{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Murdock Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":24.4,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":3590147,"projectId":9457860,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for donating to our classroom. The students have absolutely loved everything that your donation has provided to us. The items that get the most use are all of the amazing STEM bins that you helped create. I have watched my students build massive towers with magnets, design an array of pixelated art with the cubes, create a long rope that almost does a complete perimeter around our room, and design their own playgrounds! It is so fun watching their imagination and problem solving skills in action each and every day.\r\nAll of our Social Emotional Learning items are also consistently used. A favorite is the breathing koala bear! They love using it to practice calming breaths and, honestly, sometimes to just watch the colors change. The timer has also come in handy! I love that they can physically see how much time they have to rest, reset and return to learning. The students also enjoy reading about different emotions and experiences in the multiple sets of books you bought for us.\r\nThe musical instruments are also very loved but we are still learning the rules and routines to use them correctly. Hopefully we can break them out more often as time goes on!","fullyFundedDate":1756690766939,"projectUrl":"project/enrich-our-day-with-steam/9457860/","projectTitle":"Enrich Our Day with STEAM","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bassetti","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3590147_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1461790510402","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-bassetti"},{"teacherId":3590184,"projectId":9465655,"letterContent":"Thank you so very much for funding my project! My students were really excited when their new supplies arrived, and they couldn't wait to see all the fun things they were going to get. They have already used the Sharpie markers, felt-tip pens, and glue sticks for the Fall crafts they made. My students have proudly displayed their artwork, and everyone who has walked into our classroom comments on the amazing work the children have created using these materials.\r\nThe snacks were a fun treat during our first field trip of the year. My students were so excited to have a variety of treats to choose from, and we even had enough to enjoy during our Halloween party as well.\r\nMy students have also been able to use the calculators to check their answers when doing multi-step math problems, and they have neatly kept all of these supplies in the pencil pouches I was able to provide them, thanks to you.\r\nOnce again, thank you for supporting my third grade class. With your help, they are able to create memories that will leave a lasting impression on their school year. I am extremely grateful for your kindness and generosity, and especially for your value and support in education.","fullyFundedDate":1757423430964,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-supplies-for-the-new-school-ye/9465655/","projectTitle":"Classroom Supplies for the New School Year!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Berens","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3590184_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1462462307652","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-berens"},{"teacherId":10003085,"projectId":9263237,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous donation. My students are able to learn best when they have differentiated seating available. They enjoy the folding chairs when they need an emotional break. The lap trays are beneficial if a student can't see the board or needs an individual space. \r\nOur carpet is our favorite spot. We use the carpet every morning for our check ins. It is also the gathering place when we are learning a new skill. We appreciate the donation that you have graciously given and it helps our learners tremendously.","fullyFundedDate":1748403829135,"projectUrl":"project/flexible-learners/9263237/","projectTitle":"Flexible Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Boer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10003085"},{"teacherId":8726721,"projectId":9369986,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of penguin and polar bear books to our Kindergarten classroom! Your kindness and support truly warm our hearts. The children are always excited to explore new books, and these beautifully illustrated and informative additions will be a wonderful resource for us.\r\n\r\nIn January, we'll begin our winter animal unit, and your donation couldn't have come at a better time. These books will help bring our lessons to life supporting literacy, sparking curiosity, and deepening our understanding of how animals survive and thrive in cold climates. They offer the perfect mix of fun and learning, and I know my students will be captivated by the stories and facts they discover.\r\n\r\nThanks to you, our classroom is becoming a richer, more engaging learning environment. Your generosity not only provides us with educational materials but also shows our young learners that people in the wider community care about their growth and success. We are truly grateful!","fullyFundedDate":1750906445626,"projectUrl":"project/kinders-take-on-polar-bears-and-penguins/9369986/","projectTitle":"Kinders take on Polar Bears and Penguins","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Malagon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8726721_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690604252136","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8726721"},{"teacherId":8726721,"projectId":9125942,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of the light table to our kindergarten classroom! Your support has brought so much excitement and curiosity into our learning space. The moment we introduced the light table, our students were instantly drawn to its glow, and it quickly became one of their favorite learning tools. It has provided countless opportunities for exploration, creativity, and hands-on discovery, making a meaningful impact on both their sensory experiences and educational growth.\r\n\r\nWith the light table, we've done everything from tracing letters and shapes to experimenting with colors, shadows, and transparent building materials. One of our favorite activities has been using colorful translucent tiles to build patterns and structures—helping our little learners grasp early math concepts in a fun, engaging way. We've also used it during science lessons to explore how light passes through different materials, sparking conversations and observations that showed just how curious and capable these young minds are.\r\n\r\nBeyond academics, the light table has become a calming and inclusive space for students with different sensory needs. Its soft light and interactive elements provide a peaceful environment that encourages focus, collaboration, and imaginative play. It's incredible to watch the children gather around, share ideas, and work together. Your donation has truly lit up our classroom in more ways than one, and we're so grateful for the joy and learning it continues to bring every day. Thank you!","fullyFundedDate":1746787281732,"projectUrl":"project/enhancing-learning-through-sensory-play/9125942/","projectTitle":"Enhancing Learning Through Sensory Play","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Malagon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8726721_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690604252136","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8726721"},{"teacherId":3590167,"projectId":9471185,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donations. My students were so excited today using the Sharpies to trace their art work. It made their art pop. They have also used the Sharpies to write their final draft in writing.\r\n\r\nI truly appreciate everything you do to help my students to have the tools to express themselves through art, writing, and all other subjects. Also, having nice heavy duty paper makes our projects last longer and families will enjoy their children's art for years to come.\r\n \r\nOnce again, thank you for all your support!","fullyFundedDate":1754194055136,"projectUrl":"project/school-supplies-for-awesome-third-grader/9471185/","projectTitle":"School Supplies for Awesome Third Graders","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Trujillo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3590167_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1489441195516","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3590167"},{"teacherId":9986015,"projectId":9235625,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support! The fine motor tools and materials you helped fund have made a noticeable impact in our classroom. From lacing cards and playdough tools to tweezers and pegboards, my students have been using these resources daily to strengthen their hand muscles and coordination. One of our favorite activities so far has been using the new mini tongs to sort colorful pom-poms by size and color—something that seems simple but is actually a big step in developing the precision they need for writing. Watching students who previously struggled with pencil grip or scissor use gain confidence and control has been incredibly rewarding.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the excitement in the room was contagious! My students were thrilled to explore everything and couldn't wait to try it all out. Some even asked, \"Can we use this every day?\"—and the answer has been a happy yes. These tools have not only supported their motor development but have also boosted their independence and focus during centers and small group time.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, we'll continue incorporating these materials into our daily routines. Our next big classroom project will involve creating \"My Community\" books, where students will draw, cut, and glue to build pages about their families, neighborhoods, and helpers—all while putting their growing fine motor skills to work. Thank you for being part of this growth. Your contribution has truly made a difference!","fullyFundedDate":1746070783832,"projectUrl":"project/little-movers-strengthening-fine-motor/9235625/","projectTitle":"Little Movers: Strengthening Fine Motor Skills in Tk","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Payer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9986015_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1743304006686","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9986015"},{"teacherId":3590167,"projectId":9190043,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity! My students have been so giddy with their new dry erase markers. They are enjoying Math more because they can use their dry erase markers to solve problems. \r\n\r\nStudents also used the nice construction paper for art activities. We just submitted an art project to the county fair in our heavy duty paper which made the art aesthetically pleasing to the eye. \r\n\r\nWe are very grateful for your continuous support in difficult financial times. Thank you once again for your generosity!","fullyFundedDate":1744047272939,"projectUrl":"project/school-supplies-for-spunky-third-graders/9190043/","projectTitle":"School Supplies for Spunky Third Graders!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Trujillo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3590167_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1489441195516","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3590167"},{"teacherId":8726721,"projectId":9125924,"letterContent":"The generous donation of snacks, hand soap, and Clorox wipes has made a tremendous difference in our transitional kindergarten (TK) classroom. Snacks provide essential nourishment that keeps our young learners energized and focused throughout the day. Many of our students rely on school for consistent meals, and having healthy snacks on hand helps ensure that no child is trying to learn on an empty stomach. This simple yet impactful support helps bridge the gap for families facing food insecurity, and it gives every child a better chance to engage, learn, and grow.\r\n\r\nIn addition to fighting hunger, the donated hand soap and Clorox wipes have played a crucial role in maintaining a clean and healthy learning environment. Young children are still learning basic hygiene habits, and having the right supplies allows us to teach and reinforce proper handwashing and cleanliness. This has significantly reduced the spread of germs, keeping both students and staff healthier and cutting down on absences due to illness. A clean classroom helps students feel safe and comfortable, which is essential for their social and emotional development.\r\n\r\nOverall, these donations have had a deeply positive impact on our classroom community. They show our students that they are cared for and supported, both physically and emotionally. Knowing their basic needs are being met allows them to focus on learning, exploring, and building connections with their peers. These small items—snacks, soap, and wipes—might seem simple, but in our TK classroom, they make a world of difference every single day. Would you like a short thank-you note or message to accompany this?","fullyFundedDate":1740523633939,"projectUrl":"project/supporting-my-students-help-fight-hunge/9125924/","projectTitle":"Supporting My Students: Help Fight Hunger and Keep Them Healthy","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Malagon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8726721_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690604252136","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8726721"},{"teacherId":9572693,"projectId":8593733,"letterContent":"First and foremost I want to thank you for donating to my classroom. It has made a huge difference in my student being able to have a spot to self regulate. When our break area is you being used. When the weather gets nicer, the picnic bench will be going outside so that they can have an outdoor experience to cool down or do their work outside. \r\nThe social emotional games that were purchased through this project really help students tie different real life experiences. They enjoy the memory game and identifying the emotions and the dice is wonderful and the classroom supplies are also very helpful.","fullyFundedDate":1733287653708,"projectUrl":"project/outdoor-learning/8593733/","projectTitle":"Outdoor Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Diaz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9572693_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753102735480","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9572693"},{"teacherId":8726721,"projectId":8474445,"letterContent":"I am incredibly grateful for your generous donation of math games to our transitional kindergarten classroom. Your thoughtful gift is already making a tremendous impact on our students, helping to foster a love for learning at such an early age. The excitement on their faces as they engage with the games speaks volumes about how much they enjoy learning through play, and it's truly heartwarming to see.\r\n\r\nThese math games are not just fun for the children, but they also provide essential opportunities for them to build foundational math skills. Through activities such as counting, number recognition, and simple problem-solving, the children are developing a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts. Your donation is helping to ensure that each child, whether they are just beginning to grasp these skills or already showing advanced abilities, is given the tools they need to succeed.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, these games promote social interaction and teamwork, allowing the children to practice important skills such as taking turns, following instructions, and communicating with their peers. By integrating math learning into cooperative play, we are helping our 4- and 5-year-olds not only grow as mathematicians but also as confident, collaborative individuals. Your support is making a lasting difference in their educational journey, and we couldn't be more appreciative. Thank you!","fullyFundedDate":1726675236826,"projectUrl":"project/littles-have-the-power-to-learn-through/8474445/","projectTitle":"Littles have the POWER to Learn through PLAY!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Malagon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8726721_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690604252136","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8726721"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_78278","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":592,"numTeachers":26,"percentFrplEligible":75,"percentAsian":3,"percentBlack":1,"percentWhite":36,"percentIndigenous":3,"percentLatinx":53,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"22.8:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"TOWN","ncesMetroType":"TOWN_DISTANT"},"inStateSupporters":75.6,"schoolId":78278,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Murdock Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Murdock Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/california/willows-unified-school-district/murdock-elementary-school/78278"}
Join the 180 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Murdock Elementary School is
a town public school
in Willows, California that is part of Willows Unified School District.
It serves 592 students
in grades Pre-K - 5 with a student/teacher ratio of 22.8:1.
Its teachers have had 103 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
60%
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.
Murdock Elementary 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.
Murdock Elementary School
$42,484
raised using DonorsChoose
103
projects
funded
32
teachers
funded
180
donors
16
projects
for
basic supplies
3
projects for
technology
17
projects for
books
19
projects
for
art supplies
Murdock Elementary School has received support from
136 individuals from California and
44 individuals out-of-state.