{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Waimea Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":46.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9804203,"projectId":10110766,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donations. Developing a calming corner has definitely made our classroom a more relaxed space. Some students really need breaks to reset from lots of thinking, and your support has made that possible.\r\n\r\nCalming corners help students manage stress and strong emotions by giving them a predictable, quiet place to pause and regroup. When students use short, intentional breaks, they often return to work with better focus, improved self-control, and greater readiness to learn. This benefits both individual students and the classroom learning environment.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, calming corners teach self-regulation skills over time. With gentle guidance, students learn to recognize their own signs of overwhelm and choose calming strategies—like deep breathing, a sensory tool, or a quiet activity—that help them practice coping skills independently. Those long-term habits support academic success and emotional resilience. Again, big mahalo for supporting our class!","fullyFundedDate":1771783628503,"projectUrl":"project/my-wanderers-and-wonderers/10110766/","projectTitle":"My Wanderers and Wonderers","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Drury","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9804203"},{"teacherId":10254898,"projectId":10121064,"letterContent":"Mr. K's Puzzle Masters has transformed our classroom into a hub of critical thinking, collaboration, and joyful problem-solving. With access to high-quality puzzles and brain-teasing materials, students are challenged to think strategically, persevere through difficulty, and approach problems from multiple perspectives. These experiences directly support the development of essential skills such as logic, reasoning, and spatial awareness, all while fostering a growth mindset. Students who may have previously felt discouraged by traditional academic tasks are now finding success and confidence through hands-on, engaging challenges.\r\n\r\nBeyond individual growth, Puzzle Masters has strengthened our classroom community. Students regularly work together to solve complex puzzles, practicing communication, teamwork, and patience. They celebrate each other's successes, learn from mistakes, and build resilience in a supportive environment. This program has not only enriched our academic instruction but has also created a space where curiosity thrives and every student feels capable and empowered. Thanks to the generosity of donors, our students are developing skills that will benefit them far beyond the classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1776451180786,"projectUrl":"project/mr-ks-puzzle-masters/10121064/","projectTitle":"Mr. K's Puzzle Masters","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Koenig","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10254898"},{"teacherId":8844829,"projectId":9787015,"letterContent":"By supporting this project, you helped transform our classroom into a dynamic and inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive. The flexible seating options, including floor cushions and cozy saucer chairs allow my 5th-grade keiki to choose a workspace that best fits their physical and sensory needs, directly increasing their focus and independence during lessons.\r\n\r\nBeyond the physical space, your contribution has provided essential tools for daily success. The noise-canceling headphones has helped my students who can't afford any, a chance to engage deeply with digital learning tools without distraction, while the healthy snacks has given them the vital energy needed for a full day of growing and learning. It's especially coming in handy during our long standardized assessments! \r\n\r\nUltimately, this project is about more than just supplies...It's about mental health and classroom culture and make our classroom a second home. Your generosity has helped me empower my students to think freely, move comfortably, and create boldly. Mahalo nui for investing in their future!","fullyFundedDate":1766000326547,"projectUrl":"project/learning-in-comfort-flexible-seats-swe/9787015/","projectTitle":"Learning in Comfort: Flexible Seats, Sweet Treats, and Sound Support!","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":5083762,"projectId":10106871,"letterContent":"Oh my gosh, the students LOVED this book so very, very much! We read this novel aloud as a whole class, and because it was told from the perspectives of seven different students in fifth grade, they were each able to identify with at least one, if not two, of the characters- which is one of the keys to getting kids hooked on reading- seeing themselves in the lives of the characters on the page and relating to their struggles and triumphs. Each student was cheering for their favorite character and not only able to relate their story to themselves, but they were also identifying similar qualities in their classmates to other characters in the story (there were uncanny similarities, it was really interesting!). \r\n\r\nBecause they loved this book so much, I purchased the second set in their series and we read that together as a class as well. Throughout our book studies, we discuss all the elements of plot, talk about what good readers and writers do to keep us on the right track, and we identified figurative language as it came up. This book was full of hidden messages and themes, and the kids loved making predictions as we read. Truly, this was the highlight of our literary adventure this year! Thank you for making this possible!","fullyFundedDate":1771634884945,"projectUrl":"project/strengthen-literacy-with-books/10106871/","projectTitle":"Strengthen Literacy with Books","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Noetzel","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5083762_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1515617079603","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5083762"},{"teacherId":10254898,"projectId":9977921,"letterContent":"STEM kits transformed my 5th grade classroom into a hands-on, engaging learning environment where students actively explored science, technology, engineering, and math concepts. Instead of simply reading about ideas, students built, tested, and problem-solved using real materials, which helped them better understand and retain what they learned.\r\n\r\nThese kits strengthened critical thinking and problem-solving skills by encouraging students to ask questions, experiment, and design solutions. STEM activities promoted creativity and perseverance, allowing students to learn from mistakes and try new approaches—skills that supported both academic success and real-world challenges.\r\n\r\nIn addition, STEM kits fostered collaboration and communication. Students worked together in teams to complete challenges, share ideas, and explain their thinking. This not only built confidence but also supported social and emotional growth alongside academic development.","fullyFundedDate":1770432290482,"projectUrl":"project/science-kits/9977921/","projectTitle":"Science Kits","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Koenig","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10254898"},{"teacherId":9552222,"projectId":9874552,"letterContent":"Mahalo nui loa for making \"Joyful Learning for Every Learner\" a reality for my students. Because of your generosity, our classroom has been transformed into a more engaging, hands-on, and supportive learning environment where every child can succeed.\r\nMy students have already begun using the materials in meaningful ways. The dry-erase boards and math spinners have made small group instruction more interactive, allowing students to actively participate, take risks, and build confidence in their math and literacy skills. The building materials and hands-on tools have encouraged problem-solving, collaboration, and perseverance, which are skills that are especially important for my learners.\r\nThe digital timers have been a game-changer for helping students manage transitions, stay focused, and develop independence. Art supplies like paint, markers, and craft materials have allowed students to express their creativity during seasonal projects such as Valentine's Day, Earth Day, and Mother's Day. These projects not only strengthen fine motor and writing skills but also give students a sense of pride and accomplishment.\r\nIn our special education classroom, many students need additional support with attention, regulation, and confidence. Your donation has helped create a structured yet joyful environment where students feel safe to try, make mistakes, and grow. I have already seen increased engagement, improved participation, and more positive attitudes toward learning.\r\nMost importantly, your kindness has shown my students that there are people beyond our classroom who believe in them and care about their success. That message is powerful and lasting.\r\nThank you for making a difference in the lives of my students and for helping us bring joyful learning to every learner.","fullyFundedDate":1772135626969,"projectUrl":"project/joyful-learning-for-every-learner/9874552/","projectTitle":"Joyful Learning for Every Learner","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":9552222,"projectId":10103959,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom has transformed into a space where students feel supported, engaged, and ready to learn each day. The materials you helped provide have made an immediate and meaningful impact on my students with special needs.\r\n\r\nThe snacks have helped students stay focused and regulated throughout the school day. Many of my students struggle with attention and emotional regulation, and having consistent access to snacks has reduced frustration and helped them remain engaged during lessons and small-group instruction.\r\n\r\nThe hands-on STEM materials have sparked curiosity and confidence. Students who often hesitate to participate academically are now excited to build, explore, and problem-solve together. These activities have strengthened collaboration, perseverance, and critical thinking skills while allowing students to learn through movement and exploration.\r\n\r\nGames for rainy days have become powerful tools for teaching social skills such as turn-taking, communication, and flexible thinking. Instead of unstructured downtime, students now practice cooperation and positive interactions in a supportive environment.\r\n\r\nThe organization's containers have also made a big difference by creating clear, accessible learning spaces. Students are developing independence as they learn to select, use, and return materials on their own, supporting executive functioning and smoother classroom routines.\r\n\r\nYour support has helped create a classroom where students' academic, social, and emotional needs are all valued. Because of you, my students experience learning as joyful, structured, and inclusive.\r\n\r\nMahalo for investing in our students and helping them grow with confidence every day.","fullyFundedDate":1771596943259,"projectUrl":"project/fueling-minds-hearts/10103959/","projectTitle":"Fueling Minds & Hearts","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":9469214,"projectId":10108208,"letterContent":"The items for the light table, the sand for the sand table, and the sea creatures for the water play have greatly enhanced the sensory experience my students are enjoying in the special needs preschool. We are so so grateful to you. Since my students do not yet write, we decided to instead paint and stamp some of our hand prints and paint them into sea creatures to THANK you for what you have done to bless our classroom. From the bottom of my heart I do thank you for your help with this project. These items will last for years and have helped my students be able to learn in a hands-on manner in school.","fullyFundedDate":1771686154150,"projectUrl":"project/sensory-ocean-for-early-learners/10108208/","projectTitle":"Sensory Ocean For Early Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. B","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9469214_orig.jpg?crop=2320,2320,x0,y139&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1707957744925","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9469214"},{"teacherId":3814946,"projectId":10103937,"letterContent":"The introduction of these tactile resources has allowed us to shift our focus from procedural fluency—simply following steps—to true conceptual depth. When the materials arrived, the students were curious, but the real impact became visible during our first guided lesson on multi-digit subtraction. There was a noticeable hush of concentration as students used the regrouping kits to physically decompose a ten. \r\n\r\nWe recently used the fraction comparison strips during a small-group rotation focused on equivalence. Rather than memorizing the rule of multiplying the numerator and denominator, students spent time overlaying different strips to see the physical relationship between 1/2, 2/4, and 4/8. This hands-on exploration led to a much more grounded classroom discussion about how the size of the fractional unit changes as the denominator increases. \r\n\r\nFurthermore, I have also been utilizing the professional texts to refine my questioning techniques, moving away from \"Is that the right answer?\" toward \"How does your model prove your thinking?\" Your contribution has provided the scaffolding necessary for them to move from concrete exploration to abstract mastery. Thank you for supporting my learners.","fullyFundedDate":1771507587064,"projectUrl":"project/building-conceptual-math-understanding/10103937/","projectTitle":"Building Conceptual Math Understanding","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Raz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3814946_orig.jpg?crop=328,328,x27,y69&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1646607267462","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/missraz"},{"teacherId":3257392,"projectId":10103471,"letterContent":"Mahalo nui loa in funding Motivational Magic for our students. Often times, students have difficulty with keeping focus on their work. Having a treasure chest full of an assortment of stickers, colorful pencils, and fun erasers has magically given students an incentive to complete their lessons. \r\nPhonemic awareness is an essential skill for students to master while learning to read. Phonic kits makes it easier to practice their skills by moving magnetic alphabet tiles to built words. Stress free recalling of phonics with their kits makes learning stress free and fun with their new learning tool. Happy faces and laughter while building words makes learning fun with their phonics kits! Having extra rechargable batteries for my Botley robots is life-saving. An operational Botley is the highlight in our Computer Science blocks! Colorful aprons while teaching is such a great visual to remind students that it's okay to have different opinions and choices in life. Thank you again for your support in our classrooms.","fullyFundedDate":1771641622237,"projectUrl":"project/motivational-magic/10103471/","projectTitle":"Motivational Magic","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Lawson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3257392_orig.jpg?crop=410,410,x352,y75&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1597003767576","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/g-lawson"},{"teacherId":9469214,"projectId":10022743,"letterContent":"My students were so excited when they saw the new materials. We put the ocean creatures in some blue bubble water with some of the measurement materials and they played for an hour. They were able to enjoy a relaxing experience with the sensation of the water. The experience led to opportunities to socialize and share with one another. I was really proud of how well they managed their emotions during this play session. The next day we played with the new sand which provided another relaxing sensory opportunity. We painted our hands and made them into sea creatures (see photo) to say THANK YOU to you. You are so appreciated!","fullyFundedDate":1770432290510,"projectUrl":"project/sensory-ocean-experience/10022743/","projectTitle":"Sensory Ocean Experience","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. B","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9469214_orig.jpg?crop=2320,2320,x0,y139&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1707957744925","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9469214"},{"teacherId":3257392,"projectId":9934423,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding our project to help transition our Computer Science \"push in\" classes into a fun Mobile Computer Lab. My students from Kindergarten, First, and Second grade are being introduced to coding through on-line computer lessons. On occasion, there are technical difficulties and they are unable to use their computer devices. Therefore, having \"unplugged\" activities as a back-up plan is truly helpful. Also, students are practicing coding skills but are unable to practice their skills in \"real life\". Having rechargable batteries to use our Botley Robots makes it so exciting as they wait their turns to practice their amazing skills. Students are so engaged and excited with HUGE smiles on their faces as they practice their in-person coding skills. The Osmo kit will be next when I'm able to get coding games for the starter kit. (Math game was not in stock.) Some of my reluctant learners are frustrated when they are learning their coding skills online. But when they see the Botley Robots in operation, they get so excited that they'll do their jobs quickly to get their turn to code with the Botely Robots. Thank you so very much for putting that sparkle onto all our students' faces and making it a wonderful hands-on learning experience.","fullyFundedDate":1766000326082,"projectUrl":"project/mobile-computer-lab-power/9934423/","projectTitle":"Mobile Computer Lab Power","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Lawson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3257392_orig.jpg?crop=410,410,x352,y75&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1597003767576","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/g-lawson"}],"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":53.7,"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"}