{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Waikoloa Elementary & Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":42.8,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":7199258,"projectId":9974586,"letterContent":"The laptop monitor extender is helping my students learn by allowing me to display multiple visuals at once, which is especially important in a small-group special education math classroom. I can model problems on one screen, display vocabulary or steps on another, and monitor student progress more effectively. This supports differentiated instruction, reduces confusion, and helps students stay focused and engaged in math learning.\r\n\r\nStudents are most excited about how clearly they can see each step of the math process. Being able to follow along visually helps reduce anxiety and builds confidence, especially for students who struggle with working memory and processing multiple steps. The technology makes learning feel more interactive and helps students better understand patterns and problem-solving strategies.\r\n\r\nSeveral of my students who struggle with attention and processing have especially benefited from this technology. Students who typically become overwhelmed during multi-step math problems are now more engaged because they can see the steps broken down clearly. I've also noticed that students who are usually hesitant to participate are more willing to try problems when they can visually track the process and refer back to the displayed examples.","fullyFundedDate":1776112067774,"projectUrl":"project/clear-screens-calm-minds-clean-hands/9974586/","projectTitle":"Clear Screens, Calm Minds, Clean Hands","teacherDisplayName":"Dr. Blacksmith","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7199258_orig.png?crop=423,423,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1649956412195","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7199258"},{"teacherId":9657585,"projectId":10103071,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom library has transformed into a laboratory of discovery. Here is a look at the impact your gift is making. Teaching a child to read is a bit like teaching them to decode a secret language. The specific texts you funded serve very different, but equally vital, roles in that process:\r\nGreek Myths: Beyond the \"cool factor\" of monsters and heroes, these myths teach allusion and character motivation. When students read about Icarus or Midas, they aren't just reading stories; they are learning to recognize themes that appear in almost all modern literature. It builds their \"cultural literacy\" and pushes them to ask, \"Why did the character make that choice?\"\r\nLife Cycle Texts: Reading to learn is different from reading for fun. These texts teach students how to navigate non-fiction features—diagrams, captions, and glossaries. They are learning to synthesize scientific facts while building the specialized vocabulary needed for future STEM success.\r\nTailored Decodable Books: These are the \"power tools\" of literacy. For a developing reader, a book that matches their specific phonics level and their personal interests is a game-changer. It replaces frustration with \"I can do this!\" confidence. These books allow students to practice specific letter sounds (phonemes) until they become automatic.\r\nSmall Groups: I'm often on the floor with a handful of students, using the decodables to bridge the gap between \"sounding it out\" and \"fluent reading.\"\r\nResearch Stations: Students dive into the life cycle books, notebooks in hand, acting like mini-scientists as they track the journey from seed to flower.\r\n\r\nA Herculean Thank You\r\nBecause of you, my students aren't just \"getting through\" their reading lessons; they are becoming enthusiasts. You've provided the maps (decodables), the magnifying glasses (life cycle texts), and the epic adventures (Greek myths) they need to navigate the world of words.","fullyFundedDate":1771662907141,"projectUrl":"project/legends-and-life-cycles-tailored-texts/10103071/","projectTitle":"Legends and Life Cycles: Tailored Texts for Growing Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Kerr","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9657585_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723697501189","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9657585"},{"teacherId":7938335,"projectId":9455830,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your incredible generosity in providing our classroom with a complete set of new books. In our room, reading is the heartbeat of the day. It isn't just a quiet, solitary activity; it's an active, vibrant workshop. You'll often find students sprawled out on the rug or huddled in small groups, excitedly whispering about a plot twist or debating a character's motives. These books have transformed our \"reading block\" from a scheduled task into a time everyone looks forward to, creating a shared culture of literacy that simply wasn't possible when we were sharing tattered, incomplete sets.\r\n\r\nWhile these stories are captivating, they are also sophisticated teaching tools. With these specific texts, I can introduce complex literary skills like analyzing character arcs, identifying subtle themes, and deciphering context clues in a way that feels organic rather than clinical. We are currently using them to practice \"reading between the lines\"—learning how to infer what a character is feeling even when the author doesn't explicitly say it. This builds not only academic proficiency but also deep empathy, as my students step into lives and perspectives far different from their own.\r\n\r\nThe impact on individual students has been profound. I have one particular student who has historically struggled with reading stamina and often felt discouraged by difficult texts. However, having a brand-new, beautiful book of their own to hold has sparked a total turnaround. They are excited about each story and what happens next--even if it's many, many pages long! Seeing that spark of confidence ignite is the greatest gift a teacher can ask for. Thank you for investing in my students and for believing that their stories—and the stories they read—truly matter.","fullyFundedDate":1762047696715,"projectUrl":"project/build-our-book-nook-fill-our-classroom/9455830/","projectTitle":"Build Our Book Nook: Fill our classroom with essential reads","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Texeira","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7938335_orig.jpg?crop=1133,1133,x798,y412&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1752121771972","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7938335"},{"teacherId":9342281,"projectId":10103743,"letterContent":"The impact of this project on my students' learning has been powerful and immediate. With access to engaging materials such as games, maps, flags, and classroom supplies, students became more motivated to participate, practice English, and connect with one another. The snacks also played an important role by helping students stay focused and energized, especially during the last part of the school day. My English Learners felt more confident speaking, collaborating, and expressing their ideas in a safe and welcoming environment.\r\n\r\nBecause of these resources, I was able to create more interactive and culturally responsive lessons. Students explored geography, shared their cultural backgrounds, and built language skills in meaningful, real-world contexts. The classroom became a space where diversity is celebrated, and every student feels seen and valued.","fullyFundedDate":1771630705499,"projectUrl":"project/building-belonging/10103743/","projectTitle":"Building Belonging","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Miukie","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9342281_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757383496893","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9342281"},{"teacherId":10111736,"projectId":10106832,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity and support of our 3rd grade classroom. Because of you, my students now have access to engaging chapter books like The Chronicles of Narnia, Mr. Popper's Penguins, and James and the Giant Peach. These texts have allowed us to dive deeper into important reading skills such as comprehension, character analysis, vocabulary development, and making meaningful connections to the text. Students are not only improving their reading abilities, but they are also developing a genuine love for reading.\r\n\r\nReading in our classroom has become an exciting and collaborative experience. Students participate in small group discussions, partner reading, and whole-class novel studies where they share ideas, ask questions, and build confidence as readers. I've seen students who were previously hesitant about reading become excited to pick up a book and participate. One of my students, who struggled with engagement earlier this year, now eagerly joins discussions and even volunteers to read aloud.\r\n\r\nIn addition to literacy, the math games you provided—such as the place value and fraction games—have transformed the way my students approach math. Learning is now hands-on, interactive, and fun. Students are strengthening their understanding of fractions, number sense, and problem-solving skills through meaningful play and collaboration.\r\n\r\nThank you again for making this possible. Your support has truly made a lasting impact on both the academic growth and confidence of my students.","fullyFundedDate":1771655759363,"projectUrl":"project/3rd-grade/10106832/","projectTitle":"3rd Grade🩷","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Kelley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10111736_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1759209482103","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10111736"},{"teacherId":9377587,"projectId":9720007,"letterContent":"My students and I are thrilled with our distinguished reading corner. We use it a couple times a week in our reading workshop class. Students also use the space when they need to decompress. It is a safe and happy place. The chairs are so comfortable! \r\n\r\nAlso, my students appreciate the snacks that I have available for them. They know they can come to me when they are hungry and it's a wonderful thing to have a healthy snack to offer them.\r\n\r\nYour kind generosity has helped to inspire my kids on a daily basis.","fullyFundedDate":1768532373211,"projectUrl":"project/distinguished-reading-corner/9720007/","projectTitle":"Distinguished Reading Corner","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Shepherd","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9377587"},{"teacherId":9625248,"projectId":10128096,"letterContent":"For second-grade students, Hawaiian legend books serve as a vibrant bridge between their developing literacy skills and the rich cultural tapestry of the islands. At this developmental stage, children are transitioning from \"learning to read\" to \"reading to learn,\" and the rhythmic, oral-tradition roots of these stories are perfectly suited for their growing vocabularies. By engaging with tales of Pele, Maui, or Menehune, students aren't just practicing phonics; they are absorbing complex themes of stewardship (malama 'aina) and genealogy that are foundational to the Hawaiian worldview.\r\n\r\nBeyond basic reading comprehension, these stories foster a deep sense of place and identity. For local students, seeing their environment—the specific volcanic peaks, flora, and shorelines they pass every day—elevated to the status of myth validates their lived experience and heritage. For those new to the islands, these legends act as a primary tool for cultural empathy, helping them understand that the landscape is not just a scenic backdrop, but a living entity with a history that demands respect. This connection turns a standard classroom reading block into a meaningful lesson in social-emotional grounding.","fullyFundedDate":1773851461666,"projectUrl":"project/hawaiian-legends-books/10128096/","projectTitle":"Hawaiian Legends Books","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Wheeler-Semrad","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9625248"},{"teacherId":9625248,"projectId":10106632,"letterContent":"The Phonics Books for All project has completely transformed our approach to literacy by moving beyond simple memorization to true decoding mastery. These new texts are specifically designed to bridge the gap between knowing letter sounds and fluidly reading complex words. Our students are currently tackling advanced phonics skills like consonant blends, vowel teams, and multi-syllabic decoding—concepts that can be incredibly frustrating without the right tools. Unlike standard picture books, these controlled texts ensure that the vocabulary matches the phonics patterns we've taught in class, allowing students to apply their lessons in real-time without the \"guesswork\" that often leads to bad habits.\r\n\r\nIn our classroom, reading time has evolved from a period of quiet struggle into a high-energy, collaborative workshop. You'll now see students sitting in pairs, eagerly pointing out specific \"special sounds\" they've discovered in their new books or using their fingers to scoop under multi-syllabic words as they break them down. There is a newfound sense of predictability and safety in their reading; because they have the exact tools needed to unlock the text in front of them, the \"I can't do this\" sighs have been replaced by the sound of rhythmic, confident whispering as they practice their fluency.\r\n\r\nThe impact is most visible in our \"quiet achievers\"—the students who previously shied away from the classroom library because the books felt like a wall they couldn't climb. One particular student, who used to struggle with significant reading anxiety, now asks to take these phonics books to recess. For him, and many others, these books aren't just assignments; they are the first time a story has felt accessible rather than intimidating. By providing books that meet them exactly where they are, you haven't just given them stories—you've given them the evidence that they are, in fact, readers.","fullyFundedDate":1771662789559,"projectUrl":"project/phonics-books-for-all/10106632/","projectTitle":"Phonics Books for All","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Wheeler-Semrad","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9625248"},{"teacherId":9625248,"projectId":10044817,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom library has transformed from a collection of shelves into a vibrant hub of discovery. For many of you, a book is a gateway to a new world; for my students, these new texts are the foundational tools they need to build their academic and personal identities. Your support has provided more than just physical objects; you have provided the \"spark\" that makes a rigorous curriculum feel like an adventure.\r\n\r\nBridging the Gap: Literacy Meets Discovery\r\nWhile reading for pleasure is a gift, teaching students how to read involves a strategic blend of skill-building. These new texts have allowed us to dive deep into comprehension skills that go far beyond basic plot points. \r\n\r\nIf you were to step into our room during our reading block, you wouldn't find a pin-drop silent environment. Instead, you would hear the hum of active learning. In our classroom, reading is a social, collaborative experience.\r\n\r\nWe utilize partner reading, where students sit side-by-side, taking turns navigating difficult passages and coaching one another through tough vocabulary. You would also hear the rhythmic flow of reading out loud, a vital practice that helps students develop fluency, rhythm, and the confidence to find their own voices. These new books are so engaging that the students are eager to share what they've discovered with anyone who will listen.\r\n\r\nWhile every student has benefited, I have been particularly moved by the impact on our high-level readers. In a standard curriculum, advanced learners can sometimes feel stagnant if they finish assignments too quickly or find the material too simple.\r\n\r\nWith these new, more challenging texts, I have formed a specialized small group for these students. Watching them huddle together excitedly sharing a connection. They have expressed so much joy in finally having books that—as one student put it—\"actually make my brain work hard.\"\r\n\r\nYour contribution did more than just buy paper and ink; it provided the fuel for a lifelong love of learning. By giving these students access to high-quality, relevant literature, you are sending a clear message: their education, their growth, and their curiosity matter.\r\n\r\nWe are so grateful for your partnership. You haven't just filled our shelves; you've expanded our horizons. Thank you for making our classroom a place where every student—regardless of their starting point—can see themselves as a scholar and a dreamer.","fullyFundedDate":1770069320239,"projectUrl":"project/magical-learning/10044817/","projectTitle":"Magical Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Wheeler-Semrad","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9625248"},{"teacherId":9340220,"projectId":9155233,"letterContent":"Several students in particular have really embraced the responsibility that comes with these new tools. They eagerly volunteer to help distribute materials, clean up after activities, and make sure our classroom stays organized throughout the day. These small moments of responsibility help build independence, confidence, and teamwork among my third graders. Your support has not only provided helpful supplies—it has helped create a classroom environment where students feel proud of their space and ready to learn each day. Thank you for making such a meaningful difference for my students!","fullyFundedDate":1742007520256,"projectUrl":"project/clean-treat-teach-tools-to-help-my-st/9155233/","projectTitle":"Clean, Treat, Teach: Tools to Help My Students Shine!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Salgado","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9340220"},{"teacherId":9342017,"projectId":10106100,"letterContent":"Mahalo nui loa! Because of you, our classroom is now fully stocked with the essentials that make a school day successful, comfortable, and enjoyable!\r\n\r\nThese resources have instantly created a more positive learning environment. We are currently using these supplies to practice our social-emotional skills and maintaining a clean community space. Your kindness has given my students the comfort and tools they need to truly thrive.\r\n\r\nHaving a reliable stash of nutritious food ensures that every child can focus on their lessons rather than a rumbling stomach. Meanwhile, the cleaning wipes have empowered my students to take pride in their space, keeping our desks sparkling and our environment healthy.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1771731062845,"projectUrl":"project/supporting-classroom-supplies/10106100/","projectTitle":"Supporting Classroom Supplies","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Valceschini","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9342017_orig.jpg?crop=2231,2231,x0,y252&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1719356965078","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9342017"},{"teacherId":4968017,"projectId":10105780,"letterContent":"Our Literacy Night materials have completely transformed how my students and their families engage with reading. When the boxes arrived and we unpacked the colorful supplies, our eyes lit up with pure excitement. That moment of joy made it clear that these aren't just supplies—they are invitations for our families to become active partners in their children's learning journey.\r\n\r\nWe recently designed new activities to try at our next Literacy Night. We had kindergarteners try them, along with the new supplies, before the event. Students were focused, and enjoyed manipulating letters, reading and spelling words. We are confident families will be just as engaged, making this feel less like homework and more like a collaborative game. \r\n\r\nYour generosity has provided the spark for a lifelong love of reading that will extend far beyond the walls of a classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1771643613546,"projectUrl":"project/literacy-nights-done-right/10105780/","projectTitle":"Literacy Nights Done Right","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Hector","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4968017_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1533438676558","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-hector"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_61322","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":732,"numTeachers":52,"percentFrplEligible":51,"percentAsian":9,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":16,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":24,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"14.1:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"TOWN","ncesMetroType":"TOWN_REMOTE"},"inStateSupporters":57.2,"schoolId":61322,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Waikoloa Elementary & Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Waikoloa Elementary & Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/hawaii/hawaii-school-district/waikoloa-elementary-school/61322"}