{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Peterson Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":8.4,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":3402900,"projectId":9270468,"letterContent":"On behalf of the students at our school, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your incredible generosity. Your donation has transformed our library from a quiet place for reading into a vibrant hub of creativity and communication. The new podcasting equipment has sparked so much excitement, and students are already eagerly learning how to record, edit, and produce their own shows. Because of you, the library is now buzzing with collaboration as students plan episodes, write scripts, and find their unique voices. \r\n\r\nThis equipment is more than just microphones and headphones; it's a powerful tool that empowers students to share their ideas with the world.The impact of your donation extends far beyond simply making podcasts. Students are developing crucial 21st-century skills, including research, interviewing, public speaking, and digital literacy, all while exploring topics they are passionate about. They are learning to articulate their thoughts clearly, listen to their peers, and work together to create a finished product they can be proud of. These are invaluable skills that will serve them well in high school, college, and their future careers. Your support has given our students a new and exciting platform to build confidence, express themselves, and engage with their learning in a truly meaningful way. We are so grateful for your belief in our students and their potential.","fullyFundedDate":1755734235613,"projectUrl":"project/amplify-student-voices-power-up-our-pod/9270468/","projectTitle":"Amplify Student Voices: Power Up Our Podcasts!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Raffetto","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3402900_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1570417116639","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3402900"},{"teacherId":3402900,"projectId":9684302,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our library now has translating pens available for students and teachers—and the impact has been immediate and powerful.\r\n\r\nThese tools are helping students strengthen critical reading skills. With the pens, English learners can access grade-level texts without being held back by unfamiliar vocabulary. They can hear words read aloud, see instant translations, and learn how to use context clues to build understanding. Instead of avoiding challenging books, students are gaining confidence and practicing strategies that make them more independent readers.\r\n\r\nIn our library and classrooms, reading now looks more inclusive. Students who once felt frustrated or left out during silent reading are now able to sit side by side with their peers, using the pens to access the same materials. Teachers and I can focus on deeper conversations about theme, character, and meaning—knowing that language barriers are being bridged in real time.\r\n\r\nSome students are especially thriving with this technology. One sixth grader who had been hesitant to check out books is now proudly reading every day, using the pen to work through vocabulary. Another student, who only recently arrived in the U.S., is able to participate in group discussions about a shared novel because she can use the pen to follow along with the same text as her classmates. Moments like these remind us that reading is about belonging as much as it is about comprehension.\r\n\r\nYour support has given our students not just a tool, but a bridge to confidence, equity, and joy in reading. Thank you for helping us create a space where every child can grow as a reader.","fullyFundedDate":1757549723174,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-students-with-disabilities-a/9684302/","projectTitle":"Empowering Students With Disabilities and Language Barriers Through Assistive Translation.","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Raffetto","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3402900_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1570417116639","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3402900"},{"teacherId":9780575,"projectId":9265227,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your donation for flexible seating options for my classroom. As we know there are many diverse needs in a classroom, both for individual students and for the physical space. Your donation of the stools, and inflatable cushions has been incredibly helpful this year. The students have been able to use the inflatable seats when working in small groups, and it allows them not to have to sit on the floor.\r\n\r\nThe stools have been incredibly versatile, allowing students to move when they need to charge chromebooks. It has also been very helpful for myself and our resource aides to be able to easily pull a stool up to the table groups and help students when they need support. Thank you so much for your generous donations!","fullyFundedDate":1745467159898,"projectUrl":"project/flexible-seating-for-a-flexible-classroo/9265227/","projectTitle":"Flexible Seating for a Flexible Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hull","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9780575"},{"teacherId":9823765,"projectId":9092115,"letterContent":"I want to express my sincere gratitude for your generous support in helping us organize classroom materials for our special education students. Your donation and effort have made a significant impact on both the learning environment and the daily routines of our students.\r\n\r\nWith your help, we were able to sort, label, and store materials in a way that makes them more accessible and manageable for our students. This level of organization not only supports their learning but also helps foster independence, structure, and confidence in the classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1739569633576,"projectUrl":"project/build-organization-skills/9092115/","projectTitle":"Build Organization Skills","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Deepali","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9823765"},{"teacherId":9823765,"projectId":9186733,"letterContent":"I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for your generous donation to our special education classroom. Your support has made a meaningful difference in the lives of our students, helping them access tools and resources that encourage growth, independence, and confidence.\r\n\r\nThe supplies you provided are already being put to great use — from sensory tools to learning materials, each item plays a crucial role in helping our students thrive in their own unique ways. Seeing their smiles and engagement as they explore these new resources has been nothing short of inspiring.","fullyFundedDate":1744236841487,"projectUrl":"project/motivation-for-students/9186733/","projectTitle":"Motivation for Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Deepali","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9823765"},{"teacherId":1678843,"projectId":8297229,"letterContent":"Thanks to your support, our classroom has been transformed into a creative hub where students are excited to learn and explore design. The Cricut Joy Xtra and Epson Printer have introduced students to real-world design tools, allowing them to engage in hands-on projects that teach color theory, branding, and collaboration.\r\n\r\nStudents are especially thrilled by the ability to see their digital ideas come to life as physical creations—stickers, logos, and classroom décor. This sense of ownership has sparked pride and boosted confidence.\r\n\r\nOne student, who often hesitated to participate in class, now leads her group's design work and has even started helping others learn to use the Cricut software. This technology isn't just teaching design—it's helping students discover their voice and creativity. Thank you for making this possible!","fullyFundedDate":1723008032951,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-creativity-tools-for-innovat/8297229/","projectTitle":"Empowering Creativity: Tools for Innovation","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Wacht","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1678843_orig.png?crop=398,398,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1693109565755","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mswacht"},{"teacherId":6986474,"projectId":8856903,"letterContent":"What an impact the microscopes have made in the science classroom, thanks to the generous donation.\r\n\r\nStudents looked at elodea under the microscope and observed the rectangular structure of plant cells. When we increased magnification, the students could even see little chloroplasts zipping about the cell.\r\n\r\nStudents also studied the organisms in samples of pond water. The excitement and joy was palpable as students discovered a whole new invisible world.\r\n\r\nThe use of microscopes helps explore structure and function of biological organisms. Students see a variety of plant and animal specimens under the microscope, make careful observations, and draw scientific diagrams of what they see under magnification.\r\n\r\nThank you, donor Young Sheldon, again for your generous help in purchasing microscopes for Peterson Middle School.","fullyFundedDate":1731515730034,"projectUrl":"project/expanding-scientific-inquiry-through-mic/8856903/","projectTitle":"Expanding Scientific Inquiry Through Microscopes in Classrooms","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Stennis","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6986474_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1703350248319","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6986474"},{"teacherId":4602121,"projectId":8856916,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation that made our classroom microscopes possible! These tools opened up an entirely new world for my sixth-grade students—one filled with awe, discovery, and curiosity.\r\n\r\nWith the microscopes, students explored a drop of pond water and were thrilled to find tiny, wiggling life forms like tardigrades. They examined Elodea plant cells, discovered the structure of their own cheek cells, and—perhaps most exciting of all—were given the freedom to create slides from anything they were curious about. Their voices would ring out with wonder every time someone found something new, often calling classmates over with an enthusiastic, \"You have to see this!\"\r\n\r\nStudents constantly talked about how cool their slides were and how amazed they were to see what's normally invisible to the naked eye. These microscopes didn't just support a science lesson—they sparked real scientific thinking, imagination, and joy.\r\n\r\nThank you for giving them this opportunity to learn in such a hands-on and meaningful way. Your support made our classroom feel like a real laboratory, and we are so grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1731515729831,"projectUrl":"project/expanding-scientific-inquiry-through-mic/8856916/","projectTitle":"Expanding Scientific Inquiry Through Microscopy in Our Classrooms","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Teng","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4602121"},{"teacherId":9792107,"projectId":8856910,"letterContent":"Your gift of microscopes, made possible through DonorsChoose, has opened up a world of discovery for our sixth-grade students at Peterson Middle School Room E6. Your support is making a real difference in their education. \r\n\r\nMy students and I wish to express our sincere gratitude for your contribution of high-quality microscopes. These tools have significantly enhanced our science curriculum, enabling students to engage in detailed observations of biological specimens around them. The students have been amazed by everything from investigating the differences and similarities of plant and animal cells to the diversity of pond life. These hands-on explorations have sparked a genuine love for science for my students, and I am personally thrilled to see their excitement as they discover the microscopic world. The practical application of these microscopes has fostered a deeper understanding of scientific concepts in my students. \r\n\r\nYour generosity has laid the foundation for future scientific exploration in our classroom. We look forward to utilizing these microscopes for more in-depth lab activities that will cultivate critical thinking and observation skills. Thank you for your support and helping empower my students!","fullyFundedDate":1731516666502,"projectUrl":"project/enhancing-science-education-with-microsc/8856910/","projectTitle":"Enhancing Science Education with Microscopes","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hilario-Pigg","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9792107"},{"teacherId":8567832,"projectId":8856923,"letterContent":"Peterson \r\n2- 12-25 \r\n\r\n\r\nOn behalf of room F8, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to you for your generous donation of microscopes through DonorsChoose. Your support has made an incredible difference in the lives of our students. \r\n\r\nThanks to your contribution, our students now have access to high-quality microscopes that have greatly enhanced their learning experience in science class. They are able to observe biological specimens and other microscopic details that were previously beyond their reach. This hands-on experience has sparked a deeper curiosity about the world around them and helped foster a stronger connection to the concepts they are studying.\r\n\r\nOur students have already begun using the microscopes to explore cell structures, and examine plant tissues. The ability to visualize these concepts has brought their lessons to life in ways that words alone could not. \r\n\r\nLooking forward, we are excited to continue incorporating the microscopes into our curriculum. The next steps include organizing more in-depth lab sessions where students will research various biological systems, conduct experiments, and develop critical thinking and observation skills. \r\n\r\nYour generosity is helping to create a lasting impact on our students, empowering them to explore the wonders of science with the tools they need to succeed. We are truly grateful for your support, and we look forward to sharing even more student achievements in the future. \r\n\r\nThank you once again for your kindness and commitment to fostering educational opportunities. \r\n\r\nSincerely, \r\nShari Giacomini\r\nSpecial Education Teacher\r\nPeterson Middle School","fullyFundedDate":1731515730231,"projectUrl":"project/expanding-scientific-inquiry-through-mic/8856923/","projectTitle":"Expanding Scientific Inquiry Through Microscopy in Our Classrooms","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. G","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8567832"},{"teacherId":3402900,"projectId":9008731,"letterContent":"Your generous donations of coloring pages, a button maker, magnets, board games, and other supplies have had a profound impact on our Skittles (LGBTIA+ Club), fostering a stronger sense of community, increasing membership, and providing a positive counter-narrative to homophobia.\r\n\r\n* **Building Community & Increasing Membership:** The coloring pages, board games, and other creative activities you provided have created a welcoming and inclusive space for students. These activities offer a relaxed and fun way for students to connect with one another, build friendships, and find support. This has been instrumental in attracting new members, as students see Skittles as a safe and engaging place to belong. The button maker has been especially popular, allowing students to express their identities and create personalized symbols of solidarity, further strengthening the sense of belonging and attracting even more members.\r\n\r\n* **Promoting Inclusivity:** Your contributions have helped create an environment where all students feel welcome and accepted. The diverse range of activities caters to different interests and allows students to participate in ways that feel comfortable for them. This inclusivity is crucial for creating a safe space where students can be themselves without fear of judgment.\r\n\r\n* **Counteracting Homophobia:** By providing resources that celebrate diversity and promote positive interactions, your donations directly counteract the negative effects of homophobia. The vibrant and welcoming atmosphere fostered by these activities sends a powerful message of acceptance and support. The ability for students to create and display buttons and magnets with affirming messages also serves as a visible counter-narrative to prejudice and hate. These small acts of expression can have a significant impact on creating a more inclusive and accepting school environment for all students. Your support has helped Skittles become a beacon of hope and acceptance, offering a vital source of support and community for LGBTIA+ students and their allies.","fullyFundedDate":1735338401479,"projectUrl":"project/support-our-skittles/9008731/","projectTitle":"Support our Skittles","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Raffetto","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3402900_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1570417116639","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3402900"},{"teacherId":3402900,"projectId":8908986,"letterContent":"Giving 8th-grade students access to *Stamped: Young Readers Edition* in both English and Spanish has demonstrably enriched their learning experience and fostered deeper engagement with complex social issues. Donors' support has directly translated into positive impacts across multiple areas of student development:\r\n\r\n* **Increased Participation:** Providing access to the text, particularly in students' native language, has significantly boosted participation in reading activities. Students feel more confident and comfortable engaging with the material when they can access it in a language they understand deeply. This leads to more active involvement and a greater willingness to share their perspectives.\r\n\r\n* **Enhanced Class Discussions:** The availability of *Stamped* has sparked richer and more nuanced class discussions. Students are better equipped to analyze the historical context presented in the book and connect it to contemporary issues. The dual-language availability ensures that all students, regardless of their primary language, can contribute meaningfully to these conversations, creating a more inclusive and dynamic learning environment.\r\n\r\n* **Improved Socratic Seminars:** Socratic Seminars, which require students to engage in thoughtful dialogue and critical thinking, have benefited immensely. *Stamped* provides a powerful foundation for these discussions, giving students a common text to reference and analyze. The book's exploration of identity, power, and social justice provides fertile ground for meaningful inquiry and respectful debate. Students are more prepared to formulate arguments, challenge assumptions, and listen critically to their peers.\r\n\r\n* **Stronger Assignments:** Access to *Stamped* has resulted in higher quality student work across a range of assignments. Students demonstrate a deeper understanding of the themes explored in the book and are able to apply their learning to various writing and analytical tasks. The book serves as a springboard for creative expression and encourages students to think critically about the world around them.\r\n\r\n* **Empowered Civic Engagement:** Perhaps most importantly, *Stamped* has empowered students to take ownership of their learning and become active participants in their communities. The book's focus on social justice inspires students to identify issues they care about and develop their own Civic Engagement projects. Donors' contributions directly support these projects, enabling students to translate their classroom learning into real-world action. By giving them access to this important text, you are helping to cultivate informed, engaged, and empowered citizens.","fullyFundedDate":1733269025591,"projectUrl":"project/motivating-students-to-be-civic-leaders/8908986/","projectTitle":"Motivating Students to Be Civic Leaders","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Raffetto","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3402900_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1570417116639","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3402900"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_4979","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":741,"numTeachers":38,"percentFrplEligible":23,"percentAsian":45,"percentBlack":1,"percentWhite":18,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":27,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"19.5:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":false,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":91.6,"schoolId":4979,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Peterson Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Peterson Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/santa-clara-unified-school-district/peterson-middle-school/4979"}