{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"B.E.S.T. Academy at The T.W. Dortch Jr. Institute","outOfStateSupporters":32.8,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9771684,"projectId":9375906,"letterContent":"The new technology has transformed the way my scholars learn by making our math classroom more interactive and efficient. The mobile charging station ensures students always have access to their Chromebooks and eliminating lost instructional time. The rolling whiteboard and magnetic graph have made math concepts visual and dynamic, helping students better understand functions, slopes, equations, and data displays. These tools support multiple learning styles and keep students actively participating during instruction rather than passively observing.\r\n\r\nWhat excites my students most is how the new tools give them independence and a sense of ownership over their learning environment. They love being able to grab materials from the utility carts without waiting, use the movable whiteboard to show their thinking during group work, and keep their devices charged and ready. These resources have not only improved academic engagement but have also helped students step into leadership roles, collaborate more confidently, and take pride in the structure and flow of our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1753193002120,"projectUrl":"project/math-scholars-in-motion-charged-suppl/9375906/","projectTitle":"Math Scholars in Motion - Charged, Supplied, and Engaged","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Holt","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9771684_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1726931953968","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsjholt"},{"teacherId":1758142,"projectId":9343558,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting our project. Your generosity has given a motivated group of young men the tools they need to elevate their storytelling, journalism, and creativity. Each day, they produce news segments, conduct interviews, and share meaningful stories with our school community.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, our students now have wireless microphones and equipment that bring clarity, confidence, and professionalism to their work. These tools are helping them strengthen their communication skills, improve broadcast quality, and grow as young storytellers and leaders.\r\n\r\nYour donation is making a real impact.","fullyFundedDate":1753193002669,"projectUrl":"project/voices-of-the-future-empowering-young-m/9343558/","projectTitle":"Voices of the Future: Empowering Young Men Through Media","teacherDisplayName":"Dr. Bruce Williams","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1758142_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1448910582459","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1758142"},{"teacherId":1758142,"projectId":9343673,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting our AVTF STEAM project. Your generosity has given our young men access to the tools they need to script, film, edit, and broadcast their own original content. With equipment like wireless microphones, green screens, and studio lighting, they are gaining real-world skills in communication, teamwork, and creative problem-solving.\r\nYour support is empowering them to become confident creators and leaders. Thank you for making a meaningful difference in their future.\r\n\r\nThanks for ALL you do!","fullyFundedDate":1753193002259,"projectUrl":"project/lights-camera-innovation-a-steam-medi/9343673/","projectTitle":"Lights, Camera, Innovation: a STEAM Media Experience for Young Men","teacherDisplayName":"Dr. Bruce Williams","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1758142_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1448910582459","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1758142"},{"teacherId":8396177,"projectId":9330788,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students now have the tools they need to focus, learn, and grow every day. The new headphones have made an incredible difference during independent and small-group work. Students can now listen to lessons, complete online activities, and watch educational videos without distractions from the rest of the class. It's amazing to see how much more confident and engaged they are when they can clearly hear and follow along at their own pace.\r\n\r\nThe pencils have also been a huge hit—something so simple has truly empowered my students. They love having their own supplies ready to go, which means they can dive into writing, note-taking, and creative work without worrying about being unprepared. It's given them a sense of independence and pride in their learning.\r\n\r\nOne student told me, \"Now I can really focus during reading time—I don't miss anything!\" Moments like that remind me how much these small items can make a big difference. Your support has not only provided supplies but also boosted my students' motivation and excitement for learning. Thank you for believing in them and in our classroom community!","fullyFundedDate":1753193002184,"projectUrl":"project/plug-in-and-pencil-up-tools-for-focused/9330788/","projectTitle":"Plug In and Pencil Up: Tools for Focused Learning!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Floyd","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8396177_orig.jpg?crop=640,640,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1648740041732","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/realmrfloyd"},{"teacherId":1758142,"projectId":9686834,"letterContent":"A big thank you to Power Home Remodeling for supporting our project, \"Fuel for Focus: Healthy Snacks for After-School Success.\" These snacks have given my students the extra boost they need after a long school day, helping them stay energized, focused, and ready to learn during extended activities. Having healthy snacks available allows them to concentrate on their work instead of being distracted by hunger, which makes a huge difference in both their attitude and performance. \r\n\r\nYour generosity not only provides that needed energy but also encouragement, reminding my young men that others truly believe in their potential and future. We are deeply grateful for this investment in our classroom and in their growth as leaders.","fullyFundedDate":1758217520541,"projectUrl":"project/fuel-for-focus-healthy-snacks-for-after/9686834/","projectTitle":"Fuel for Focus: Healthy Snacks for After-School Success","teacherDisplayName":"Dr. Bruce Williams","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1758142_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1448910582459","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1758142"},{"teacherId":1758142,"projectId":9056895,"letterContent":"The clear backpacks and storage bins have truly been a game-changer for my students. The backpacks allow them to carry cameras and accessories into venues without the hassle of emptying bags at security checkpoints, saving time and reducing stress. The storage bins keep all of our equipment organized and easily accessible, helping students stay focused on learning, collaborating, and producing high-quality projects. This support has boosted both their confidence and technical skills. Thank you, for investing in my classroom and making a real difference in the lives of young men who are growing into future leaders.","fullyFundedDate":1746772923157,"projectUrl":"project/now-you-can-see-through-me/9056895/","projectTitle":"Now You Can See Through Me!","teacherDisplayName":"Dr. Bruce Williams","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1758142_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1448910582459","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1758142"},{"teacherId":6608708,"projectId":5823298,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students and I have been able to put these new resources to immediate use. One of our first project was centered around building healthy habits. As we talked about the importance of fueling our bodies, students were excited to have access to nutritious items that supported the lesson. It wasn't just about learning, it was about experiencing firsthand what it feels like to have their needs met so they could focus on their education.\r\n\r\nThe reactions from my students when they first saw the materials were priceless. Some were wide-eyed with surprise, and others expressed gratitude by just saying thank you. Many of my students come from low-income households where food is scarce, so seeing their joy and relief reminded me how much your kindness truly matters.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, my students are continuing projects that teach them about self-care, resilience, and paying it forward. Beyond the classroom, they are learning an important lesson: when we see a need, we step in and help. Your support has shown them that people care about their well-being and want to see them succeed. Because of you, they can approach their studies with more energy, confidence, and hope for the future.","fullyFundedDate":1641930996814,"projectUrl":"project/each-one-reach-one/5823298/","projectTitle":"Each One, Reach One!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hardeman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6608708_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1644274112499","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6608708"},{"teacherId":9549779,"projectId":9294782,"letterContent":"When our new desk, cleaning supplies, and affirmation wall materials arrived, my students were beyond thrilled! The first day they saw everything, several students rushed over to help set up the affirmation wall. They loved writing and posting positive notes for one another—it has quickly become a classroom favorite, where students go to give and receive encouragement throughout the day.\r\nThe cleaning products were also an unexpected joy. My students take so much pride in having a clean, fresh space, and now they are able to take part in keeping our classroom organized and welcoming. They've even made it a routine to wipe down their areas together at the end of the day, which has created a sense of teamwork and responsibility.\r\nThe new desk has been the perfect addition. Students use it during small group activities, writing time, and even as a special spot to reflect or read quietly. One student called it \"the thinking desk,\" which I think describes it perfectly—it's where they feel important and focused.","fullyFundedDate":1746786529662,"projectUrl":"project/stemming-to-the-future/9294782/","projectTitle":"STEMMING to the FUTURE","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Thompson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9549779_orig.jpg?crop=2400,2400,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1730140927614","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9549779"},{"teacherId":9549779,"projectId":9353202,"letterContent":"When our new desk, cleaning supplies, and affirmation wall materials arrived, my students were beyond thrilled! The first day they saw everything, several students rushed over to help set up the affirmation wall. They loved writing and posting positive notes for one another—it has quickly become a classroom favorite, where students go to give and receive encouragement throughout the day.\r\nThe cleaning products were also an unexpected joy. My students take so much pride in having a clean, fresh space, and now they are able to take part in keeping our classroom organized and welcoming. They've even made it a routine to wipe down their areas together at the end of the day, which has created a sense of teamwork and responsibility.","fullyFundedDate":1749819882809,"projectUrl":"project/no-germs-well-learn/9353202/","projectTitle":"No Germs, We'll Learn","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Thompson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9549779_orig.jpg?crop=2400,2400,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1730140927614","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9549779"},{"teacherId":9549779,"projectId":9059850,"letterContent":"When our new desk, cleaning supplies, and affirmation wall materials arrived, my students were beyond thrilled! The first day they saw everything, several students rushed over to help set up the affirmation wall. They loved writing and posting positive notes for one another—it has quickly become a classroom favorite, where students go to give and receive encouragement throughout the day.\r\nThe cleaning products were also an unexpected joy. My students take so much pride in having a clean, fresh space, and now they are able to take part in keeping our classroom organized and welcoming. They've even made it a routine to wipe down their areas together at the end of the day, which has created a sense of teamwork and responsibility.\r\nThe new desk has been the perfect addition. Students use it during small group activities, writing time, and even as a special spot to reflect or read quietly. One student called it \"the thinking desk,\" which I think describes it perfectly—it's where they feel important and focused.","fullyFundedDate":1746705390266,"projectUrl":"project/blooming-9th-graders/9059850/","projectTitle":"Blooming 9th Graders","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Thompson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9549779_orig.jpg?crop=2400,2400,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1730140927614","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9549779"},{"teacherId":2430071,"projectId":9300043,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our library is now home to two Nintendo Switches, and with it, a brand-new way to make reading exciting for our students. This project has truly transformed how our students approach independent reading. By connecting their love of gaming with the joy of books, we've created a reward system that motivates even our most reluctant readers to pick up a book and stick with it.\r\n\r\nThe technology has given us the perfect bridge between literacy and engagement. Students log their reading, share quick book talks, and track their progress toward earning Nintendo Switch gaming time. This process builds accountability, improves comprehension, and shows them that reading can be both rewarding and fun.\r\n\r\nWhat excites our students most is the sense of accomplishment they feel when they finally \"cash in\" their reading minutes for game time. The Nintendo Switch is now the library's hot topic, and you can see the pride on their faces when they earn their spot at the console. We've even seen students who previously had little interest in reading join the program; as a result, and they're now finishing books ahead of schedule just to earn more time.\r\n\r\nOne student in particular stands out, a ninth-grader who struggled with staying motivated to read outside of class. After hearing about the reward system, he checked out his first independent reading book in months. Within two weeks, he had read enough to earn his first 15 minutes of Switch time, and now he's on his third book of the semester. His teachers have noticed improved vocabulary and reading stamina, and he's told me he feels \"like reading is actually worth it now.\"\r\n\r\nYour contribution hasn't just brought technology into our library: it has brought joy, motivation, and a love of learning. Thank you for helping us create an environment where students can see that reading opens the door to rewards, both in the game and in life.","fullyFundedDate":1746787349345,"projectUrl":"project/game-on-leveling-up-literacy/9300043/","projectTitle":"Game On: Leveling Up Literacy","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Adams","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2430071_orig.jpg?crop=1360,1360,x6,y443&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1578073068840","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2430071"},{"teacherId":6340494,"projectId":6634724,"letterContent":"Thanks to your support, the printer and supplies we received through \"Printing Documents for Education\" have been a game-changer in our classroom. In a digital-heavy world, having the ability to print high-quality materials has brought balance and accessibility to our learning environment—especially for students who benefit from hands-on, tangible resources.\r\n\r\nMany of my students struggle with reading comprehension and organization, and being able to physically annotate printed texts, graphic organizers, and assignments has significantly improved their engagement and understanding. The excitement on their faces when they saw their own work printed out—ready to review, revise, or display—was priceless. One student even said, \"It feels real now, like I'm in control of my learning.\"\r\n\r\nSeveral of my special education students, in particular, have thrived using printed reading scaffolds and color-coded schedules that we couldn't access before. This project has given them a sense of independence and pride in their work. Your donation didn't just provide a tool—it opened up new learning pathways that meet students where they are and help them grow. Thank you!","fullyFundedDate":1669213490960,"projectUrl":"project/printing-documents-for-education/6634724/","projectTitle":"Printing Documents for Education","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Norman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6340494_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1748470986587","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6340494"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_94237","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":268,"numTeachers":36,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":94,"percentWhite":0,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":3,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":"7.4:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":67.2,"schoolId":94237,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about B.E.S.T. Academy at The T.W. Dortch Jr. Institute on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"B.E.S.T. Academy at The T.W. Dortch Jr. Institute","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/georgia/atlanta-public-schools/best-academy-bs-carson/94237"}