{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Denver School of Science and Technology - Cole Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":40.0,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":7712396,"projectId":9667292,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students now have the resources they need to learn math with clarity, confidence, and excitement. These materials have transformed our classroom environment—making it more organized, more accessible, and much more engaging for students with diverse learning needs.\r\n\r\nWe've already begun using the math anchor chart posters, and they have become a daily reference point for students. During a recent lesson on fractions, I watched several students walk over to the fraction poster, compare visuals, and return to their work with renewed understanding. For students who struggle with memory or processing, having these visual supports available at all times is a game changer.\r\n\r\nThe addition of Flexi Rulers and foam dice has made hands-on practice fun and meaningful. One of my favorite moments so far happened during a warm-up where students rolled dice to generate multiplication problems. Instead of dreading fluency work, students were laughing, challenging themselves, and even asking to play again. The flexi rulers were immediately a hit—students stretched and bent them with delight, amazed they couldn't break them. It made measurement feel approachable rather than intimidating.\r\n\r\nThe calculators have had perhaps the biggest impact on students with disabilities. When I handed them out, one student held theirs gently and said, \"Now I can actually do the work everyone else is doing.\" These calculators allow students with documented math calculation disabilities to participate fully in grade-level lessons without getting stuck on the barriers their disability creates. It has already increased their independence and confidence tremendously.\r\n\r\nThe organizational furniture—especially the file cabinet and small organizer—has helped transform our classroom into a space where everything has a place. Students know where to find what they need, and I can pull materials quickly during small-group lessons. This structure helps our classroom run smoothly and supports students who rely on predictable routines.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, students will be using these materials daily in projects involving measurement, geometry, number operations, and real-world problem solving. Our next big unit will involve hands-on geometry, where students will use rulers, dice, and anchor charts to build shapes, classify figures, explore angles, and apply measurement concepts in meaningful ways.\r\n\r\nYour support has done more than provide supplies—it has created an environment where students with disabilities feel empowered, capable, and excited to learn math. Thank you for helping us build a classroom where every student can succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1758661688723,"projectUrl":"project/improving-math-for-students-with-disabil/9667292/","projectTitle":"Improving Math for Students with Disabilities","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gish","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7712396_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690580817162","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-lindsey-gish"},{"teacherId":7712396,"projectId":9817214,"letterContent":"Thanks to this project, math has truly come alive in our classroom. The materials you helped provide—especially the hands-on Illustrative Math Kits and the essential tools that accompany them—have transformed the way my students learn, explore, and interact with mathematical ideas each day.\r\n\r\nThe Illustrative Math Kits have been especially powerful. These resources encourage students to think deeply, justify their reasoning, and collaborate with one another. Instead of simply memorizing steps, students now explore concepts through activities and discussions that help them understand why math works the way it does. I've watched students who once hesitated to participate become eager to share their ideas with the class.\r\n\r\nThe 3D geometric shapes, folding figures, and compasses have allowed students to see and touch concepts that can otherwise feel abstract. Geometry has become a favorite unit—students love building shapes, unfolding nets, and discovering patterns for themselves. Several students who used to struggle with spatial reasoning now light up when they can physically manipulate objects to understand new concepts.\r\n\r\nThe calculators and rulers have made a noticeable difference in both accuracy and confidence. Many donors use calculators at home, but in school they are essential tools that level the playing field. Some of my students have disabilities that make calculations extremely difficult, and having their own calculators has allowed them to access grade-level work for the first time without feeling frustrated or left behind. This boost in confidence shows in their willingness to participate and take academic risks.\r\n\r\nEven the megaphone has made a positive impact. With a large and energetic group of middle schoolers, getting students' attention quickly allows us to transition smoothly, maximize learning time, and maintain an organized, positive environment. It may seem small, but it makes a big difference in keeping our classroom running efficiently.\r\n\r\nWhat excites students most is how interactive math has become. Whether they're rolling plastic coins to explore probability, building 3D structures, or using compasses to create perfect circles, they feel like mathematicians—problem solvers and creators, not just worksheet-completers.\r\n\r\nOne student who used to quietly avoid participating now proudly volunteers to demonstrate geometric constructions to the class, simply because the hands-on tools helped everything \"finally click.\" Another student, who has always struggled with math anxiety, told me, \"It's easier when I can see it and touch it. I actually get it now.\"\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, students who once saw math as intimidating now see it as something they can explore, question, and enjoy. You've helped us build a classroom where curiosity thrives and every student feels capable of success.\r\n\r\nThank you for making this kind of learning possible.","fullyFundedDate":1760704944303,"projectUrl":"project/bringing-math-alive-with-im-kits/9817214/","projectTitle":"Bringing Math Alive with IM Kits!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gish","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7712396_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690580817162","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-lindsey-gish"},{"teacherId":7712396,"projectId":9783774,"letterContent":"Thanks to this project, my classroom has become a more organized, engaging, and accessible space for learning math. Each material—whether it's a simple foam die or a large piece of furniture—has made a meaningful difference in helping my students grow as confident mathematicians.\r\n\r\nThe math anchor chart posters are now proudly displayed around the room, giving students a visual reference they can rely on every day. Middle schoolers often need to revisit concepts as they practice, and these charts help them strengthen their foundational skills independently. I see students glancing at them during work time, checking their thinking, and using them as a tool to keep moving forward rather than getting stuck.\r\n\r\nThe Flexi Rulers have brought measurement to life in a way that meets kids where they are. Students love how the rulers bend, twist, and snap back into place without breaking—something that happens far too often with traditional rulers. Instead of worrying about damaging materials, students are free to explore, experiment, and actually enjoy hands-on measurement activities.\r\n\r\nThe foam dice have become one of the most popular tools in the classroom. Rolling dice to generate numbers for daily practice has made math fluency fun and interactive. Students are excited to see what numbers they'll get, and they often challenge themselves to calculate faster or try more complex combinations. They're practicing essential math skills without it feeling like a drill—just play with purpose.\r\n\r\nFor some of my students, the calculators have been truly transformative. These are students who have \"math calculation\" listed as a disability in their IEPs. While they work on improving their calculation skills in my class, they also need access to grade-level math and science content without their disability holding them back. Having their own calculator empowers them to participate fully, focus on higher-level thinking, and experience success alongside their peers. It has boosted their confidence tremendously.\r\n\r\nFinally, the organizational furniture—the file cabinet and plastic organizer—has helped create a calmer, more structured environment. Materials are stored neatly, easily accessible when needed, and safely out of the way when they're not. This organization saves valuable instructional time and helps students know exactly where to find the tools they need to learn.\r\n\r\nEach of these items has contributed to a classroom that feels more efficient, more joyful, and more supportive of every learner. My students are excited, engaged, and better prepared to take on new math challenges every single day. Thank you for making that possible!","fullyFundedDate":1759789684458,"projectUrl":"project/materials-for-small-group-instruciton/9783774/","projectTitle":"Materials for Small Group Instruciton","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gish","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7712396_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690580817162","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-lindsey-gish"},{"teacherId":7712396,"projectId":7519318,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students are able to focus on what matters most: learning and practicing math. Having pencils readily available has been a game changer. Last year, we went through over 2,000 pencils, and having them on hand sends an immediate message to students: \"I've got your back—let's get to work.\" This simple support allows every student to show their thinking and engage fully in class without interruption.\r\n\r\nThe addition of whiteboards and markers has brought an exciting new dimension to lessons. Students now have the chance to practice math in a fresh, hands-on way, sharing their work on the boards and collaborating with peers. One student even said, \"It's fun to see everyone's ideas at the same time!\" These tools keep students engaged, make learning more interactive, and allow them to see math in action in new ways.\r\n\r\nFinally, the candy rewards have had a meaningful impact on motivation. When students put in extra effort or persevere through a challenging problem, the opportunity to earn a small reward reinforces the value of hard work. Beyond the sweet treat, it helps students understand that effort pays off—just like in the real world.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, my classroom is a place where students are equipped, engaged, and encouraged to do their best every day. Thank you for helping make learning math both effective and enjoyable.","fullyFundedDate":1690811822668,"projectUrl":"project/supplies-and-rewards/7519318/","projectTitle":"Supplies and Rewards!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gish","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7712396_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690580817162","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-lindsey-gish"},{"teacherId":7712396,"projectId":7665673,"letterContent":"Thanks to your support, my students are now learning to take ownership of their time in ways that weren't possible before. In a historic building without a hallway clock or bell system, students previously relied on teachers to provide time checks and countdowns. With the digital LED clock and countdown timer you provided, they can now see the time for themselves and manage their breaks and transitions independently.\r\n\r\nThis simple tool is already making a big difference. Students are practicing responsibility and time management daily, learning how to pace themselves and complete tasks on schedule. One student commented, \"I like being able to see the countdown—I don't need to ask for help every time.\" Moments like these show how giving students the tools to self-monitor builds confidence and prepares them for future success, both in school and beyond.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, our students are gaining more than just awareness of time—they are developing a lifelong skill in personal responsibility. Thank you for helping them take ownership of their learning and their growth.","fullyFundedDate":1692024216683,"projectUrl":"project/time-management-skills/7665673/","projectTitle":"Time Management Skills","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gish","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7712396_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690580817162","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-lindsey-gish"},{"teacherId":7712396,"projectId":7856137,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students have had an incredible opportunity to explore engineering in a hands-on, meaningful way. With the building materials you provided, they can now plan, design, build, and test therapeutic devices for \"patients\" with cerebral palsy—connecting real-world challenges to the engineering design process.\r\n\r\nFrom measuring objects with dial calipers to dissecting puzzle cubes and sketching detailed schematics, students are learning to think like engineers. The small wooden cubes and math manipulatives have become essential building blocks for experimentation, creativity, and problem-solving. One student shared, \"I never knew engineering could help people—I like that I can build something that really makes a difference.\" That moment showed me how powerful it is to combine hands-on learning with empathy and purpose.\r\n\r\nThis project has also introduced students to a world of possibilities. For many, this is their first exposure to engineering, and the experience is opening doors to future careers they hadn't considered before. By providing the tools to experiment and take risks, you've helped students gain confidence, deepen their critical thinking, and see how their skills can positively impact the lives of others. Thank you for helping my students explore engineering in ways that are creative, rigorous, and deeply meaningful.","fullyFundedDate":1695402548468,"projectUrl":"project/middle-school-medical-engineers-therape/7856137/","projectTitle":"Middle School Medical Engineers- Therapeutic Devices for Cerebral Palsy \"patients\"","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gish","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7712396_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690580817162","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-lindsey-gish"},{"teacherId":7712396,"projectId":7885078,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students now have what they need to stay healthy, focused, and fully engaged in learning math. The tissues and Clorox wipes may seem like small items, but they've had a huge impact—students no longer have to miss instructional time to go find tissues, and we're keeping germs at bay during a season when colds spread quickly in middle school. Having these supplies right in the classroom means we can stay present and focused on what matters most: the math.\r\n\r\nThe calculators and whiteboard markers have also transformed our lessons. Instead of sharing and waiting for supplies, every student now has their own tools in hand. This has sped up our practice time and given students more independence in their problem-solving. One student told me, \"I like having my own calculator—I don't have to wait, and I know it's clean.\" That simple change has created a healthier, more efficient, and more confident learning environment.\r\n\r\nTogether, these resources have made our classroom a place where students feel cared for and equipped to succeed. Because of your support, my students are learning in a space that is cleaner, safer, and more productive—and that's a gift that will keep making a difference all year long. Thank you for helping my Math 7 students thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1695598323962,"projectUrl":"project/clean-classroom-focused-on-math/7885078/","projectTitle":"Clean Classroom focused on Math!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gish","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7712396_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690580817162","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-lindsey-gish"},{"teacherId":7712396,"projectId":8014915,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, my students are more motivated than ever to take ownership of their learning. The rewards you helped provide have turned iReady practice into something students actually look forward to, and the results have been powerful.\r\n\r\nBefore, some students struggled to stay engaged with lessons that focused on old skills they hadn't mastered. Now, when they pass an iReady lesson, they get to celebrate their success with a small treat—and that recognition makes all the difference. One student who used to dread iReady time now proudly announces, \"I passed another one!\" before heading to claim his reward. It's been amazing to watch students cheer for each other and celebrate progress together.\r\n\r\nThe incentives have created a culture of persistence and joy in math. Students are learning that effort pays off, and they're experiencing a real-world connection between hard work and reward. For some, it's not just about the candy—it's about the pride of sticking with a tough concept and finally mastering it.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, students will continue using iReady each week to close learning gaps while also tackling grade-level math with more confidence. Your support has given them a reason to push through challenges and discover that success feels good—and is worth celebrating. Thank you for helping me keep my students excited about math and motivated to keep growing.","fullyFundedDate":1699640280311,"projectUrl":"project/rewards-for-iready-math-work/8014915/","projectTitle":"Rewards for iReady Math Work","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gish","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7712396_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690580817162","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-lindsey-gish"},{"teacherId":7712396,"projectId":9538526,"letterContent":"Thanks to your incredible support, my students are learning in a space that feels safe, modern, and inspiring. Transforming this beautiful, historic classroom into a functional learning environment has given my students not only the tools they need, but also the message that their learning matters.\r\n\r\nThe magnetic paint and dry erase wallpaper have been a game-changer. Instead of seeing dusty, unused chalkboards, students now see bright, inviting spaces to share their thinking. They love coming up to the boards to solve problems, brainstorm ideas, and work together. One student even said, \"You have more white boards than any other classroom!\"—a reminder of how much environment impacts learning. Little does he know that I turned all of my old chalk boards into white boards with your help. They were replaced by the school, they were just updated thanks to you!\r\n\r\nThe simple supplies—like pencils, sharpeners, and surge protectors—have also made a huge difference. Students no longer have to worry about running out of writing tools or losing time because of dead laptop batteries. Everything is set up so they can focus on their work with confidence. Having electrical cord covers has also created a safer, more organized classroom for everyone. There is power at every seat, without the danger of kids tripping over cord running across the room.\r\n\r\nFinally, the rewards and fidgets have given students positive ways to manage stress and celebrate their progress. For some of my learners, being able to take a quiet break with a fidget has helped them re-center and rejoin the group ready to learn.\r\n\r\nThis project has breathed new life into an old classroom, giving it a balance of history and modern function. Because of your generosity, students now have a space where they can think, create, and feel safe—day after day. Thank you for helping us reimagine this room into a place where learning truly comes alive.","fullyFundedDate":1754699354444,"projectUrl":"project/update-an-outdated-classroom/9538526/","projectTitle":"Update an Outdated Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gish","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7712396_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690580817162","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-lindsey-gish"},{"teacherId":7712396,"projectId":9569518,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my classroom is already becoming the welcoming, creative, and supportive space I hoped to build for my students. The supplies you provided are making an incredible difference—not only in how students learn, but in how they feel when they walk through the door each day.\r\n\r\nThe creative supplies, like colored pencils, construction paper, and chart paper, have sparked excitement and imagination. My students love reaching for the mesh bags of pencils and working together on colorful projects that showcase their ideas. One student told me, \"This feels like an art room and a classroom combined,\" and seeing their pride in what they create has been inspiring.\r\n\r\nThe basic needs items are just as important. Having tissues, deodorant, and other essentials on hand ensures that students don't have to worry about small obstacles that could get in the way of learning. For some students, these items give them a quiet sense of dignity and relief, knowing their needs are cared for.\r\n\r\nStudents were especially excited about the motivational stickers and birthday celebrations. The birthday poster and stickers have already become favorite traditions—moments that remind each student they matter and are seen. The faux plants, posters, and digital clock add a touch of comfort and calm, turning the classroom into a space where students feel both motivated and at home.\r\n\r\nWhat excites students most is that this room doesn't just feel like a place to work—it feels like a place to belong. Because of your kindness, my classroom is now a space that meets their needs, sparks creativity, and fills them with joy. Thank you for helping me create a safe and inspiring environment where kids can thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1755731852709,"projectUrl":"project/supplies-that-spark-smiles-colorful-cr/9569518/","projectTitle":"Supplies that Spark Smiles - Colorful Creates & Classroom Comforts","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gish","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7712396_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690580817162","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-lindsey-gish"},{"teacherId":7712396,"projectId":9582374,"letterContent":"Thanks to your support, my students are now thriving in our infield/outfield classroom model. The whiteboards and power cords you provided may seem like simple tools, but they have completely changed the way my students learn and engage with math and English.\r\n\r\nThe whiteboards have made small group instruction more interactive and exciting. Students love showing their work in real time, and it gives them the confidence to take risks and share their thinking without fear of making mistakes. One student, who rarely spoke up in class before, now proudly holds up her whiteboard to show her answers first. That shift in confidence has been incredible to see.\r\n\r\nThe power cords have also been a game changer. With reliable access to their computers during outfield time, students can focus on their individualized lessons in math and English without worrying about dead batteries. This consistency has allowed them to stay on track with personalized programs tied to their IEP goals. For me as a teacher, this is game changing. It means that the majority of my focus is on the small group in my infield and I don't have kids in the outfield disrupting us because their computer died. It means more student centered instruction and more learning is happening.\r\n\r\nWhat excites my students most about this project is the independence they now feel. They love the freedom of using technology to work at their own pace, while also having the chance to collaborate and practice on whiteboards during small groups. This balance keeps them motivated, focused, and actively involved in their learning.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, my students not only have the tools they need but also the confidence to grow academically and believe in themselves. Thank you for helping them shine.","fullyFundedDate":1755731703489,"projectUrl":"project/supplies-to-do-the-work/9582374/","projectTitle":"Supplies to Do the Work!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gish","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7712396_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690580817162","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-lindsey-gish"},{"teacherId":7712396,"projectId":9286250,"letterContent":"When my students first saw the new supplies, their faces lit up with excitement. They were especially drawn to the colorful markers, the neatly organized materials, and the new headphones—tools that instantly made them feel like \"real\" learners. One student put on the headphones and proudly told me, \"These are like adult headphones. I can hear this lesson so clearly!\" That joy and sense of ownership is exactly what your generosity has made possible.\r\n\r\nWe've been using the resources every day in our math and reading rotations. While I work with a small group or one-on-one, other students use the headphones with Zearn and iReady, allowing them to practice skills at their own level. This has given them the independence and confidence to make progress without feeling left behind. The art supplies, scissors, and glue have also transformed our lessons—students are now building anchor charts, creating math games, and using hands-on projects to strengthen skills in ways that go beyond pencil and paper.\r\n\r\nOne recent highlight was a measurement project where students used their new rulers to explore the classroom. They worked together, measured objects, and even cheered when their answers matched—something that showed me just how powerful the right tools can be. My favorite part was when they wanted to measure each other!\r\n\r\nNext, we'll be creating personalized \"Math and Reading Toolkits,\" where each student gathers the supplies that help them learn best. These toolkits will not only support their daily lessons, but also give them the chance to reflect on how they learn, building independence and self-confidence.\r\n\r\nBecause of your kindness, my students are discovering that learning can be fun, engaging, and within their reach. Thank you for giving them the tools to see their own brilliance.","fullyFundedDate":1746552436927,"projectUrl":"project/special-education-classroom-lets-get-it/9286250/","projectTitle":"Special Education Classroom-Let’s Get It Started!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gish","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7712396_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690580817162","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-lindsey-gish"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_101755","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":282,"numTeachers":27,"percentFrplEligible":64,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":17,"percentWhite":3,"percentIndigenous":1,"percentLatinx":73,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"10.4:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":60.0,"schoolId":101755,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Denver School of Science and Technology - Cole Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Denver School of Science and Technology - Cole Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/colorado/denver-public-school-district-1/dsst-cole-middle-school/101755"}