{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Arroyo High School","outOfStateSupporters":23.1,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10341477,"projectId":10268512,"letterContent":"Our students were beyond excited when the new marching percussion sticks arrived. For many of them, this is the very beginning of their marching band experience, and receiving these materials made the program suddenly feel real. Students gathered around the boxes as we opened them together, immediately picking up the sticks, trying them on practice pads, and talking excitedly about learning new music and techniques. What may seem like a simple set of sticks to others became something much bigger in that moment—it became a symbol that this growing marching band program is truly happening.\r\n\r\nMany of our students are learning marching percussion for the first time. Before receiving these resources, several students were sharing worn-out sticks or practicing with equipment that was never really designed for marching percussion. That made it difficult for students to develop proper technique, produce a consistent sound, and build confidence in their playing. Now, with quality marching percussion sticks in their hands, students are able to learn the fundamentals correctly from the very beginning. We have already started using the new sticks during technique blocks, rhythm exercises, timing drills, and ensemble rehearsals, and the improvement in focus and sound quality has been immediate.\r\n\r\nOne especially meaningful moment happened during rehearsal shortly after the sticks arrived. We were working on a basic timing and rhythm exercise that students had struggled with earlier in the semester. With the proper sticks and equipment finally in their hands, the students approached the exercise differently. Their sound became more unified, their confidence noticeably increased, and for the first time, they began to truly sound like a team instead of individual players trying to figure things out alone. After rehearsal, several students stayed behind just to continue practicing because they were so motivated and excited to improve. Moments like that remind me why these resources matter so much.\r\n\r\nThese materials are doing far more than simply helping students play drums. They are helping students develop discipline, teamwork, responsibility, and pride in being part of something bigger than themselves. Marching band gives students a place where they feel connected, supported, and valued. For many students, this classroom is where they discover confidence they did not know they had. It is where they learn that hard work leads to growth and that every individual contribution matters to the success of the ensemble.\r\n\r\nAs we continue building and expanding our marching band program, these resources will allow our students to continue developing proper technique and musicianship while preparing for future performances and events. Our next steps include building stronger ensemble timing, improving dynamic control, and introducing more advanced rhythmic exercises as students continue gaining confidence with their equipment. These sticks are helping lay the foundation for what we hope will become a long-lasting tradition of excellence and pride within our school music program.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has made a lasting impact on our students in ways that extend far beyond music. You have shown them that people believe in them and are willing to invest in their future. That kind of support is something students remember for years. On behalf of our entire program, thank you for helping us continue building something meaningful for our students and our school community.","fullyFundedDate":1778119492343,"projectUrl":"project/precision-starts-here-sticks-for-our-ma/10268512/","projectTitle":"Precision Starts Here: Sticks for Our Marching Percussion","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Rendon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10341477_orig.jpg?crop=351,351,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1770695500892","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10341477"},{"teacherId":10341477,"projectId":10189311,"letterContent":"Our students were incredibly excited when the new mouthpieces arrived. For many of them, this was the first time they had the opportunity to play on equipment that truly supported their growth as musicians. Students immediately noticed improvements in tone quality, response, endurance, and overall comfort while playing. It was rewarding to watch their confidence grow almost instantly as they began exploring the new sound they could produce.\r\n\r\nWe have already started using the mouthpieces during daily warm-ups, tone development exercises, scales, and ensemble rehearsals. One especially meaningful moment was hearing students compare their sound before and after using the new mouthpieces and realizing how much more focused, resonant, and controlled their playing had become. These resources have helped us focus more deeply on musicianship, blend, balance, articulation, and ensemble listening because students now have equipment that allows them to perform at a higher level.\r\n\r\nAs we continue preparing for concerts and future performances, these mouthpieces will continue helping students build proper technique and confidence while strengthening the overall sound of our band program. Your generosity has given our students access to opportunities and resources they otherwise may not have experienced, and we are deeply grateful for your support and belief in our students.","fullyFundedDate":1777989748494,"projectUrl":"project/sound-starts-here-mouthpieces-that-make/10189311/","projectTitle":"Sound Starts Here! Mouthpieces That Make a Difference","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Rendon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10341477_orig.jpg?crop=351,351,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1770695500892","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10341477"},{"teacherId":10341477,"projectId":10187558,"letterContent":"Our students were extremely excited when the new Rovner ligatures arrived. For many of them, this was their first experience using upgraded equipment on their instruments, and they immediately noticed the difference in response, tone quality, and consistency of sound. It was exciting watching students compare sounds in class and become more aware of how small equipment changes can make a big impact on their playing.\r\n\r\nWe have already started using the ligatures during daily warm-ups, tone exercises, and ensemble rehearsals. One of the biggest improvements has been in helping students produce a warmer, more focused sound with better control and articulation. These resources have also allowed us to have deeper conversations about tone production, air support, and musicianship in a way that feels more real and meaningful to students because they can actually hear and feel the difference themselves.\r\n\r\nAs we continue preparing music for performances and concerts, these ligatures will help students continue developing confidence and consistency in their playing. Your support has helped give our students access to tools that elevate both their learning experience and the overall sound of our ensemble, and we are truly grateful for your generosity.","fullyFundedDate":1777392214573,"projectUrl":"project/small-upgrade-big-sound-rovner-ligature/10187558/","projectTitle":"Small Upgrade Big Sound Rovner Ligatures for Our Band","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Rendon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10341477_orig.jpg?crop=351,351,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1770695500892","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10341477"},{"teacherId":10341477,"projectId":10132114,"letterContent":"Our students were incredibly excited when our new double bass finally arrived. Unfortunately, during shipping, the instrument was damaged and arrived unusable. While it was disappointing for everyone—especially the students who had been eagerly waiting—Shar Music immediately stepped in to help us through the replacement process and has been working directly with the shipping company to resolve the issue.\r\n\r\nEven though we are still waiting for the replacement instrument, our students already understand how important this bass will be for the future of our orchestra program. Right now, many of our bass players share limited school instruments, making rehearsal time difficult and reducing opportunities for students to practice consistently. Once the replacement bass arrives, it will immediately help strengthen the foundation of our ensemble by giving students greater access to a quality instrument and allowing the entire orchestra to perform with a fuller, more balanced sound.\r\n\r\nFor our students, this instrument represents more than just a bass—it represents growth, opportunity, and the continued rebuilding of our music program. We cannot wait for the moment the replacement instrument arrives and our students are finally able to rehearse and perform with it. Your generosity is helping create experiences and opportunities our students will remember for years to come, and we are truly grateful for your support.","fullyFundedDate":1776086770714,"projectUrl":"project/low-notes-for-high-hopes-for-our-growin/10132114/","projectTitle":"Low Notes for High Hopes for Our Growing Orchestra!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Rendon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10341477_orig.jpg?crop=351,351,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1770695500892","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10341477"},{"teacherId":10341477,"projectId":10192099,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, one of my students now has access to a Vandoren AL4 Alto Saxophone Mouthpiece, and it has already made a meaningful difference in their playing. When they first tried it, their reaction said everything—their sound immediately became more focused, more centered, and more confident. It was one of those moments where they realized what they are truly capable of, and you could see their excitement grow as they played.\r\n\r\nWe've been using this mouthpiece during daily rehearsals and individual playing time, especially while working on tone development and control. In one recent rehearsal, this student was able to match pitch and blend with the ensemble much more effectively, something they had been struggling with before. That improvement didn't just help them—it elevated the entire group. Moments like that build confidence, and that confidence carries into every note they play.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, we will continue building on this progress through ensemble music, section work, and more advanced listening exercises. This student is now in a position to take on more challenging music and grow as a leader within the group. Because of your support, they are not just playing better—they are believing in themselves as musicians.","fullyFundedDate":1776446624693,"projectUrl":"project/building-a-stronger-band-one-sound-at-a/10192099/","projectTitle":"Building a Stronger Band, One Sound at a Time","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Rendon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10341477_orig.jpg?crop=351,351,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1770695500892","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10341477"},{"teacherId":10341477,"projectId":10187352,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom music program has reached a new level of possibility and care. The \"Don't Drop the Bass—Help Us Protect It\" project centered around something incredibly important for our students: a proper double bass case to protect our string bass. Before receiving this case, moving and storing the instrument was always a moment filled with anxiety. The bass is one of our largest, most valuable, and most fragile instruments, and without the right protection, students were hesitant to handle it. Now, with this sturdy, well-fitted case, the instrument is safe, secure, and finally accessible in the way it should be. Students are confidently transporting it between rehearsal spaces, setting it up with care, and taking true ownership of their role as musicians. That transformation is directly tied to your support.\r\n\r\nWhen the case first arrived, the reaction from my students was immediate and heartfelt. There were gasps and excited chatter as we unboxed it, but what stood out most was the sense of respect that followed. They understood right away that this wasn't just a \"case\"—it was a sign that their music, their effort, and their growth mattered. Several students ran their hands along the outside, commenting on how strong and professional it looked, while others eagerly helped place the bass inside for the first time. It was a moment of pride for all of us. For many of these students, access to high-quality instruments and equipment is not something they take for granted, and your donation made them feel seen and valued. Since that day, I've noticed a shift: students are more careful, more collaborative, and more excited to participate, especially those drawn to the deep, rich voice of the bass.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, this case is already shaping the future of our program. We are preparing for upcoming performances and small ensemble opportunities where the double bass plays a critical role in anchoring our sound. Thanks to you, we can now safely transport the instrument to different performance spaces and even consider outreach opportunities beyond our classroom. Beyond performance, we are continuing to build students' understanding of instrument care, responsibility, and pride in their musicianship. This case is more than protection—it's an investment in longevity, access, and confidence.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has done so much more than provide a piece of equipment. It has removed a barrier, built confidence, and allowed my students to fully embrace an instrument that is foundational to our ensemble. You've helped ensure that the music continues, safely and beautifully, and for that, we are deeply grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1776343838314,"projectUrl":"project/dont-drop-the-bass-help-us-protect-it/10187352/","projectTitle":"Don’t Drop the Bass Help Us Protect It","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Rendon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10341477_orig.jpg?crop=351,351,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1770695500892","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10341477"},{"teacherId":10341477,"projectId":10091216,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, my students now have access to a Yamaha Harmony Director HD-300, and it has already changed the way music feels in our classroom. The first time we turned it on, there was this moment of silence—then curiosity, then excitement. As we played together, students immediately heard the difference. Chords that used to feel \"off\" suddenly locked in. You could actually see their faces change when the sound clicked into place. For many of them, it was the first time they truly understood what \"in tune\" feels like, not just what they've been told to do.\r\n\r\nNow, we use the Harmony Director every day. Whether we're tuning chorales, breaking down difficult passages, or exploring balance and blend, my students are more confident and more aware of their sound than ever before. One moment that stood out was during a recent rehearsal when a section stopped themselves mid-phrase and said, \"Wait—that doesn't match.\" That level of ownership and listening is something I've been trying to build for years, and your support helped make it happen.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, this tool is going to be central to everything we do. My students are working toward more advanced ensemble playing, deeper listening skills, and a stronger sense of musical independence. Because of you, they're not just playing notes—they're truly making music together.","fullyFundedDate":1776087144020,"projectUrl":"project/hear-better-play-better-perform-better/10091216/","projectTitle":"Hear Better. Play Better. Perform Better.","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Rendon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10341477_orig.jpg?crop=351,351,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1770695500892","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10341477"},{"teacherId":10341477,"projectId":10187536,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our students now have access to something that many musicians take for granted—consistency. These new reeds have completely changed the way students approach playing their instruments. Instead of worrying about whether their reed will work that day, they can walk into class with confidence, knowing they will get a reliable response every time they play.\r\n\r\nFrom the moment the reeds arrived, students were excited and curious. Many had never used synthetic reeds before, so we took time in class to explore them together. We compared sound, response, and durability, and students immediately noticed the difference. One of the most powerful moments came during a full ensemble rehearsal. Students who normally struggle to produce a clear, steady tone were suddenly able to play with more stability and control. The sound of the group changed almost instantly—it was more focused, more consistent, and more confident.\r\n\r\nOne student in particular had been dealing with constant frustration because their traditional reeds would warp or wear out quickly. After switching to the new reed, they were able to sustain phrases more easily and stay engaged throughout rehearsal without stopping to adjust or compensate. You could see the relief on their face. That moment wasn't just about a better reed—it was about removing a barrier that had been holding them back.\r\n\r\nThese reeds are now part of our daily classroom use. Students rely on them during warm-ups, sectionals, and full ensemble rehearsals. Because they are so consistent, we've been able to spend more time focusing on musicality—tone quality, blend, balance, and expression—rather than constantly troubleshooting equipment issues. It has allowed us to raise our expectations and push toward a higher level of performance.\r\n\r\nThe reaction from students has been overwhelmingly positive. They feel more prepared, more confident, and more motivated. For many of them, especially those who cannot regularly afford new reeds, this has been a game-changer. It levels the playing field and ensures that every student has access to a reliable setup, regardless of their financial situation.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, these reeds are helping us build toward stronger performances and more advanced musical goals. As we continue working on our current repertoire, students can focus on refining their sound and working together as an ensemble. The consistency these reeds provide means fewer interruptions and more meaningful rehearsal time. It also sets a foundation for future growth, as students develop habits and expectations that mirror those of professional musicians.\r\n\r\nYour support has done more than provide materials—it has given students stability, confidence, and a sense of pride in their playing. You've helped create an environment where students can trust their equipment, trust themselves, and focus on making music at their highest level. That impact will stay with them every time they pick up their instrument.","fullyFundedDate":1776146063493,"projectUrl":"project/reliable-reeds-reliable-musicians/10187536/","projectTitle":"Reliable Reeds - Reliable Musicians","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Rendon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10341477_orig.jpg?crop=351,351,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1770695500892","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10341477"},{"teacherId":10341477,"projectId":10187517,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, these resources have immediately become part of our daily routine in the classroom. From the moment the supplies arrived, students were excited—not just because we had \"new stuff,\" but because they understood what it meant. Many of them have struggled with instruments that don't respond properly due to a lack of maintenance, and now they finally have the tools to take care of what they play. One of the first things we did together was walk through how to properly oil valves, maintain slides, and clean instruments safely. You could see the shift right away—students became more intentional, more careful, and more invested in their sound.\r\n\r\nOne moment that really stood out was when a student who had been quietly struggling on a school-owned brass instrument used the new oils for the first time. Almost immediately, the instrument responded better, and their tone improved. The look on their face said everything—they weren't fighting the instrument anymore. That small change gave them confidence, and that confidence showed up in rehearsal that same day. Moments like that remind me that access to proper materials isn't just about maintenance—it's about equity and giving every student a fair chance to succeed.\r\n\r\nThe English horn stand has also made a meaningful impact. Instruments like that are incredibly delicate, and before this, there was always a level of stress about where and how to safely place it during rehearsals. Now, students can handle it with more confidence and care, knowing it has a secure place in the classroom. That sense of responsibility and professionalism is something we actively teach, and your support made that possible in a very real way.\r\n\r\nStudents were genuinely grateful when they saw everything laid out. It sparked conversations about how instruments work, why maintenance matters, and how professionals care for their equipment. Instead of these being \"behind-the-scenes\" tasks, students are now actively involved in the process. They take ownership, they ask questions, and they are starting to see themselves as real musicians—not just students completing an assignment.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, these resources are already supporting our current rehearsal cycle and will continue to play a role as we prepare for performances and future projects. With instruments functioning properly, we can spend more time focusing on tone quality, blend, and musical expression rather than troubleshooting mechanical issues. That means deeper learning, more meaningful rehearsals, and stronger performances.\r\n\r\nYour support has helped create a classroom where students can succeed, feel confident, and take pride in their work. You didn't just provide supplies—you helped remove barriers. You helped students hear themselves at their best. And that impact will stay with them far beyond this classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1775955221506,"projectUrl":"project/help-us-maintain-the-instruments-that-m/10187517/","projectTitle":"Help Us Maintain the Instruments That makes the Music","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Rendon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10341477_orig.jpg?crop=351,351,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1770695500892","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10341477"},{"teacherId":10341477,"projectId":10164959,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our double reed players just received their new reeds today, and the impact was immediate. As soon as students began playing on them, they noticed how similar they feel and respond compared to traditional cane reeds. That familiarity gave them an instant sense of confidence, allowing them to focus on making music instead of worrying about whether their reed would work.\r\n\r\nStudents were excited to try them right away, and many commented on how consistent and reliable they felt. One of the biggest takeaways from day one was how much they appreciated being able to clean and maintain the reeds—something that will help them keep a stable setup over time. Knowing they can depend on their equipment has already made them more comfortable playing in rehearsal.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, these reeds will be used daily as we continue developing tone, intonation, and ensemble balance. With consistent, dependable reeds, our students can build stronger habits and take more ownership of their sound. Your support has already made a difference on day one, and it will continue to impact their growth throughout the years—thank you for investing in our students.","fullyFundedDate":1774470554147,"projectUrl":"project/give-our-double-reeds-a-voice/10164959/","projectTitle":"Give Our Double Reeds a Voice","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Rendon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10341477_orig.jpg?crop=351,351,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1770695500892","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10341477"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_4012","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":1542,"numTeachers":79,"percentFrplEligible":54,"percentAsian":32,"percentBlack":5,"percentWhite":7,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":48,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":1,"percentMultiracialImputed":3,"gradesServed":"9 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":"19.5:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":76.9,"schoolId":4012,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Arroyo High School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Arroyo High School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/san-lorenzo-unified-school-district/arroyo-high-school/4012"}