{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Hawking Steam Charter School 2","outOfStateSupporters":19.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9278032,"projectId":9480074,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support towards our project! The day our Cricut machine arrived, our Kindergarten team was so excited to begin using it. We've already used it to make beautiful displays for our bulletin boards and custom stickers for students to enhance their artwork. The Cricut is quickly becoming one of my favorite teacher tools!\r\n\r\nYour donation continues to make an impact as we prepare for our upcoming Science Expo on Farms and the holiday season. My team and I are excited to continue using it throughout the school year to bring creativity to our classes! Thank you again for helping bring hands-on learning to our school!","fullyFundedDate":1757084029948,"projectUrl":"project/a-cricut-for-creative-classrooms/9480074/","projectTitle":"A Cricut for Creative Classrooms","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. King","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9278032_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y115&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754603687324","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9278032"},{"teacherId":9053904,"projectId":8731514,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my kindergarteners have been fully immersed in hands-on STEAM learning this season! The new resources brought our science lessons to life. My students used them during our butterfly observation unit, during weather investigations, and during our STEAM centers. One of my favorite moments was when the butterflies emerged from their chrysalises—my students gathered around with wide eyes, whispering \"Wow!\" and asking thoughtful questions. Having proper materials helped them record what they noticed, compare changes, and talk about living things with confidence.\r\n\r\nYour support transformed our room into a true STEAM lab. The students used tools to explore weather patterns, test materials, observe plant growth, and document what they learned. They took their roles as scientists very seriously—carefully sketching, predicting, and sharing their ideas. The excitement on their faces when they first saw everything set up was priceless; many said, \"We look like real scientists!\" This sense of pride would not have been possible without you.","fullyFundedDate":1726674927405,"projectUrl":"project/hands-brain-and-heart-ready-to-learn/8731514/","projectTitle":"Hands, Brain, And Heart Ready To Learn!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Aranibar","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9053904_orig.jpg?crop=1242,1242,x0,y298&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1684455737810","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-aranibar"},{"teacherId":6562664,"projectId":9511064,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our classroom. We've already begun using the new resources, and they've made a meaningful difference in our daily learning. My students have been using the kinetic sand and bingo daubers into a hands-on project where they work in small groups to explore art in deeper, more interactive ways. One of my favorite moments so far was watching a group huddle together, excitedly discovering how the new sand tools helped them understand a concept that had previously felt challenging.\r\nWhen my students first saw the materials, their faces absolutely lit up. Some gasped, some clapped, and a few immediately started imagining all the things they could create and learn. Their excitement quickly turned into focused curiosity, and I've seen a noticeable boost in engagement and confidence ever since.\r\nThanks to you, our classroom feels more vibrant and empowered. As we move forward, students will be using these resources to build on their current project—expanding their ideas, collaborating more effectively, and applying what they've learned in meaningful, real-world ways. They're eager to keep exploring, and I can't wait to see how far they'll go with the support you've made possible.\r\nThank you again for investing in our students and believing in their potential. Your contribution has truly opened new doors for them.","fullyFundedDate":1755691034236,"projectUrl":"project/choice-based-art-materials/9511064/","projectTitle":"Choice Based Art Materials","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Rourke","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6562664"},{"teacherId":8801546,"projectId":9599636,"letterContent":"My students were thrilled to receive the butterfly kit coupon, and they can't wait for us to order the kit and observe the life cycle in real time. Even before the butterflies arrive, they have been exploring life cycles with the plant kit, watching seeds grow and change right before their eyes. They've been carefully recording observations and comparing growth stages, asking thoughtful questions, and making predictions about what will happen next. Seeing living science in action has sparked curiosity and excitement across all four classrooms.\r\n\r\nThe insect life cycle models have also been a huge hit! Students are using them to explore and compare the stages of butterflies, beetles, and other insects, helping them connect real-world observations to scientific concepts. These hands-on tools have encouraged teamwork, discussion, and critical thinking, as students explain their observations to classmates and practice using science vocabulary.\r\n\r\nOnce the butterfly kit arrives, students will follow the larvae through each stage of metamorphosis, continuing their observations and reflections. They will document the changes, make diagrams, and compare the butterfly life cycle to the plants and insect models they've already studied. Your generosity has given our students meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that bring science to life in exciting and unforgettable ways.","fullyFundedDate":1755690525176,"projectUrl":"project/butterflies-for-budding-scientists/9599636/","projectTitle":"Butterflies for Budding Scientists","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lawrence","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8801546_orig.jpg?crop=1512,1512,x201,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690604433527","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8801546"},{"teacherId":8801546,"projectId":9599589,"letterContent":"Thank you again for bringing these wonderful books into our classroom. With these new texts, students are learning how to discuss characters deeply, make predictions, and support their ideas with evidence. Book clubs have allowed us to practice accountable talk, build vocabulary, and strengthen overall reading fluency in a fun way.\r\n\r\nStudents connect in small groups, books in hand, discussing favorite moments, talking through tricky parts, and connecting big ideas together. Students in these groups are engaged and the off-task discussion is minimized. \r\n\r\nSeveral students who were once hesitant readers have especially blossomed. One student who rarely participated now eagerly leads her group's conversations, and another who struggled with stamina proudly finished his first chapter book series. These moments are happening because of your generosity, and we are so grateful for the confidence, curiosity, and joy you've helped spark in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1755706122366,"projectUrl":"project/3rd-grade-book-club/9599589/","projectTitle":"3rd Grade Book Club","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lawrence","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8801546_orig.jpg?crop=1512,1512,x201,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690604433527","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8801546"},{"teacherId":7631379,"projectId":9589332,"letterContent":"Unboxing these resources was incredibly exciting for my students--and myself. I hadn't yet told them what my plans were for our Expo projects, and so taking out the arts and crafts materials was the perfect opener for those conversations. I reminded them about how our first Expo theme involves the ocean and we talked about the animals that live in the deepest parts of the ocean and how they are fluorescent and glow. I explained that they will get to paint and create those sea creatures with the neon paints and paper that had just arrived. My students were squealing with delight!\r\n\r\nI then told them about how in the spring, for our second Expo, we would be making models of the different planets using an art technique called papier mache. I explained that the glue would be essential for that project, as well as the paints. My students haven't yet tried papier mache, but so many of them were intrigued about learning a new crafting style.\r\n\r\nFinally, and with thanks to the quick funding of this project, we were able to have a class party as a reward for good behavior. Students chose to make slime, which required the clear glue and the glitter glue for fun colors. It was such a fun time! Students were stretching, swinging, and playing with each other's slime and building fun, healthy relationships while developing their fine motor skills. \r\n\r\nI am thrilled to be able to offer this crafty group the abundance of art opportunities these supplies provided. Thank you for helping to make this happen for my students.","fullyFundedDate":1755690812386,"projectUrl":"project/crafty-classroom-supplies/9589332/","projectTitle":"Crafty Classroom Supplies","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Lara","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7631379_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y61&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723087550844","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7631379"},{"teacherId":6562664,"projectId":9318557,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity. My students are so excited to use their new art materials to start the school year and I am so grateful to you for helping me provide them. The students were ecstatic to see the new kwik stix and dry erase markers, as those items tend to dry up during the year. \r\n\r\nStudents will be using Kwik Stix all year. So far this year students have worked on projects illustrating their name, lines, and self portraits. Students also use them to show their knowledge between warm and cool colors. They also love the oil pastels. Giving them options of materials is important and I love that I am able to provide different mediums. They also love the dry erase markers to practice drawing before committing to paper.\r\n\r\nStudents are looking forward to using the tacky glue to create mosaics using discarded crayons from teachers. They will also be using the exacto knives to create collages using magazines.","fullyFundedDate":1746640908376,"projectUrl":"project/amazing-art-arsenal/9318557/","projectTitle":"Amazing Art Arsenal","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Rourke","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6562664"},{"teacherId":6562664,"projectId":9196809,"letterContent":"When the box of art supplies arrived brimming with origami paper, Picasso magnetic cubes, Sharpies, a cardboard cutter, and even Pictionary, our classroom buzzed with excitement. Students crowded around the table, touching the colorful papers, clicking the magnetic cubes together, and imagining all the creative possibilities.\r\n\r\nStudents used the Picasso cubes to build 3D structures. The cardboard cutter allowed us to safely cut boxes up to use in indefinite ways. And Pictionary? It's quickly become a favorite way to warm up our creativity and laugh together before diving into bigger projects.\r\n\r\nOne of my students beamed, saying, \"It feels like we have a real art studio now!\" These materials have opened the door to new lessons in color, form, and design while giving my students the confidence to experiment and take risks with their art.\r\n\r\nNext, we'll be exploring geometric shapes through sculpture, combining math and art in a way that's both challenging and exciting. Your generosity has filled our studio with inspiration, joy, and opportunity—and for that, we are truly grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1742918984348,"projectUrl":"project/hands-on-engagement-in-the-art-room/9196809/","projectTitle":"Hands On Engagement in the Art Room","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Rourke","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6562664"},{"teacherId":8502753,"projectId":7765214,"letterContent":"My class truly appreciates the new addition to our classroom! The new shelf has made such a difference in our classroom routine. Students now have a place to put their folder and home work in the morning when they come to class. They have a designated spot in the classroom for any completed work or projects that they will take home. \r\n\r\nThe new shelf has also affected my teaching routine in a positive way. Now I do not have to help students pack up at the end of the day since the shelf gives them more independence. This gives me extra learning time in my schedule. I also have a piece of mind that my classroom looks and feels more organized. \r\n\r\nI truly appreciate your support in making my classroom a more organized and better learning environment for my students!","fullyFundedDate":1694031071750,"projectUrl":"project/organization-and-routine-for-a-kindergar/7765214/","projectTitle":"Organization and Routine for A Kindergarten Classroom!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Belury","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8502753_orig.jpg?crop=1536,1536,x491,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1655617129552","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8502753"},{"teacherId":9053904,"projectId":8984450,"letterContent":"When the Lakeshore theme boxes and TPT gift card arrived, it felt like Christmas morning in our classroom! My students were so excited to explore all the hands-on materials that came with each box. From magnifying glasses in the Five Senses kit to colorful visuals in the Life Cycles and Seasons boxes, every item sparked curiosity and joyful learning.\r\n\r\nWe've already used the Five Senses kit during our science rotations. One of my bilingual students, who usually hesitates to speak, confidently described how things felt and smelled—using new vocabulary he learned through the activities. The Health & Safety box helped us talk about taking care of our bodies in fun, relatable ways. And the TPT gift card allowed me to grab printable resources that matched each theme and met the diverse needs in my class, especially visuals and differentiated tasks.\r\n\r\nThanks to your support, my students are learning through play, discovery, and purposeful exploration. These materials are helping them connect new concepts to real-world experiences, build their vocabulary in both languages, and most importantly—feel excited and confident about learning. This donation has made a lasting impact on how we teach and how my kids learn.","fullyFundedDate":1735686683782,"projectUrl":"project/exploring-the-world-through-themes-and/8984450/","projectTitle":"\"Exploring the World Through Themes and Hands-On Learning\"","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Aranibar","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9053904_orig.jpg?crop=1242,1242,x0,y298&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1684455737810","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-aranibar"},{"teacherId":6562664,"projectId":8962246,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping me stock the art room at my school. Because of your generosity, the students have access to so many amazing new materials. This is allowing them to express themselves and motivates them to be creative. The organizational shelves and the drawing books are wonderful for students to get supplies themselves, to choose their art, and to be independent in their creating.\r\n\r\nThe black paper has allowed for some really exciting projects. Students loved creating shape collages as well as a project about using flashlights in the dark. Students got to draw on the black paper with special markers to create art in a dark place.\r\n\r\nA favorite material has been the paint cake trays. The TK and kindergarten students have gotten to paint a lot more with this easy to clean up material. After studying Alma Thomas, students painted in her style. Second grade also used this paint to create art focused around texture with lines.\r\nAgain, thank you so much for your continued support of the art program at my school!","fullyFundedDate":1733256461861,"projectUrl":"project/elementary-art-supplies-for-success/8962246/","projectTitle":"Elementary Art Supplies for Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Rourke","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6562664"},{"teacherId":9481736,"projectId":8247350,"letterContent":"Since receiving the noise-cancelling headphones, students with special needs have been better able to self-regulate and deal with otherwise challenging environments. One eighth grader in particular comes to school early every day to seek out the headphones. The headphones have also been invaluable during testing, when a few students need a little extra hep with noise and distractions. I have also shared these headphones with our special education services department, which works with all students in grades K-8. We are grateful for the peace, focus, and flexibility the headphones bring to students and teachers.\r\n\r\nThe calculators have been a hit, and we no longer have to use our laptops or Google to access calculators for such operations as calculating averages in science or similarly complex operations.","fullyFundedDate":1712168762154,"projectUrl":"project/calculators-for-science-and-doing-our-be/8247350/","projectTitle":"Calculators for Science and Doing Our Best on Tests!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Martin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9481736"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_106273","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":416,"numTeachers":15,"percentFrplEligible":49,"percentAsian":9,"percentBlack":2,"percentWhite":9,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":62,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 6","studentTeacherRatio":"27.7:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR District Record","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":null},"inStateSupporters":80.7,"schoolId":106273,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Hawking Steam Charter School 2 on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Hawking Steam Charter School 2","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/sweetwater-union-high-school-district/stephen-w-hawking-math-science-charter-school/106273"}
Join the 187 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Hawking Steam Charter School 2 is
a public school
in San Diego, California that is part of Sweetwater Union High School District.
It serves 416 students
in grades K - 6 with a student/teacher ratio of 27.7:1.
Its teachers have had 104 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!
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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
73%
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.
Hawking Steam Charter School 2 Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Dec 6, 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.
Hawking Steam Charter School 2
$59,271
raised using DonorsChoose
104
projects
funded
40
teachers
funded
187
donors
6
projects
for
basic supplies
18
projects for
technology
10
projects for
books
10
projects
for
art supplies
Hawking Steam Charter School 2 has received support from
151 individuals from California and
36 individuals out-of-state.