{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Waimea Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":46.1,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10287291,"projectId":9763788,"letterContent":"The transition into a new school week can often be overwhelming for first graders, but thanks to your generosity, our \"Slow Start Mondays\" have completely transformed the energy in our room. Instead of rushing into rigid desk work, my students now enter a calm, creative environment.\r\n\r\nThe play dough and Magna-Tiles have become essential tools for more than just play; they are building my students' fine motor skills and encouraging collaborative problem-solving from the moment the bell rings. Seeing them excited to come to school on a Monday morning is the greatest gift a first-year teacher could ask for.","fullyFundedDate":1761578419725,"projectUrl":"project/tools-for-slow-starts-and-building-think/9763788/","projectTitle":"Tools for Slow Starts and Building Thinking Classrooms","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Morriss","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10287291"},{"teacherId":7941549,"projectId":9420298,"letterContent":"Mahalo for your generosity! The students helped to create a new beautiful space for them to learn social-emotional learning activities and lessons. We were able to create beautiful artwork, plant native plants, as well as put some loving and caring hands into soil. Help from parents also contributed for students to build relationships with their 'Ohana.\r\nLooking forward to more activities in this garden where our community and Keiki will be enriched by stories of our special place and our school.","fullyFundedDate":1753034169491,"projectUrl":"project/digging-deep-tools-for-keiki-to-grow-b/9420298/","projectTitle":"Digging Deep: Tools for Keiki to Grow, Belong, and Thrive","teacherDisplayName":"Dr. Kumu Mahea","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7941549_orig.png?crop=398,398,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1628049799144","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7941549"},{"teacherId":7941413,"projectId":9781244,"letterContent":"My students were having difficulty with following their daily schedule. They needed more personal access to the order of activities for their day in order to improve learning and deal with change. Since getting a laminator that I have in my classroom, I've been able to create visual schedules for the students that are geared directly to each student's day, and which includes special services. This has lowered student anxiety across the board in our classroom, and raised academic growth as they've improved their organizational skills and taken responsibility for more of their lessons.\r\n\r\nAnother issue in my room was my student's problem with focus after recess when they got hungry. I wanted to avoid sugary snacks, and Goldfish has provided a healthier snack. It has also improved their attention during lessons and independent work between recess and lunch, and near the end of the school day.\r\n\r\nFinally, stem activities allowed my students to use their creativity in ways that reinforced scientific ideas they're just beginning to explore.","fullyFundedDate":1759590959618,"projectUrl":"project/organizing-and-creativity/9781244/","projectTitle":"Organizing and Creativity!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Cathy","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7941413"},{"teacherId":10102239,"projectId":9614212,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generosity in providing flexible seating for our classroom. The students love the floor chairs when they read their free-choice books, and your bright additions brought so much excitement. Along with other donated items, students have been creative in shaping their learning space. They complete their Must Do assignments quickly so they can enjoy the May Do activities you helped make possible.\r\n\r\nClassroom furniture is not cheap, but it plays a crucial role in creating a safe, nurturing environment—one the students truly enjoy, much like their homes. We are deeply grateful for your support.","fullyFundedDate":1755708228081,"projectUrl":"project/shared-space-is-our-learning-place/9614212/","projectTitle":"Shared Space is Our Learning Place","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Drury","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10102239"},{"teacherId":8844829,"projectId":9715547,"letterContent":"Mahalo nui loa for your generosity and kindness! Because of you, my fifth graders now have access to the nourishment and encouragement they need to learn, grow, and truly thrive each day.\r\n\r\nMany of my students come to school carrying challenges that no child should have to worry about...hunger, lack of access to nutritious snacks, and limited resources at home. Your support has helped remove these barriers. With the snacks, drinks, and reusable water bottles you funded, my students are able to stay focused, energized, and comfortable throughout the school day.\r\n\r\nOne of the most meaningful parts of this project has been personalizing each water bottle with fun and motivational Cricut-made stickers. When my kids received their bottles, their faces lit up! They were excited not just because they received something new, but because it was made just for them. That small touch of aloha reminded them that someone out there believes in their potential and cares about their well-being.\r\n\r\nYour donation didn't just provide supplies, you helped create a classroom atmosphere filled with care, gratitude, and belonging. You gave my students confidence, comfort, and the fuel they need to succeed. Thank you for helping me build a learning environment where every child feels supported, valued, and ready to take on the world. Or in this case, middle school next year!","fullyFundedDate":1761168180221,"projectUrl":"project/warm-hearts-full-bellies-caring-for-m/9715547/","projectTitle":"Warm Hearts & Full Bellies: Caring for My Growing Students","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Alanna","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8844829_orig.jpg?crop=1350,1350,x0,y337&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757922742464","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-alanna-lk-saulibio"},{"teacherId":9552222,"projectId":9772177,"letterContent":"Aloha and mahalo for your generous support of our classroom project! The resources you provided have made a meaningful difference in my 3rd-grade special needs students' academic growth, confidence, and daily learning experience.\r\nThe 10-sided dice have transformed our multiplication and division lessons into engaging, hands-on activities. Students who once hesitated to participate are now eager to roll the dice, make groups, and talk through their strategies. This tool has strengthened their number sense, improved fluency, and helped them better understand the relationship between operations.\r\nThe colored paper has brought our lessons to life. From math centers to ELA activities, visually appealing resources have helped students stay focused, follow directions more easily, and engage with materials at their instructional level. These visuals have been especially helpful for students who benefit from color-coding and step-by-step support.\r\nThe walking pad has become a favorite flexible movement option for students who need sensory regulation to stay on task. Allowing them to walk while reading, thinking, or completing independent work has increased their stamina, reduced frustration, and helped them remain engaged for longer periods.\r\nFinally, the treasure chest and goodies have provided powerful positive reinforcement. Celebrating academic effort and growth has encouraged students to persevere through challenging tasks, show responsibility, and take pride in their accomplishments.\r\nYour generosity has made learning more accessible, joyful, and meaningful for every child in our room. Thank you for believing in my students and helping create a classroom where they can thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1759446594548,"projectUrl":"project/color-create-and-celebrate/9772177/","projectTitle":"Color, Create, and Celebrate!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lani","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9552222_orig.jpg?crop=1977,1977,x0,y65&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1716159693855","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-laniormsby"},{"teacherId":7714877,"projectId":9609829,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, the classroom is becoming a place where focus, calm, and meaningful learning can truly flourish. My students are a wonderfully creative and curious group, but staying focused can be a challenge—especially with the many distractions and energy levels that naturally come with a busy classroom. The materials you've provided are already making a powerful difference in helping them stay on task, regulate their emotions, and fully engage in their learning.\r\n\r\nThe visual timers have quickly become one of the most effective tools in our daily routines. Students who once struggled with transitions now have a clear, visual guide that helps them manage their time and move confidently from one activity to the next. \r\n\r\nThe stress balls have provided a quiet and appropriate outlet for students who need to fidget or release extra energy. Instead of losing focus or disrupting peers, these students can squeeze away anxiety while staying fully engaged in their lessons. \r\n\r\nOur art supplies have helped create a calming space for mindful creativity. We have started an inspiration garden in our planter box to inspire others in their emotional regulation. These moments of quiet expression help them process emotions and reset their minds—skills that support both their well-being and their academic growth.\r\n\r\nThe snacks you provided have ensured that no student has to learn on an empty stomach. A quick, healthy bite helps improve attention, energy, and mood—especially for those who may not always be able to bring a snack from home. It's a small gesture with a big impact on their ability to stay engaged throughout the day.\r\n\r\nYour support is helping us build a more structured, supportive, and productive learning environment where every child has what they need to succeed. Because of you, my students are learning how to manage their time, regulate their emotions, and stay focused—skills that will benefit them far beyond our classroom.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students and making a meaningful difference in their daily lives.","fullyFundedDate":1762048358251,"projectUrl":"project/fueling-focus-and-feeding-creativity/9609829/","projectTitle":"Fueling Focus And Feeding Creativity","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Cristy","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7714877_orig.jpg?crop=439,439,x74,y12&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1647034175434","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-athan"},{"teacherId":7714877,"projectId":9610862,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our school has become a more supportive, comfortable, and empowering place for all learners. My students are bright, creative, and eager to learn, and these new tools are already helping them thrive in ways that honor their individual needs.\r\n\r\nOne of the first moments that truly showed the impact happened during our morning routine. Several students who usually struggle with settling in were immediately drawn to the expandable breathing balls. We practiced a short breathing exercise together, and for the first time this year, a few of my most anxious students were able to start the day calm and focused. They now ask for the breathing balls by name whenever they need a break.\r\n\r\nThe visual timer has also been a game changer. During counseling sessions, students could see how much time they had left, which reduced stress and helped them transition more smoothly.\r\n\r\nThe tower fan has made our room far more comfortable—especially in the afternoons when it becomes warm and stuffy. Students stay more focused and less irritable, and the quiet hum keeps our space calm rather than distracting.\r\n\r\nWe've also been using the dry erase markers during small group lessons, giving students quick, clear feedback without wasting materials. The mounting tape has helped us display visual schedules, calming strategies, and student work, making our room more structured and supportive for everyone, including students with autism who rely on consistent visual cues.\r\n\r\nEven the fruit snacks have made a difference—providing a simple, allergy-friendly boost that keeps students focused when hunger hits between meals. And reading Broken Crayons Still Color together sparked a powerful class conversation about resilience and recognizing our own strengths. Several students now reference the book when they're having a tough moment.\r\n\r\nBecause of your kindness, my students not only have the academic tools they need—they have the emotional and sensory supports that help them feel safe, regulated, and ready to learn. \r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students and making our classroom a place where every child can shine.","fullyFundedDate":1757548214702,"projectUrl":"project/keeping-cool-and-focused-tools-for-a-ca/9610862/","projectTitle":"Keeping Cool and Focused: Tools for a Calm, Inclusive Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Cristy","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7714877_orig.jpg?crop=439,439,x74,y12&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1647034175434","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-athan"},{"teacherId":8844829,"projectId":9715490,"letterContent":"Because of your generous aloha and support, my fifth graders now have a classroom that feels safer, more welcoming, and truly like a second home. My students are hardworking, creative, caring, and full of personality—and for many of them, school is not just a place to learn, but a place to feel supported, valued, and part of an 'ohana. Your contribution has helped me create a learning environment that honors that sense of belonging.\r\n\r\nWith your help, our classroom has slowly transformed into a calm, cozy, and inviting space filled with flexible seating options, soft floor cushions, and colorful rugs that make learning more comfortable and enjoyable! These areas give my kids the freedom to choose where and how they learn best, whether they're collaborating with classmates, reading independently, or taking a quiet moment to rest and recharge.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has helped create a comforting, home-like atmosphere where my students feel emotionally safe, support focus and engagement by giving me the option to offer them seating choices that fit their different learning needs, promotes well-being with calm, cozy spaces that help students regulate and reset, and strengthens our classroom 'ohana by building an environment rooted in care, ho'ihi (respect), and belonging\r\n\r\nBy funding this project, you are providing more than furniture or supplies—you are helping shape a space where students feel calm, supported, and ready to learn each day. Your kindness is giving them a classroom that feels like home.\r\n\r\nMahalo nui loa for making a lasting impact on our students' comfort, confidence, and well-being.","fullyFundedDate":1760391986687,"projectUrl":"project/home-away-from-home-a-classroom-where-e/9715490/","projectTitle":"Home Away From Home: a Classroom Where Every Child Belongs","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Alanna","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8844829_orig.jpg?crop=1350,1350,x0,y337&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757922742464","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-alanna-lk-saulibio"},{"teacherId":8844829,"projectId":9715559,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity and aloha spirit, my fifth graders are now experiencing a Christmas surprise filled with joy, belonging, and the magic of personalized reading. Because of your support, they were all able to receive books chosen specifically for who they are as individuals, reinforcing the powerful message that every child deserves to feel seen, cared for, and loved. \r\n\r\nYour donation made it possible for each of my kids to unwrap several brand-new books selected to match their passions and interests. For many of my kids, owning their own books are rare, let alone an unused BRAND NEW one. Receiving stories chosen just for them, beautifully wrapped like a gift, turns reading into a moment of wonder and connection.\r\n\r\nThis project goes far beyond holiday excitement. Your kokua are enabling them to strengthen their literacy by placing meaningful, high-interest books directly into their hands, build a love of reading by giving each child a story that reflects their interests and identity, create positive reading memories tied to joy, celebration, and belonging, and show them that they matter through a gift that says, \"You are seen, valued, and supported\". \r\n\r\nWhen my students curl up with their personalized books over winter break, they will know that their learning is supported not only by me, but by a community of caring people who believe in their future. Your kindness gave each child more than just a book, you gave them a Christmas memory filled with light, laughter, and the joy of being truly known.\r\n\r\nMahalo nui loa for helping put stories and smiles into their stockings this holiday season!!!","fullyFundedDate":1758144897131,"projectUrl":"project/wrapped-in-books-just-for-me-personaliz/9715559/","projectTitle":"Wrapped in Books Just for Me: Personalized Christmas Gifts","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Alanna","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8844829_orig.jpg?crop=1350,1350,x0,y337&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757922742464","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-alanna-lk-saulibio"},{"teacherId":9357626,"projectId":9776560,"letterContent":"Thank you all for your generous donations! Through your donations, our classroom has been refreshed and replenished with much needed supplies to start our school year off on the right foot. Students were excited to use fresh dry erase pens and the new manipulatives have made center time even more fun! When students saw all the new colorful dice, they were so excited to start math centers. It was amazing to see how excited they were over such a seemingly small thing such as new dice. \r\n\r\nIn addition, sheet protectors and laminating sheets have helped keep our binders organized. We go through a lot of laminating sheets as they are used for visuals and dry erase activities. \r\n\r\nThank you all for helping us be successful by providing our class with some basic tools and supplies that were much needed.","fullyFundedDate":1759538568490,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-basics-replenished-and-refresh/9776560/","projectTitle":"Classroom Basics Replenished and Refreshed","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Reyes","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9357626"},{"teacherId":7939705,"projectId":9772750,"letterContent":"Students are ready to learn and full of smiles for math and science. My students have enjoyed the Hands on Science and Math materials. The Donor Choose items have made both science and math more exciting and fun to learn. Students with Special Needs can feel like math and science are the most difficult subjects because they need to remember previous learned material but having concrete models help students. \r\n\r\nFirst, an example of a concrete model for math was the Subtraction Game. This game has pieces that look like coins which is helpful to make kids remember that one needs to exchange or regroup for subtraction just like 10 pennies is equal to a dime. The sorting tray helps students organize the pieces helping them organize while regrouping. This game has become a hit for our fast finishers and at this time I have 100% of my students being able to regroup multi-digit numbers.\r\n\r\nSecond, Science has become fun as we are able to experience real items. The students have enjoyed completing the STEM kits. Not only are they learning science but also how to follow directions and how to work together. It is a great way to help with teamwork. \r\n\r\nThank you again for making math and science fun for my students.","fullyFundedDate":1759241891784,"projectUrl":"project/hands-on-science-and-math/9772750/","projectTitle":"Hands on Science and Math","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Salfen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7939705"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_50787","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":474,"numTeachers":34,"percentFrplEligible":60,"percentAsian":9,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":6,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":20,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"13.9:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"RURAL","ncesMetroType":"RURAL_DISTANT"},"inStateSupporters":53.9,"schoolId":50787,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Waimea Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Waimea Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/hawaii/hawaii-school-district/waimea-elementary-school/50787"}