{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Smothers Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":69.7,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":3049410,"projectId":9116472,"letterContent":"Creating a safe learning space through cleanliness and proper hygiene has a powerful impact on kindergartners' overall development and daily learning experiences. A clean classroom environment helps prevent the spread of germs and illnesses, leading to fewer absences and more consistent participation in learning activities. When young children are taught simple hygiene practices—such as washing hands, keeping personal spaces tidy, and caring for shared materials—they begin to develop healthy habits that support their physical well-being both inside and outside of school. Beyond physical health, a well-maintained classroom fosters a sense of emotional safety and belonging. When children enter an environment that is organized, clean, and cared for, they feel valued and secure. This sense of safety helps reduce anxiety and distractions, allowing them to focus more effectively on exploration, play, and learning. Cleanliness also contributes to a calm atmosphere where routines are predictable, supporting the emotional stability young learners need to thrive. In addition, promoting cleanliness in the classroom encourages responsibility, respect, and collaboration. When students take part in keeping their learning space neat—such as cleaning up centers or organizing supplies—they learn to care for their environment and for one another. These early experiences build independence, community values, and pride in their work. Ultimately, maintaining a clean and hygienic learning space not only protects kindergartners' health but also nurtures their social, emotional, and cognitive growth.","fullyFundedDate":1746702260251,"projectUrl":"project/ensuring-a-safe-learning-space-through-c/9116472/","projectTitle":"Ensuring a Safe Learning Space Through Cleanliness and Proper Hygiene","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. M.","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3049410_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1505289438572","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3049410"},{"teacherId":9212214,"projectId":9106189,"letterContent":"When my students received their graduation keepsakes and awards, their faces lit up with pure joy and pride. They couldn't stop smiling as they held their certificates and shared their excitement with their classmates. For many of them, this was the first time they had been recognized in such a special way, and it truly made them feel proud of their hard work.\r\n\r\nWe used the resources to create a meaningful \"Moving Up\" celebration, where each child was honored for their growth and accomplishments throughout the year. Families joined in to cheer them on, and it served as a powerful reminder of the importance of community and encouragement in education. The next step for my students is carrying this sense of pride and motivation with them into first grade, knowing that they are capable of reaching new goals. Your support not only made our celebration possible but also created a lasting memory that will inspire them as they continue their journey as lifelong learners.","fullyFundedDate":1746785856170,"projectUrl":"project/kindergarteners-are-moving-up-and-shinin/9106189/","projectTitle":"Kindergarteners Are Moving Up and Shining Bright!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Atem","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9212214_orig.jpg?crop=3337,3337,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1750353240109","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-atem"},{"teacherId":7958501,"projectId":6991338,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your incredible generosity. Your support has made such a lasting and meaningful impact on my teaching and on my students' learning journeys. The resources you provided are not only helpful in the moment, but they continue to be a foundation I rely on year after year. They have truly transformed the way my students experience reading.\r\n\r\nSince incorporating these materials into my classroom, I have witnessed remarkable growth in my students' abilities and, more importantly, in their love for reading. Many of my students entered the year feeling uncertain or even discouraged about their reading skills. Now, because of the tools and practice they receive through the decodable passages, they approach reading with excitement, confidence, and determination. It has been such a joy to watch them pick up books for pleasure, challenge themselves with texts they once would have avoided, and celebrate their own progress.\r\n\r\nThe decodable passages, in particular, have been instrumental. They give my students a safe and structured way to practice, while also encouraging them to take risks and stretch themselves as readers. Each success they have builds momentum, and that momentum is creating lifelong readers. I cannot express enough how much it means to me to see students—who once struggled—now thriving, smiling, and eager to share what they've read.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has not only provided resources, but it has created opportunities. You have helped my students build confidence, develop resilience, and discover a genuine love for learning. These are gifts that will extend far beyond the walls of my classroom and will stay with them for years to come.\r\n\r\nFrom the bottom of my heart, thank you. Both my students and I are deeply grateful for your kindness and your investment in their education.","fullyFundedDate":1668128285938,"projectUrl":"project/decodable-passages-to-the-rescue/6991338/","projectTitle":"Decodable Passages to the Rescue","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Reaves","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7958501_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757290200264","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7958501"},{"teacherId":9212214,"projectId":9151220,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has been nourished in more ways than one! The snacks you provided have helped keep my students energized and attentive throughout the day, especially during our most active learning times. I remember one afternoon during our group storytime when several students who usually struggle to focus were noticeably more engaged and eager to participate. It was a joyful moment that reminded me how important these small supports truly are.\r\n\r\nWhen the snacks first arrived, my students were so excited! They felt cared for and valued, which boosted their confidence and sense of belonging in our classroom community. It's incredible how something as simple as a snack can brighten their day and create a positive learning environment.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, we're focusing on building their social skills through cooperative play and language activities. The steady energy from having regular snacks means students can join in fully without the distraction of hunger. We're also integrating lessons on healthy choices and gratitude, helping students understand why taking care of their bodies is part of learning.","fullyFundedDate":1746785606463,"projectUrl":"project/fueling-young-minds-snacks-for-growing/9151220/","projectTitle":"Fueling Young Minds: Snacks for Growing Learners!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Atem","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9212214_orig.jpg?crop=3337,3337,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1750353240109","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-atem"},{"teacherId":9212214,"projectId":9108591,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, I was able to use Teachers Pay Teachers gift cards to bring fresh, engaging, and high-quality resources directly into our classroom. While this may not be traditional \"technology\" in the sense of a device, the digital resources I accessed have had a profound impact on student learning. These teacher-created materials are designed with student needs in mind, and they've helped me differentiate instruction, provide visual supports, and bring lessons to life in new ways.\r\n\r\nOne of the most exciting aspects for my students has been the interactive and creative activities I've been able to print and use—games, hands-on centers, and colorful visuals that make learning fun and meaningful. They've especially loved using themed literacy centers and math challenges that feel more like play than work, keeping them engaged and motivated throughout the day.","fullyFundedDate":1746699630709,"projectUrl":"project/enhance-learning-using-tpt-resources/9108591/","projectTitle":"Enhance Learning using TPT Resources!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Atem","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9212214_orig.jpg?crop=3337,3337,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1750353240109","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-atem"},{"teacherId":3049410,"projectId":9101524,"letterContent":"My students were so excited with new resources for the class. Student have been able to used the resources in independent or small-group work. Because students can work at their own pace, my students move ahead while others work more slowly and independently. These centers help build and reinforce foundational literacy: phonemic awareness, decoding, sight words.\r\n\r\nWith assessment cards included, I have been able to conduct informal data on student progress in language skills; useful for RTI/MTSS, or for informing next instructional steps.","fullyFundedDate":1746787323283,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-young-readers-with-interactiv/9101524/","projectTitle":"Empowering Young Readers with Interactive Literacy Resources!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. M.","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3049410_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1505289438572","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3049410"},{"teacherId":9212214,"projectId":9019937,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project! The new storage bins and organizers have truly transformed our classroom environment. When the materials arrived, my students immediately noticed the difference. We've used the storage tools to organize our learning centers, art supplies, and classroom library, making everything easier to access and put away. This has reduced clutter and taught my students valuable skills like responsibility and teamwork as they help maintain our space each day.\r\n\r\nNow that our classroom is more organized, students can focus more on learning and less on searching for materials. The clean, accessible setup has encouraged creativity and collaboration, and it's clear that the improved environment is having a positive effect on their confidence and engagement. Thank you for helping us turn our space into a calm, efficient place where learning truly shines!","fullyFundedDate":1738678298422,"projectUrl":"project/from-chaos-to-clarity-storage-made-simp/9019937/","projectTitle":"From Chaos to Clarity: Storage Made Simple!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Atem","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9212214_orig.jpg?crop=3337,3337,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1750353240109","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-atem"},{"teacherId":3049410,"projectId":9012817,"letterContent":"We are incredibly grateful for your support in providing technology, especially iPads, to our early childhood multilingual classroom. These tools have made a meaningful difference in how our young learners engage with language and learning. iPads offer interactive, hands-on experiences that cater to a wide range of learning styles, allowing children to hear, see, and touch as they explore new concepts in both their home languages and English. Educational apps and digital resources have become essential in supporting vocabulary development, literacy skills, and overall confidence in communication.\r\n\r\nFor our multilingual students, technology has also helped create a more inclusive and equitable classroom. With iPads, I am able to personalize instruction to meet the needs of each child, making learning more accessible and engaging. Children can listen to stories in multiple languages, use drawing tools to express ideas, and participate in digital storytelling activities that honor their cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Your generosity has not only enhanced our instructional tools, it has opened doors for every child to thrive, connect, and grow. Thank you for being a vital part of their learning journey.","fullyFundedDate":1738678293230,"projectUrl":"project/technology-for-young-ece-multilingual-le/9012817/","projectTitle":"Technology for Young ECE Multilingual Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. M.","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3049410_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1505289438572","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3049410"},{"teacherId":9212214,"projectId":9016812,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project, \"Guarding Our Gadgets!\" Thanks to your generosity, our classroom now has the protective cases and tech organization tools we needed to keep our devices safe and ready for learning. With these new resources, students can confidently use their tablets and laptops during centers, research activities, and interactive lessons without the fear of damage or accidents. The protective gear has given us peace of mind and allowed us to focus more on learning and less on worrying about equipment.\r\n\r\nThe cases and accessories have especially empowered some of my more tech-curious students to take on leadership roles as classroom \"Tech Helpers,\" assisting their classmates with logging in and navigating learning apps. It's been incredible to watch their confidence grow. Whether we're working on digital storytelling, reading fluency apps, or I-Ready, these tools are helping us make the most of our classroom technology. Thank you for helping us protect what matters and for making a lasting impact on our learning environment!","fullyFundedDate":1738678297227,"projectUrl":"project/guarding-our-gadgets/9016812/","projectTitle":"Guarding Our Gadgets!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Atem","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9212214_orig.jpg?crop=3337,3337,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1750353240109","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-atem"},{"teacherId":9212214,"projectId":9015078,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity in supporting our project, \"Essential Supplies for a Clean, Healthy Classroom!\" As soon as the supplies arrived, my students were immediately curious and excited. From disinfecting wipes to tissues and hand sanitizer, each item has played a huge role in keeping our learning environment clean and comfortable. We've built classroom routines around these materials, teaching students how to take responsibility for their shared space and care for one another's well-being. It's been a powerful way to blend life skills with community building.\r\n\r\nWith your help, we've created a classroom culture that values health, safety, and mutual respect, something especially important during cold and allergy season. These supplies have helped us stay focused on learning without constant disruptions due to illness or discomfort. As we move forward with our spring projects, including collaborative science and art activities, we're grateful to have a clean and organized space to work in. Thank you for investing in our classroom and helping us create a safe, joyful place to learn and grow.","fullyFundedDate":1738678297375,"projectUrl":"project/essential-supplies-for-a-clean-healthy/9015078/","projectTitle":"Essential Supplies for a Clean, Healthy Classroom!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Atem","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9212214_orig.jpg?crop=3337,3337,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1750353240109","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-atem"},{"teacherId":9212214,"projectId":8864821,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity in supporting our \"Print, Laminate, Learn, Creating Lasting Classroom Resources\" project! Because of you, we now can create durable, engaging learning materials that my students can use again and again.\r\n\r\nMany of my students thrive with hands-on, interactive learning, and thanks to this new technology, I can provide them with customized resources that meet their needs. With our new printer and laminator, I've created reusable literacy and math centers, sight word practice cards, and name-tracing activities that my students love. Instead of using single-use paper materials, they now have long-lasting, wipeable resources they can practice daily.","fullyFundedDate":1734536313714,"projectUrl":"project/print-laminate-learn-creating-lastin/8864821/","projectTitle":"Print, Laminate, Learn - Creating Lasting Classroom Resources!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Atem","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9212214_orig.jpg?crop=3337,3337,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1750353240109","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-atem"},{"teacherId":9212214,"projectId":9021607,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project. When the materials arrived, the excitement in our classroom was undeniable. My students couldn't wait to explore the colorful phonics games, leveled readers, and word-building activities. We quickly integrated these tools into our literacy stations, and the results have been amazing. Students who were once hesitant to read are now confidently sounding out words, building sentences, and engaging in small-group reading with enthusiasm. The hands-on resources have truly transformed how we approach reading in our classroom.\r\n\r\nAs we move into our next unit, a class book club and author study, these tools will continue to support student growth by building vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension. It's been incredible to see students help each other, take pride in their reading progress, and show a genuine love for books. Your donation has provided us with valuable materials and created joyful learning experiences that will stay with my students all year. Thank you for being such an important part of their reading journey!","fullyFundedDate":1738678297988,"projectUrl":"project/building-strong-readers-with-engaging-li/9021607/","projectTitle":"Building Strong Readers with Engaging Literacy Tools!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Atem","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9212214_orig.jpg?crop=3337,3337,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1750353240109","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-atem"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_24149","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":232,"numTeachers":24,"percentFrplEligible":78,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":90,"percentWhite":0,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":8,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"9.7:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":30.3,"schoolId":24149,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Smothers Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Smothers Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/district-of-columbia/dc-public-schools/smothers-elementary-school/24149"}