{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Waiakeawaena Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":60.6,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8360733,"projectId":9774752,"letterContent":"Thank you again for supporting my project! The paper shredder has been a huge help in ensuring that confidential information remains confidential! The writing cubes, art supplies, and writing paper have worked to support my students in the writing process. Not only have we seen progress by the students in writing, but incorporating writing prompts and art have allowed the students to bring their cultural and lived experiences into the learning. \r\n\r\nAgain, I can't thank you enough for your generous donation!","fullyFundedDate":1760481786275,"projectUrl":"project/shredding-for-success-learning-privacy/9774752/","projectTitle":"Shredding for Success: Learning, Privacy, and Growth in Our Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Slattery","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8360733"},{"teacherId":4223687,"projectId":9734312,"letterContent":"Because of your generous support, my 4th graders received tools that helped them grow both academically and socially. These students were curious, creative, and full of potential, and your donation helped meet their needs for focus, motivation, and emotional support in meaningful ways.\r\n\r\nThe motivational incentives encouraged hard work, persistence, and positive behavior. Students felt proud of their accomplishments and were motivated to keep trying, even when learning felt challenging. These small rewards had a big impact on student confidence and classroom morale.\r\n\r\nThe social and emotional learning (SEL) books became valuable resources in our classroom. They helped students learn strategies for empathy, self-regulation, and problem-solving, while giving them the language to express their feelings and navigate social situations more thoughtfully. Students used these lessons to strengthen relationships and manage emotions more effectively.\r\n\r\nThe fidget tools supported students who benefited from hands-on sensory engagement, helping them stay focused and attentive during lessons. With these tools, students were better able to participate in learning and remain engaged throughout the day.\r\n\r\nTogether, these resources helped my students feel supported, motivated, and confident. Your support made a lasting difference by helping students grow academically, manage their emotions, and develop a love of learning—skills they will carry with them for years to come. Thank you for believing in my students and investing in their success.","fullyFundedDate":1758833228401,"projectUrl":"project/motivated-mindful-learners/9734312/","projectTitle":"Motivated & Mindful Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Matsuura","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4223687_orig.png?crop=398,398,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1677011109982","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-leahmatsuura"},{"teacherId":4223687,"projectId":9819551,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom has become a calmer, more comfortable, and more engaging place to learn. The GlareShade fluorescent light covers softened the harsh overhead lighting, reducing glare, headaches, and eyestrain. This simple change made a big difference in helping students feel at ease, stay focused, and fully participate during lessons throughout the day.\r\n\r\nYour support also helped us create a peaceful aquarium corner in our classroom. With the aquarium decorations, gravel, feeding ring, cleaning kit, water conditioner, timer, and rechargeable batteries, we were able to maintain a small class aquarium that brought calm and curiosity into our learning space. Watching fish swim had a soothing effect, and this living environment gave students meaningful opportunities to practice responsibility, observation, and care for living things.\r\n\r\nStudents used the Post-It easel pads during reading and STEM discussions, group brainstorming, and problem-solving activities. These tools encouraged collaboration and helped students share their thinking in visible, engaging ways. The aquarium became a shared class project, with students taking turns observing and helping maintain it.\r\n\r\nTogether, these materials transformed our classroom into a space that felt calm, bright, and alive. Your support helped create an environment where students could focus, collaborate, and feel connected to the world around them. Thank you for investing in our students' well-being and learning. You made a lasting impact every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1760660601936,"projectUrl":"project/a-calming-creative-space-for-learning-a/9819551/","projectTitle":"A Calming, Creative Space for Learning and Growth","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Matsuura","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4223687_orig.png?crop=398,398,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1677011109982","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-leahmatsuura"},{"teacherId":4223687,"projectId":9755773,"letterContent":"Dear Donors,\r\n\r\nThanks to your generosity, our classroom has been transformed into a calm, welcoming space that truly supports students' social and emotional well-being. The glare-reducing light covers, LED lights, and clock have created a more peaceful environment that helps students stay focused and comfortable throughout the day. Simple tools like squishy balls and desk pets are helping students self-regulate, manage stress, and refocus during learning time.\r\n\r\nYour support also made it possible to bring creativity and connection into our daily routines. Card games and organized game bins have given students meaningful opportunities to practice teamwork, patience, and problem-solving, while photo paper, Post-it notes, stamps, and display materials allow us to celebrate student work and positive behavior in visible ways. Our classroom fairy door and creative touches have added joy and imagination, helping students feel safe, inspired, and excited to learn.\r\n\r\nFinally, replacing the 3D printer head has allowed students to continue hands-on projects that build perseverance, confidence, and pride in their accomplishments. Because of you, my students are learning in an environment that nurtures not only academic growth, but also kindness, confidence, and emotional resilience. Thank you for believing in our students and investing in their well-being.","fullyFundedDate":1759454195947,"projectUrl":"project/bright-minds-calm-hearts-creating-a-po/9755773/","projectTitle":"Bright Minds, Calm Hearts: Creating a Positive Learning Space","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Matsuura","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4223687_orig.png?crop=398,398,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1677011109982","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-leahmatsuura"},{"teacherId":10228059,"projectId":9779761,"letterContent":"It was pure magic watching my students' faces light up when they walked in and saw the new shelf stocked with fresh supplies. The floor cushions were an immediate hit, giving them a cozy, grounded spot to sit during our \"Don't Break the Ice\" sessions. We recently used the game as a metaphor for managing stress—as we tapped away the ice blocks, we discussed what \"breaks\" our own cool and how to stay steady. While we played, the white noise machine hummed in the background, creating a private bubble that helped a typically shy fourth grader feel safe enough to open up. Between the crinkle of gummy snacks and the bright construction paper they used to draw out their \"big feelings,\" the room has finally transformed into the high-functioning sanctuary they deserve.\r\n\r\nOur next step is a \"Regulation Roadmap\" project where students will use the construction paper and markers to map out their personal triggers and the specific tools that help them \"reset.\" The new shelf keeps everything organized and accessible, allowing students to independently choose the resource they need the moment they walk in. We're also practicing a \"respect the space\" routine, using the Lysol wipes to clean our game pieces and cushions after each use, which teaches them the importance of caring for our shared community resources. Because of your support, these students aren't just visiting a counselor; they are entering a classroom of the heart where they have the privacy, comfort, and tools to grow into their best selves.","fullyFundedDate":1759540798890,"projectUrl":"project/counseling-cheng-nanigans/9779761/","projectTitle":"Counseling Cheng-nanigans!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Cheng","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10228059"},{"teacherId":7927855,"projectId":9773378,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our after-school STEAM enrichment program is truly coming to life in ways that are both creative and academically meaningful.\r\n\r\nStudents are integrating math skills every time they sit down to sew. They measure fabric to the nearest inch, calculate seam allowances, compare fractions, and follow multi-step patterns that require precision and careful thinking. What might look like a simple sewing project is actually a powerful real-world math lesson in action.\r\n\r\nOne special moment happened during a recent project when students were measuring fabric pieces for a small pouch. A few realized their pieces didn't line up correctly. Instead of giving up, they re-measured, recalculated their seam allowance, and adjusted their cuts. Watching them problem-solve collaboratively — checking each other's measurements and explaining their thinking — was a clear reminder that they are building far more than sewing skills.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the new sewing machines, their excitement was immediate. Many had never used a machine before. There were wide eyes, careful hands, and proud smiles when they successfully stitched their first straight seam. Because we now have more machines, more students can participate at the same time. No one is stuck waiting long periods — they are actively engaged, practicing, and building confidence.\r\n\r\nThe monitor has also made a big difference. Being able to watch instructional videos together allows students to visualize each step before trying it independently. They pause, rewatch, and then apply what they learned — building both independence and perseverance.\r\n\r\nAnd after a full school day, the snacks truly matter. They provide the energy students need to stay focused, patient, and positive as they tackle detailed, hands-on work.\r\n\r\nOur next steps include moving into more complex projects that require pattern adjustments and multi-step construction. Students will begin designing small items of their own, applying measurement, planning, and problem-solving skills more independently. They are not just learning how to sew — they are learning how to think critically, collaborate with peers, and apply math in meaningful, creative ways.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in experiences that build both skill and confidence. Your support is helping our students create something they can hold in their hands — and something even more important within themselves.","fullyFundedDate":1759242104961,"projectUrl":"project/sew-what/9773378/","projectTitle":"Sew What?","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Maldonado","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7927855_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y332&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1627435872219","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7927855"},{"teacherId":650929,"projectId":9772505,"letterContent":"Mahalo nui loa for your incredible generosity and support of our classroom. Because of you, my students now have creative materials, motivational incentives, and essential supplies that make our learning environment more engaging, organized, and joyful. Your kindness directly supports our daily learning and growth.\r\n\r\nThese resources will be used every day to inspire creativity, encourage positive behavior, and keep our classroom running smoothly. My students are excited and proud to use these new tools, and I am so grateful for your investment in their success. Thank you for making such a meaningful difference in our school community.","fullyFundedDate":1759364435393,"projectUrl":"project/all-the-good-stuff/9772505/","projectTitle":"All the Good Stuff","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ichinose","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp650929_orig.png?crop=735,735,x89,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1625100861605","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-ichinose"},{"teacherId":650929,"projectId":9903199,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding this project and supporting my first graders in such a meaningful way. Because of your generosity, my students have access to snacks that help them stay focused, comfortable, and ready to learn throughout the school day. They have loved having healthful snacks available for the days when they are feeling hungry!\r\n\r\nIn addition, the stickers and themed sticky notes bring so much joy and motivation into our classroom. These small rewards make a big impact by building confidence, encouraging effort, and celebrating progress. Your kindness helps create a positive, supportive learning environment where every child feels valued and excited to learn.","fullyFundedDate":1763752146157,"projectUrl":"project/feeding-bellies-and-hearts/9903199/","projectTitle":"Feeding Bellies and Hearts","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ichinose","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp650929_orig.png?crop=735,735,x89,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1625100861605","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-ichinose"},{"teacherId":650929,"projectId":9818988,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity and support of our classroom. Your donation makes it possible for me to access high-quality Teachers Pay Teachers resources that are engaging, creative, and designed by fellow educators who truly understand student needs.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, I can bring fresh lessons, meaningful practice, and differentiated activities into my first-grade classroom. These resources help save time, meet diverse learning needs, and keep students excited about learning every day. I am incredibly grateful for your support and the positive impact you are making on my students.","fullyFundedDate":1760636440567,"projectUrl":"project/ready-to-go-resources-for-busy-little-le/9818988/","projectTitle":"Ready-to-Go Resources for Busy Little Learners!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ichinose","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp650929_orig.png?crop=735,735,x89,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1625100861605","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-ichinose"},{"teacherId":650929,"projectId":9692841,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom and helping make hands-on science learning possible. Because of your generosity, my first graders now have engaging materials to explore the properties of light and sound in meaningful, memorable ways. They are already so excited to experiment, ask questions, and learn by doing, and that excitement is because of you.\r\n\r\nYour support goes far beyond supplies. You are helping spark curiosity, build confidence, and show my students that learning science can be fun, interactive, and empowering. Thank you for investing in my students and for being a part of their learning journey. We are incredibly grateful for your kindness and support.","fullyFundedDate":1758389498835,"projectUrl":"project/experiment-with-light-and-sound/9692841/","projectTitle":"Experiment With Light and Sound","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ichinose","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp650929_orig.png?crop=735,735,x89,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1625100861605","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-ichinose"},{"teacherId":4223687,"projectId":9822095,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom is now a cooler, more comfortable place to learn! The fans you helped provide have made an immediate and noticeable impact on our daily routines. What was once a warm, stuffy space—especially during afternoon lessons—is now calm, breezy, and much more conducive to learning.\r\n\r\nMy 4th graders are able to stay focused for longer periods of time, participate more actively in discussions, and work collaboratively without being distracted by the heat. Simple moments, like independent reading, small group instruction, and hands-on activities, are more enjoyable and productive when students are physically comfortable.\r\n\r\nBeyond academics, these fans have supported our classroom community as a whole. Students feel calmer, happier, and more at ease throughout the day, which has had a positive effect on behavior and overall classroom energy. They've even taken pride in helping make sure the fans are used responsibly, showing ownership and care for our shared learning space.\r\n\r\nYour support has shown my students that there are people outside our classroom who truly care about their comfort and success. Thank you for helping create an environment where my students can focus, grow, and do their very best, no matter how warm it gets outside. We are incredibly grateful for you!","fullyFundedDate":1760724308221,"projectUrl":"project/cool-classroom-clear-minds/9822095/","projectTitle":"Cool Classroom, Clear Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Matsuura","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4223687_orig.png?crop=398,398,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1677011109982","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-leahmatsuura"},{"teacherId":7384473,"projectId":9804513,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donations in helping us get the much appreciated cooling fans into our rooms. We have been lucky that there has been so nice cooler days where we didn't need it. But we have still had some really hot days, where we have happily used them. \r\nIt has made such a big difference for our babies. They especially love when we put in the frozen tubes and ice cold water to make it even cooler. Nap has been more comfortable when we turn it on during nap as well.\r\nWe have been able to set it up on opposite sides of the room and we notice that they tend to stay closer too or sometimes even stand in front of the fans to help them cool down. The smiles on their faces says it all!\r\nSo, from the bottom of our happy heart, THANK YOU!!","fullyFundedDate":1764673533736,"projectUrl":"project/we-are-still-really-hot-hot-hot/9804513/","projectTitle":"We are Still Really Hot, Hot, Hot!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Nakata","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7384473"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_50786","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":669,"numTeachers":46,"percentFrplEligible":53,"percentAsian":12,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":4,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":27,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"14.5:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"TOWN","ncesMetroType":"TOWN_REMOTE"},"inStateSupporters":39.4,"schoolId":50786,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Waiakeawaena Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Waiakeawaena Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/hawaii/hawaii-school-district/waiakeawaena-elementary-school/50786"}
Join the 350 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Waiakeawaena Elementary School is
a town public school
in Hilo, Hawaii that is part of Hawaii School District.
It serves 669 students
in grades Pre-K - 5 with a student/teacher ratio of 14.5:1.
Its teachers have had 326 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Share and help support Waiakeawaena Elementary School
Boost support for this school! Share this page with friends, family, alumni, and fellow supporters. Every connection helps teachers get the supplies they need and shows how much your community cares about its students.
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Every donation funds real needs — pencils, books, lab equipment, art supplies, and more — helping students learn and thrive. We ship supplies directly to the school, and you'll see exactly where each dollar goes.
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
39%
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.
Waiakeawaena Elementary School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Feb 19, 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.
Waiakeawaena Elementary School
$200,612
raised using DonorsChoose
326
projects
funded
60
teachers
funded
350
donors
25
projects
for
basic supplies
54
projects for
technology
39
projects for
books
27
projects
for
art supplies
Waiakeawaena Elementary School has received support from
138 individuals from Hawaii and
212 individuals out-of-state.