{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Concord Magnet Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":18.4,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":1847366,"projectId":9651114,"letterContent":"I am thrilled to share the incredible impact your generosity has had on our classroom through the \"Lights, DJI Camera, Action!\" project. The arrival of our new DJI camera and lighting equipment has completely transformed our learning environment, turning our standard classroom into a vibrant, professional-grade media studio. While many of you use similar technology for personal photos or travel, in our school, these tools serve as a bridge between creative expression and technical mastery. This equipment allows my students to move beyond being passive consumers of media to becoming skilled creators who understand the \"why\" behind every shot.\r\n​The Spark of Excitement\r\n​The most exciting aspect of this new gear for the students has been the professionalism and stability it provides. Before this, students were often frustrated by shaky handheld footage or poor lighting that didn't capture their vision. Now, seeing the smooth, cinematic quality of the DJI gimbal and the crisp clarity provided by the new lights has given them a massive boost in confidence. They aren't just \"making a school video\" anymore; they feel like they are producing high-quality content that rivals what they see online. This shift in quality has encouraged them to take their storytelling more seriously and push the boundaries of their creativity.\r\n​Real-World Skills and Positive Student Impact\r\n​Beyond the fun of filming, the positive impact on student growth has been profound. This technology is teaching them critical thinking, collaboration, and digital literacy. When students set up a lighting rig, they are practicing physics and spatial awareness; when they use the DJI software, they are honing technical troubleshooting skills. We've seen a remarkable transformation in students who previously struggled to engage with traditional written assignments.\r\n​One student in particular, who often felt overwhelmed by public speaking, has found a new sense of belonging behind the camera. By taking on the role of Director of Photography, they have flourished, showing a natural talent for visual composition and leadership. For this student and many others, this equipment isn't just a gadget—it is a tool for empowerment that has increased their school attendance and sparked a genuine passion for a potential career in digital media.","fullyFundedDate":1757372290112,"projectUrl":"project/lights-dji-camera-action/9651114/","projectTitle":"Lights, DJI Camera, Action...","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. A","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1847366_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1699319455484","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/thegentlegiant"},{"teacherId":1847366,"projectId":9571014,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your incredible generosity in providing protective cases for our classroom iPads! While technology is a common part of our daily lives, using it in a bustling classroom of energetic students presents a unique challenge. These cases have transformed our devices from fragile \"display pieces\" into durable, rugged learning tools. Because the students no longer have to worry about accidental drops, they are exploring educational apps and digital research with a newfound sense of confidence and freedom.\r\n​The most exciting part for the students has been the added functionality of these cases—specifically the built-in stands. They have been thrilled to set their iPads up like mini-workstations for coding projects or to prop them up while filming stop-motion videos. This \"hands-free\" aspect has turned a solo tablet experience into a collaborative one, where groups of students can gather around a screen to problem-solve together without anyone needing to hold the device steady.\r\n​I've been especially moved by how this has impacted a few of my more tactile, hands-on learners. One student in particular, who often struggles with fine motor skills and was previously very anxious about touching the \"expensive glass,\" is now the first to grab an iPad during math centers. Knowing the device is \"armored\" has removed the barrier of fear, allowing them to focus entirely on the lesson rather than the equipment. Your gift didn't just buy plastic and silicone; it bought us peace of mind and a more inclusive learning environment.","fullyFundedDate":1757372290881,"projectUrl":"project/just-in-caseget-it/9571014/","projectTitle":"Just in CASE...Get It","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. A","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1847366_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1699319455484","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/thegentlegiant"},{"teacherId":1847366,"projectId":9265544,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our 8th graders are no longer just \"students\"—they are becoming lifesavers. The arrival of our CPR mannequins and first aid kits turned our classroom into a high-energy training zone. When the boxes first arrived, the students were wide-eyed; they immediately started asking if they could \"try the AED\" and \"practice the bandages.\" Seeing the professional equipment made them realize that we weren't just doing a typical health lesson—we were giving them the power to save a life.\r\n​Our school nurse and I have been working side-by-side to guide them through the \"Stayin' Alive\" rhythm. A highlight was our recent \"Scenario Day.\" I watched a group of 13-year-olds step up during a simulated emergency, coaching each other through the steps of checking for a pulse and clearing the airway. One student, who is usually quite shy, took the lead and performed perfect chest compressions. It was a powerful moment that proved how much their confidence has grown. They aren't just memorizing facts; they are building the muscle memory and the bravery needed to stay calm in a crisis.\r\n​Looking ahead, our next big milestone is the Official Certification Challenge. Now that they have mastered the basics, they will be formally tested on their skills to earn their CPR/First Aid cards. This certification is a huge \"grown-up\" milestone for an 8th grader, and many are already talking about how they can use this to be safer babysitters or more prepared teammates in sports. Thank you for giving these young leaders the tools to protect our community.\r\n​Tips for your 8th Grade \"Next Steps\":\r\n​The \"Babysitter\" Hook: Many 8th graders are starting to babysit. Remind them that having a CPR card can actually help them earn more money because they are \"certified.\"\r\n​The \"Coach\" Role: Have students who master the skill first act as \"coaches\" for their peers. It reinforces their learning and keeps them engaged.","fullyFundedDate":1756064472146,"projectUrl":"project/help-us-save-a-lifestaying-alive/9265544/","projectTitle":"Help Us \"Save A Life...Staying Alive\"...","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. A","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1847366_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1699319455484","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/thegentlegiant"},{"teacherId":694817,"projectId":9712524,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for the new seating. The students were so excited to have more choices. The new wobbly stools are so well made and sturdy, it is a big improvement from my old ones. It is very helpful for fidgety kids. The foam block cubes are great too. They are so colorful and the handles make them easy to move around. The students are in my class for 2 hours at a time so it is great for them to be able to choose the best seating option for them. It always makes them feel special to get new things, it helps them feel cared for. Thank you again so much for your kindness.","fullyFundedDate":1758806016906,"projectUrl":"project/have-a-seat-please/9712524/","projectTitle":"Have a Seat Please!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Dolan","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp694817_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x510,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690462210304","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/694817"},{"teacherId":1847366,"projectId":9266040,"letterContent":"This new technology has been a game-changer for my students. While many of you use technology daily, it's a completely different experience in the classroom. Instead of being passive consumers of technology, our students are now active creators. The robots are helping them develop critical skills like problem-solving, coding, and teamwork in a hands-on, engaging way.\r\n\r\nFor example, a student might be asked to program a robot to navigate a maze. They have to think logically, write and debug code, and collaborate with their classmates to find the most efficient solution. This isn't just a technical exercise; it's a lesson in persistence, collaboration, and logical thinking that they'll use in every aspect of their lives.\r\nThe most exciting part for the students is the immediate feedback and creative freedom the OZOBOTS provide. They can write a simple line of code, upload it, and instantly see the robot move. This makes learning to code feel less abstract and much more tangible. It's like bringing their ideas to life.\r\n\r\nThey're not just following instructions; they're experimenting, creating, and even making their robots \"dance\" or \"sing\" with light and sound. The robots have become a canvas for their imagination, and the students are constantly pushing the boundaries of what they can do.\r\n\r\nWe've seen some incredible transformations, especially in students who were initially hesitant about technology. One student, who often struggled with traditional classroom work, has truly found their voice through this project. Their ability to troubleshoot and solve complex coding problems is exceptional. They've become a natural leader, helping their classmates and showcasing a level of confidence we hadn't seen before.\r\n\r\nAnother student, who is usually very quiet, has found a new way to express their creativity. They spend extra time meticulously designing and decorating the robots, personalizing them in a way that reflects their unique personality. This technology has given them a new medium to shine.\r\n\r\nYour support has not only provided us with new tools but has also opened up new avenues for learning and personal growth for our students. Thank you for believing in our project and helping us bring these incredible opportunities to the classroom.\r\n\r\nWe're so grateful for your continued support!","fullyFundedDate":1746487178039,"projectUrl":"project/we-want-these-robotsneed-them-please/9266040/","projectTitle":"We Want These Robots...Need Them Please...","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. A","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1847366_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1699319455484","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/thegentlegiant"},{"teacherId":1847366,"projectId":9231077,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our library books project. Your contribution has truly transformed our classroom, providing our students with a vibrant, ever-expanding world of new stories and knowledge. These books aren't just for reading; they are catalysts for curiosity and empathy, helping our students develop critical thinking and communication skills they will use for a lifetime.\r\n​With these new texts, reading in our classroom has become a lively, collaborative experience. Students are no longer just passive readers; they are active participants in book clubs, passionately debating character choices and literary themes. They are discovering the power of diverse perspectives and learning to connect with characters who may seem different from them. This shared reading experience has fostered a stronger sense of community and has made our classroom a more dynamic place to learn.\r\n​I've been especially moved by a group of students who have really embraced the non-fiction books. They've discovered that reading for information can be just as exciting as reading for pleasure. One student, who previously struggled with reading engagement, found a book about space exploration that sparked an amazing project on the solar system. It's moments like these that show the profound impact of your gift. Thank you again for helping our students grow as both readers and individuals.We would like to give a special thank you to General Motors for their invaluable support. As a company that drives innovation and engineering, your contribution has directly helped us inspire the next generation of problem-solvers. The new books are fueling our students' imaginations, encouraging them to think creatively and dream big about the future—a future they will one day help to build","fullyFundedDate":1746543551401,"projectUrl":"project/building-our-way-with-books/9231077/","projectTitle":"Building Our Way With Books","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. A","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1847366_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1699319455484","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/thegentlegiant"},{"teacherId":1847366,"projectId":9272175,"letterContent":"On behalf of the students and faculty, I would like to express our deepest gratitude for your generous donation of 3D printer filament. Your contribution has had a tremendous impact on our program, helping us bring our creative projects to life.\r\n​With the filament you provided, our students were able to design and print prototypes for their science and engineering projects, transforming theoretical concepts into tangible models. This has not only enhanced their learning but also sparked a new level of enthusiasm for their work.\r\n​Beyond the classroom, your donation played a crucial role in our recent school musical. We were able to print custom props and set pieces that added a professional and innovative touch to the production, captivating our audience. Your support made it possible for our students to create a truly memorable performance.\r\n​The impact of your donation extends far beyond these specific examples. It has empowered our students to experiment, innovate, and solve problems in new ways. Thank you for being a part of our journey and for helping us foster a community of makers and creators.","fullyFundedDate":1756146994010,"projectUrl":"project/fullfilamentedwe-could-be/9272175/","projectTitle":"Full‐Filamented...We Could Be!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. A","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1847366_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1699319455484","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/thegentlegiant"},{"teacherId":1847366,"projectId":9215067,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation to my project, \"An A-MAZING Imagination.\" Because of your kindness, my students now have the opportunity to unleash their creativity and problem-solving skills in a way I never could have imagined. When I first revealed the boxes filled with building materials, the students' eyes lit up with excitement. The sheer joy on their faces was priceless as they immediately started sketching designs and discussing their plans. It's been an absolute thrill to see them so engaged.\r\n​Your contribution has had a profound impact on my classroom. We immediately began using the materials to construct our marble mazes, focusing on teamwork and design thinking. The project culminated in a grand challenge: creating intricate robot mazes for our various robots. Watching a group of students collaborate to build a winding path for their robot and then troubleshoot why it was getting stuck—only to cheer in triumph when it finally made it through—was a moment I will never forget. This project taught them more than just engineering; it taught them perseverance and collaboration.\r\n​The resources you provided are the foundation for our next steps. Building on the skills they've acquired, my students are now moving on to a more advanced challenge: programming their robots to navigate an even more complex, multi-level maze. They'll need to apply logic and coding principles to conquer this new challenge, all thanks to the strong start you gave them. I am so grateful for your support and for giving my students the chance to learn and grow in such a hands-on way.","fullyFundedDate":1746543551513,"projectUrl":"project/an-a-mazing-imagination/9215067/","projectTitle":"An A-MAZING Imagination","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. A","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1847366_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1699319455484","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/thegentlegiant"},{"teacherId":1847366,"projectId":9224118,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donations to our \"An Ogre of a Show\" project. Your contributions made a huge difference, allowing us to acquire the essential costumes and supplies we needed to bring our musical to life. The impact has been incredible, and I wanted to share with you what your kindness has done for our students.\r\n​Bringing Our Musical to Life\r\n​Your donations provided the materials for our students to create a truly spectacular performance. We were able to get everything from fabrics and fake fur for our ogre and princess costumes to makeup for creating fantastic character looks. We used these resources during our after-school drama club meetings, where students worked together on a variety of tasks. Some students were cutting and sewing, while others were painting props and practicing their lines. The new supplies made the process so much more engaging and professional. For example, the high-quality fabric you provided for the ogre's tunic made a huge difference in how the costume looked and felt, which in turn helped the lead actor fully embody the role.\r\n​The Moment of Unboxing\r\n​The day the materials arrived was filled with pure joy and excitement. The students gathered around as we opened the boxes, their faces lighting up with each new item we pulled out. They reacted with gasps and cheers, especially when they saw the bolts of green fabric and the colorful makeup palettes. It was a tangible moment for them, seeing that people they didn't even know believed in their project and wanted to help. This wasn't just about getting supplies; it was about feeling supported and valued. That moment of seeing the materials for the first time helped them realize the scale of the production and the community that was behind them.\r\n​The Journey Continues\r\n​Now that our show is a success, the students are already looking ahead to their next project. We've started a new unit on improvisation and playwriting. We are using the leftover fabrics and supplies to build a \"costume closet\" for future skits and exercises. This allows the students to continue their creative work and build upon the skills they learned during the musical. They are learning to brainstorm ideas for scenes, develop characters, and work collaboratively to tell a story. This wouldn't have been possible without your initial contribution, as it sparked their excitement and showed them what they could achieve with the right resources.\r\n​Your support has not only helped us put on a great show but has also laid the foundation for future creative endeavors. We are so grateful for your generosity and for making a real difference in the lives of these young performers. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts! ❤️","fullyFundedDate":1745337977671,"projectUrl":"project/an-ogre-of-a-show/9224118/","projectTitle":"An Ogre of a Show","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. A","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1847366_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1699319455484","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/thegentlegiant"},{"teacherId":3520037,"projectId":8715451,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting my students once again with your kindness and generosity.\r\nYou always go above and beyond the Donor's choose call and i cant thank you enough. \r\nMy student love being able to have colorful and supportive resources to make their learning activities come to life. \r\nThey really like using highlighters and folders that help them learn organizational life skills as they grow. I can't wait to share the extra left over resources with my next group of students to make this project even more effective.","fullyFundedDate":1733855069036,"projectUrl":"project/academic-assistanceresource-class-needs/8715451/","projectTitle":"Academic Assistance/Resource Class Needs for Interactive Colorful Organization","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. G.","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3520037_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1568771435585","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/spedteachmgiandurco"},{"teacherId":1847366,"projectId":9140315,"letterContent":"Here's a thank-you note draft for your donors, focusing on the impact of the FILA-Mentally My Good Watson project. You can mix and match sections or use it as a starting point.\r\nThank You, Donors!\r\nDear wonderful donors,\r\nOn behalf of my students, I want to extend a huge thank you for your generous support of the FILA-Mentally My Good Watson project. Your donations allowed us to purchase a new 3D printer and the necessary filament, bringing a new dimension of learning into our classroom. While many of you use technology daily, it can be hard to visualize how it's used in a school setting. This new printer has transformed abstract ideas into tangible objects, allowing my students to go beyond textbook diagrams and truly grasp concepts in science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). They aren't just reading about a topic; they are designing, creating, and holding their own creations in their hands.\r\nThe most exciting part for the students is watching their designs materialize right before their eyes. When they see a small digital file slowly transform into a three-dimensional object, it's like a magic trick. This process teaches them not only about technology but also about persistence and problem-solving. They've learned that design is an iterative process—they might have to adjust a file or reprint a part to get it just right. It's a powerful lesson in taking a project from an idea to a finished product.\r\nI've been especially moved by how this project has engaged some of my more hands-on learners. For example, a few of my students who sometimes struggle with traditional paper-and-pencil tasks have completely blossomed. They are the first to volunteer to help with a print, and they offer creative suggestions for how we can use the printer next. Seeing their confidence grow as they master the software and the printing process has been one of the greatest joys of this experience. Thanks to your support, we're not just learning about technology; we're building skills, sparking curiosity, and empowering every student to become a creator.","fullyFundedDate":1742924667443,"projectUrl":"project/fila-mentally-my-good-watson/9140315/","projectTitle":"FILA-Mentally My Good Watson","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. A","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1847366_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1699319455484","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/thegentlegiant"},{"teacherId":1847366,"projectId":9101341,"letterContent":"When my students first saw the new puzzles and Breakout EDU challenges, their eyes lit up with excitement. They immediately wanted to start solving them, and the room buzzed with curiosity as they gathered in groups to unlock the first challenge. It was incredible to watch them work together, sharing ideas, testing solutions, and cheering each other on when they figured out the answers. Their reactions showed just how much joy and motivation these resources bring to their learning.\r\n\r\n We have already used the puzzles in a classroom project where students had to solve a series of critical thinking tasks to \"break out\" of a themed challenge. They collaborated, practiced perseverance, and developed problem-solving skills while having so much fun that they didn't even realize how hard they were working. The Breakout EDU games pushed them to think differently and encouraged every student, no matter their skill level, to contribute.\r\n\r\n Our next step is to create student-led puzzles and breakout challenges for their classmates to solve. This will give them the chance not only to be problem-solvers but also designers, applying creativity, logic, and teamwork in new ways. Thanks to your generosity, our students now have resources that keep them engaged, challenged, and inspired. You've given them opportunities to learn in a way that feels like play, and we are so grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1742924806903,"projectUrl":"project/a-puzzling-situation/9101341/","projectTitle":"A Puzzling Situation","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. A","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1847366_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1699319455484","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/thegentlegiant"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_43515","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":388,"numTeachers":26,"percentFrplEligible":66,"percentAsian":5,"percentBlack":14,"percentWhite":38,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":34,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"14.9:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":81.6,"schoolId":43515,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Concord Magnet Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Concord Magnet Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/connecticut/norwalk-public-schools/columbus-magnet-elementary-school/43515"}