{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Homestead Senior High School","outOfStateSupporters":54.7,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9486260,"projectId":9369078,"letterContent":"The moment my students walked into the classroom and saw the new sofa, refrigerator, rugs, and cleaning supplies, everything changed. Their faces lit up with disbelief—followed by excitement, gratitude, and a kind of relief that is hard to put into words. One student whispered, \"This feels like home now,\" and that is exactly what your generosity has created for them: a safe, welcoming space where they finally feel comfortable enough to learn, relax, and simply be themselves.\r\n\r\nThe sofa has become our little sanctuary. Students curl up with books, gather for small-group discussions, or sit quietly when they need a moment to calm down. It has given them a sense of peace and belonging that goes far beyond academics. The new rugs have turned our classroom into a warm, colorful space where students love to gather for morning meetings, project planning, and reflections. These small moments—knees touching, heads together, ideas flowing—have become more meaningful now that students feel grounded and connected.\r\n\r\nThe refrigerator has been a blessing in ways that matter deeply. It now holds snacks, drinks, and sometimes even meals for students who come to school with empty stomachs. Knowing they have access to something cold and nourishing has eased stress and helped them stay focused throughout the day. They take pride in keeping it stocked and organized, learning responsibility and kindness in the process.\r\n\r\nEven the cleaning supplies made a bigger difference than we expected. Students now take ownership of their classroom—wiping down surfaces, caring for the rugs, and keeping the sofa spotless. It has become \"their space,\" and they protect it with pride.\r\n\r\nYour generosity didn't just provide furniture and supplies. You gave my students dignity. You gave them comfort, stability, and a place where they feel valued. These items have changed the way they learn, the way they collaborate, and the way they see themselves.\r\n\r\nAs we continue our reading groups, research projects, and daily reflections, these new resources will support every step. Thank you for giving my students more than materials—you gave them hope, joy, and a classroom that finally feels like home.","fullyFundedDate":1756473358356,"projectUrl":"project/business-serenity-station/9369078/","projectTitle":"Business Serenity Station","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Merino","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9486260_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1709818947954","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9486260"},{"teacherId":10045209,"projectId":9383185,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous donations, my office has been transformed into a true safe space where students can step away, regulate their emotions, and refocus before returning to class. From the cozy beanbag chair to the calming atmosphere created by the new setup, my students immediately noticed the change. Many of them have already shared that this space feels welcoming and different from the typical school environment, which is exactly what I hoped to provide—a place where they can rebuild their confidence and return to learning with a clearer mind.\r\n\r\nOne of the most rewarding moments came when a student, after a difficult morning, walked into the room, sat down, and simply said, \"This feels peaceful.\" That reaction alone showed me the impact your support has made. These resources are not only helping students in the moment, but they're also teaching them the lifelong skills of self-regulation and resilience. The next step is to continue integrating this space into our daily routines, encouraging students to use it not just when they're struggling, but also as a tool for practicing mindfulness and building positive habits. Your contribution has planted a seed that will keep growing throughout the school year—thank you for making this possible.","fullyFundedDate":1749009362819,"projectUrl":"project/feelings-first-a-safe-space-to-regulate/9383185/","projectTitle":"Feelings First: A Safe Space to Regulate, Refocus, and Rebuild...","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Medrano","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10045209_orig.jpg?crop=618,618,x622,y174&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1748454091978","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10045209"},{"teacherId":2100079,"projectId":9314760,"letterContent":"When the shipment of supplies arrived, my students could hardly believe their eyes! The excitement was real—cheers filled the room as we unpacked boxes of colorful folders, notebooks, pens, and art materials. For many of my students, this was the first time they had brand-new supplies of their own. They eagerly sorted through the vibrant folders, labeled their notebooks, and filled the new storage cart with pride. That day, our classroom felt like it transformed into a space of ownership, organization, and endless possibilities.\r\n\r\nSince then, we've been putting every single item to use. The new notebooks and pencils have become essential tools during our daily writing and reading activities. Students are using highlighters to mark key details in texts, flair pens to annotate their thoughts, and index cards to create study flashcards for vocabulary practice. The laminating pouches have helped us protect classroom charts, student goal sheets, and visual aids—making learning both lasting and accessible. The rolling cart and rotating organizer have made a huge difference in maintaining structure, independence, and pride in our shared space.\r\n\r\nThanks to your generosity, my students now have the materials they need to fully engage and succeed. They come to class each day prepared, confident, and eager to learn. No one worries about not having a pencil or paper—they can focus on growing their skills and sharing their ideas. As we continue working on our reading and writing units, these supplies will keep supporting collaboration, creativity, and academic growth. Your support has not only provided supplies—it has reminded my students that they are valued, capable, and worthy of investment. Thank you for believing in them and helping turn our classroom into a place of true empowerment and joy.","fullyFundedDate":1755710634472,"projectUrl":"project/pencils-paper-and-possibilities/9314760/","projectTitle":"Pencils, Paper, and Possibilities!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lee","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2100079_orig.jpg?crop=664,664,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1681487723977","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/elee0607"},{"teacherId":7467713,"projectId":6702424,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our music program now has a reliable Epson Eco-Tank printer that has transformed how we prepare and share music. Having this printer in the classroom means students no longer have to wait days to get sheet music, practice materials, or concert programs—they have instant access to the resources they need.\r\n\r\nOne memorable moment was when students quickly printed parts for a new piece during rehearsal, allowing us to dive into music making without delay. The printer has saved us time and money while supporting more personalized and organized learning. It's a simple tool, but it's made a big difference in how smoothly our rehearsals run and how engaged our students feel.\r\n\r\nThanks to you, the Broncos can focus more on playing music and less on waiting for printed materials. We're excited to keep growing and sharing our music with the community!","fullyFundedDate":1661470972989,"projectUrl":"project/broncos-printing-music/6702424/","projectTitle":"Broncos Printing Music","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Rodriguez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7467713_orig.jpg?crop=1200,1200,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1605539125181","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ideavictoryband"},{"teacherId":7467713,"projectId":6622157,"letterContent":"Thanks to your incredible support, our marching band is making a powerful comeback after 17 years! The arrival of the Behringer X32 Rack 40-channel digital mixer has been a game changer for our performances. This mixer allows us to wirelessly control the sound of our entire percussion pit and electronics directly from the field, delivering crisp, balanced, and professional audio to every corner of the stadium.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the mixer in action, their excitement was palpable—they could finally hear their hard work clearly during rehearsals and games. This technology elevates the entire marching show experience, allowing musicians to focus on their performance while ensuring the audience hears every beat and note as intended.\r\n\r\nWith this mixer, we're not just bringing back the Bronco Band—we're bringing it back stronger, smarter, and more modern than ever. Your generosity is helping us create a truly unforgettable marching season!","fullyFundedDate":1660068074855,"projectUrl":"project/21st-century-marching-band/6622157/","projectTitle":"21st Century Marching Band","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Rodriguez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7467713_orig.jpg?crop=1200,1200,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1605539125181","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ideavictoryband"},{"teacherId":7467713,"projectId":6330972,"letterContent":"Thanks to your support, our \"Drumming Bronco Upkeep\" project gave our percussionists exactly what they needed to practice smarter, rehearse longer, and perform better! The delivery of new marching snare sticks, practice pads, and mallet holders came at the perfect time—just as our marching percussion section was gearing up for the season.\r\n\r\nThe students were excited the moment they saw the boxes. For many, it was the first time they had a brand-new pair of sticks or their very own practice pad. The upgraded gear not only improved their sound and consistency but also gave them a renewed sense of ownership and pride in the ensemble. Now, our percussionists can practice at home and during sectionals without risking damage to performance drums.\r\n\r\nWith the new mallet holders, our bass drummers are better organized and more efficient during rehearsals and shows—no more scrambling or dropped mallets! These simple but essential tools have made a huge difference in our everyday performance and preparation. Thank you for keeping our rhythm section sharp, focused, and moving forward!","fullyFundedDate":1649350751744,"projectUrl":"project/drumming-bronco-upkeep/6330972/","projectTitle":"Drumming Bronco Upkeep","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Rodriguez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7467713_orig.jpg?crop=1200,1200,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1605539125181","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ideavictoryband"},{"teacherId":9486260,"projectId":8256449,"letterContent":"Homelessness is a harsh reality for many children in our communities, and the struggles they face daily can have long-lasting effects on their emotional and educational development. Without access to basic needs like food and a stable learning environment, these children are often left behind in their academic progress. However, through initiatives focused on providing snacks and educational support, we can make a significant difference in their lives, offering them the nourishment and opportunities they deserve for a better future.\r\n\r\nThe Importance of Snacks for Homeless Children\r\nOne of the most immediate needs for children facing homelessness is food. Without access to regular meals, their ability to concentrate, learn, and participate in school activities is severely impacted. Hunger can be a constant distraction, making it difficult for children to focus on their studies or engage with their peers. Providing snacks addresses a fundamental need and creates a more conducive environment for learning.\r\n\r\nSnacks, especially those that are nutritious, offer an immediate boost to a child's energy levels, helping them stay alert and engaged during school hours. Regular access to snacks can also reduce stress, as children no longer need to worry about where their next meal is coming from. This sense of security is critical in helping them feel safe and supported in their educational environment.\r\n\r\nBy ensuring that homeless children have access to healthy snacks, we are not just addressing hunger—we are giving them a better chance to succeed academically. When children have proper nutrition, they are more likely to have improved cognitive function, better memory, and the energy to participate in activities that will support their growth.\r\n\r\nEducating Homeless Children: A Path to Empowerment\r\nEducation is one of the most powerful tools for breaking the cycle of poverty. For homeless children, however, access to quality education can be a challenge due to factors such as instability in housing, lack of school supplies, and emotional trauma. By addressing their immediate needs, such as hunger, we can open the door for better educational outcomes.\r\n\r\nEducating homeless children goes beyond simply providing textbooks and classroom resources. It involves offering emotional support, creating a safe learning environment, and recognizing the unique challenges these children face. Many of these children may come from backgrounds where their educational journey has been disrupted, and they may need additional resources to help them catch up.\r\n\r\nTutoring, after-school programs, and mentorship are all ways to offer these children a chance to succeed. By working with local schools and community organizations, we can create programs that provide individualized attention, address academic gaps, and build the self-confidence necessary for these children to excel.\r\n\r\nCreating a Supportive Environment\r\nThe combination of food and education helps foster a holistic approach to the well-being of homeless children. When we provide both physical and educational nourishment, we are empowering them to reach their full potential. Programs that combine snack distributions with educational support, such as tutoring sessions and life skills workshops, create an environment where children feel cared for and encouraged.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, these initiatives can help build a sense of community. Homelessness often leads to feelings of isolation, but by bringing together children in a learning-focused, supportive environment, we can help them feel a sense of belonging. When children feel connected to others, they are more likely to engage positively in their education and overall development.\r\n\r\nConclusion\r\nProviding snacks and education to homeless children is a crucial step in breaking the cycle of poverty and creating opportunities for these young individuals to thrive. By meeting their immediate needs for food and offering a supportive educational environment, we not only help them succeed academically but also empower them to dream of and work toward a brighter future. This holistic approach to addressing both hunger and education can transform the lives of homeless children, offering them hope, stability, and the tools they need to build a better tomorrow","fullyFundedDate":1720039171549,"projectUrl":"project/snacks-for-homeless-youth/8256449/","projectTitle":"Snacks for Homeless Youth","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Merino","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9486260_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1709818947954","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9486260"},{"teacherId":9622128,"projectId":8981388,"letterContent":"On behalf of everyone involved in the Color Me Inclusive Buddy Run, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your generous contribution. Your support played a vital role in bringing this unforgettable event to life on April 4th, 2025. Hosted at Homestead Senior High School, the run paired general education students with peers who have autism and intellectual disabilities, fostering meaningful connections through a vibrant, shared experience. As participants made their way around the school track, bursts of color transformed their white shirts into radiant displays of unity and joy. Every runner received a medal, but the true reward was the laughter, encouragement, and genuine friendships that blossomed along the way.\r\n\r\nNow in its third year, this was our first time incorporating a color run element, and it elevated the experience to new heights—despite a delay from March due to nearby fires. Thanks to your donation, we were able to create an inclusive, welcoming space where students could celebrate diversity and friendship in the most joyful way imaginable. Many buddy pairs have already made plans to continue spending time together beyond this event, a testament to the lasting impact of your generosity. We invite you to relive some of the day's magic by viewing the event reel on Instagram at @nikester74. Thank you again for believing in our mission and helping us build a more inclusive future—one rainbow-colored lap at a time.\r\n\r\nWarm regards,","fullyFundedDate":1736993953606,"projectUrl":"project/color-me-an-inclusive-5k/8981388/","projectTitle":"Color Me: An Inclusive 5K","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lungi","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9622128_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733279909684","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/buddyrun5k"},{"teacherId":9486260,"projectId":8596626,"letterContent":"The donated materials allowed students to directly measure and analyze water quality, integrating science and business concepts. By understanding the economic implications of natural disasters on water sources, students learned to apply business principles to address environmental challenges. The project required collaboration between students from different disciplines, including business, science, and engineering. Working together across subjects helped them see how interconnected business is.","fullyFundedDate":1723910694833,"projectUrl":"project/business-in-motion-steam/8596626/","projectTitle":"Business in Motion: Steam","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Merino","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9486260_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1709818947954","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9486260"},{"teacherId":1794787,"projectId":8306757,"letterContent":"I wanted to take a moment to share just how much your generous support for the resiliency cords and stoles has meant to our graduating students, especially those who have faced homelessness. These aren't just graduation accessories; they're symbols of their hard work and determination. When we told the students they would be receiving these cords, their excitement was contagious. For many of them, it's a special acknowledgment of the challenges they've overcome to reach this important day.\r\n\r\nThanks to you, our students feel recognized and valued, and they're stepping into their graduation with a newfound sense of pride and achievement. These cords and stoles will make their big day even more memorable and serve as a constant reminder of their strength as they head off to college. Thank you for being such a crucial part of celebrating their success and supporting their future.","fullyFundedDate":1715321077622,"projectUrl":"project/resiliency-graduation-stoles-and-cords-f/8306757/","projectTitle":"Resiliency Graduation Stoles and Cords for Homeless Seniors","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Dixon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1794787_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1613042041039","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/collegeboundspartans"},{"teacherId":1794787,"projectId":8238531,"letterContent":"Securing funding for our college resource center has been a game-changer for my students from disadvantaged communities. With access to the necessary supplies, they can now apply for scholarships and colleges with the confidence that their applications will stand out. The worry of lacking resources is no longer a barrier. Additionally, I was able to create vibrant and informative newsletters, ensuring that students are aware of every opportunity available to help them attend college debt-free. This support has empowered them to pursue their dreams with renewed enthusiasm and optimism.","fullyFundedDate":1718252682398,"projectUrl":"project/school-supplies-needed-for-college-resou/8238531/","projectTitle":"School Supplies Needed for College Resource Center","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Dixon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1794787_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1613042041039","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/collegeboundspartans"},{"teacherId":1794787,"projectId":8236847,"letterContent":"Thanks to the generous donation of period products, students who previously struggled to afford these essentials now have the resources they need to feel confident and comfortable at school. By setting up multiple distribution sites throughout the campus, we made it easier for students to access what they need without having to trek all the way to the front of the school. This convenience means they can quickly grab what they need and get back to class without missing valuable learning time. The students have expressed their gratitude, and it's heartwarming to see how such a simple change can make a big difference in their daily lives.","fullyFundedDate":1710372488862,"projectUrl":"project/period-products-for-female-students-who/8236847/","projectTitle":"Period Products For Female Students Who Are In Need","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Dixon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1794787_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1613042041039","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/collegeboundspartans"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_47379","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":2323,"numTeachers":102,"percentFrplEligible":71,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":40,"percentWhite":2,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":55,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"9 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":"22.8:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":45.3,"schoolId":47379,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Homestead Senior High School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Homestead Senior High School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/florida/miami-dade-county-public-schools/homestead-senior-high-school/47379"}