{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Smothers Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":69.1,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":3871717,"projectId":9667908,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, math in our classroom has become more hands on, engaging, and accessible for every student. We are using the dry erase boards, place value tools, fraction tiles, and decimal resources daily during whole group lessons, small group instruction, and independent practice. These materials allow students to physically see and manipulate numbers, which has made a huge difference in their understanding of fractions, decimals, and operations.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, they were excited and eager to use them right away. Many of my students learn best by doing, and having tools they can touch, move, and write on has boosted both confidence and participation. I've seen students who previously struggled begin to explain their thinking more clearly and take risks they were hesitant to take before.\r\n\r\nThe next steps for my students include continuing to build fluency with fraction and decimal operations and applying those skills to real world problem solving. With these resources, students are better prepared to deepen their understanding and close learning gaps. Thank you for giving my students tools that support growth, confidence, and a love for learning.","fullyFundedDate":1763670877699,"projectUrl":"project/from-fractions-to-decimals-engaging-mat/9667908/","projectTitle":"From Fractions to Decimals: Engaging Math for All","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jenkins","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3871717_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1570317873837","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3871717"},{"teacherId":8224228,"projectId":9876383,"letterContent":"Thank You for Fueling Our Students!\r\n\r\nThank you so much for your generous support of our snack project! Because of you, our students now have access to snacks that help keep them energized, focused, and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nFor many of our students, a simple snack makes a big difference in their day. Whether it's helping them concentrate during lessons, stay motivated during activities, or simply feel cared for, your kindness has had an immediate and meaningful impact.\r\n\r\nWe are truly grateful for your generosity and belief in our students. Your support goes beyond snacks—you are helping create a positive, supportive learning environment where our children can thrive. Thank you for investing in our school and in the success of our students!","fullyFundedDate":1767237126403,"projectUrl":"project/snacks-to-keep-our-battle-of-the-books-t/9876383/","projectTitle":"Snacks to Keep Our Battle of the Books Team Fueled!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. White","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8224228_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1726737881054","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8224228"},{"teacherId":8224228,"projectId":9797717,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our library has become an even more exciting and welcoming place for young readers. Through the Read, Reward, Repeat! project, students are now motivated to read more often, explore new genres, and build a lifelong love of books.\r\n\r\nYour donations helped turn reading into a joyful experience by providing meaningful incentives and resources that celebrate students' efforts and growth. For many of our students, these rewards are more than prizes—they are encouragement, confidence builders, and reminders that their hard work matters.\r\n\r\nEvery time a student finishes a book, earns a reward, or proudly shares what they've read, your impact is felt. Thank you for investing in literacy, motivation, and the future of our readers. Because of you, our students are reading more, believing in themselves, and repeating the cycle of success—one book at a time.","fullyFundedDate":1761139598502,"projectUrl":"project/read-reward-repeat-inspiring-young-re/9797717/","projectTitle":"Read, Reward, Repeat! Inspiring Young Readers in Our Library","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. White","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8224228_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1726737881054","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8224228"},{"teacherId":10034876,"projectId":9741523,"letterContent":"On behalf of Smothers Elementary School, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your generous donation. Your support plays a vital role in helping us provide meaningful learning opportunities and a positive environment for our students.\r\nWe truly appreciate your support and kindness. Your contribution will help support students, improve our learning program, and make a meaningful difference for our students.\r\n\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our mission and investing in the success of our school community. We are truly grateful for your partnership and generosity.\r\n\r\nWith sincere appreciation,","fullyFundedDate":1765205103842,"projectUrl":"project/bright-futures-fund/9741523/","projectTitle":"Bright Futures Fund","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Butler","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10034876_orig.png?crop=531,531,x0,y30&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1748382224049","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10034876"},{"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"}],"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":30.9,"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"}