{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Cloonan Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":38.1,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8906872,"projectId":8187066,"letterContent":"The supplies provided through this project had a tremendous impact on my students' writing development. With access to pencils, Paper Mate pens, and a reliable pencil sharpener, students always had the tools they needed to draft, revise, and publish their work without interruptions. The Crayola markers allowed students to color-code revisions, organize their thinking, and create engaging writing projects that showcased their creativity.\r\n\r\nThe dry erase sleeves became an invaluable resource for practicing writing skills. Students were able to draft responses, edit sentences, and receive immediate feedback without the pressure of making permanent mistakes. This encouraged risk-taking and helped build confidence in their writing abilities.\r\n\r\nThe laminator enabled me to create durable writing resources, graphic organizers, and reference materials that students could use throughout the year. Meanwhile, the wire shelves helped organize classroom materials and student work, creating a structured learning environment where students could easily access the resources they needed.\r\n\r\nBecause of these materials, I was able to provide more opportunities for writing practice, revision, collaboration, and feedback. Students became more engaged in the writing process and demonstrated growth in both their confidence and their written communication skills. These supplies helped transform writing from a task into an interactive and meaningful learning experience.","fullyFundedDate":1706998906895,"projectUrl":"project/supplies-for-academic-renewal-in-the-spe/8187066/","projectTitle":"Supplies for Academic Renewal in the Special Education Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Lato","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8906872_orig.jpg?crop=507,507,x46,y38&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1704476246447","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/emily-lato"},{"teacherId":8906872,"projectId":8177711,"letterContent":"The Animal Farm graphic novel will provide students with an engaging and accessible way to explore one of the most influential works of literature. The graphic novel format helps bring George Orwell's classic story to life through visual storytelling, making complex themes and historical connections easier for students to understand.\r\n\r\nFor many learners, including English Language Learners and reluctant readers, the illustrations provide valuable context that supports comprehension and increases engagement. Students can more easily follow the plot, analyze character motivations, and understand the symbolism that is central to the novel's message.\r\n\r\nUsing the graphic novel in the classroom will help students develop critical thinking skills as they examine themes such as power, leadership, propaganda, inequality, and the importance of questioning information. These discussions encourage students to make connections between literature, history, and current events while strengthening their analytical reading and writing abilities.\r\n\r\nBy providing access to the Animal Farm graphic novel, this project will help ensure that all students can meaningfully engage with a challenging and important text. These books will foster deeper understanding, promote thoughtful discussion, and inspire students to become more critical readers and informed citizens.","fullyFundedDate":1710176942037,"projectUrl":"project/animal-farm-as-a-graphic-novel/8177711/","projectTitle":"Animal Farm as a Graphic Novel","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Lato","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8906872_orig.jpg?crop=507,507,x46,y38&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1704476246447","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/emily-lato"},{"teacherId":8906872,"projectId":8113881,"letterContent":"Having copies of Maus available in our classroom provides students with a powerful and accessible way to engage with history, literature, and human rights. Through its unique graphic novel format, *Maus* helps students connect with the experiences of Holocaust survivors in a way that is both meaningful and memorable.\r\n\r\nFor many students, especially reluctant readers and English Language Learners, the combination of text and illustrations supports comprehension while encouraging critical thinking and discussion. The visual storytelling helps make complex historical events more understandable and allows students to develop empathy as they learn about the consequences of prejudice, discrimination, and intolerance.\r\n\r\nMaus also promotes important literacy skills, including analyzing theme, character development, point of view, and the use of symbolism. Students are challenged to think deeply about how stories are told and how personal experiences can shape our understanding of history.\r\n\r\nBy providing access to Maus, we are creating opportunities for students to engage with an award-winning work that fosters historical awareness, empathy, and meaningful conversations about the world around them. These books will help students become more thoughtful readers, informed citizens, and compassionate members of their community.","fullyFundedDate":1703182521841,"projectUrl":"project/teaching-compassion-and-empathy-through/8113881/","projectTitle":"Teaching Compassion and Empathy Through Maus","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Lato","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8906872_orig.jpg?crop=507,507,x46,y38&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1704476246447","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/emily-lato"},{"teacherId":10241898,"projectId":10086209,"letterContent":"Thank you for your support of the Just Chillin' STEM project for my 8th grade science students. The project was the culmination of our two chemistry units and was the biggest of the school year.\r\n\r\nThe project was divided into two parts -- a lab to determine which of three chemicals would produce the desired effect when combined with water and a design project incorporating the chemical into their own design for an insulated water/drink bottle. The students submitted their own individual STEM journals with the research and results and a group presentation board combining their ideas with classmates.\r\n\r\nThe students really took to the whole assignment, which was only possible through your generosity (poster boards and chemicals can be costly). Thanks again.","fullyFundedDate":1771805608108,"projectUrl":"project/just-chillin/10086209/","projectTitle":"Just Chillin’","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Curry","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10241898_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757090682452","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10241898"},{"teacherId":10241898,"projectId":10158579,"letterContent":"The \"Chemical Reactions -- Tastes Good\" lab allowed us to explore physical and chemical changes in a way that the current curriculum didn't allow. It also circumvented one lab safety rule as the students were allowed to taste the final product.\r\n\r\nWe explored physical changes by combining the sugar, water and tartar powder. Then we observed the chemical change take place when we heated the solution. Add a little butter and vanilla extract, wait overnight and voila -- a tasty product of a physical change and chemical reaction.\r\n\r\nThe students really took to the experiment and learned a lot.","fullyFundedDate":1773776007147,"projectUrl":"project/chemical-reactions-tastes-good/10158579/","projectTitle":"Chemical Reactions -- Tastes Good","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Curry","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10241898_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757090682452","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10241898"},{"teacherId":7760881,"projectId":9696080,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom and making this project possible. Your generosity has had a meaningful impact on my students and our learning environment.\r\n\r\nMy classroom is made up of incredible ESL students who are learning English while also adjusting to life in the United States. Every day they work hard to build their language skills while navigating a new culture, school system, and community. Their resilience, determination, and curiosity inspire me daily.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, our classroom now has dedicated STEM activity centers with Legos and jigsaw puzzles. These materials have allowed my students to engage in hands-on learning experiences that support creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration.\r\n\r\nOne of the biggest benefits has been giving students meaningful brain breaks from the very language-heavy work that ESL students do every day. Learning a new language requires intense concentration, and these hands-on activities provide students with a chance to recharge while still actively engaging their minds. After spending time building with Legos or working together on puzzles, students return to their language learning more focused and ready to participate.\r\n\r\nThese activities have also created natural opportunities for collaboration and communication among students. Even when students are still developing their English skills, they are able to work together, share ideas, and help each other solve problems. I have already seen students encouraging one another, practicing new words, and building friendships through these activities.\r\n\r\nIn addition, these STEM centers support important skills such as spatial reasoning, perseverance, and design thinking. Students learn to try different solutions, work through challenges, and celebrate their progress together.\r\n\r\nThe Legos and puzzles will remain in our ESL classroom as permanent resources that students can continue to use throughout the year. They will serve as a dedicated space where students can engage their hands and minds while building confidence, creativity, and teamwork.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, my students have a classroom environment that supports not only their academic growth, but also their social and emotional well-being. Thank you for investing in my students and helping create a space where they feel supported, capable, and inspired to learn.","fullyFundedDate":1767207167152,"projectUrl":"project/building-brilliance-with-stem-legos-p/9696080/","projectTitle":"Building Brilliance with STEM: Legos & Puzzles for ESL Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ayoub","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7760881_orig.png?crop=398,398,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1615900743523","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7760881"},{"teacherId":7104670,"projectId":9766607,"letterContent":"I am writing to share a quick update on how your recent contributions are making a difference in our classroom—specifically through the 7th Grade Classroom Snacks project. As mentioned at the beginning of the project, but for a student, a snack can be the difference between a productive day and a total academic loss.\r\n\r\nMany of my students arrive without having had a full breakfast or lunch. Providing snacks ensures that every child, regardless of their circumstances at home, keeps the lesson on a level playing field. Also, students are more alert and eager to volunteer in the classroom when consuming healthy snacks.\r\n\r\nThank you for recognizing that to feed a mind, we must sometimes start by feeding the student.","fullyFundedDate":1766067662220,"projectUrl":"project/7th-grade-classroom-snacks/9766607/","projectTitle":"7th Grade Classroom Snacks","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Belcher","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7104670"},{"teacherId":4191782,"projectId":9617534,"letterContent":"Once again, I am incredibly grateful for this community of support. My students continue to discover new books with a new enthusiasm and appreciation for reading. Their imaginations have expanded! Students are realizing that they DO actually enjoy reading! It has always been about finding books that one enjoys reading! Removing some of the school and academic pressure associated with reading, and allowing student choice in what is read, has had a massive impact on general attitudes about reading. Students now ask me if there are books about specific topics of their choice, further highlighting a new sense of curiosity. Thank you again for helping the magic of reading enter my students' lives!","fullyFundedDate":1757342306103,"projectUrl":"project/bringing-books-back-bilingual-style/9617534/","projectTitle":"Bringing Books Back (Bilingual Style!)","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Peters","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4191782_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1515871334060","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-mpeters"},{"teacherId":9490865,"projectId":9630027,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has become a more flexible, inviting, and inspiring place to learn math! When my students first saw the new materials—especially the rolling whiteboards and bean bags—they were thrilled and immediately asked to start using everything.\r\n\r\nWe've already used the whiteboards during group problem-solving, and the extra space has allowed every student to share their thinking. The additional whiteboard space has also allowed me to facilitate deeper math conversations and easily check for understanding across the room. Even students who are usually hesitant have been jumping in and explaining their strategies. Meanwhile, the bean bags have become a favorite spot for independent or partner practice, giving students a cozy place to focus or collaborate. The flexible seating has helped students stay comfortable and engaged during independent work.\r\n\r\nThe math visuals and motivational decor have also made a big impact. Students refer to the reminders during lessons, and we often read the encouraging messages to each other before tackling challenging problems.\r\n\r\nThese resources are helping my students work together, stay confident, and stay excited about math. As we move into our next unit on computing with multi-digit numbers and fractions, we'll continue using the whiteboards and flexible seating to explore new ideas and build strong problem-solving skills.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping create a classroom where students are eager to learn and shine every day!","fullyFundedDate":1758224059668,"projectUrl":"project/motivation-math-success/9630027/","projectTitle":"Motivation + Math = Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Vencer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9490865_orig.jpg?crop=225,225,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755699997219","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9490865"},{"teacherId":8173231,"projectId":8400096,"letterContent":"To our generous donors, thank you. What you have accomplished for our students cannot be overstated: you have given them back the joy of reading. Before this project, our reading culture was stalled, relying on ripped, outdated books from decades past. Now, our shelves are vibrant with multicultural, contemporary, and relatable novels. This is about more than just having new paper—it's about teaching critical skills through relevance. Because students are connecting with characters who share their backgrounds and struggles, we are able to dive into complex academic lessons like inferencing, analyzing internal conflict, and perspective-taking. When a student reads about a challenge that mirrors their own community, the text stops being just an assignment; it becomes a lens through which they analyze the real world and develop deep empathy. These new texts are providing the scaffolding necessary for genuine, meaningful literacy development.\r\n\r\nThe transformation in our classroom environment is palpable. Reading is no longer a silent, mandatory chore; it is a lively, anticipated activity. Our VIP Reading Club and the GoodReads challenge have exploded in popularity, simply because students finally have books they want to talk about. We have seen incredible growth across the board, particularly among students who previously struggled with reading engagement. For many, finding a novel that features characters from their own background has been the key to unlocking their confidence. Students who once avoided checking out books are now finishing them in a week and excitedly recommending them to their peers, finding their voices as readers and literary citizens. This project has done more than restock a shelf; it has rebuilt a vital, thriving culture of reading for our entire school.","fullyFundedDate":1720628792237,"projectUrl":"project/we-desperately-need-books-help-us-becom/8400096/","projectTitle":"We Desperately Need Books! Help Us Become Stronger Readers!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Schwartz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8173231_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1636482467334","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8173231"},{"teacherId":5184475,"projectId":9645124,"letterContent":"Wow!! Thank you so much for your generous donations and helping make this project a reality! Upon delivery, the calculators came out of the boxes and were in use! We are going into cold season, and students are taking advantage of having the ability to wash hands in the classroom. The soap and paper towels are already coming in handy. Thank you for all your support for myself, my classroom, and more importantly, the students. These new supplies will be gone in no time I am sure! Thank you!!!!!!","fullyFundedDate":1758223818936,"projectUrl":"project/general-supplies-for-the-math-classroom/9645124/","projectTitle":"General Supplies for the Math Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Damalas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5184475"},{"teacherId":7104670,"projectId":9305070,"letterContent":"I'm want to extend a sincere thank you for your thoughtful donations. I can't tell you how many tissues and Clorox wipes I go through a day. Students are constantly sick and these supplies are so important for helping us maintain a clean and safe space for all the students, especially during allergy, cold and flu season.\r\n\r\nYour support helps me focus on what's most important: learning and growing together. Thank you again for being such a wonderful part of our classroom community.\r\n\r\nSincerely,\r\nDana B","fullyFundedDate":1746714831171,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-supplies/9305070/","projectTitle":"Classroom Supplies","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Belcher","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7104670"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_43554","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":447,"numTeachers":52,"percentFrplEligible":65,"percentAsian":5,"percentBlack":19,"percentWhite":14,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":55,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":4,"gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"8.6:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":61.9,"schoolId":43554,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Cloonan Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Cloonan Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/connecticut/stamford-public-schools/cloonan-middle-school/43554"}