{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Spreckels Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":49.4,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9376618,"projectId":9873940,"letterContent":"These Cricut supplies have already had a positive impact on students by deepening their understanding of compassion through real-world application. Students have used the materials to create thank-you cards, appreciation signs, and small personalized gifts, allowing them to actively practice gratitude rather than just talk about it. These projects have helped students recognize the efforts of teachers, classmates, and community members, encouraging sincere expressions of thanks. Many students have shown increased thoughtfulness in their designs, carefully choosing words and images that reflect empathy and appreciation, demonstrating growth in their ability to consider others' feelings.\r\nThe supplies have also strengthened classroom relationships and collaboration. Students have become more willing to help one another with designs, share materials, and offer encouragement, often expressing gratitude by saying thank you for assistance or ideas. This cooperative environment has led to greater patience and kindness, especially when mistakes occur or projects need revisions. Overall, the Cricut supplies have already contributed to a more compassionate classroom culture, where gratitude, empathy, and respectful teamwork are regularly practiced and reinforced through meaningful creative work. Thank you so much!!","fullyFundedDate":1764717571461,"projectUrl":"project/cricut-20/9873940/","projectTitle":"Cricut 2.0","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lisa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9376618_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1700687726314","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/lisafinburgh"},{"teacherId":7339224,"projectId":9755810,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of my project. Because of your kindness, my students have had meaningful learning experiences that truly made a difference in their classroom and beyond.\r\n\r\nYour donation allowed students to participate in hands-on STEM activities that sparked curiosity, encouraged problem-solving, and strengthened critical thinking skills. These engaging experiences helped students learn by doing, building confidence as they explored new ideas and worked through challenges together.\r\n\r\nIn addition, the art components of this project gave students a powerful outlet to explore their feelings and express their unique perspectives. The Squishmallows provided a sense of calm, comfort, and safety, helping students feel secure and supported as they learned. For many students, this emotional support made it easier to focus, share, and take creative risks.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has had a lasting impact on both the academic growth and emotional well-being of my students. Thank you for believing in them and for helping create a classroom environment where learning is joyful, meaningful, and nurturing.","fullyFundedDate":1759256134864,"projectUrl":"project/little-kindergarten-explorers-art-sc/9755810/","projectTitle":"Little Kindergarten Explorers: Art & Science Adventure","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Cowell","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7339224_orig.png?crop=1103,1103,x67,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1703834731483","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/terri-cowell"},{"teacherId":9376618,"projectId":9873927,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous support in funding play materials such as these building blocks. Your gift is making a meaningful difference for the children we serve.\r\nThrough hands-on play with building blocks, children are learning far more than construction skills. They are practicing cooperation, sharing ideas, solving problems together, and understanding one another's perspectives—key foundations for developing compassion and empathy.\r\nBecause of your generosity, children now have opportunities to learn how to work together, communicate kindly, and build positive relationships in a joyful and engaging way. These early experiences help shape caring, thoughtful individuals and create a stronger, more connected community.\r\nWe are truly grateful for your commitment to supporting children's growth through purposeful play. Thank you for helping us build not only structures, but also compassion and understanding.","fullyFundedDate":1764179122859,"projectUrl":"project/play-cant-be-bagged/9873927/","projectTitle":"Play Can't be Bagged","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lisa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9376618_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1700687726314","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/lisafinburgh"},{"teacherId":2065111,"projectId":9767899,"letterContent":"It's the little things that make a big difference and your donation means the world to us! Our school is becoming a cleaner and more environmentally friendly place to be because of your generosity. \r\n\r\nMy fourth graders absolutely loved reading The Dog Poop Initiative! Books have a magical way of inspiring my fourth graders to take action to be a hero and not simply point out problems they see. Turns out the City noticed the problem as well and installed a Dog Poop Station as we envisioned just as our project was funded. We were able to replace the Dog Poop Station we intended to install with some books and goodies to reward the good deeds of my fourth graders. \r\n\r\nDonors like you inspire my students to be the best they can be by helping them get the recycle bins to take action and be leaders on our campus. Thank you for helping us make a difference!","fullyFundedDate":1760635619406,"projectUrl":"project/advocates-for-the-environment/9767899/","projectTitle":"Advocates for the Environment","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Huntsman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2065111_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1595696043263","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/lori-huntsman"},{"teacherId":2065111,"projectId":9641389,"letterContent":"Oh, the endless possibilities as we explore careers and see what sparks an interest to pursue a goal from which our learning stems! Thank you for helping me enrich my fourth graders learning experience with hands-on activities in art and science. \r\n\r\nPicking apart owl pellets is one of the most unique and memorable experiences my fourth graders have in our learning adventure. We have yet to reach our life science unit this year, but I've dropped some hints along the way and my students are chomping at the bit to find out what is packed inside an owl pellet. Their patience will pay off when we reach that part of the school year!\r\n\r\nArt is another crowd pleaser in our classroom. We love learning new art techniques and we look forward to making prints with the foam plates. The sky's the limit thanks to donors like you! Thank you for making art and science come alive for my learners.","fullyFundedDate":1757892567286,"projectUrl":"project/a-palette-of-possible-careers-stem-from/9641389/","projectTitle":"A Palette of Possible Careers Stem From Classroom Experiences","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Huntsman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2065111_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1595696043263","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/lori-huntsman"},{"teacherId":9376618,"projectId":9905254,"letterContent":"Magnetic toys provide rich, hands-on opportunities for children to build and practice language skills through exploration, play, and interaction. When students use magnetic tiles, letters, or figures, they naturally engage in labeling objects, describing actions, comparing shapes, and explaining what they are building. These toys support expressive language by encouraging children to use new vocabulary, plan out their ideas verbally, and engage in problem-solving dialogue with peers. They also strengthen receptive language as children follow directions, listen to others' ideas, and respond to questions about their creations. Magnetic toys are especially beneficial for students who learn best through tactile and visual experiences, as they make abstract language concepts—like spatial words, storytelling, and categorization—concrete and accessible.\r\nThoughtful storage solutions amplify these benefits by helping children see, access, and organize materials independently. When magnetic toys are stored in clearly labeled bins or on designated shelves, students learn important language concepts such as categories, attributes, and sorting. Clean, organized storage also promotes smoother transitions and clearer routines, which reduces cognitive load and frees up students' attention for communication. Additionally, when children can easily find and return materials, they are more likely to initiate play, share materials appropriately, and collaborate with peers—creating more natural opportunities for conversation and social language practice. Together, magnetic toys and intentional storage systems create an environment where children can explore, communicate, and build strong foundational language skills.","fullyFundedDate":1763502721355,"projectUrl":"project/no-lost-loose-parts-here/9905254/","projectTitle":"No Lost Loose Parts Here!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lisa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9376618_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1700687726314","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/lisafinburgh"},{"teacherId":9376618,"projectId":9718118,"letterContent":"Providing students with batteries and art supplies has a powerful impact on teaching compassion skills because these materials allow them to bring stories, emotions, and social scenarios to life. Batteries make interactive tools—such as sensory devices, light-up boards, or small electronic models—function in a way that helps students visualize how their actions affect others. For example, students might use battery-operated props to show how someone's feelings \"light up\" when others are kind or to explore real-world problems like helping a friend who feels overwhelmed. Art supplies deepen this learning by giving students creative ways to express emotions, design characters, and illustrate moments of empathy. Through drawing, crafting, and building, students practice identifying feelings, exploring different perspectives, and representing acts of kindness in a hands-on and meaningful way.\r\nTogether, batteries and art materials create opportunities for collaborative projects where students must listen, share, problem-solve, and consider the needs of their peers—core components of compassion-based learning. As students build empathy-themed displays, design posters that show caring choices, or create emotion characters that respond to battery-powered elements, they strengthen their ability to recognize and respond to the feelings of others. These activities also help nonspeaking or less verbal students communicate compassion through visual or sensory modes. The lasting impact is a classroom culture where creativity supports emotional growth, and students learn that compassion is not just something they talk about—it is something they build, create, and practice together.","fullyFundedDate":1762266279238,"projectUrl":"project/powered-up-for-compassion/9718118/","projectTitle":"Powered Up for Compassion","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lisa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9376618_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1700687726314","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/lisafinburgh"},{"teacherId":9376618,"projectId":9644618,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding our project to bring a Cricut machine and heat press to our students. Your generosity will have a meaningful impact on their learning by opening the door to hands-on graphic design, personalized creativity, and real-world problem solving. With these tools, students can design, cut, and create custom projects—from stickers and labels to shirts and classroom materials—building artistic confidence and developing a sense of ownership over their learning. The Cricut and heat press also support fine motor skills, sequencing, planning, and collaboration, all while making space for students to express themselves through projects that feel exciting and relevant.\r\n\r\nYour support empowers students to explore emerging design technology that many would not otherwise have access to. This equipment allows them to engage in authentic, project-based learning that strengthens communication, teamwork, and creativity. Whether they are designing logos, creating class gifts, or producing visual supports for peers, students will have the opportunity to see their ideas come to life in a tangible, lasting way. Thank you for believing in our learners and giving them the tools to dream, design, and create with confidence. Your contribution truly makes a difference.","fullyFundedDate":1758728859165,"projectUrl":"project/shaping-future-graphic-designers/9644618/","projectTitle":"Shaping Future Graphic Designers","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lisa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9376618_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1700687726314","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/lisafinburgh"},{"teacherId":2065111,"projectId":9820154,"letterContent":"My fourth graders are wild about reading and I'm wild about donors like you! Thank you for making our wishes come true. These books make our collections complete as well as replacing a few favorites that have been read time and time again. My fourth graders love to get their hands on books they choose to read and donors like you make this a reality.\r\n\r\nIn addition to the beloved books, the tech tools help my learners tune into reading. The quality headphones are a game changer when my students listen to our online learning programs. The headphones are a perfect fit for fourth graders! The computer mouse is a nice touch as well! \r\n\r\nLastly, the reading rewards a small but mighty! My students are motivated to reach milestones thanks to the bouncy balls and mini Squishmallows. It's the little things that go a long way. Thank you for going the extra mile for teachers and learners! We are grateful for you!","fullyFundedDate":1760920016229,"projectUrl":"project/wild-about-reading/9820154/","projectTitle":"Wild About Reading!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Huntsman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2065111_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1595696043263","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/lori-huntsman"},{"teacherId":9376618,"projectId":9614948,"letterContent":"Receiving the batteries, tool kit, and storage container will have a meaningful impact on my students' ability to practice compassion and cooperative problem-solving through play. These items allow us to create hands-on \"helping\" scenarios where students can pretend to fix broken toys, assist a friend with a task, or solve a shared problem. Through these structured play opportunities, students learn to notice when someone needs help, offer support, and work together—core components of compassionate communication. The container also allows materials to remain organized and accessible, helping students participate more independently and respectfully during play. These tools directly enhance our ability to model, teach, and reinforce kindness, empathy, and teamwork in a developmentally meaningful way.","fullyFundedDate":1762266262727,"projectUrl":"project/compassion-is-for-all/9614948/","projectTitle":"Compassion is for All!!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lisa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9376618_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1700687726314","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/lisafinburgh"},{"teacherId":9376618,"projectId":9835152,"letterContent":"Thank you for generously providing the construction-themed dramatic play materials for our classroom. These tools have created a rich, hands-on learning environment where students can naturally practice compassion and cooperation. As children work together to design, build, and problem-solve, they learn to check in with one another, offer help, share materials, and recognize when a peer is feeling frustrated or needs support. The construction theme encourages teamwork and communication—students take turns being the \"builder,\" \"planner,\" or \"helper,\" giving them opportunities to practice kindness and perspective-taking in meaningful ways. Your contribution has helped foster a collaborative community where students not only build structures, but also build empathy, confidence, and positive relationships. We truly appreciate your support in helping our students grow both socially and emotionally.","fullyFundedDate":1762266248243,"projectUrl":"project/constructive-play-items/9835152/","projectTitle":"Constructive Play Items!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lisa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9376618_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1700687726314","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/lisafinburgh"},{"teacherId":9376618,"projectId":9834981,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for generously providing the diner-themed dramatic play materials for our students. These items have already made a meaningful impact in our classroom community. Through role-play as servers, cooks, and customers, students have daily opportunities to practice essential compassion and social-emotional skills in a natural, joyful way. The diner setup allows them to take turns, notice others' needs, use kind words, and respond with empathy—for example, checking in on a \"customer,\" offering help, or working together to solve small problems. These playful interactions help students understand different perspectives, strengthen communication, and build confidence when supporting their peers. Your contribution has created a warm, engaging space where children learn to care for one another, and we are incredibly grateful for your support.","fullyFundedDate":1762266254525,"projectUrl":"project/diner-dash/9834981/","projectTitle":"Diner Dash","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lisa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9376618_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1700687726314","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/lisafinburgh"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_38070","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":650,"numTeachers":26,"percentFrplEligible":36,"percentAsian":9,"percentBlack":1,"percentWhite":47,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":30,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"25.0:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":false,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":50.6,"schoolId":38070,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Spreckels Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Spreckels Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/san-diego-unified-school-district/spreckels-elementary-school/38070"}