{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Waltersville Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":43.7,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9187221,"projectId":9444926,"letterContent":"he diverse and culturally relevant books we received through this DonorsChoose project have had a powerful impact on my students' engagement and sense of belonging in the classroom. These books allowed students to see themselves, their families, and their communities reflected in the stories they read, which made reading more meaningful and motivating. Students were immediately drawn to the characters, themes, and illustrations, leading to increased interest in independent reading and richer class discussions.\r\nHaving access to books that represent a wide range of cultures, experiences, and perspectives helped foster empathy, respect, and curiosity among students. Many students made personal connections to the texts, which strengthened comprehension, vocabulary development, and oral language skills. The books also sparked meaningful conversations about identity, fairness, and community in age‑appropriate ways. Most importantly, these materials helped create an inclusive classroom environment where all students feel valued, represented, and excited to read.","fullyFundedDate":1757536690654,"projectUrl":"project/a-culturally-responsive-library/9444926/","projectTitle":"A Culturally Responsive Library","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Carrillo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9187221_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1695861449524","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9187221"},{"teacherId":9187221,"projectId":9444865,"letterContent":"The STEM bins we received through this DonorsChoose project have had a meaningful and lasting impact on my students' learning. These materials transformed our classroom into an interactive, hands-on learning environment where students actively explore science, engineering, and problem-solving concepts rather than only reading about them. The bins gave students the opportunity to design, build, test, revise, and collaborate, which strengthened their critical thinking and perseverance.\r\nAs a result, student engagement has significantly increased, especially among learners who benefit from hands-on experiences. Students are more willing to take risks, explain their thinking, and work together to solve challenges. The STEM bins also supported key academic skills such as measurement, data collection, reasoning, and communication, while naturally integrating literacy and math into authentic tasks.","fullyFundedDate":1757423377420,"projectUrl":"project/stem-bins-for-the-win/9444865/","projectTitle":"Stem Bins for the Win","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Carrillo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9187221_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1695861449524","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9187221"},{"teacherId":9187221,"projectId":9298199,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your support. Thanks to your kindness, my kiddos have been able to have the needed tools for a successful year. They have gotten to create beautiful projects, awesome presentations, fantastic experiments, and more. They know this is all possible due to the kindness of people around them who know their success and education is worth supporting! I really hope you know how much your act of kindness has helped me and my kiddos have a great year. \r\nThank you so much for your dedication and love for teachers!","fullyFundedDate":1746785887097,"projectUrl":"project/an-equipped-classroom-for-success/9298199/","projectTitle":"An Equipped Classroom for Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Carrillo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9187221_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1695861449524","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9187221"},{"teacherId":8167323,"projectId":9445031,"letterContent":"Learning centers are a vital part of a high-quality Pre-K classroom because they provide young children with hands-on, meaningful opportunities to explore, create, and develop essential skills. At this early stage of education, children learn best through active engagement, and centers create an environment where learning feels natural, playful, and purposeful.\r\n\r\nCenters allow children to make choices about their learning, which helps build independence and confidence. Whether they are working in a block area, dramatic play center, art station, or reading corner, children are given the freedom to select activities that interest them. This sense of choice encourages motivation and engagement, as children are more likely to focus and persist when they are interested in what they are doing. Over time, this builds decision-making skills and a sense of responsibility for their own learning.\r\n\r\nAnother important benefit of centers is that they support the development of social skills. Many center activities involve working alongside peers, sharing materials, and communicating ideas. In a dramatic play area, for example, children learn how to take turns, cooperate, and solve conflicts. In a block center, they might work together to build structures, practicing teamwork and problem-solving. These interactions help children develop important social-emotional skills that are essential for success in school and beyond.\r\n\r\nCenters also promote differentiated learning. Every child develops at their own pace, and centers allow teachers to meet individual needs more effectively. While one child may be practicing letter recognition in a literacy center, another might be exploring storytelling through pictures or engaging in early writing. Teachers can observe and guide students within each center, providing support or challenges based on each child's abilities. This flexibility ensures that all learners are appropriately supported.\r\n\r\nIn addition, centers encourage the development of a wide range of skills across different areas of learning. A math center might focus on counting, sorting, and patterns, while a science center encourages curiosity and exploration. An art center promotes creativity and fine motor skills, and a reading corner builds early literacy and a love of books. By rotating through different centers, children experience a balanced and well-rounded approach to learning.\r\n\r\nCenters also help children develop focus and self-regulation. As they engage in activities, children learn to manage their time, follow routines, and complete tasks. These skills are especially important in preparing children for future academic settings, where they will be expected to work more independently.\r\n\r\nFinally, learning centers make the classroom a dynamic and engaging place. Instead of sitting passively, children are actively involved in their learning. This approach not only supports academic growth but also fosters curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning.\r\n\r\nIn conclusion, centers are an essential component of Pre-K education because they support independence, social development, differentiated instruction, and skill-building across multiple domains. By providing children with opportunities to explore and learn through play, centers create a strong foundation for lifelong learning.","fullyFundedDate":1760795897833,"projectUrl":"project/centers-in-the-works/9445031/","projectTitle":"Centers in the works","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Oak","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8167323"},{"teacherId":8167323,"projectId":9704337,"letterContent":"Capturing memories in a Pre-K classroom is an important part of supporting young children's growth, learning, and sense of identity. At this early stage, children are constantly discovering new skills, forming relationships, and experiencing many \"firsts.\" Taking photos and documenting these moments helps preserve experiences that might otherwise be forgotten, while also creating meaningful opportunities for reflection, connection, and celebration.\r\n\r\nFor young children, memories are still developing, and they often rely on visual cues to recall past experiences. Photographs serve as powerful tools that help children revisit special moments, such as building their first tower, participating in a group activity, or making a new friend. When teachers and students look back at these images together, it strengthens children's ability to remember, describe, and make sense of their experiences. This process also supports language development, as children learn to express what they did, how they felt, and what they learned.\r\n\r\nCapturing memories also plays a key role in building a child's sense of identity and confidence. When children see photos of themselves engaged in learning, they begin to recognize their abilities and accomplishments. A simple image of a child painting, solving a puzzle, or helping a classmate can reinforce a sense of pride and belonging. These visual reminders show children that their efforts matter and that they are valued members of the classroom community.\r\n\r\nIn addition, documenting Pre-K experiences strengthens the connection between school and home. Families often wonder what their children do throughout the day, and photos provide a window into the classroom. Sharing images through newsletters, digital platforms, or printed displays allows families to engage in conversations with their children about their daily activities. This not only deepens family involvement but also reinforces learning, as children are encouraged to recall and explain their experiences at home.\r\n\r\nPhotographs also support social-emotional development. Looking back at shared experiences helps children understand relationships and emotions. They can see themselves working with peers, cooperating in group activities, and celebrating achievements together. These moments help children build empathy, recognize positive behaviors, and develop stronger social connections.\r\n\r\nFurthermore, capturing memories allows teachers to better understand and assess student learning. Photos provide authentic evidence of progress over time, showing how a child's skills evolve in areas such as fine motor development, problem-solving, and creativity. Instead of relying solely on traditional assessments, teachers can use these visual records to gain a more complete picture of each child's growth.\r\n\r\nIn conclusion, capturing memories in a Pre-K classroom is far more than simply taking pictures—it is a meaningful practice that supports learning, development, and connection. By preserving special moments, encouraging reflection, building confidence, strengthening family relationships, and providing insight into student progress, photographs become an essential tool in early childhood education. These captured memories not only document the present but also create lasting stories that children and their families can treasure for years to come.","fullyFundedDate":1758223837374,"projectUrl":"project/memories-captured/9704337/","projectTitle":"Memories Captured","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Oak","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8167323"},{"teacherId":8167323,"projectId":9451850,"letterContent":"Cameras and photography have become powerful tools in education, offering meaningful ways to document, reflect on, and communicate student learning. When students use cameras to capture their work, experiences, and progress, they create visual evidence that goes beyond traditional tests and written assignments. This allows teachers, families, and the students themselves to see learning as an active, ongoing process rather than a single final result.\r\n\r\nOne of the most important impacts of using cameras in the classroom is the ability to make learning visible. A photograph can capture a moment of problem-solving, collaboration, or creativity that might otherwise go unnoticed. For example, a student working through a science experiment can document each step, showing not only the final outcome but also the thinking and adjustments made along the way. These images provide insight into how a student approaches challenges, making it easier for educators to assess understanding and growth.\r\n\r\nPhotography also supports student reflection. When students review images of their own work, they are encouraged to think critically about what they did, what they learned, and what they might do differently next time. This process builds metacognitive skills, helping students become more aware of their own learning strategies. A simple photo of a completed project, paired with a short reflection, can reveal depth of understanding that might not be evident through written work alone.\r\n\r\nIn addition, cameras empower students to take ownership of their learning. By choosing what to photograph and how to present it, students become active participants in documenting their educational journey. This sense of agency can increase engagement and motivation, as students feel that their work is being recognized and valued. It also allows for more personalized expression, giving students different ways to demonstrate what they know and can do.\r\n\r\nSharing photographs of student learning can strengthen communication between school and home. Families gain a clearer understanding of what students are doing in the classroom when they can see visual examples of activities and progress. This can be especially important for younger students or for subjects that are difficult to explain through words alone. Images create a bridge that connects classroom experiences with conversations at home.\r\n\r\nFinally, photography supports inclusive education by providing alternative ways for students to show their learning. Not all students excel in traditional assessments, but many can effectively communicate ideas through images. Cameras allow diverse learners to demonstrate skills such as creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking in ways that feel accessible and authentic.\r\n\r\nIn conclusion, the use of cameras and photography in education has a significant impact on how student learning is captured and understood. By making learning visible, encouraging reflection, promoting student ownership, enhancing communication, and supporting diverse learners, photography transforms the classroom into a more dynamic and inclusive environment.","fullyFundedDate":1753282422960,"projectUrl":"project/learn-away/9451850/","projectTitle":"Learn Away","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Oak","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8167323"},{"teacherId":8167323,"projectId":9697425,"letterContent":"The PreK students loved having a sensory station where they can play with kinetic sand and playdough. \r\nThey absolutely loved playing with them and loved to build things with them.\r\nHaving the sensory station for them allow students to explore their senses.\r\nAt the sensory station, they explore texture, building, and their sense of touch.\r\nStudents can express their creativity. \r\nStudents are also exploring their interests.\r\nThey also expand their learning through play. \r\nStudents are learning at their centers during center based learning.","fullyFundedDate":1762266254721,"projectUrl":"project/sensory-learning/9697425/","projectTitle":"Sensory Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Oak","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8167323"},{"teacherId":8682542,"projectId":9718172,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donations to support a clean and healthy classroom. Your contributions have made a big difference, especially during the winter months when many students have come in with colds or have needed to go home sick. Because of your support, we have been able to use disinfecting wipes to keep surfaces clean, provide tissues for students who aren't feeling well, and have hand sanitizer readily available when needed. These supplies have helped us maintain a safer, more comfortable learning environment for everyone. We truly appreciate your kindness and support!","fullyFundedDate":1764716806295,"projectUrl":"project/clean-and-healthy-classrooms-for-focused/9718172/","projectTitle":"Clean and Healthy Classrooms for Focused Learning!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Markarian","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8682542"},{"teacherId":8682542,"projectId":9710714,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our technology project. Your contributions have made a meaningful difference in our classroom, and we are incredibly grateful.\r\n\r\nOur students have truly loved using their new headphones and mice. These tools have helped create a more focused and engaging learning environment, especially during testing and while using educational applications. Having reliable technology has allowed students to work more independently and confidently.\r\n\r\nWe also deeply appreciate the donation of paper for our copier. This has been extremely helpful as we've worked to prepare materials and keep learning running smoothly throughout the beginning of the school year.\r\n\r\nYour kindness and support have had a direct and positive impact on our students' daily experiences. Thank you for investing in their learning and helping us create a better classroom environment.","fullyFundedDate":1758043474167,"projectUrl":"project/click-listen-print-tools-for-a-bright/9710714/","projectTitle":"Click, Listen, Print: Tools for a Brighter Day","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Markarian","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8682542"},{"teacherId":8682542,"projectId":9760618,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom project. Because of your generosity, we were able to start the school year fully prepared with all the supplies our students needed.\r\n\r\nAll of our students were able to access these essential materials, making a meaningful difference from the very first day. The paper has been especially useful for keeping binders organized, the folders have helped students stay on track, and pencils continue to be an important tool we use every single day.\r\n\r\nYour donations helped create a smooth and successful start, allowing students to focus on learning, stay organized, and feel confident. We are truly grateful for your kindness and support.","fullyFundedDate":1763608624563,"projectUrl":"project/stocking-our-classroom-with-the-basics/9760618/","projectTitle":"Stocking Our Classroom with the Basics!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Markarian","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8682542"},{"teacherId":300275,"projectId":10023611,"letterContent":"Every classroom in our school has a classroom library of books for the students to read. We have allotted times for \"silent reading\" in the classroom. But generally, theavailable books in the classroom library are not of interest to the students. It has been my effort to provide them books that would appeal to them, books that are already known to be popular among young readers. \r\n\r\nThanks to the interest, empathy and generosity of donors like you, my classroom has now been provided with the kind of books that my students love to read.\r\n\r\nThank you, so very much!","fullyFundedDate":1773859658004,"projectUrl":"project/to-inspire-reading-for-pleasure/10023611/","projectTitle":"To inspire reading for pleasure.","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Menon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp300275_orig.jpg?crop=405,405,x19,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1768391260476","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/300275"},{"teacherId":10220123,"projectId":10009527,"letterContent":"Our students have been using the kitchen set and play food during structured play to work on communication, engagement, and daily living skills. Because many of our students are nonverbal and use wheelchairs, we focus on alternative ways for them to participate, such as using gestures, switches, or communication devices to make choices like selecting foods or indicating \"more\" or \"all done.\" With support, they are able to take turns, interact with peers, and be part of a shared activity in a meaningful way.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the kitchen set, their reactions were immediate and joyful. Many showed excitement through smiles, vocalizations, reaching, and increased attention. Some students who are typically harder to engage were especially drawn to the materials, which created great opportunities for connection and interaction.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, we plan to build this into more structured routines, such as following simple steps to \"prepare\" a meal, making choices between items, and practicing functional communication throughout the activity. We will continue using these materials to support independence, social interaction, and communication in ways that are accessible and engaging for all of our students.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping us create meaningful, inclusive learning experiences for our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1772116132317,"projectUrl":"project/cooking-up-communication-through-play/10009527/","projectTitle":"Cooking Up Communication Through Play","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Rosario","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10220123_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1756081340497","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10220123"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_43431","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":432,"numTeachers":36,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":33,"percentWhite":3,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":60,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"12.0:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":56.3,"schoolId":43431,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Waltersville Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Waltersville Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/connecticut/bridgeport-public-schools/waltersville-elementary-school/43431"}