{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Kealakehe Intermediate School","outOfStateSupporters":55.7,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10341542,"projectId":9876311,"letterContent":"The new books in our classroom are helping students build both language and cultural connections. Many of the stories are centered around Hawaiʻi, local places, traditions, and experiences that feel familiar to our students. Because of this, students are much more engaged and excited to read. They are learning reading comprehension skills, vocabulary development, pronunciation, fluency, and confidence while also seeing themselves and their culture represented in literature. Some of the books are written in ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, which gives students the opportunity to strengthen their pronunciation and listening skills in a meaningful way.\r\n\r\nReading in our classroom is very student-centered and community-focused. Once students complete their classwork, many immediately pick up where they left off in their books. It has become part of our classroom routine and something students genuinely look forward to. When reading Hawaiian-language books, we often take turns reading aloud together. Sometimes the focus is not necessarily understanding every single word right away, but instead becoming comfortable hearing and speaking the language correctly. These moments help students grow more confident in using ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi and create a supportive environment where they can practice without fear of making mistakes.\r\n\r\nOne of the most meaningful things to witness is how students bond over stories that reflect their own lives, families, and communities. Students become excited when they recognize places they have visited, traditions they practice at home, or words they hear from their kūpuna. Even reluctant readers are more willing to participate when they feel personally connected to the text. These books have helped create a classroom environment where reading is not viewed as a chore, but as a way to connect with culture, language, and one another. We are incredibly grateful for the support that made these resources possible.","fullyFundedDate":1771630883026,"projectUrl":"project/lelo-hawaii-books/9876311/","projectTitle":"'Ōlelo Hawai'i Books","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Kumu Ohi","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10341542"},{"teacherId":10294033,"projectId":10105316,"letterContent":"Your gift has increased access forP pacific islanders to engage in STEM education. With your gift these students have engaged in problem solving and hands on activities. Using the STEM kits designed to integrate science, technology , engineering, and math students have accomplished great things including continuing to progress towards further studies in this devils AND a career in the field of STEM. STEM Education had the ability to lift students out of poverty and increasing their earning potential.","fullyFundedDate":1771600303631,"projectUrl":"project/pacific-islanders-access-to-stem-educati/10105316/","projectTitle":"Pacific Islanders Access to STEM Education","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Chianna","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10294033_orig.jpg?crop=481,481,x0,y97&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1759182200259","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10294033"},{"teacherId":9469075,"projectId":10112191,"letterContent":"The materials we received through this project, including iPads, reading materials, and snacks, have made a meaningful difference in my students' daily learning experience. The iPads have given students access to interactive lessons, educational apps, research opportunities, and creative projects that make learning more engaging and personalized. Many of my students are familiar with technology at home, but using iPads in the classroom allows them to use technology as a learning tool rather than just for entertainment. Students are more motivated to participate, collaborate with classmates, and take ownership of their learning when they can use the devices for hands on activities and creative assignments.\r\nThe reading materials have helped build excitement around literacy and encouraged students to spend more time reading independently. Having access to a variety of engaging books and resources allows students to explore topics that interest them while strengthening their comprehension and vocabulary skills. Students are especially excited to choose books that match their interests and reading levels, which has helped increase both confidence and participation during reading activities.\r\nThe snacks have also had a very positive impact on the classroom environment. For many students, having a snack available helps them stay focused, energized, and ready to learn throughout the school day. Students are more comfortable, attentive, and prepared to participate when their basic needs are supported. Together, these resources have helped create a classroom atmosphere where students feel supported, excited to learn, and motivated to do their best every day.","fullyFundedDate":1771790240449,"projectUrl":"project/class-project-9/10112191/","projectTitle":"Class Project 9","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Yasko","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9469075"},{"teacherId":9469075,"projectId":10023221,"letterContent":"The new resources have already had a positive impact on my students and our classroom environment. The air conditioner has made the classroom much more comfortable, especially during warmer days when it can be difficult for students to stay focused. Since receiving it, students have been able to concentrate better during lessons and project work because the classroom feels more comfortable and welcoming. The manga box set has also been incredibly popular with students. Many students who are normally hesitant readers have been excited to pick up the books, talk about the stories with classmates, and spend more time reading during independent reading activities.\r\n\r\nThe SD card reader has been especially useful during our media projects. Students use cameras and other devices to capture photos and videos, and the SD card reader allows them to quickly transfer their work onto classroom computers and continue editing their projects. One exciting moment was watching students successfully upload their footage for a video assignment and immediately begin collaborating and sharing ideas with each other. Having access to this technology has made the creative process much smoother and more engaging for students.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the materials, they were extremely excited and thankful. Several students immediately gravitated toward the manga books. Others were excited about being able to use the SD card reader for upcoming media projects. Moving forward, students will continue using these resources for reading activities, video projects, and creative assignments throughout the year. These materials are helping create a classroom space where students feel comfortable, engaged, and motivated to learn every day.","fullyFundedDate":1771544214769,"projectUrl":"project/class-project-8/10023221/","projectTitle":"Class Project 8","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Yasko","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9469075"},{"teacherId":9170955,"projectId":9136795,"letterContent":"I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for the Cricut supplies provided to our\r\nclassroom. These tools have done far more than just \"cut paper\"; they have\r\ntransformed the way our students see themselves and how our classroom functions\r\non a daily basis.\r\nElevating the Hip-Hop Competition\r\nOur students recently competed in a regional hip-hop competition, and thanks to the\r\nCricut materials, they walked onto that stage with a level of confidence I haven't seen\r\nbefore. We used the Heat Transfer Vinyl to create professional-grade, custom team\r\nshirts. In a world where visual identity is key to the \"hip-hop vibe,\" having\r\ncoordinated, high-quality gear allowed our students to feel like a professional crew.\r\nThe precision of the designs and the specialty finishes (like glitter and foil) caught the\r\nstage lights beautifully, making their performance truly stand out.\r\nStreamlining Classroom Organization\r\nThe impact extends into our everyday learning environment. I have used the\r\npermanent vinyl to implement a numbering system across the classroom. By\r\nnumbering student laptops, chargers, cubbies, and supply bins, we have seen a\r\ndramatic decrease in lost items and a significant increase in student accountability.\r\nEverything has a place, and every student knows exactly which resource belongs to\r\nthem, creating a much more focused and organized atmosphere.\r\n\r\nCreative Growth and Beyond\r\nBeyond shirts and labels, these supplies allow us to create custom visual aids,\r\ninteractive anchor charts, and even personalized incentive stickers that celebrate\r\nstudent achievements. It has turned our classroom into a creative hub where\r\nstudents see their ideas come to life in physical form.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has provided us with more than just supplies; you've provided us\r\nwith a sense of pride, organization, and professional excellence. Thank you for\r\ninvesting in our students and their creative futures.","fullyFundedDate":1746786249454,"projectUrl":"project/cricut-supplies/9136795/","projectTitle":"Cricut Supplies","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Pattioay","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9170955"},{"teacherId":2390971,"projectId":10107035,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting our classroom and making this project possible. The addition of our mobile media station, including a rolling TV and speakers, has made a significant difference in how my students learn. They can now clearly see and hear lessons, demonstrations, and each other's work from anywhere in the room. This has been especially impactful for my multilingual learners and students who benefit from visual and auditory instruction, helping them better understand content and participate with confidence.\r\n\r\nStudents are especially excited to see their own work displayed clearly for the class. They take greater pride in their projects and are more willing to share, reflect, and engage in discussions. I've noticed increased participation and stronger connections to the learning.\r\n\r\nIn addition, snacks and classroom supplies have helped students stay focused and prepared during long learning blocks. This project has created a more accessible, supportive classroom where students feel ready to learn and succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1771640320908,"projectUrl":"project/hear-it-see-it-learn-it-mobile-media/10107035/","projectTitle":"Hear It, See It, Learn It: Mobile Media Station","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Burr","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2390971_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y308&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1627993450603","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/melissaburr"},{"teacherId":9170955,"projectId":9157388,"letterContent":"The integration of organizational tools like binders, dividers, and pencil pouches serves as the foundation for executive functioning, allowing students to transition from chaotic searching to focused learning. By providing a dedicated \"home\" for every assignment and tool, these supplies significantly reduce cognitive load and classroom anxiety, ensuring that students spend their mental energy on the curriculum rather than logistics. Furthermore, the simple presence of high-quality pencils and erasers fosters a growth mindset; they provide students with the literal \"freedom to fail,\" encouraging them to take academic risks knowing that mistakes are easily corrected. Ultimately, by equipping every student with these essentials, you leveled the playing field and created an equitable environment where preparedness was no longer a barrier to success.","fullyFundedDate":1741882626295,"projectUrl":"project/math-organization/9157388/","projectTitle":"Math Organization","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Pattioay","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9170955"},{"teacherId":9170955,"projectId":9265901,"letterContent":"Our new math posters have completely transformed the classroom into a vibrant, high-energy learning lab! When the students first walked in, their eyes immediately lit up—I even overheard one student remark that the room finally felt like a \"pro\" workspace. This visual support has already sparked incredible moments of independence; just yesterday, I watched a student who usually struggles with formulas look up at the new reference wall, find the $a^2 + b^2 = c^2$ infographic, and confidently solve a geometry problem without having to ask for help. It is a massive win for their self-esteem to have these tools at their fingertips. Moving forward, we are diving into our \"Dream Tiny House\" design project, where students will use these posters as their primary guide to calculate area and scale. Thank you for giving my students the visual roadmap they need to navigate complex math with confidence!","fullyFundedDate":1746786400749,"projectUrl":"project/posters-to-support-engagement/9265901/","projectTitle":"Posters to Support Engagement","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Pattioay","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9170955"},{"teacherId":9170955,"projectId":9690147,"letterContent":"When my students first saw the new materials, the room was filled with genuine excitement and curiosity. They were particularly thrilled by the \"professional\" feel of the new Sharpies and the hands-on potential of the modeling clay and fraction tiles. Having a fully stocked classroom has given them a sense of pride; they feel like their learning environment is a high-priority space, and that boost in morale was visible from the moment the boxes were opened.\r\n\r\nCurrently, we are using these resources to tackle our unit on equivalent values. In a recent \"moment of discovery,\" students used the fraction tiles to physically build models, then transferred those concepts onto their whiteboard clipboards to show their work. To keep their stamina up during these long problem-solving sessions, a well-timed snack provided the necessary fuel to maintain their focus and blood sugar. We even used the modeling clay to sculpt 3D representations of parts-of-a-whole, which helped my tactile learners grasp the material in a way a textbook never could.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, our next steps involve creating permanent math \"anchor charts\" for the classroom. Students will use the Sharpies to commit their final findings to paper, promoting a sense of ownership over their work. We will also be using the velcro dots and magnetic stickers to create interactive math stations where students can move pieces around to solve equations. These tools have truly bridged the gap between abstract concepts and concrete mastery, and we are so grateful for the organized, engaging environment your generosity has created!","fullyFundedDate":1759234352828,"projectUrl":"project/steam-and-snacks/9690147/","projectTitle":"STEAM and Snacks","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Pattioay","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9170955"},{"teacherId":9170955,"projectId":10105571,"letterContent":"The students have shown a remarkable level of dedication by arriving fully prepared for class each day. By consistently bringing all necessary materials and staying organized, they have eliminated the usual friction of forgotten supplies or missed assignments. This daily habit of readiness and accountability reflects a growing maturity that sets a strong foundation for their academic success.\r\n\r\nThe impact of this preparation on our classroom dynamic cannot be overstated. Because every student has what they need, we are able to transition into our lessons immediately, maximizing our instructional time. This flow creates a focused and calm environment where students can dive deeper into complex topics without the distraction of missing items, allowing their curiosity to take center stage rather than logistics.\r\n\r\nBeyond the academics, seeing the students take ownership of their responsibilities has been incredibly rewarding. It fosters a culture of mutual respect and readiness that makes teaching a joy. Thank you for your consistent effort and for showing up every day ready to give your best. Your diligence truly makes our classroom a better place to learn.","fullyFundedDate":1771604144539,"projectUrl":"project/success-students-set-up/10105571/","projectTitle":"Success Students Set-Up","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Pattioay","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9170955"},{"teacherId":10341542,"projectId":9929336,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous donations. Because of you, my students are able to come in and enjoy the reading corner whenever they please. Once students are done with the task at hand, many run over to the corner and pick up where they last left off in their book. It has quickly become one of the most loved spaces in our classroom. I've seen students who were once hesitant about reading now excited to grab a book, sit down, and fully immerse themselves in stories written in ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi. One of my favorite moments was watching a group of students quietly reading together, then turning to each other to help sound out words and talk about what they understood.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the excitement was immediate. Students were eager to explore the books, flipping through pages and asking questions about new vocabulary and stories. Many of them expressed how special it felt to have books that reflect their language and culture. The reading corner has not only encouraged independent reading, but it has also created opportunities for students to build confidence in their language skills in a natural and engaging way.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, we are incorporating the reading corner into our lessons even more. Students are beginning to use the books as part of small group activities, where they read, discuss, and share summaries in ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi. We are also working toward having students create their own short stories inspired by what they read, allowing them to apply both vocabulary and sentence structures they've learned in class. Your support has helped foster a love for reading and language that will continue to grow, and for that, we are truly grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1769177437432,"projectUrl":"project/lelo-hawaii-reading-corner/9929336/","projectTitle":"'Ōlelo Hawai'i Reading Corner","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Kumu Ohi","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10341542"},{"teacherId":7932420,"projectId":10018771,"letterContent":"It is with a grateful heart that I thank you for your generous donations. Many of my students don't come to school with snacks, don't eat school lunch and don't bring a home lunch. This makes learning and regulating their emotions extremely challenging.\r\nI chose snacks that would not only be an incentive to remain on task and do quality work, but would be healthier and help them learn throughout the day.\r\nWhen I receive new snacks, you would think it's Christmas in my classroom. As a teacher who loves her students, bringing them joy is a great gift. Thank you for supporting me and my amazing haumana.","fullyFundedDate":1770479504396,"projectUrl":"project/no-hangry-haumana/10018771/","projectTitle":"No Hangry Haumana","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hurley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7932420_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1700450415620","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7932420"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_53775","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":677,"numTeachers":48,"percentFrplEligible":66,"percentAsian":11,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":7,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":23,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":39,"percentMultiracialImputed":16,"gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"14.1:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"TOWN","ncesMetroType":"TOWN_REMOTE"},"inStateSupporters":44.3,"schoolId":53775,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Kealakehe Intermediate School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Kealakehe Intermediate School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/hawaii/hawaii-school-district/kealakehe-intermediate-school/53775"}
Join the 289 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Kealakehe Intermediate School is
a town public school
in Kailua Kona, Hawaii that is part of Hawaii School District.
It serves 677 students
in grades 6 - 8 with a student/teacher ratio of 14.1:1.
Its teachers have had 315 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Supporting this school will directly impact historically underfunded classrooms.
Public School
Title 1
Data about Title 1 status comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education.
Grades 6 - 8
677 Students
48 Teachers
74-5062 Onipaa StContact info is sourced from our partners at MDR Education, and DonorsChoose updates our site ahead of each school year.
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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
34%
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.
Kealakehe Intermediate School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated May 21, 2026
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.
Kealakehe Intermediate School
$250,826
raised using DonorsChoose
315
projects
funded
89
teachers
funded
289
donors
46
projects
for
basic supplies
71
projects for
technology
20
projects for
books
16
projects
for
art supplies
Kealakehe Intermediate School has received support from
128 individuals from Hawaii and
161 individuals out-of-state.