{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Kathleen MacDonald High School","outOfStateSupporters":15.8,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":2942299,"projectId":9310841,"letterContent":"The materials provided have had a significant and positive impact on students' ability to engage confidently and successfully in their assessments. Having enough chargers readily available has prevented unnecessary interruptions, allowing students to stay focused on their work without the worry of their devices dying at critical moments. Extension cords have offered students the flexibility to choose comfortable working spaces anywhere in the room, reducing stress and helping them remain settled and attentive. Noise-canceling headphones have greatly improved concentration for students who are easily distracted, creating a quieter, more controlled environment where they can fully process test instructions and questions.\r\n\r\nHeadphones with microphones have been especially valuable for assessments that require listening or speaking components, ensuring that students can participate clearly and accurately without technical limitations. Additionally, the document camera has supported visual learners and students with disabilities by displaying instructions, examples, and key information in a clear, accessible way. Together, these tools have created a calm, equitable, and well-equipped testing space where students can perform at their best. By minimizing distractions and preventing technical barriers, these supplies ensure that every student has fair access to the resources they need to demonstrate their true abilities.","fullyFundedDate":1746664605600,"projectUrl":"project/power-up-their-potential/9310841/","projectTitle":"Power Up Their Potential!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Kurbiel","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2942299_orig.jpg?crop=288,288,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1724785809889","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2942299"},{"teacherId":2942299,"projectId":9264393,"letterContent":"The accommodations and resources in this room have had a meaningful, positive impact on students' ability to fully engage in their assessments. Students using the Texas Instruments TI-30XIIS Scientific Calculator have shown increased confidence in solving multi-step math and science problems, while reliable pencils and Pentel Hi-Polymer erasers help them work cleanly and efficiently without frustration. Math Hundred Boards have supported students who struggle with foundational number concepts, allowing them to approach factoring, multiplication, and division with greater independence. The Reading Pen has been especially beneficial for English Language Learners and students with reading challenges, ensuring they can access and understand their assessment questions. Sensory fidgets and the Time Timer have helped students stay focused, regulate their attention, and manage their time more effectively, resulting in calmer and more productive testing experiences.\r\n\r\nIn addition to academic gains, students have benefited socially and emotionally from the thoughtful environment these supplies help create. Rainbow Scratch Paper has provided a motivating and creative outlet for early finishers, reinforcing positive behavior and reducing anxiety. Lysol Disinfectant Wipes have contributed to a healthier classroom, helping reduce illness-related absences so students can learn consistently. Collectively, these tools not only meet students' accommodation needs but also help them feel supported, confident, and capable. By providing the right resources, we have seen students with IEPs become more willing to participate, take risks, and demonstrate their true academic abilities—reflecting our commitment to equitable, meaningful success for every learner.","fullyFundedDate":1755738877758,"projectUrl":"project/the-accommodations-hub/9264393/","projectTitle":"The Accommodations Hub","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Kurbiel","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2942299_orig.jpg?crop=288,288,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1724785809889","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2942299"},{"teacherId":237177,"projectId":9558252,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our AP Psychology project. Your contribution brought hands-on learning to life in a way that simply wouldn't have been possible otherwise. My students were thrilled to dive into our new materials, and their excitement has been contagious in our classroom every day since the project was funded.\r\n\r\nOne of the biggest highlights has been the perception goggles. Students eagerly experimented with them during our sensation and perception unit, and the experience sparked meaningful conversations about how the brain interprets the world. The brain-themed coloring books quickly became another favorite. Beyond being fun, they helped students review complex structures and functions in a visual, memorable way that supported both comprehension and retention.\r\n\r\nThe organizational dividers have also made a noticeable difference. Students now have a structured way to keep notes, vocabulary, and practice materials easily accessible—something especially valuable in a fast-paced AP course. Your generosity has helped create a more engaging, organized, and enriching learning environment, and we are truly grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1755710742701,"projectUrl":"project/psych-for-success/9558252/","projectTitle":"Psych for Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Phillips","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp237177_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1523499953596","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/237177"},{"teacherId":9170622,"projectId":9639000,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom and helping to fund the drunk goggles for our forensic science lessons. This project has been one of the most impactful experiences my students have had this year.\r\n\r\nWith your help, students were able to simulate the effects of different BAC levels and drug impairment in a safe and controlled environment. They had a lot of fun attempting a classic \"walk-the-line\" test and even struggled with simple tasks like picking up objects or writing while wearing the goggles. The laughter quickly turned into meaningful reflection as students realized just how dramatically impairment affects coordination, judgment, and reaction time.\r\n\r\nMany students shared that the experience felt like a core memory—something they will carry with them beyond the classroom. They weren't just told about the dangers of impaired driving; they felt the challenges firsthand. I am confident that this activity helped them better understand the real-life consequences of overconsumption and unsafe choices.\r\n\r\nThanks to your generosity, my students are not only gaining academic knowledge in forensic science but also important life lessons that could one day keep them and others safe. Your support has made this possible, and we are deeply grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1757549728504,"projectUrl":"project/seeing-the-risks-goggles-to-teach-alcoh/9639000/","projectTitle":"Seeing the Risks: Goggles to Teach Alcohol & Drug Abuse","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Cheng","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9170622_orig.png?crop=398,398,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1691546344928","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9170622"},{"teacherId":9170622,"projectId":9575165,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity in helping us bring a Silhouette machine into our classroom. Your support has already transformed the way my students experience science.\r\n\r\nWith this new tool, we've been able to create colorful, customized manipulatives that bring abstract concepts to life. For example, we designed foam dice for a carbon cycle activity, allowing students to \"roll\" their way through the journey of a carbon atom and see how it cycles through different systems. We also made peppered moth cutouts to simulate pre- and post-industrial environments, helping students visually explore natural selection and adaptation. Most recently, we've created molecule manipulatives so students can actively demonstrate processes like hydrolysis and dehydration synthesis, deepening their understanding of biochemistry through hands-on modeling.\r\n\r\nThe Silhouette machine has also helped with classroom organization by producing labels and visuals that make supplies easier to find and return. This has given students more independence in managing their learning space, freeing up energy and focus for science investigations.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, your gift has made science more accessible and engaging. Students are better able to grasp content because the manipulatives provide clear visual cues and opportunities for active participation. They are more enthusiastic about learning, and it's thanks to your support.\r\n\r\nOn behalf of my students, thank you for investing in their education. The impact of your generosity is already being felt in our classroom and will continue for years to come.","fullyFundedDate":1755738877923,"projectUrl":"project/crafting-for-science-making-manipulativ/9575165/","projectTitle":"Crafting for Science: Making Manipulatives for Hands-On Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Cheng","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9170622_orig.png?crop=398,398,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1691546344928","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9170622"},{"teacherId":9481854,"projectId":9350818,"letterContent":"When the fidget spinners arrived, my students could hardly believe they were for them! The excitement on their faces was priceless as they opened the package and each carefully chose one. Many of my students struggle with focus and self-regulation, and these tools immediately gave them a sense of ownership and calm. One student even said, \"Now I don't have to worry about bothering anyone when I'm trying to think.\" Moments like that remind me how powerful small resources can be in making a big difference.\r\n\r\nWe are already using the spinners daily during independent work, reading, and small-group lessons. I've noticed that students are more settled, less distracted, and better able to stay engaged in their tasks. During a recent writing project, several students used their spinners while brainstorming, which helped them stay grounded long enough to get their ideas on paper. What used to be moments of frustration have now turned into opportunities for focus and growth.","fullyFundedDate":1755738877499,"projectUrl":"project/helping-hands-fidget-spinners-for-focus/9350818/","projectTitle":"Helping Hands: Fidget Spinners for Focus in Our Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Codera","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9481854_orig.png?crop=2000,2000,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1709152526689","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9481854"},{"teacherId":2409999,"projectId":9292789,"letterContent":"We have a wonderful collection of books to begin our journey into journalism! There is such a wealth and range of titles that we are sure to develop an excellent understanding of the field and its history and issues. \r\nStudents are reading every day in class as they prepare to tell the stories of their community here at MacDonald High School. \r\nWe received such a variety of books that any student in our inclusion class can access learning about journalism, whether they are struggling readers or advanced. \r\nToday students complete their review of the collection and choose a book to start with. They have so many to choose from! We are very lucky to start with such a solid foundation. \r\nThank you, thank you, thank you for supporting us with a strong start to our inaugural year of Journalism at MHS!","fullyFundedDate":1746653996039,"projectUrl":"project/journalism-library/9292789/","projectTitle":"Journalism Library","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Look Henry","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2409999_orig.png?crop=796,796,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1745875316654","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2409999"},{"teacherId":9176523,"projectId":9450477,"letterContent":"When our new JBL speaker arrived, the energy in our PE classes instantly changed. Students were so excited to walk into the gym and hear music filling the space as they stretched, warmed up, and prepared for activities. Having clear, quality sound has made it easier to run lessons, lead group workouts, and keep students motivated throughout class. Music has become a powerful tool to set the tone and build excitement for every activity.\r\n\r\nOne of the best moments came during a fitness circuit when students started singing along to the playlist while encouraging each other to keep pushing through the stations. The speaker didn't just add music—it created a sense of community and fun that made the workout feel less like work and more like a shared experience. Students immediately noticed the difference and asked if we could have music during every class.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, the JBL speaker will continue to be part of our daily routine in PE. We plan to use it not only for warm-ups and fitness activities but also for games, tournaments, and special events to keep energy high and students engaged. This donation has brought a new level of excitement and motivation to our program, and we are so grateful for the positive impact it has already made.","fullyFundedDate":1755738878210,"projectUrl":"project/amplify-the-energy-a-music-speaker-for/9450477/","projectTitle":"Amplify the Energy: A Music Speaker for Active PE Classes!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Vasquez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9176523"},{"teacherId":9176523,"projectId":9450491,"letterContent":"When our new frisbee golf sets arrived, the excitement in the room was immediate. Students could hardly wait to get outside and try them out. We introduced the sets during our physical education class, where students not only practiced their throws and accuracy but also learned the rules and strategy behind the game. It was incredible to watch students who might not usually feel engaged during traditional sports light up with enthusiasm as they took on the challenge of frisbee golf.\r\n\r\nOne of my favorite moments was seeing students work together to set up their own course across the field, debating which spots would make the best \"holes.\" Their creativity, teamwork, and energy showed me that this activity gave them more than just exercise—it gave them a chance to problem-solve, collaborate, and support each other. Many students mentioned that they had never played frisbee golf before, and now they are eager to keep practicing and even teach their families how to play.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we plan to use the frisbee golf sets regularly throughout our PE curriculum, rotating them in with other activities so students continue to build their skills. The sets will also allow us to create mini-tournaments later in the year, giving students another chance to showcase their progress. Your generosity has opened the door to a new sport for many of our students, and it has already sparked joy, teamwork, and healthy activity in our program. Thank you for making this possible.","fullyFundedDate":1755738878417,"projectUrl":"project/flying-discs-focused-students-a-new-sp/9450491/","projectTitle":"Flying Discs, Focused Students: A New Spin on PE","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Vasquez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9176523"},{"teacherId":9176523,"projectId":8926524,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous donation, our PE program has been energized—literally! The addition of scooters has opened up a whole new world of movement, fun, and creative fitness for our students. We've already introduced them in team relays, obstacle courses, and cooperative games where students must communicate, strategize, and support each other to succeed. One of our favorite activities involved a \"Scooter Capture the Flag\" game that not only got students moving but laughing, cheering, and working together. For many of them, it was their first time using this kind of equipment, and it instantly became a highlight of their week.\r\n\r\nWhen the scooters first arrived, the students' faces lit up with excitement. Several shouted, \"No way—we get to use those?!\" It was a moment of pure joy that reminded all of us how impactful hands-on, dynamic equipment can be in physical education. Students who may not always feel confident in traditional sports found themselves fully engaged, moving with enthusiasm, and encouraging their classmates. That sense of inclusion and energy is exactly what we strive for in our PE program.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we're incorporating the scooters into a unit focused on movement patterns, spatial awareness, and teamwork. These new tools help us reach diverse learners and promote physical literacy in a fun and accessible way. Your support has truly made a difference, thank you for helping us move forward, together!","fullyFundedDate":1743004987990,"projectUrl":"project/scooters-for-our-new-school-and-pe-progr/8926524/","projectTitle":"Scooters for Our New School and PE Program","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Vasquez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9176523"},{"teacherId":9692945,"projectId":8804544,"letterContent":"I am extremely grateful for your generous donation, which made a meaningful impact on the mental wellness of students at my school.\r\n\r\nThanks to your support, we were able to purchase snacks, games, fidgets, journals, and crafting materials that played a key role in promoting mental health across our campus. These items were used to host a series of school-wide events focused on mindfulness, kindness, and self-reflection—critical skills that help our students manage stress and build emotional resilience.\r\n\r\nHighlights included:\r\n\r\nMindfulness Activities: Students crafted bracelets and created paper flowers, allowing them to slow down, be present, and connect with their creativity.\r\n\r\nKindness and Connection: Through journaling events, game events and community circles, students reflected on their emotions and learned to share kindness with one another.\r\n\r\nCoping Tools: Fidgets were distributed during discussions about stress and mental health, giving students practical tools to manage anxious feelings. Snacks were also made available through our Wellness Center, offering comfort and care during challenging moments.\r\n\r\nYour generosity gave our students the chance to explore wellness in creative and accessible ways. Many expressed how much they appreciated the opportunity to take part in these activities.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our mission and for helping us nurture a more mindful, compassionate, and resilient student community. We are truly grateful for your partnership.","fullyFundedDate":1736189510690,"projectUrl":"project/promote-mental-health-with-high-school-t/8804544/","projectTitle":"Promote Mental Health With High School Teens","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Rosa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9692945_orig.jpg?crop=3942,3942,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1724696629463","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9692945"},{"teacherId":9481854,"projectId":8871637,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your incredible generosity! Because of your kind donations, we were able to bring futsal to our campus—and the excitement was immediate.\r\n\r\nThe moment my students saw the futsal balls and goals set up, their eyes lit up. Some of them had only played soccer in a casual setting, and for many, this was their first time experiencing futsal—fast-paced, skill-focused, and full of energy. They couldn't wait to get out on the court and try it themselves.\r\n\r\nWe've incorporated the new equipment into our PE curriculum and after-school programs, and it's already making a big impact. Students are building teamwork, communication, and coordination skills in every session. One of our current projects is a student-led \"Mini Futsal League,\" where small teams organize matches, create team names, and even track stats to practice math skills in a real-world context.\r\n\r\nThanks to you, our students are more engaged, active, and confident—and they're having fun while learning. We can't wait to keep growing their skills and maybe even host a school-wide tournament in the near future!","fullyFundedDate":1736826630407,"projectUrl":"project/futsal-for-fun/8871637/","projectTitle":"Futsal For Fun!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Codera","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9481854_orig.png?crop=2000,2000,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1709152526689","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9481854"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_130821","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":209,"numTeachers":null,"percentFrplEligible":38,"percentAsian":31,"percentBlack":1,"percentWhite":13,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":46,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"9 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":null,"demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":84.2,"schoolId":130821,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Kathleen MacDonald High School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Kathleen MacDonald High School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/santa-clara-unified-school-district/kathleen-macdonald-high-school/130821"}
Join the 95 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Kathleen MacDonald High School is
an urban public school
in San Jose, California that is part of Santa Clara Unified School District.
It serves 209 students
in grades 9 - 12.
Its teachers have had 66 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Boost support for our school's classrooms. Share this page with friends and family who want to make a difference. If you're a teacher, sign up to get started!
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. Each classroom request for funding was created by a classroom teacher and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
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
78%
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.
Kathleen MacDonald High School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Dec 5, 2025
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.
Kathleen MacDonald High School
$47,002
raised using DonorsChoose
66
projects
funded
22
teachers
funded
95
donors
10
projects
for
basic supplies
12
projects for
technology
7
projects for
books
6
projects
for
art supplies
Kathleen MacDonald High School has received support from
80 individuals from California and
15 individuals out-of-state.