{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Riverside Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":50.0,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8621079,"projectId":9601371,"letterContent":"The generous donation that funded the Hands-On Equations materials has had a powerful impact on my 6th-grade math classroom. These manipulatives have transformed the way students approach algebraic thinking by making abstract concepts concrete and accessible. Instead of seeing equations as intimidating strings of numbers and letters, students can now physically represent variables and constants using the colorful pawns and number cubes. This tactile experience helps them visualize what it means to \"balance\" an equation, deepening their conceptual understanding and building confidence in their ability to solve problems independently.\r\n\r\nThe Hands-On Equations program supports all types of learners—visual, kinesthetic, and auditory alike. For students who struggle with traditional paper-and-pencil math, being able to physically manipulate objects provides a pathway to understanding that words and symbols alone may not offer. Advanced learners benefit as well, as the materials allow them to explore more complex relationships and patterns in algebra through experimentation and discussion. Working collaboratively with these materials also promotes peer learning and communication skills, as students explain their reasoning and compare strategies.\r\n\r\nOverall, this donation has made a lasting difference in how students engage with mathematics. 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Many of them were eager to begin exploring and I could hear comments like, \"This makes algebra fun!\" and \"I finally get it!\" Students who often feel nervous about math were suddenly more confident, because they could physically move and balance the pieces to see the problems come to life. The room was full of energy, and it was clear that these materials had sparked a new sense of motivation.\r\n\r\nSince then, the Hands-On Equations program has made a real difference in our math lessons. Students are now able to visualize abstract algebra concepts in a concrete way, which has helped them develop a deeper understanding of balancing equations and solving for unknowns. They are not only more engaged but also more willing to take risks in their problem-solving, because the manipulatives allow them to check and correct their thinking along the way.\r\n\r\nOur next steps include building on this strong foundation to tackle more complex algebraic reasoning. 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Riverside Middle School

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About this school

Riverside Middle School is a town public school in New Castle, Colorado that is part of Garfield School District Re2. It serves 483 students in grades 6 - 8 with a student/teacher ratio of 11.8:1. Its teachers have had 5 projects funded on DonorsChoose.

Public School

Grades 6 - 8

483 Students

41 Teachers

215 Alder Ave

New Castle, CO 81647 View local requests

http://www.riversidevikings.org

Evidence-based impact

Inspire teachers to stay in the classroom and boost student achievement.¹

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Ms. Vero, a DonorsChoose teacher for 9 years.

Kindergarten teacher at PS81 - Robert J. Christen School in Bronx, NY

Riverside Middle School Teachers on DonorsChoose

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Riverside Middle School Demographics

28%

of students receive free or reduced price lunch

Source: the National Center for Education Statistics

43%

of students are Black, Latino, Native American, or Asian

Schools in districts that mainly serve students of color receive substantially less state and local support than similar districts that serve primarily White students. Learn more about this gap, why it exists, and how you can help close it.

Riverside Middle 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.

Riverside Middle School

$5,973

raised using DonorsChoose

projects funded

teachers funded

donors

project for technology

project for books

Riverside Middle School has received support from 6 individuals from Colorado and 6 individuals out-of-state.

Help teachers & students in your hometown this season! Use code HOME at checkout and your donation will be matched up to $100.

Riverside Middle School

About this school

Riverside Middle School Teachers on DonorsChoose

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Riverside Middle School Demographics

Riverside Middle School Support on DonorsChoose Last updated Dec 5, 2025

Riverside Middle School

Help teachers & students in your hometown this season!
Use code HOME at checkout and your donation will be matched up to $100.