{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Ridge Hill Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":42.9,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9459575,"projectId":10650371,"letterContent":"The addition of a sensory crash pad makes a meaningful difference for our Ridge Hill community, giving our sensory seekers a safe, cozy spot to land when their bodies need deep pressure input to settle down. Instead of jumping off furniture or landing on hard floors, our students now have a dedicated space to safely burn off extra energy, relieve stress, and get that soothing feedback their nervous systems crave. We are so incredibly grateful to our sponsors, especially Mr. Caruso, for their dedication to our school. Thanks to their support, our kids have the tools they need to build confidence, ground themselves, and head back to the classroom ready to learn and shine.","fullyFundedDate":1792009562768,"projectUrl":"project/crash-jump-regulate-help-us-get-a-c/10650371/","projectTitle":"Crash, Jump, & Regulate! Help Us Get a Crash Pad","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Prentice","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9459575_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1792465629355","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9459575"},{"teacherId":8110466,"projectId":10731054,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of books to our 6th-grade classroom! Your support helps us continue to build a rich and engaging learning environment where students can strengthen their reading skills, explore new perspectives, and develop a deeper love of literature.\r\n\r\nThese books will become valuable resources throughout our instructional units, allowing students to engage with meaningful texts, strengthen their comprehension and critical-thinking skills, and make connections to the themes and topics we study together. Having additional copies available ensures that students can fully participate in our lessons and activities while allowing us to expand the variety of reading experiences we offer.\r\n\r\nYour contribution will also help us maintain our classroom library and instructional materials as the books we use throughout our units experience the natural wear and tear that comes with frequent classroom use. By replenishing and expanding our collection, you are helping us keep these important learning resources accessible, engaging, and ready for future students.\r\n\r\nWe are incredibly grateful for your investment in our students and their learning journey. Thank you for helping us provide meaningful reading experiences and for supporting our classroom for years to come!","fullyFundedDate":1792009724694,"projectUrl":"project/calling-all-readers-we-have-new-books-i/10731054/","projectTitle":"Calling All Readers, We Have New Books In Town","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Sanchez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8110466_orig.jpg?crop=445,445,x0,y148&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1711993000497","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8110466"},{"teacherId":8110466,"projectId":10644180,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation to help us purchase mindful notebooks and gift bags for our students!\r\n\r\nThese notebooks will provide our students with a special space to pause, reflect, express their thoughts and feelings, and practice gratitude. As sixth graders navigate the many academic, social, and emotional changes that come with middle school, having a place to reflect and recognize the positive things in their lives can be incredibly meaningful.\r\n\r\nWe also wanted to make the notebooks feel like a special gift, rather than simply another school supply. The gift bags will allow us to present each student with something that feels personal and thoughtful—a reminder that they are valued, supported, and cared about.\r\n\r\nYour generosity is helping us create an opportunity for students to slow down, reflect on their growth, celebrate the people and experiences that matter to them, and develop healthy habits of gratitude and mindfulness.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in our students and helping us create a meaningful experience they will carry with them beyond the classroom. Your kindness truly makes a difference!","fullyFundedDate":1790798099676,"projectUrl":"project/out-with-elementary-school-into-middle/10644180/","projectTitle":"Out With Elementary School, Into Middle School","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Sanchez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8110466_orig.jpg?crop=445,445,x0,y148&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1711993000497","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8110466"},{"teacherId":7944601,"projectId":10056562,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping bring this DonorsChoose project to life! Seeing our project fully funded filled our classroom with excitement and gratitude. \r\n\r\nEvery student learns differently and deserves access to tools and experiences that help them thrive. Because of your kindness, my students will have opportunities that may not have been possible otherwise. The resources you provided will help them build confidence, explore new ideas, strengthen important skills, and discover just how capable they truly are.\r\n\r\nThanks to you, I can continue building an environment where all learners have the resources they need to succeed. The materials from this project will enhance lessons and create meaningful experiences in the classroom.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students and the work we do each day. Your kindness and support will have a lasting impact, reminding a classroom full of children that there are compassionate people who care deeply about their futures!","fullyFundedDate":1777987718056,"projectUrl":"project/tools-for-every-learner-in-first-grade/10056562/","projectTitle":"Tools for Every Learner in First Grade","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Crocker","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7944601_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1707131635828","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7944601"},{"teacherId":7065633,"projectId":10239296,"letterContent":"Thank you so very much for your kindness and generosity contributing to this project. The fact that this project resonated with you and you wanted to support our classroom does not go unnoticed. \r\n\r\nThe impact these materials will have on my students is immeasurable. These materials will give my students more access to critical phonics exposure that will strengthen their reading and writing to limits they don't quite yet know are possible. Having a writing journal will give my students the opportunity to share what they have learned as we read. The composition notebook will give students a better understanding of trick (sight) words as well as our words of the day which highlight specific phonics skills. Lastly, the practice book will allow students more practice that ever to review and continue phonics skills in multiple ways. Having the unit assessments and the check up pages in one place will help make finding materials so much easier. \r\n\r\nAs you can see, this project means a lot to me because of the impact I know it will have on my students. These materials will strengthen their phonics skills and help them succeed to their greatest potential. My hope is that they will develop a lifelong love of reading after having such a great head start to their reading careers.","fullyFundedDate":1777979208314,"projectUrl":"project/fundations-materials-for-phonics-success/10239296/","projectTitle":"Fundations Materials for Phonics Success 2.0","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Conti","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7065633_orig.jpg?crop=641,641,x197,y386&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1579053993639","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7065633"},{"teacherId":7963202,"projectId":9296417,"letterContent":"My first graders were so excited when they received their new binders and literacy supplies! They immediately wanted to organize their materials, decorate sections, and begin using them during reading and writing time. Having personal, organized learning tools made students feel proud, responsible, and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nWe are using the binders daily to organize reading passages, vocabulary activities, writing assignments, and literacy goals. One special classroom moment was watching students independently locate their materials and confidently participate in small-group reading activities with much more focus and enthusiasm.\r\n\r\nThese resources are helping students build strong organizational habits while supporting their literacy growth and independence. Next, students will continue using their binders to track their reading progress, practice writing skills, and complete engaging literacy projects that strengthen comprehension and confidence in the classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1746518251760,"projectUrl":"project/bright-minds-neat-binders-organizing-f/9296417/","projectTitle":"Bright Minds, Neat Binders: Organizing for Literacy Success!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jermine","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7963202_orig.jpg?crop=321,321,x0,y53&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1695647712490","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7963202"},{"teacherId":7963202,"projectId":9702461,"letterContent":"My first graders were beyond excited when they saw the new engineering and science materials arrive in our classroom! The moment we opened the kits, students immediately began asking questions, exploring, and sharing ideas with one another.\r\n\r\nWe are using the resources during hands-on STEM lessons where students design simple structures, test solutions, and practice problem-solving like real engineers and scientists. One of our favorite moments was watching students work together to build and improve mini bridges after learning about strength and balance. Their excitement and teamwork were incredible to see.\r\n\r\nThese materials are helping spark curiosity, creativity, and confidence in my students every day. Next, students will continue exploring science and engineering through experiments, collaborative challenges, and inquiry-based projects that encourage them to think critically and ask meaningful questions. Thank you for helping make these engaging learning experiences possible for our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1757960894388,"projectUrl":"project/little-engineers-and-scientists-buildin/9702461/","projectTitle":"Little Engineers and Scientists: Building Curiosity in First Grade!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jermine","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7963202_orig.jpg?crop=321,321,x0,y53&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1695647712490","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7963202"},{"teacherId":7072618,"projectId":9677759,"letterContent":"It is hard to believe the school year is coming to an end! Our new literacy program has most of the materials we need to be successful however there were only one set of books. Without your donations, students would not have their own copy of the text. Because of your generosity, each student is able to have ownership of their book for the marking period. They can read without worrying to hand it back in and catch up at home, if needed. This also ensures the books will last longer as they do not need to be shared between three classes! Thank you for supporting my readers!\r\n\r\nWith gratitude,\r\nMrs. Mannle","fullyFundedDate":1764613339338,"projectUrl":"project/a-text-copy-for-all/9677759/","projectTitle":"A Text Copy for All","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Mannle","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7072618_orig.jpg?crop=480,480,x0,y80&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1693403968557","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7072618"},{"teacherId":8110466,"projectId":10020615,"letterContent":"We are so grateful for your generous support of our DonorsChoose project. Thanks to your kindness, our classroom will have access to vinyl materials that will bring creativity, collaboration, and hands-on learning to life for our students.\r\n\r\nThe vinyl will be used for a variety of class projects centered around team building. Students will have the opportunity to work together to design and create items that represent their groups, fostering a sense of unity, pride, and shared accomplishment. These projects encourage communication, cooperation, and problem-solving—skills that are essential both inside and outside of the classroom.\r\n\r\nIn addition to team-building activities, the vinyl will play a key role in enrichment opportunities. Students will be able to explore their creativity by designing their own projects, turning their ideas into tangible products. Whether they are creating personalized items, decorations, or project-based learning materials, they will gain valuable experience in planning, design, and execution. These types of activities help students stay engaged and allow them to see the real-world applications of what they are learning.\r\n\r\nYour donation does more than provide supplies—it creates opportunities for students to connect, create, and grow. It allows us to offer experiences that go beyond traditional instruction and leaves a lasting impact on student learning and engagement.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our classroom and for supporting our students. Your generosity truly makes a difference, and we are excited to see all the amazing things our students will create because of you.","fullyFundedDate":1776377117433,"projectUrl":"project/creating-our-own-identity/10020615/","projectTitle":"Creating Our Own Identity","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Sanchez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8110466_orig.jpg?crop=445,445,x0,y148&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1711993000497","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8110466"},{"teacherId":8110466,"projectId":10148732,"letterContent":"We are incredibly thankful for your generous donations to our DonorsChoose project. Your support has made it possible for us to provide meaningful and memorable experiences for our students as they prepare to close this chapter of their elementary school journey.\r\n\r\nThe inspirational texts we've received will serve as a powerful tool for reflection. As students read these books, they will be encouraged to think about their time in elementary school—the friendships they've built, the challenges they've overcome, and the growth they've achieved. These texts will also help them look ahead with confidence and excitement as they prepare for the next stage of their education and beyond. It is our hope that these messages will stay with them long after they leave our classroom.\r\n\r\nIn addition, the gift bags will allow us to present these books in a special and meaningful way. Each student will receive their inspirational text along with other end-of-year items that celebrate their accomplishments and mark this important milestone. These small but thoughtful touches help create lasting memories and show our students just how proud we are of all they have achieved.\r\n\r\nYour generosity goes far beyond materials—it helps us create moments that matter. Because of you, our students will leave with not only a gift in hand, but also a sense of pride, reflection, and encouragement for the future.\r\n\r\nThank you for your kindness, your support, and your belief in our students. Your contribution truly makes a lasting impact.","fullyFundedDate":1778078985446,"projectUrl":"project/goodbye-elementary-school-hello-midd/10148732/","projectTitle":"Goodbye, Elementary School, - Hello Middle School!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Sanchez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8110466_orig.jpg?crop=445,445,x0,y148&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1711993000497","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8110466"},{"teacherId":8110466,"projectId":10207782,"letterContent":"We are incredibly grateful for your generous support of our DonorsChoose project. Because of your kindness, our classroom will soon have a new carrying case and heat press—resources that will open the door to exciting, hands-on learning opportunities for our students.\r\n\r\nThese materials will allow us to create matching team gear that helps build a strong sense of community and pride within our classroom. Whether students are working in groups, participating in school events, or celebrating achievements, having something they helped design and create will make those moments even more meaningful.\r\n\r\nBeyond team gear, the heat press and supplies will be used for enrichment activities that encourage creativity, problem-solving, and real-world application of skills. Students will have the chance to design their own projects, bringing their ideas to life while learning about planning, design, and production. These experiences go far beyond traditional classroom activities and give students a sense of ownership and accomplishment in their work.\r\n\r\nYour donation is not just providing materials—it is creating opportunities. It allows students to explore new interests, collaborate with their peers, and engage in learning in a way that is both fun and memorable. These are the kinds of experiences that leave a lasting impact.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our students and investing in their growth. Your support truly makes a difference, and we are so excited to put these new resources to use in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1777979333782,"projectUrl":"project/circut-needs/10207782/","projectTitle":"Circut Needs","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Sanchez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8110466_orig.jpg?crop=445,445,x0,y148&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1711993000497","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8110466"},{"teacherId":9919131,"projectId":10086846,"letterContent":"Our classroom was filled with excitement the day we introduced the new resources. The laminated sheets and colorful dry erase markers immediately sparked curiosity and creativity among my students. We began using them during our small-group reading rotations, where students practiced writing responses, solving problems, and illustrating their ideas directly on the reusable sheets. One memorable moment was during a vocabulary activity—students eagerly wrote and erased their answers, helping each other refine their thinking without the fear of making mistakes. It created a more relaxed and collaborative learning environment.\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, their faces lit up. They were especially thrilled with the bright markers and the ability to write, erase, and try again. It felt like a special upgrade to our daily routine, and even students who are usually hesitant to participate were more willing to jump in and share their work.\r\nThanks to these generous contributions, we are now moving into more interactive and student-led activities. Our next steps include using the laminated sheets for ongoing math problem-solving challenges and peer teaching exercises, where students explain their thinking and strategies to classmates. We also plan to incorporate them into project-based learning, allowing students to brainstorm, draft, and revise their ideas in a more flexible and engaging way.\r\nYour support has truly made a difference in how my students learn and collaborate each day. Thank you for helping us create a more dynamic and joyful classroom experience!","fullyFundedDate":1775669995392,"projectUrl":"project/request-for-classroom-supplies/10086846/","projectTitle":"Request for Classroom Supplies","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Arya","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9919131_orig.jpg?crop=888,888,x0,y91&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1764543132595","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/k-arya"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_43966","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":313,"numTeachers":25,"percentFrplEligible":80,"percentAsian":7,"percentBlack":27,"percentWhite":27,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":26,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":10,"gradesServed":"Pre-K - 6","studentTeacherRatio":"12.5:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":57.1,"schoolId":43966,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Ridge Hill Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Ridge Hill Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/connecticut/hamden-public-schools/ridge-hill-elementary-school/43966"}