{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Westover Magnet Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":31.1,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":1143192,"projectId":9582276,"letterContent":"Wow, the impact of the new mini potters' wheels has been immediate and profound! Throwing pots is an experience none of my middles schoolers ever had, and the pure excitement on their faces when they realized the wheels were finally here was incredible.\r\n\r\nThe REAL lesson began once the clay hit the wheel. The students were hilariously surprised at how challenging it is! They watch so many 2-minute videos where it seems the pots take form quickly and effortlessly, that they have unrealistic expectations of how seemingly easy it is. For example, Billy, who usually masters new skills easily, spent half an hour just trying to center the clay on the wheel, growing increasingly frustrated. Other students sturggled with pulling up the side walls and even using the wire to cut thier pot off the wheel head. They are learning there are myriad subtle skills that require focus, care, and attention in order to master the art of throwing clay on the wheel. Eventually, they all became advocates of the studio habit of mind Engage and Persist. \r\n\r\nThese potters' wheels are more than just machines, they are tools that help my students realize that they are transitioning out of elementary art into a middle school studio. The wheels are reserved for older students, who have learned the clay basics in order to \"level up\" to throwing on the wheel. \r\n\r\nI am grateful to all who contributed. Your generosity provided the tangible tools needed to teach high-level skills but more importantly, you gave my students the opportunity to shift their mindset. Because of you, they now face challenges not with defeat, but with determination to Engage and Persist. Thank you for enriching our middle school art program.","fullyFundedDate":1755864761829,"projectUrl":"project/spin-to-win-middle-schoolers-discover-t/9582276/","projectTitle":"Spin to Win: Middle Schoolers Discover the Potter’s Wheel!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. McElroy","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1143192_orig.jpg?crop=1772,1772,x0,y100&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1764533922610","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1143192"},{"teacherId":4964811,"projectId":9587447,"letterContent":"I am so pleased with the STEM Kits that we received due to your generosity. My little engineers are thrilled to use them. \r\nI began with an unboxing of the materials. First I introduced the Building Block kit. Each student sat in a small group with me to review the expectations and completed the Ask and Imagine steps of the engineering process. The next class we added the Building block kit to our engineering center and the students used it to create solutions. \r\nI followed the same process for each of the Fairytale STEM kits as well. I am so impressed with the creativity and sharing of ideas my engineers are producing.","fullyFundedDate":1755693925749,"projectUrl":"project/first-grade-engineers/9587447/","projectTitle":"First Grade Engineers","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Minkler","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4964811_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1548077664587","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-minkler"},{"teacherId":4964811,"projectId":9545458,"letterContent":"My Kindergarten classes are enjoying their new puzzles. They cheered as I open the boxes and displayed all of the different choices they had to use.\r\nThe first week, I had the students rotate through stations so I could monitor and explain behavior expectations while using our new puzzles. \r\nThe next week, I gave each table a different puzzle to complete and walked around to see how they would work together. I noticed that some students had little experience in completing puzzles and tried to force pieces together. Other students used the picture as a guide as they worked.\r\nThis week I will teach specific puzzling strategies and watch the students use them.\r\n What a wonderful addition to our class!","fullyFundedDate":1755033084709,"projectUrl":"project/kinder-puzzle-solvers/9545458/","projectTitle":"Kinder Puzzle Solvers","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Minkler","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4964811_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1548077664587","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-minkler"},{"teacherId":7464332,"projectId":9483360,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our classroom project! Because of your generosity, our indoor recess just got a lot more exciting and meaningful.\r\n\r\nThe board games and puzzles you helped fund are already making a big difference. My students are laughing, working together, solving problems, and learning how to be great classmates. It's been amazing to watch them collaborate and connect in new ways during their downtime.\r\n\r\nYour kindness brought more than just games into our room, you gave my students opportunities to grow socially and emotionally. These skillsets are ones they'll carry well beyond recess.\r\n\r\nThank you again for believing in our project and for supporting our classroom. We're so grateful!","fullyFundedDate":1753381541069,"projectUrl":"project/playful-pathways-building-skills-throug/9483360/","projectTitle":"Playful Pathways: Building Skills Through Play!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Melia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7464332_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y977&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1658952076861","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7464332"},{"teacherId":3983387,"projectId":9062818,"letterContent":"Thank you for your incredible support! Your project provided all fourth-grade students with the resources they needed to approach their studies with confidence. Every one of our 100+ students received new headphones, pencils, and privacy folders, which were crucial for their daily preparation for state testing and other key assessments.\r\n\r\nThis simple act of providing them with the right tools made a significant difference. Our students felt more prepared and focused, and that confidence carried over into their academic work. These materials are already being used this new school year for their diagnostic assessments, proving their long-term value.\r\n\r\nYou've made a meaningful and lasting impact on our students, and we truly appreciate it.","fullyFundedDate":1741832954038,"projectUrl":"project/headphones-needed-for-4th-graders/9062818/","projectTitle":"Headphones Needed for 4th Graders","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Buckett","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3983387_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1737128299484","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-buckett"},{"teacherId":7464332,"projectId":9009793,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donations to our classroom library, especially the additions to our Magic Tree House collection. Your support has made a world of difference for our young readers, who are now more eager than ever to dive into books and discover the joy of storytelling. These adventures have sparked their imaginations, inspired curiosity, and transported them to places far beyond the classroom walls. \r\n\r\nIt's amazing to see how these stories have not only encouraged reading but also built confidence and leadership skills in our students as they discuss plots, share ideas, and guide one another through each book. Our readers are becoming leaders—thank you for helping to make that possible.","fullyFundedDate":1735776181915,"projectUrl":"project/exploring-worlds-through-words/9009793/","projectTitle":"Exploring Worlds Through Words","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Melia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7464332_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y977&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1658952076861","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7464332"},{"teacherId":9744138,"projectId":8931802,"letterContent":"Thank you for your support. Without you, this project could not have come alive.\r\n\r\nThe students are very grateful to have the flexible seating options in the classroom. They've enjoyed being able to sit on a wobble stool, or cozy up with a book in the beanbag chairs. It has really enhance their learning experience that they are able to be comfortable in the classroom.\r\n\r\nThe sensory objects took everything a bit further. The students work towards being able to have them at their desk while they are working. It calms even the most heightened moods. The fidgets have been especially helpful for the students who need to keep their hands in motion while still paying attention in the classroom. I believe that the favorite is the liquid dropping color timer. They often come in with a lot of energy and put it at their desk watching it just for a couple minutes allows them to settle into the classroom and get ready to learn. \r\n\r\nAll of this has been an amazing addition to our classroom and reached out to many students within the sixth grade. We send the biggest thank you to you for giving us this opportunity.","fullyFundedDate":1735689484422,"projectUrl":"project/mrs-yorkes-comfy-classroom/8931802/","projectTitle":"Mrs. Yorke’s Comfy Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Yorke","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9744138"},{"teacherId":9708370,"projectId":8706305,"letterContent":"My speech room has become the safe and cozy space that I wanted for my students. My kids are enjoying the carpet so much!!! My littles (especially the kindergarteners) enter my room and immediately start to do cartwheels, share laughs with each other, and get ready for a fun speech session. Watching them engage in conversational exchanges and naturally improve their social skills has been awesome. It has been so rewarding and refreshing to sit on the carpet with them and work on speech and language with a more play-based approach. I find that it allows them more flexibility to get their wiggles out, but it does not interfere or reduce their attention.\r\n\r\nIn addition to carpet, I have used the spiral binding machine to create amazing carryover over packets for the students. The parents have been responsive and are so appreciative. They are able to work on target skills with their kids at home and see the progress in real time. \r\n\r\nBoth of these items have had such a positive impact on my ability to provide high quality speech therapy for my students.","fullyFundedDate":1730299658035,"projectUrl":"project/taking-speech-materials-to-the-next-leve/8706305/","projectTitle":"Taking Speech Materials to the Next Level","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Carolyn","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9708370"},{"teacherId":4964820,"projectId":9056939,"letterContent":"I am beyond grateful for the amazing sensory resources that have transformed my dance classroom into an engaging and inclusive learning space!\r\n\r\nMy students have been actively exploring the Walk-Thru Tunnel, Square Floor Liquid Tiles, Balance Stepping Stones, and Sensory Fidget Tubes in various ways. One standout moment was during our \"Sensory Adventure Path\" activity, where students navigated an obstacle course designed to enhance balance, coordination, and sensory regulation. They crawled through the tunnel, carefully stepped across the balance stones, and paused on the liquid tiles to observe the mesmerizing color shifts beneath their feet. The fidget tubes have been a calming tool during transitions, helping students self-regulate before moving on to new tasks.\r\n\r\n\r\nMy students' faces lit up with excitement the moment they saw the new materials! Many students immediately ran to the tunnel, eager to crawl through and explore. The liquid tiles became an instant favorite, with students pressing their hands and feet against them, watching the colors swirl and shift. The stepping stones challenged their balance, and they quickly turned it into a game of crossing a \"lava river.\" The fidget tubes have been a huge hit as well, offering a soothing, hands-on sensory break for those needing a moment to refocus.\r\n\r\n\r\nCurrently, I am integrating these sensory tools into our daily routine to enhance focus and engagement in learning activities. The sensory tunnel will also be incorporated into our \"Calm Corner\" for students who need a quiet, enclosed space to self-regulate. These tools are not just fun—they are helping our students build confidence, develop motor skills, and find comfort in movement-based learning.\r\n\r\nThank you for making this possible! Your generosity has made a meaningful impact on our classroom, and we can't wait to share more moments of growth and discovery with you.","fullyFundedDate":1736980704097,"projectUrl":"project/sensory-tools-for-a-dance-room-where-eve/9056939/","projectTitle":"Sensory Tools for a Dance Room Where Every Child Shines","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Neer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4964820_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1512102753661","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4964820"},{"teacherId":9274128,"projectId":8954109,"letterContent":"I want to express my sincere gratitude for the opportunity you have given my classroom through your generous support. Thanks to the donations that funded flexible floor seating and literacy centers, my students have experienced a truly transformative shift in their learning environment.\r\n\r\nThe flexible seating options have allowed my students to take ownership of their learning. They are now able to choose where they work best, whether it's on a cozy rug, in a soft floor chair, or at a low table. This freedom has not only boosted their engagement but has also helped them feel more comfortable and confident in their learning.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, the literacy centers have had an incredible impact on my students' reading and writing skills. These centers allow for differentiated learning, with students working at their own pace and engaging in activities tailored to their individual needs. Whether they're practicing phonics, building vocabulary, or exploring new books, these centers provide the tools they need to develop their literacy skills in a fun and hands-on way. \r\n\r\nYour support has made a world of difference in my classroom. The flexibility in seating has cultivated a positive classroom culture where my students feel seen and heard, and the literacy centers have fostered a love for reading and learning. \r\n\r\nThank you again for investing in my classroom and in my students' futures. Your kindness has truly made a lasting impact on their education and growth.","fullyFundedDate":1735689484366,"projectUrl":"project/flexible-learning-begins-with-flexible-s/8954109/","projectTitle":"Flexible Learning Begins With Flexible Seating and Learning Opportunities!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Busby","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9274128_orig.jpg?crop=1282,1282,x420,y280&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1694630627758","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9274128"},{"teacherId":3291216,"projectId":8835327,"letterContent":"I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for your generous support of our project, \"The Book Club Series.\" Your contribution has made a significant impact on our students and their learning journey.\r\n\r\nThe Book Club Series has been a tremendous addition to our curriculum. These books have provided our grade 3 students with diverse perspectives and engaging narratives that resonate with their interests. The inclusion of various genres has not only improved their comprehension skills but also encouraged critical thinking through discussions. Our students feel more included and challenged, thanks to the enriching content of these books.\r\n\r\nThe goals for the Third Grade Book Club have been a resounding success. By creating an inviting and exciting environment, we have fostered a love for reading among our students. They have eagerly explored different genres and authors, focusing on strategies that improve understanding and retention, such as summarizing and predicting outcomes. The book clubs have promoted open dialogue about the books, helping students articulate their thoughts and listen to others' perspectives. Through shared reading experiences and collaborative activities, our students have strengthened their relationships with their peers.\r\n\r\nGrade 3 students are at a unique stage where their curiosity and enthusiasm for learning are incredibly high. They are developing their identities as readers and thinkers, making it an ideal time to introduce more complex ideas and themes. Their eagerness to engage in discussions and explore new concepts has fostered a dynamic learning environment where creativity and imagination flourish. Each student brings their own experiences and perspectives, enriching the book club experience and creating a supportive community of young learners.\r\n\r\nYour support has been instrumental in making this project a reality. We are incredibly grateful for your generosity and commitment to enhancing the educational experience of our students. Thank you for believing in our vision and for helping us create a brighter future for our young learners","fullyFundedDate":1728006626041,"projectUrl":"project/grade-3-book-club/8835327/","projectTitle":"Grade 3 Book Club","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Rakoczy","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-rakoczy205"},{"teacherId":3857009,"projectId":8845596,"letterContent":"I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for your generous support of our project. Your contribution has made a significant impact on our students and their learning journey.\r\n\r\nThe \"Who Was and Who Would Win\" book series has been a tremendous addition to our curriculum. These books have provided our grade 3 students with diverse perspectives and engaging narratives that resonate with their interests. The inclusion of various genres has not only improved their comprehension skills but also encouraged critical thinking through discussions. Our students feel more included and challenged, thanks to the enriching content of these books.\r\n\r\nThe \"Adventure Awaits Book Clubs\" have been a resounding success. By creating an inviting and exciting environment, we have fostered a love for reading among our students. They have eagerly explored different genres and authors, focusing on strategies that improve understanding and retention, such as summarizing and predicting outcomes. The book clubs have promoted open dialogue about books, helping students articulate their thoughts and listen to others' perspectives. Through shared reading experiences and collaborative activities, our students have strengthened their relationships with their peers.\r\n\r\nGrade 3 students are at a unique stage where their curiosity and enthusiasm for learning are incredibly high. They are developing their identities as readers and thinkers, making it an ideal time to introduce more complex ideas and themes. Their eagerness to engage in discussions and explore new concepts has fostered a dynamic learning environment where creativity and imagination flourish. Each student brings their own experiences and perspectives, enriching the book club experience and creating a supportive community of young learners.\r\n\r\nYour support has been instrumental in making this project a reality. We are incredibly grateful for your generosity and commitment to enhancing the educational experience of our students. Thank you for believing in our vision and for helping us create a brighter future for our young learners.","fullyFundedDate":1728006626241,"projectUrl":"project/adventure-awaits-book-club/8845596/","projectTitle":"Adventure Awaits Book Club","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. O'Neill","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3857009_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1473214757874","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/t-oneill"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_43569","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":624,"numTeachers":63,"percentFrplEligible":65,"percentAsian":10,"percentBlack":18,"percentWhite":20,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":45,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 6","studentTeacherRatio":"9.9:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":68.9,"schoolId":43569,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Westover Magnet Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Westover Magnet Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/connecticut/stamford-public-schools/westover-magnet-elementary-school/43569"}