{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"John Hopkins Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":28.9,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9752562,"projectId":9201868,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our dance studio has been transformed into a more effective and welcoming space for every student. We are using the new floor cushions, resistance bands, and mini-exercise balls weekly during strength and flexibility training, as well as in our Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT) lessons. One special moment came when students practiced proper alignment using their new TheraBands. I could see the breakthrough in their technique in a way that words alone had never accomplished. These resources allow each dancer to train independently, making class time more efficient, supportive, and engaging. This is extremely important in classroom management, and keeping each dancer fully engaged.\r\n\r\nWhen the dancers first walked in and saw the new equipment neatly set up, their faces lit up with excitement. Many exclaimed, \"We each get our own?\" For students who often share or go without, the joy of having their own tools was powerful. They immediately wanted to try everything. The floor cushions were especially popular! The dancers loved that they could sit comfortably for lessons in dance history and anatomy instead of shifting uncomfortably on the hard floor.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, the dancers are preparing for our Fall Concert where they will dance in short works that combine technique, strength, and artistry. With the new tools, they are building the stamina and core strength needed to perform with greater control and confidence. These resources will continue to support them as they grow into stronger dancers and more expressive artists. Your contribution has given them not only equipment but also pride, equity, and the motivation to keep pushing themselves further.","fullyFundedDate":1742838883202,"projectUrl":"project/a-dance-studio-made-for-student-success/9201868/","projectTitle":"A Dance Studio Made for Student Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Cardinal","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9752562_orig.jpg?crop=1606,1606,x425,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742566774398","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9752562"},{"teacherId":9752562,"projectId":9132986,"letterContent":"This grant allowed us to provide costumes for our performances this year, and many years after. Dancers, especially young dancers, perform their best when they feel good about what they are doing and how they look. Most of our costumes are ballet costumes, so costuming our jazz, modern and hip hop dances can be extremely challenging and discouraging. With these funds, I purchased and re-designed costumes to create an equitable costume collection to reflect every style of dance and the individual strengths of the dancers at Hopkins equally. \r\n\r\nThe dancers loved all of the costume pieces and were genuinely excited to wear them in the show. The dance shoes were used every week in class as well as on stage. Our Spring Concert theme was \"A Night at the Movies\" in which costumes from this grant were used for the Jumanji hip hop dance as well as our Barbie ballet. \r\n\r\nThese costume pieces will certainly be used for many performances to come. They have become a wonderful addition to our growing collection of costumes.","fullyFundedDate":1741633341374,"projectUrl":"project/john-hopkins-spring-dance-concert-2025/9132986/","projectTitle":"John Hopkins Spring Dance Concert 2025","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Cardinal","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9752562_orig.jpg?crop=1606,1606,x425,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742566774398","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9752562"},{"teacherId":9767382,"projectId":9043021,"letterContent":"Hi! Thank you so much for these amazing donations! My students really appreciated the new seats. They really need the ability to wiggle and wobble while they learn - especially at the end of the school year when energy is higher. \r\n\r\nSome students even rushed to my class, to get there first, so they could have a wobble seat. Having punctual students is a great benefit of the seats! More importantly, they are better focused and more engaged when they use wobble seats. I found that the kids who needed the seats more, tended to identify their own needs and choose the seats for themselves. This allowed them to learn better about history AND learn what helps them be successful. \r\n\r\nThank you again!!","fullyFundedDate":1739559360557,"projectUrl":"project/wobble-while-they-work/9043021/","projectTitle":"Wobble While They Work","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Newman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9767382"},{"teacherId":9575779,"projectId":8639332,"letterContent":"We hope all the donors are fine.\r\n\r\nSpanish classes of John Hopkins Middle School thank you all your support about the project related to writing stories in Spanish. \r\n\r\nStudents of Spanish 1 and 2 were writing stories related to stories learned from the curriculum of World Language in the District of Pinellas County Schools.\r\n\r\nThey were writing own stories like \"Life in the school\" or \"My family\" and others like \"Isabel y Ronaldo\", \"El encierro de Toros de San Fermin\" or \"Castells de Tarragona\" in level 1. In other hand in level 2, they were writing about \"Trip and scholarship \" and others like \"Latin food\", \"Sports\", \" Niños de Bolivia\" or \"Los tres cerditos\".\r\n\r\nOverall, students were using and enjoying everything that we receive for the project. We say again, thank very much.","fullyFundedDate":1729708358105,"projectUrl":"project/spanish-writing-stories-with-avid-strate/8639332/","projectTitle":"Spanish Writing Stories with AVID Strategies","teacherDisplayName":"Dr. Rissler","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9575779_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754844527975","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/elenarissler"},{"teacherId":9752562,"projectId":9090738,"letterContent":"We are deeply grateful for the support provided by each of you through Donors Choose which allowed the John Hopkins Middle School Dance Program to purchase portable sound systems and essential performance costumes. These resources have had a transformative impact on our students' learning environment, rehearsal efficiency, and overall performance experience.\r\n\r\nThis grant has not only filled an urgent equipment gap but has also helped us realize our core goals: to provide an optimal learning and performing environment, boost our students' confidence, and ensure that all dancers, regardless of their financial background, have equitable access to the tools they need to succeed.\r\nDance and music are inseparable. Music guides movement, inspires creativity, and provides the structure dancers rely on to learn technique and choreography. Prior to this grant, our dance studios relied on older, malfunctioning sound systems that frequently interrupted instruction and limited our ability to use alternate spaces.\r\n\r\nThe new portable speakers have changed that. Their mobility and high-quality sound have allowed us to:\r\n•\tSeamlessly play music in both of our large studios, stages, and alternative spaces.\r\n•\tBring music to off-site rehearsals and performances, eliminating barriers to full-scale preparation.\r\n•\tProvide a consistent and professional auditory environment that improves focus and musicality in every class.\r\n\r\nWith these upgrades, every space has become a potential classroom or stage, and our students now rehearse with the same sound quality they will experience during performance which is a crucial element in their preparation and success.\r\n\r\nCostumes do more than decorate a stage, they transform students into performers. Thanks to this grant, we were able to purchase a diverse array of professional-quality dance costumes that:\r\n•\tEnhance the visual storytelling of our performances.\r\n•\tHelp students embody their characters more fully, improving both expression and technique.\r\n•\tInstill a sense of pride, professionalism, and belonging.\r\n\r\nFor many of our dancers, wearing a performance costume for the first time is a moment of realization: they feel seen, valued, and empowered. Students feel more confident and excited to perform when they are costumed appropriately. This confidence translates into stronger stage presence and greater self-esteem off the stage as well.\r\n\r\nOur dance program serves a diverse group of students from across south St. Petersburg, many of whom come from low-income households. One of our highest priorities is ensuring that no student is excluded from participation due to financial constraints. The grant funding allowed us to:\r\n•\tProvide costumes at no cost to families in need.\r\n•\tMaintain a standard of equity across all performances, giving every student the opportunity to shine.\r\n•\tReinforce that every dancer, regardless of background, deserves the same professional opportunities.\r\n\r\nThis level of inclusivity has strengthened our community, allowing all students to perform with dignity, knowing they are supported and valued.\r\nThanks to your support, these students now rehearse and perform in an environment that reflects their effort and potential. The tools provided through this grant have made a lasting impression, not only on how they learn dance, but on how they see themselves.\r\n\r\nThis investment has gone beyond equipment and costumes, it has elevated our entire program. You have helped us foster an environment where art, education, and equity come together to shape the next generation of artists and leaders.\r\n\r\nOn behalf of our dancers, faculty, and families: thank you","fullyFundedDate":1738705606876,"projectUrl":"project/let-the-music-play-and-lets-dance/9090738/","projectTitle":"Let the Music Play and Let's Dance!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Cardinal","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9752562_orig.jpg?crop=1606,1606,x425,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742566774398","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9752562"},{"teacherId":9106266,"projectId":9043824,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom has been transformed! With the arrival of new sewing machines and a spotlight, our students have been able to take their creativity and performances to the next level.\r\n\r\nThe sewing machines have sparked so much excitement—students are thrilled to design and create their own costumes, learning valuable hands-on skills in the process. For many, it's their first time using a sewing machine, and they're discovering a new confidence and pride in seeing their designs come to life on stage.\r\n\r\nThe spotlight has made a huge impact during our rehearsals and performances. It brings a level of professionalism to our productions that truly makes our students feel like stars. They love stepping into the light and seeing their hard work showcased in such a dramatic way.\r\n\r\nThis project has not only enhanced our technical capabilities, but it has also deepened students' engagement in theatre and design. Thank you for making this experience possible!","fullyFundedDate":1738250333575,"projectUrl":"project/sewing-and-lighting/9043824/","projectTitle":"Sewing and Lighting","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Williamson-Clark","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9106266_orig.jpg?crop=576,576,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1689703976815","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9106266"},{"teacherId":9767382,"projectId":8806052,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for the amazing wobble seats! The kids love them! \r\n\r\nSome of my students are rushing to be first to my class so they can \"claim\" their wobble seats. I allow them to use the wobble seats instead of regular seats so the kids who use them the most have been actively on time and even early to class! \r\n\r\nI've noticed students who are using the Wobble seats more focused, more attentive. They're less likely to try to doze on a quiet day. They're rocking the seats forward and backwards, rocking them around, spinning quietly around -- and they're all working! \r\n\r\nI thought this would be best for my 6th grade students, who are transitioning into middle school and who have so much energy, but I was surprised at how much my 8th graders loved them. I have several 8th graders, all energetic, who also come early and fid that the Wobble Seats help them focus. \r\n\r\nThank you again!","fullyFundedDate":1732203871042,"projectUrl":"project/big-kids-wiggle-too/8806052/","projectTitle":"Big Kids Wiggle, Too","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Newman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9767382"},{"teacherId":9106266,"projectId":8539487,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support, which has brought incredible resources to our classroom and theatre program. Here's a glimpse into how your contributions are making a tangible difference for our students:\r\n\r\nHow is the technology helping your students learn?\r\nThe BETOPPER LED Stage Spotlights are a game-changer for our theatre productions. With their versatile warm and cool white settings and strobe effects, students are learning the fundamentals of lighting design, understanding how it sets the mood and enhances storytelling. These hands-on experiences help students connect artistic decisions to technical skills, a critical aspect of modern theatre.\r\n\r\nThe Hortsun Fluorescent Light Covers have transformed our classroom into a more inviting and comfortable learning space. By reducing harsh glare and flicker, the light filters create a calming environment that supports focus and creativity during rehearsals, group work, and individual tasks.\r\n\r\nWhat about the new product is most exciting to your students?\r\nOur Nostalgia Popcorn Maker has become the centerpiece of community-building events like movie nights and theatre performances. Students are thrilled to use it for fundraisers, where they take charge of operations, learning teamwork and responsibility while creating a classic theatre-going experience for their peers and families.\r\n\r\nThe Pacon Classroom Keepers Mailboxes have streamlined organization in our bustling classroom. Students are excited to have their own dedicated spaces for scripts, notes, and projects, fostering independence and personal accountability.\r\n\r\nAre there particular students who have especially warmed to this new technology, and how so?\r\nOne of our Level 2 theatre students, Alex, has shown remarkable enthusiasm for the stage lighting system. Alex has taken on the role of \"Lighting Lead\" for our upcoming production and is already mastering DMX programming and experimenting with creative designs. Their newfound confidence and passion for the technical side of theatre is inspiring others to explore this often-overlooked aspect of performance.\r\n\r\nMeanwhile, Mia, a younger student who initially struggled with organization, has found the mailbox system to be a lifesaver. She now comes to class prepared and has even started helping others manage their materials.\r\n\r\nYour support has given our students tools to shine—both on stage and in life. Thank you for believing in their potential and helping us create a vibrant, engaging learning environment.\r\n\r\nWarm regards,\r\nJake","fullyFundedDate":1726674765341,"projectUrl":"project/supplies-for-drama-2024/8539487/","projectTitle":"Supplies for Drama 2024","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Williamson-Clark","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9106266_orig.jpg?crop=576,576,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1689703976815","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9106266"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_46936","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":757,"numTeachers":41,"percentFrplEligible":92,"percentAsian":1,"percentBlack":42,"percentWhite":35,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":12,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"18.5:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":71.1,"schoolId":46936,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about John Hopkins Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"John Hopkins Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/florida/pinellas-county-schools/john-hopkins-middle-school/46936"}
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About this school
John Hopkins Middle School is
an urban public school
in Saint Petersburg, Florida that is part of Pinellas County Schools.
It serves 757 students
in grades 6 - 8 with a student/teacher ratio of 18.5:1.
Its teachers have had 32 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
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of students receive free or reduced price lunch
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
Source: the National Center for Education Statistics
55%
of students are Black, Latino, Native
American, or Asian
Data about school demographics comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. The numbers in this chart may not add up to 100% because of limitations in the available data.
John Hopkins Middle School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Dec 5, 2025
DonorsChoose makes it easy for anyone to help a teacher in need, moving us closer to a nation where students
in every community have the tools and experiences they need for a great education.
John Hopkins Middle School
$21,123
raised using DonorsChoose
32
projects
funded
14
teachers
funded
152
donors
3
projects
for
basic supplies
10
projects for
technology
1
project for
books
John Hopkins Middle School has received support from
108 individuals from Florida and
44 individuals out-of-state.