it, they were filled with excitement and motivation to do their best. This system has encouraged teamwork, perseverance, and positive behavior as students work together toward shared goals.\r\n\r\nOnce our class filled the star chart, the students chose to celebrate with a pancake party—a reward they came up with themselves! It was such a fun and successful event, filled with laughter and pride as they enjoyed the fruits of their teamwork. The prizes that came with this project have also been a huge hit. I've been able to use them for both personal achievements and table team rewards, giving students extra encouragement to stay focused, responsible, and kind.\r\n\r\nThis project has truly transformed our classroom community. Students are learning that effort, cooperation, and kindness pay off, and they are more motivated than ever to support one another. Thank you for helping us create such a positive, joyful learning environment where every student feels proud to contribute to our class success!","fullyFundedDate":1756006538160,"projectUrl":"project/shining-together-our-classroom-star-jar/9597031/","projectTitle":"Shining Together: Our Classroom Star Jar","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Acuna German","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9056603_orig.jpg?crop=613,613,x619,y488&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1738625206289","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-acuna-german"},{"teacherId":9056603,"projectId":9379796,"letterContent":"Our Monthly Family & Me Cooking Class has been an amazing opportunity to bring families together while learning hands-on skills! So far, we've made hot pot, chicken and veggie fritters, and pancakes—each recipe offering a fun and delicious way for students and families to collaborate. It has been wonderful to see parents and children working side by side, measuring ingredients, following directions, and enjoying the process of cooking and tasting their creations together. The joy and laughter that fill the room during each session truly show how meaningful this project has been for our school community.\r\n\r\nThe technology and tools provided have helped make each class interactive and engaging. Students follow recipe steps projected on the screen, watch short cooking demonstrations, and use visuals to learn about kitchen safety and healthy ingredients. Families have commented on how much they enjoy learning new recipes they can easily recreate at home. One of the most exciting parts for the students has been seeing their food come together and then sharing it proudly with their families and classmates.\r\n\r\nThis project has created a wonderful sense of community and connection between home and school. Each month, our families look forward to cooking, learning, and eating together, strengthening bonds and building confidence in both students and parents. Thank you so much for supporting a program that nourishes both hearts and minds—it has truly made a lasting impact on our classroom and community!","fullyFundedDate":1755706924081,"projectUrl":"project/monthly-family-me-cooking-class/9379796/","projectTitle":"Monthly Family & Me Cooking Class","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Acuna German","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9056603_orig.jpg?crop=613,613,x619,y488&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1738625206289","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-acuna-german"},{"teacherId":9056603,"projectId":9369701,"letterContent":"Our Books & Breakfast event was such a special way to welcome our new kindergarten families! The new books have been amazing to share with our students as we begin the school year together. It was heartwarming to host families for breakfast, serving pancakes and offering hot water from the new kettle so parents could make coffee or tea to their liking. This cozy morning created a sense of community, giving families the chance to connect with one another and see how we foster a love for reading in our classroom.\r\n\r\nThe new books have quickly become favorites during our morning reading time. Students are eager to explore stories, ask questions, and share what they notice in the illustrations. Many of the new titles highlight kindness, friendship, and curiosity—perfect themes for the start of the school year. We've already seen students develop stronger listening skills and excitement about reading, and several have even started bringing their own favorite books from home to share.\r\n\r\nThanks to your generosity, our students are beginning their kindergarten journey surrounded by meaningful stories and joyful experiences. The Books & Breakfast event helped set the tone for a warm and inclusive classroom community where both children and families feel welcomed and inspired to learn together. We are so grateful for your support in helping our youngest learners start the year with confidence, connection, and a love for books!","fullyFundedDate":1755224445772,"projectUrl":"project/books-breakfast-a-kinder-orientation/9369701/","projectTitle":"Books & Breakfast: A Kinder Orientation","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Acuna German","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9056603_orig.jpg?crop=613,613,x619,y488&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1738625206289","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-acuna-german"},{"teacherId":9056603,"projectId":9340849,"letterContent":"Our students were absolutely thrilled when they first saw the new LEGOs, Magnatiles, and marble run sets! Their excitement filled the room as they immediately began exploring, building, and collaborating with one another. It was wonderful to see their imaginations come alive—many of them worked together to design tall marble structures, colorful Magnatile houses, and creative LEGO inventions that reflected their unique ideas.\r\n\r\nThese materials have quickly become a favorite part of our learning centers. Students are using them during STEM and free-choice exploration to practice problem-solving, teamwork, and spatial awareness. The marble run has sparked great conversations about gravity and motion, while the LEGOs and Magnatiles have inspired thoughtful discussions about design and structure. It's amazing to see how naturally students take on leadership roles, share ideas, and persevere through challenges during these hands-on learning experiences.\r\n\r\nNext, we plan to incorporate these materials into our upcoming STEM challenges, where students will work in small groups to plan, build, and test their designs. These activities not only build creativity and critical thinking but also foster collaboration and confidence. Thanks to your generous support, our students are learning through play, exploration, and innovation every day!","fullyFundedDate":1755626618151,"projectUrl":"project/magnetic-minds-and-creative-builders/9340849/","projectTitle":"Magnetic Minds and Creative Builders","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Acuna German","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9056603_orig.jpg?crop=613,613,x619,y488&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1738625206289","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-acuna-german"},{"teacherId":9056603,"projectId":9419640,"letterContent":"Our kindergarten class has been so thankful for the cleaning supplies and tools that have helped us maintain a healthy and welcoming learning environment! When the Clorox wipes, mop, and vacuum arrived, the students were so excited to see how we could use them to take care of our classroom together. They love helping to wipe down tables after projects and snack time, and it has become part of our daily routine to make sure our classroom stays fresh and clean.\r\n\r\nThe Clorox wipes have been especially helpful during cold season, allowing us to quickly sanitize high-touch areas and keep everyone healthy. Our new vacuum has kept our classroom tidy after busy learning days filled with crafts and sensory play, while the mop ensures our floors stay spotless and safe for our little learners. Having these resources available has made such a difference in keeping our space organized, comfortable, and ready for each new day of learning.\r\n\r\nAs we continue through the school year, our students are learning the importance of responsibility and teamwork by taking pride in keeping their classroom clean. Thanks to your generosity, our kindergartners are thriving in a safe, healthy, and happy environment where they can focus on what truly matters—learning and growing together!","fullyFundedDate":1752024648248,"projectUrl":"project/keeping-our-kinder-classroom-clean/9419640/","projectTitle":"Keeping Our Kinder Classroom Clean","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Acuna German","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9056603_orig.jpg?crop=613,613,x619,y488&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1738625206289","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-acuna-german"},{"teacherId":10114240,"projectId":9580401,"letterContent":"When the new headphones arrived, my students were thrilled to finally have their own way to block out noise and focus. Before, it was difficult for many students to stay on task with the normal sounds of a busy classroom. Now, with headphones, they can work on their reading and math programs without being distracted by conversations or movement around them. This has made a big difference in helping them concentrate and show what they truly know.\r\n\r\nThe most exciting part for students has been being able to dive into their lessons without interruptions. One student said, \"I can finally hear everything clearly, and it helps me not lose track of what I'm doing.\" During testing, the headphones have created a calmer environment, giving students more confidence to do their best work. Several students who were easily distracted before have been noticeably more focused and proud of the progress they're making.\r\n\r\nThese headphones are not just tools — they've become an important support for independent learning. Students are learning to take responsibility for their own focus, and it shows in their engagement and scores. Thanks to your generosity, our classroom is now a quieter, more productive space where every student has a fair chance to succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1756805502973,"projectUrl":"project/quiet-minds-strong-learning-headphones/9580401/","projectTitle":"Quiet Minds, Strong Learning: Headphones for Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Pham","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10114240"},{"teacherId":10114240,"projectId":9544612,"letterContent":"When our three beanbag chairs and four balance ball seats arrived, the students could hardly believe they were for our classroom. Their faces lit up with excitement, and I immediately saw students gravitating toward these new spaces with big smiles. The beanbag chairs have become a favorite reading nook, where students settle in with a book and lose themselves in the story. The balance ball seats have been especially helpful for students who need to move while they learn, giving them a safe and focused way to release energy without disrupting their classmates.\r\n\r\nThese flexible seating options have already transformed our daily routines. During independent reading and writing time, students eagerly choose their seats, and I've noticed increased engagement and focus. One student told me that the balance ball makes it easier to concentrate on math problems because he can \"wiggle while thinking.\" Another group has claimed the beanbags as their go-to spot for collaborative work, making discussions feel more relaxed and creative.\r\n\r\nOur next step is to integrate these seats into larger group projects and cooperative learning activities. I want students to see that learning doesn't always have to happen at a desk — it can happen in a cozy beanbag with a novel, or while balancing through a science experiment discussion. Thanks to your generosity, my students not only feel more comfortable in their classroom but also see it as a space designed for them to succeed in their own unique ways.","fullyFundedDate":1755627005660,"projectUrl":"project/wiggles-welcome-flexible-seating-for-fo/9544612/","projectTitle":"Wiggles Welcome: Flexible Seating for Focused Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Pham","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10114240"},{"teacherId":9166464,"projectId":9324444,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of math manipulatives for our classroom! The ice cream counting cones and other hands-on materials have been a huge hit with my students. They were so excited to explore the cones during center time, and it's been wonderful to see them practicing counting, sorting, and basic math skills while having fun. Their enthusiasm for learning has been contagious, and the manipulatives have made math feel interactive and engaging in a whole new way.\r\n\r\nI'm especially looking forward to using the manipulatives during small group time. Having these tools allows me to work closely with students in a hands-on way, giving them individualized support and opportunities to deepen their understanding. The ice cream cones and other materials will make lessons more visual, tangible, and memorable, which is so helpful for developing early math skills.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has made a meaningful difference in our classroom, creating opportunities for students to explore, practice, and grow their confidence in math. Thank you for supporting their learning in such a creative and engaging way—we are so grateful for your kindness and investment in our students' success!","fullyFundedDate":1746786224448,"projectUrl":"project/math-made-fun-with-hands-on-learning/9324444/","projectTitle":"Math Made Fun With Hands-On Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Yoniles","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9166464_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y302&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1691459582676","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9166464"},{"teacherId":9166464,"projectId":9324345,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for donating the white shiplap covering for my classroom walls and bulletin board! It has completely transformed our space, giving it such a calm, clean, and welcoming atmosphere. I've received so many compliments from colleagues, families, and even the students themselves about how pretty and peaceful the classroom looks now. The change has made our learning environment feel brighter, more organized, and so much more inviting.\r\n\r\nBeyond just appearance, the shiplap has created a backdrop that truly supports our learning. Bulletin boards stand out in such a beautiful way, and student work looks extra special when displayed against it. The calm aesthetic helps set a positive tone in the room, making it easier for students to focus and feel comfortable. It's a simple change that has had such a big impact on our daily experience together.\r\n\r\nI am so grateful for your generosity in helping me create a classroom that feels warm, welcoming, and inspiring. Your support makes such a difference—not just to me, but to every student who walks through our door each day. Thank you again for helping make our space both functional and beautiful!","fullyFundedDate":1746786111658,"projectUrl":"project/our-happy-place-a-calm-start-to-the-yea/9324345/","projectTitle":"Our Happy Place: A Calm Start to the Year","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Yoniles","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9166464_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y302&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1691459582676","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9166464"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_4581","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":395,"numTeachers":23,"percentFrplEligible":84,"percentAsian":1,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":1,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":96,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"17.2:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":83.8,"schoolId":4581,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Garfield Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Garfield Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/redwood-city-school-district/garfield-elementary-school/4581"}