{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Dowdell Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":24.6,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8090498,"projectId":9239930,"letterContent":"Before implementing the \"How to ACE Science\" collection, our students faced significant barriers to accessing quality scientific reference materials. Many came from homes without internet access or science-related books, limiting their ability to explore concepts beyond our classroom discussions. The arrival of these 40 carefully curated resource books immediately addressed this critical gap, providing students with a comprehensive foundation spanning biology, chemistry, physics, earth science, and environmental studies.\r\n\r\nThe impact on student engagement has been extraordinary. Students who previously struggled to connect with science concepts now spend lunch breaks and free periods immersed in these resources. The books' accessible language and visual aids have made complex scientific principles understandable to students across all reading levels. We've witnessed reluctant learners transform into enthusiastic science advocates, often checking out multiple volumes to take home and share with family members.\r\n\r\nThe equity impact cannot be overstated. These resources have leveled the playing field for our students, many of whom lack access to educational materials at home. The collection serves as a bridge, connecting classroom learning with independent exploration and study. Students preparing for Advanced Placement science courses now have access to the same caliber of reference materials as their peers in more affluent districts, enabling them to compete successfully for college admissions and scholarships.\r\n\r\nBeyond immediate academic benefits, the \"How to ACE Science\" books have sparked career aspirations among our students. We've seen increased enrollment in advanced science courses, with several students expressing interest in pursuing STEM careers for the first time. The comprehensive coverage of scientific fields has exposed students to career paths they never knew existed, from marine biology to aerospace engineering.\r\n\r\nThe collection has also enhanced our teachers' instructional capacity. Educators now have access to diverse explanations, examples, and illustrations that help them differentiate instruction for various learning styles and ability levels. This has resulted in more dynamic, engaging lessons that accommodate the diverse needs of our student population.\r\n\r\nPerhaps most importantly, these books have instilled a sense of scientific literacy and confidence in our students. They've learned to approach problems systematically, think critically about evidence, and communicate scientific ideas effectively. These skills extend far beyond science class, improving their performance across all academic subjects and preparing them for success in an increasingly technology-driven world.\r\n\r\nThe \"How to ACE Science\" collection represents more than just books on shelves—it embodies hope, opportunity, and the democratization of quality education. It has empowered our students to see themselves as capable scientists and critical thinkers, regardless of their economic circumstances.\r\n\r\nThank you for recognizing the vital importance of educational resources in promoting equity and student success.","fullyFundedDate":1749827344668,"projectUrl":"project/how-to-ace-science/9239930/","projectTitle":"How to ACE Science","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Steve Wilson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8090498_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1705282751471","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8090498"},{"teacherId":8090498,"projectId":8928055,"letterContent":"When we first introduced lab aprons and comprehensive STEM kits into our science curriculum, the change in student demeanor was immediate and remarkable. Students who had previously shown reluctance to participate in laboratory activities suddenly displayed enthusiasm and confidence. The simple act of donning a lab apron transformed them from passive observers into active scientists. For many of our students, this was their first experience with professional-grade scientific equipment and safety protocols, providing them with a sense of legitimacy and importance in their scientific pursuits.\r\n\r\nThe safety aspect cannot be overstated in its significance. In our resource-constrained environment, where students often lack access to quality educational experiences outside of school, ensuring their physical safety during experiments builds trust and allows for deeper learning. Lab aprons protect students' clothing—often their only school outfit—from chemical spills and stains, removing a significant barrier to participation. This protection has enabled us to conduct more ambitious experiments that were previously deemed too risky, dramatically expanding our curriculum possibilities.\r\n\r\nOur STEM kits have proven equally transformative. These carefully curated collections of materials have democratized access to hands-on learning experiences that many of our students would never encounter otherwise. The kits contain everything from basic circuit components to microscopy supplies, robotics elements, and chemistry reagents. Students who struggle with traditional lecture-based learning have flourished when given the opportunity to build, experiment, and discover through tactile experiences.\r\nBeyond academics, these resources have fostered critical life skills. Students have developed problem-solving abilities, collaborative teamwork skills, and scientific thinking processes that serve them across all subjects. The confidence gained from successfully completing complex experiments while maintaining proper safety protocols has translated into increased self-efficacy in other areas of their lives.\r\n\r\nThe equity aspect of this initiative cannot be ignored. By providing high-quality STEM experiences within our school walls, we're helping to bridge the opportunity gap that often exists between low-income students and their more affluent peers. Our students now arrive at college-level courses with practical laboratory experience and an understanding of professional scientific practices that puts them on equal footing with students from better-resourced backgrounds.\r\n\r\nThe investment in safety equipment and engaging STEM materials has proven to be transformational for our school community. It has not only enhanced academic outcomes but has also inspired a new generation of scientifically literate citizens who view themselves as capable of pursuing careers in STEM fields.\r\n\r\nThank you for your consideration of the vital role these resources play in educational equity and student success.","fullyFundedDate":1732474281419,"projectUrl":"project/safety-and-fun-with-stem/8928055/","projectTitle":"Safety and Fun With STEM","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Steve Wilson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8090498_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1705282751471","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8090498"},{"teacherId":8090498,"projectId":8817040,"letterContent":"I am writing to express our heartfelt gratitude for your generous donation of headphones and a laptop. Your contribution has made a significant impact on our students' learning experiences, and I wanted to share with you the profound difference it has made.\r\n\r\nSince receiving the headphones and laptop, our students have been able to engage in their studies with greater focus and enthusiasm. The headphones have provided a quiet and distraction-free environment, allowing students to concentrate better during online activities and individual study sessions. This has been particularly beneficial for those who struggle with background noise.\r\n\r\nThe laptop has been a game-changer for our students. It has enabled them to access a wealth of online resources and complete assignments more efficiently. For many of our students, this laptop is their first personal computer, and it has opened up new avenues for learning and exploration. They are now able to conduct research, collaborate on projects, and develop digital skills that are essential in today's world.\r\n\r\nOne student shared how the laptop has transformed their learning experience. \"Before, I had to wait for my turn to use the family computer, which was often frustrating and time-consuming. Now, I can complete my homework on time and even explore new subjects that interest me. It's been a huge help!\" The computer gets signed out and brought back the next day.\r\n\r\nYour donation has not only provided essential tools for education but has also inspired our students to strive for excellence. They feel more supported and motivated, knowing that there are people like you who believe in their potential and are willing to invest in their future.\r\n\r\nOnce again, thank you for your generosity and support. Your contribution has made a lasting impact on our students' lives, and we are deeply grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1729948153440,"projectUrl":"project/can-you-hear-me-doing-my-work/8817040/","projectTitle":"Can You Hear Me?? Doing My Work!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Steve Wilson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8090498_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1705282751471","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8090498"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_46317","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":657,"numTeachers":41,"percentFrplEligible":71,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":24,"percentWhite":13,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":56,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"16.0:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":75.4,"schoolId":46317,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Dowdell Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Dowdell Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/florida/hillsborough-county-public-school-district/dowdell-middle-school/46317"}