{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Overland High School","outOfStateSupporters":40.6,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":3538901,"projectId":9243481,"letterContent":"This project has truly transformed the reading experience for our students by introducing a diverse collection of engaging new texts that go beyond simple storytelling. These books are carefully selected to build critical literacy skills such as comprehension, vocabulary development, and analytical thinking. For example, students are learning how to identify themes, make inferences, and compare perspectives across different texts. These skills are essential not only for academic success but also for nurturing a lifelong love of reading and curiosity about the world.\r\nIn our classroom, reading is an active, collaborative, and joyful process. Students often gather in small groups to discuss their interpretations, ask questions, and connect the stories to their own lives. We also incorporate reading journals and creative projects that allow students to express their understanding and personal responses. With these new books, reading has become more meaningful and relevant, sparking lively conversations and deeper engagement. The classroom buzzes with enthusiasm as students share favorite passages and recommend books to their peers.\r\nParticularly, some students who previously struggled with reading or had limited interest have blossomed with the fresh materials. The variety and relatability of the new texts have opened doors for them to see themselves in stories and feel more confident in their reading abilities. For instance, students who are English language learners or those with diverse backgrounds have found characters and themes that resonate with their experiences. This connection has inspired them to read more independently and participate actively in class discussions, which is heartening to witness. Overall, this project has enriched our literacy environment and empowered students to become more thoughtful, skilled readers.","fullyFundedDate":1744241128768,"projectUrl":"project/resource-books-for-9th-grade-students-fo/9243481/","projectTitle":"Resource Books for 9th Grade Students for AP prep.","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Spry","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3538901_orig.jpg?crop=884,885,x0,y345&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1693167707196","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3538901"},{"teacherId":9301563,"projectId":9050473,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous donation, my students dove into Chinese traditions excitedly! They were thrilled to learn the Chinese abacus and practice calligraphy. Their faces lit up as they created Spring Festival couplets and discovered the beauty of Chinese characters. The energy and joy in our classroom were incredible! Moving forward, we'll keep using these resources in lessons to bring Chinese culture to life, not just during Lunar New Year but all year round. Thank you so much for your support in making this cultural journey possible!","fullyFundedDate":1739376120411,"projectUrl":"project/celebrate-and-explore-the-traditions-of/9050473/","projectTitle":"Celebrate and Explore the Traditions of the Lunar New Year","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Liu","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9301563_orig.jpg?crop=1024,1024,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1752859207202","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9301563"},{"teacherId":3745248,"projectId":9027807,"letterContent":"Oh my goodness, check out this amazing set up I can now display! There are so many versatile ways I can use my new flip screen along with my computer and the personal one that was funded on an earlier project that is for student use. I can have kids work directly on their projects with me side by side, regardless of whether or not they have a computer. This has been an amazing game changer!\r\nThis semester alone, I have sat with 80+ juniors to go over their post secondary plans and have side by side, pulled their real time info up,. while guiding hem through their own directed lesson. I have worked with 20+ seniors in building their fasfa's so they can keep their info private, but correct and am currently reaching the sophomores on their career journeys and scoping out the financial prospects of each.\r\nI LOVE having the ability to jump from tech set ups because it enables them to keep working and gathering information seamlessly. Not to mention, it is really helping these aging eyes not have to strain so much!! Building longevity here :)\r\nBut more than anything I am eternally grateful and touched from the love and support of donors choose. In these trying days, it is a true beacon of light, thank you thank you!","fullyFundedDate":1736801311881,"projectUrl":"project/visualizing-financial-and-whole-wellness/9027807/","projectTitle":"Visualizing Financial and Whole Wellness Health!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Pineda","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3745248_orig.jpg?crop=640,640,x0,y42&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1693334938228","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3745248"},{"teacherId":9712292,"projectId":8901386,"letterContent":"We are incredibly grateful for the donation of the Apple iPad (10th Generation), which has had a transformative impact on our students' financial literacy education. This device has provided an interactive and engaging platform for students to develop essential money management skills, preparing them for real-world financial decision-making.\r\n\r\nWith the iPad, students have explored budgeting through apps like Mint and YNAB, allowing them to simulate real-life financial scenarios and practice responsible spending. Additionally, they have engaged in stock market simulations using platforms like MarketWatch's Virtual Stock Exchange, helping them grasp fundamental investment concepts, risk assessment, and the power of compound interest.\r\n\r\nGamified learning apps such as Zogo and Financial Football have made financial education more accessible and enjoyable, reinforcing key lessons on credit, savings, and smart spending habits. The iPad has also enabled students to explore career pathways, compare salaries, and analyze cost-of-living expenses using interactive tools, helping them make informed decisions about their future financial goals.\r\n\r\nThis generous donation has empowered our students with the knowledge and skills necessary for financial independence. The integration of technology into financial literacy education has not only increased engagement but has also provided students with hands-on experience that will benefit them for years to come.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in our students' futures and making a lasting impact on their education.","fullyFundedDate":1739376111640,"projectUrl":"project/an-apple-a-day-keeps-financial-literac/8901386/","projectTitle":"An 'Apple' a Day Keeps Financial Literacy Top of Mind","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Ocana","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9712292_orig.jpg?crop=720,720,x226,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1725914272228","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9712292"},{"teacherId":9303375,"projectId":8577350,"letterContent":"February 10, 2025\r\n\r\nDear Generous Donors,\r\n\r\nI hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for your generous funding of my Donors Choose project. Your kindness and support have made a tremendous impact on my classroom, and I am excited to share how your contributions have already begun to benefit my students.\r\n\r\nThanks to your generosity, we now have a mini fridge in our classroom. This addition is more than just a convenience; it allows me to store snacks and beverages, including water, for my students. It's wonderful to have the ability to provide them with a refreshing drink or a quick snack to keep their energy up during long days of learning. This simple but meaningful addition has already brought comfort and care to our classroom environment.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, the wireless soundbar has been a game changer. Whether we're listening to audiobooks or watching a movie that complements the novels we read, the soundbar ensures that everyone in the room can clearly hear and engage with the content. We are currently reading The Great Gatsby in my CP English 11 class and Othello in my CP English 12 classes and we sometimes listen to audio versions of both books. The sound has enhanced our readings of both pieces of literature so much. This has made our shared learning experiences more immersive and enjoyable, and it has significantly enhanced our ability to connect with the materials we are studying.\r\n\r\nThe Post-it easel pads have also been an incredible asset for our group activities. These large pads make it easy for students to collaborate, brainstorm, and share their ideas in a visual and interactive way. The pads have become a staple in our classroom for everything from group projects to problem-solving sessions, fostering teamwork and creativity among my students. We have used the pads sharing ideas of what students feel make up the American Dream for The Great Gatsby and brainstorming the various themes of Othello.\r\n\r\nYour support has truly transformed our classroom and enriched the learning experience for every student. It's inspiring to know that there are people like you who believe in the power of education and are willing to invest in our future.\r\n\r\nOn behalf of myself and my students, thank you once again for your generosity and thoughtfulness. Your contributions have made a lasting difference in our classroom, and we are deeply grateful.\r\n\r\nWith sincere appreciation,\r\nMichael R. Pineda\r\nEnglish Dept./Grades 11 & 12\r\nOverland High School\r\n12400 E. Jewell Ave.\r\nAurora, CO 80012\r\n720-747-3521","fullyFundedDate":1733488246097,"projectUrl":"project/back-to-the-basics/8577350/","projectTitle":"Back to the Basics","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Pineda","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9303375"},{"teacherId":2611393,"projectId":8663844,"letterContent":"Thank you so very much for your generosity! My Newcomer students and their mental health have been incredibly impacted by your kindness. For example, the new laptop you provided us has been a real boost to our ability to communicate in my classroom. Since we are a \"cellphone free\" campus, they can't rely on their phones for translation and often come to my desk to share critically important details about their home lives. Having the new laptop allows us to communicate via Google Translate in private and without speaking in front of the entire class. I often learn things from them via this type of conversation that I never might have, had it been a face-to-face conversation. \r\nSecondly, your donation allowed me to create a cozy and welcoming \"reboot\" space in the corner of our room. The kids RUN to it at break time and sometimes jump into a pile to compete for a spot to relax and decompress for a few minutes. Their lives are filled with constant mental stressors and this is their safe space, thanks to you! In addition, the little scratchy pads I ordered are great for them to rub when they're feeling anxious. Finally, thanks for the book with therapy games. It has already been put to good use!","fullyFundedDate":1723918134006,"projectUrl":"project/support-our-newcomers-mental-health-wit/8663844/","projectTitle":"Support Our Newcomers' Mental Health with a Retreat Corner","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Scott","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2611393"},{"teacherId":9632052,"projectId":8573247,"letterContent":"The notebooks gave my students the ability to know that they have a place for notes. My students are all ELL students so having a place where one of there needs are meet is nice for them. This also give them a safe place to practice English and write in English.\r\n\r\nThen notebooks then can be used when using the whiteboards to refer to past work. Having the whiteboards allow my students to get up and move around the classroom and be interactive with each other. This then leads to learning math and working on English with each other and me within a safe environment.","fullyFundedDate":1727462888814,"projectUrl":"project/making-talking-classroom-and-math-fun/8573247/","projectTitle":"Making Talking Classroom and Math Fun","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Bruhl","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9632052"},{"teacherId":9250127,"projectId":8864705,"letterContent":"The generous donations made a significant impact on my PE class by providing the resources my students needed to fully engage in physical activities and hone their skills. Before the donations, we often lacked the proper equipment for various sports and activities, which limited the range of experiences I could offer. Thanks to the contributions, we were able to secure items such as basketballs, soccer goals, and jump ropes, ensuring every student had the opportunity to participate and practice without waiting for equipment to become available. This inclusivity has transformed the energy and enthusiasm in the gym, encouraging even the shyest students to get involved. \r\n\r\nWith the new equipment, I was able to introduce more structured practice sessions tailored to improving specific skills, like dribbling, shooting, and teamwork. These resources allowed my students to focus on refining their techniques and understanding the rules of various sports. The consistent access to high-quality gear fostered a sense of pride and motivation in my class, as students realized they were being given the tools to succeed. The ability to practice with reliable equipment has not only improved their physical skills but also boosted their confidence and teamwork, which are critical life skills beyond PE. \r\n\r\nThe impact of these donations extends beyond the gymnasium. They have enabled me to create a more engaging, supportive, and dynamic learning environment where students feel valued and encouraged. Parents and teachers alike have noticed the positive changes in students' attitudes and physical abilities. This wouldn't have been possible without the support of our donors, whose contributions helped bridge the gap between what we had and what we needed to provide a well-rounded physical education. These improvements have set my students up for long-term success, both on and off the field.","fullyFundedDate":1729277977956,"projectUrl":"project/practice-for-students/8864705/","projectTitle":"Practice for Students","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Jacob","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9250127"},{"teacherId":3745248,"projectId":8639804,"letterContent":"I cant get over the absolute generosity and support my kids and myself are getting from Donors Choose! I mean, really, it feels like we are in a bubble of luxury! \r\n\r\nBecause of you, I was able to fully equip our offices (we have 2, a counseling office and a post grad center) with new, up to date technology settings, translators that all all of us to keep working with our 2200 studenta simultaneously! Meaning, no one has to pause or stop a kid or parent, in mid sentance to try and solve a language barrier. Keeping the flow of communication is vital towards building our community strength and spirit. Keeping conversations between 11+adults in our working environment makes it a comfortable place for kids. And, they are not whipping out the phones! The attempts at all of us putting in effort to speak other languages is great!\r\n\r\nThe fridge is beyond cute! And much bigger than I anticipated! It is fully set up in the classroom that we use now so select kids can have a safe place to eat, store thier food, grab a snack while decompressing and even use for some of thier projects.\r\n\r\nAgian, with deep deep gratitude and humble awe of what you have done, thankyou!!","fullyFundedDate":1733272583958,"projectUrl":"project/communication-cultural-immersion-witho/8639804/","projectTitle":"Communication & Cultural Immersion Without the Reliance on Social Media","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Pineda","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3745248_orig.jpg?crop=640,640,x0,y42&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1693334938228","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3745248"},{"teacherId":7399413,"projectId":8562154,"letterContent":"First and foremost, thank you for seeing a need and supporting it. Our students are some of the best I have taught in my 19 years of education and they deserve all the help we can offer. Thank you for being part of the community that supports us. We know that you did not have to donate to our cause and we are thankful. \r\n\r\nThank you for the positive impact you are having on our students' mental health. Students have been able to log in and use some of our district's resources on the iPad now that we are cellphone free school. Because of your generous donation, I have set up a cozy space in my classroom where students can sit and relax, watch some calming videos or access school resources to help strengthen and support their mental health. Sometimes students just need space and time to decompress, just like we do. Thank you for allowing us the opportunity to give this to our students. A secondary benefit is that since our cellphones have been locked in pouches and students couldn't translate anymore, this has allowed my limited English proficient and non-English speaking students the opportunity to use the tablet to help translate their needs, which has immensely helped with easing their frustration during class as well. What an unforeseen and added bonus! \r\n\r\nThank you again for your help! You are helping making kinder, reflective citizens and neighbors!","fullyFundedDate":1723134182189,"projectUrl":"project/supported-engaged-connected-the-to/8562154/","projectTitle":"Supported, Engaged, & Connected: The Tools We Need to Succeed","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ford","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7399413"},{"teacherId":9241656,"projectId":8575506,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for allowing me to teach Native American history to juniors at Overland High School. Sixty students received a personal copy of the book \"Black Elk Speaks\" and completed assigned chapter assignments for homework. \r\n\r\nBecause Native Americans are an underrepresented group in America, they are easily overlooked. My classes had little to no background knowledge on this topic but were very interested in learning more. Students would arrive at class with pertinent questions about the chapters allowing us to have in-depth conversations about the text. \r\n\r\nHere are a few comments I overheard about \"Black Elk Speaks\": This is the first assigned book I actually read; I cried at the end; This is a really good book! \r\n\r\nWith your generous donation, both these and future students gained understanding and empathy that will someday positively impact others.","fullyFundedDate":1727462779499,"projectUrl":"project/embracing-native-american-history/8575506/","projectTitle":"Embracing Native American History","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. AufderHeyde","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9241656"},{"teacherId":9304386,"projectId":8573407,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for donating to help the students in my classroom this year! Many of my students cannot afford to buy their own calculator, so it has been great having a couple of extra calculators that students can use in the classroom. Students are able to be hands on in class with the calculators and compasses. I was able to let one of my students check one of the calculators out for the whole year to use since she does not have her own. My students love doing and solving problems where they are engaged and can apply the problems to their lives outside of the classroom. They need to be able to type in the problems in the calculator themselves, so they know how to use a graphing calculator. The batteries have also been helpful for when my other calculators need the batteries replaced. My classes, especially AP Statistics, need the graphing calculators to solve problems. Thank you again for your donation! It is greatly impacting my students in a positive way!","fullyFundedDate":1727462821706,"projectUrl":"project/calculators-compasses-globes-oh-my/8573407/","projectTitle":"Calculators, Compasses, Globes... Oh My!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Coy","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9304386"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_44965","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":2228,"numTeachers":136,"percentFrplEligible":71,"percentAsian":4,"percentBlack":25,"percentWhite":16,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":43,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"9 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":"16.4:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":59.4,"schoolId":44965,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Overland High School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Overland High School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/colorado/cherry-creek-school-district-5/overland-high-school/44965"}