{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Governor Sanford Dole Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":52.7,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9816435,"projectId":9781584,"letterContent":"My students love using the seating cushions around the classroom. They sit by our class library on the cushions, and some students like to lie down on them while we read our class novel. This truly does make our classroom a more comfortable place. \r\n\r\nThe snacks are especially helpful in incentivizing and rewarding students for completing their reading and math intervention lessons. Many of the students we serve tend to suffer from food insecurity, and being able to provide them with food addresses Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. \r\n\r\nI have yet to receive a few things that were ordered, and I think they may be lost in the mail. But I am truly grateful for the generous donations and funds that have come to support our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1759599073693,"projectUrl":"project/help-make-our-classroom-a-better-place/9781584/","projectTitle":"Help Make Our Classroom a Better Place","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Silva","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9816435"},{"teacherId":10112067,"projectId":9776521,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support that has provided our classroom with these incredible resources. I witness firsthand the delight on my students' faces when they are able to have a snack in class. During a recent lesson, we enjoyed a \"nutrition break\" where students eagerly collected a snack, fueling their energy for the rest of class. The integration of graphic novels and headphones into our curriculum has sparked excitement too; students are now able to explore diverse narratives at their own pace, fostering both a love of reading and improved literacy skills.\r\nStudents have enjoyed reading the graphic novels, even bringing them home to read after school. Students have been using the headphones for quiet, focused reading time and for listening and speaking assignments. Additionally, the new ball is part of our scheduled movement breaks, encouraging physical activity and teamwork—essential components for both academic success and emotional well-being. Your donation has truly empowered our students, ensuring that both their academic and nutritional needs are met, and I cannot thank you enough for helping us create such a supportive, inclusive learning environment.","fullyFundedDate":1759450177226,"projectUrl":"project/complete-our-classroom/9776521/","projectTitle":"Complete Our Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Kalifa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/kalifa"},{"teacherId":10112067,"projectId":9536962,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous support in funding the document camera for our middle school classroom. This technology has transformed our learning environment by enabling real‐time projection of documents, textbooks, and student work. It not only brings lessons to life but also accommodates diverse learning styles. This tool uniquely empowers students in a classroom setting by making abstract concepts tangible. I can now demonstrate step-by-step problem-solving, showcase experiments, and even highlight the intricate details in student projects, which makes the lessons more interactive and engaging.\r\n\r\nThe response from our students has been overwhelmingly positive. They are particularly excited about the opportunity to see live demonstrations and be active participants in lessons rather than passive listeners. Visual learners, in particular, have embraced this technology—seeing complex concepts laid out clearly on the screen sparks their curiosity and deepens their understanding. Some students who previously struggled to follow written instructions now have a newfound confidence as they can visually connect with the material. This simple yet powerful tool is truly making a lasting difference in our students' academic journey.","fullyFundedDate":1755686092457,"projectUrl":"project/better-access-to-learning-with-a-documen/9536962/","projectTitle":"Better Access to Learning With a Document Camera","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Kalifa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/kalifa"},{"teacherId":9700690,"projectId":9830234,"letterContent":"When the ʻukuleles arrived, the room lit up. Students formed small groups, learned to tune with clip-on tuners, and practiced steady strum with C, F, G7, and Am. During our first class kani ka pila, one student quietly started a familiar local Hawaiʻi tune, and the whole group joined. Another student, who is Chuukese, taught us a simple island rhythm he learned from his uncle. In that moment, they were not just learning chords, they were connecting with their culture, growing in confidence, and showing pride in who they are.\r\n\r\nWe are using the ʻukuleles to build belonging and literacy. Students rotate the instruments in class, then analyze lyrics for theme and figurative language, and write short reflections naming at least one cultural connection. They are listening more closely, being brave in front of peers, and encouraging each other through tricky chord changes. Several have checked out an ʻukulele for short home practice with family permission, and they come back eager to share what they learned with their ʻohana.","fullyFundedDate":1760693577877,"projectUrl":"project/ukuleles-to-learn-belong-and-shine/9830234/","projectTitle":"Ukuleles to Learn, Belong, and Shine","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jenks","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9700690_orig.jpg?crop=1440,1440,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1738568128014","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/kumujey"},{"teacherId":9700690,"projectId":9279698,"letterContent":"Thanks to your support, my students are now learning with greater focus and confidence. The new headphones have transformed how we use technology in the classroom. Students can listen to digital lessons, access read-aloud features, and use translation tools without distraction. The room is calmer, and students are more independent during reading, writing, and testing.\r\n\r\nFor many of my students, especially those who receive special education services or are English Language Learners, the headphones provide a sense of comfort and ownership. They love having their own pair that fits well and helps them concentrate. One student told me, \"It's easier to learn when I can hear only my work.\" Small changes like this have made a big difference in their ability to stay on task and feel proud of their progress.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, every student can now access learning in a way that meets their individual needs. You helped create an inclusive classroom where all students can focus, listen, and thrive. Thank you for believing in them and for giving them the tools to succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1746785408692,"projectUrl":"project/hearing-every-word-headphones-for-focus/9279698/","projectTitle":"Hearing Every Word: Headphones for Focused and Inclusive Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jenks","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9700690_orig.jpg?crop=1440,1440,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1738568128014","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/kumujey"},{"teacherId":9700690,"projectId":9158206,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, my students are now reading stories that reflect their home, culture, and community. The new graphic novels have transformed the way reading looks in our classroom. Students are gathered in small groups, leaning over pages filled with familiar faces, Hawaiian words, and local landscapes. They are asking questions, interpreting illustrations, and connecting history to their own family stories.\r\n\r\nThese books have helped my struggling readers find joy in reading again. The visual storytelling helps them understand tone, character emotions, and historical context in ways traditional textbooks never could. One student said, \"I finally understand what it means to stand up for others because Katsu did it.\" Seeing that connection to justice and courage through a local hero has built confidence and pride in so many of them.\r\n\r\nYour kindness made it possible for my students to learn that their voices and experiences matter. You helped them see that history is not just something to memorize, but something they are part of. Mahalo nui loa for giving them this powerful gift of representation and hope.\r\n\r\nWith gratitude,","fullyFundedDate":1746786393600,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-students-through-graphic-nov/9158206/","projectTitle":"Empowering: Students Through Graphic Novels in Social Studies","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jenks","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9700690_orig.jpg?crop=1440,1440,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1738568128014","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/kumujey"},{"teacherId":9657600,"projectId":9699291,"letterContent":"Mahalo nui loa for your generous support! Since the materials arrived, we've used them daily—especially for our Unit Rate: Oreos & Kool-Aid project. Students collected real price labels for Oreos and Kool-Aid Jammers, then used the new calculators, rulers, and graph paper to compute cost per 1 (ounce or fluid ounce) and build clean bar graphs. From our class labels: Oreos (14.3 oz for $4.79) → $4.79 ÷ 14.3 ≈ $0.34/oz; Family-Size Oreos (19.1 oz for $5.99) → $5.99 ÷ 19.1 ≈ $0.31/oz. For drinks, Kool-Aid Jammers (10 pouches × 6 fl oz = 60 fl oz for $3.99) → $3.99 ÷ 60 ≈ $0.066/fl oz; a single pouch (6 fl oz for $0.75) → $0.75 ÷ 6 ≈ $0.125/fl oz. Students wrote claims like, \"Family-size Oreos are the better buy (≈$0.31/oz vs. $0.34/oz), and the 10-pack Jammers beat single pouches (≈6.6¢/fl oz vs. 12.5¢/fl oz).\"\r\n\r\nWhen we opened the boxes, the room buzzed. \"We get our own calculators?\" one student asked, already lining up a ruler to draw axis lines for a unit-rate graph. For several SPED learners, the right tool at the right time lowered anxiety and kept them on task: calculate → record → graph → explain. Even hesitant writers were eager to use their composition books as \"data journals,\" and students treated materials with pride because they felt seen and supported.\r\n\r\nNext, we're extending the lesson to compare single-serve vs. family-size across more stores and to write a short Shopper's Guide: \"Best Buys—Oreos & Kool-Aid\" using unit-rate evidence and clear graphs. Students will practice presenting one visual (their graph) and one defended conclusion (\"Which option saves the most per ounce, and why?\"). Your gift keeps rippling forward—these tools turn everyday snacks into relevant math, building confidence, independence, and that powerful moment when a student says, \"I can prove it!\" Mahalo for being part of our classroom ʻohana.","fullyFundedDate":1757546788128,"projectUrl":"project/tools-for-success-building-my-first-cl/9699291/","projectTitle":"“Tools for Success: Building My First Classroom”","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Gigi Wong","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9657600_orig.jpg?crop=1597,1597,x0,y415&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1726515509292","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9657600"},{"teacherId":9700690,"projectId":9281465,"letterContent":"On the first day of school, several of my students arrived without a backpack or supplies. Because of your generosity, they were able to choose a backpack on the spot and fill it with the notebooks, folders, and basics they needed. Faces softened, shoulders relaxed, and students settled into class ready to learn. That first moment set a caring tone for our room.\r\n\r\nAlmost a quarter of the class has already received backpacks, and the bags are in use daily. Students keep work organized, carry books between classes, and bring materials home with pride. Missing papers are down, and we start lessons faster because everyone has what they need within reach. One student told me, \"My stuff finally has a place,\" and it showed in the way they participated during small group reading.\r\n\r\nWe are now leaning into routines that build independence. Students track assignments in their planners, color-code folders, and maintain a simple pack-and-check system at the end of each period. Next, we will add a weekly reflection where students note one way the backpack helped them succeed. Your gift did more than provide supplies. It gave students a daily tool that supports confidence, organization, and a sense of belonging. Thank you for seeing our kids and helping them start strong.","fullyFundedDate":1746468676417,"projectUrl":"project/every-student-deserves-a-backpack/9281465/","projectTitle":"Every Student Deserves a Backpack","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jenks","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9700690_orig.jpg?crop=1440,1440,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1738568128014","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/kumujey"},{"teacherId":9700690,"projectId":9263296,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students now have reliable access to essential period products and discreet storage pouches right here in our classroom. These resources are already making a difference. Instead of quietly worrying about whether they have what they need, my female students know they can come to class prepared and focus on their learning. One student told me, \"Now I don't need to worry if I forget something at home. I can just grab what I need and not miss class.\" Moments like that show just how powerful your gift is.\r\n\r\nWhen the boxes first arrived, students' eyes lit up at the sight of the colorful pouches and the large supply of pads. For many of them, it was the first time they had seen these necessities openly discussed and treated with care. It sent a strong message that their dignity matters and they deserve support. Providing these materials has started conversations in our class about health, self-care, and compassion, and it has reduced the stigma around something that affects half our population.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, I am able to build a classroom environment where all students feel safe and respected. These supplies ensure no one has to choose between embarrassment or missing out on learning. Instead, students can participate with confidence and know that their community cares about them. Your kindness has not only met a physical need, it has also affirmed their worth and potential.","fullyFundedDate":1746599464889,"projectUrl":"project/dignity-in-the-details-period-essential/9263296/","projectTitle":"Dignity in the Details: Period Essentials for Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jenks","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9700690_orig.jpg?crop=1440,1440,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1738568128014","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/kumujey"},{"teacherId":9700690,"projectId":9333226,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of my project, \"Focus and Flexibility for Every Learner.\" With your help, we were able to bring Bouncy Bands into our classroom, and the impact has been immediate and truly wonderful.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the box of Bouncy Bands, their eyes lit up with curiosity and excitement. They were eager to try them out, and we took the time to attach the bands to their chairs together. It was a great moment of collaboration and a chance to explain how these tools could help them succeed. One student, who often has trouble sitting still during our reading block, immediately put their feet on the band and began to gently bounce. The change in their ability to stay engaged and focused was noticeable from that very first day.\r\n\r\nThese Bouncy Bands have become a vital part of our inclusive classroom environment. For my students with ADHD, autism, or sensory needs, they offer a quiet, discreet way to release energy and regulate their bodies without disrupting the class. Instead of struggling to stay in their seats, they can now channel that need for movement in a way that supports their learning. This allows them to participate more actively in lessons, collaborate with their peers, and feel more comfortable and confident in their own learning process.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, these bands will be a permanent fixture in our classroom, ensuring that every student has the tools they need to succeed in every lesson, from group discussions to independent work. Your donation has not only provided a physical tool but has also created a more understanding and supportive space where all students can thrive. Thank you for believing in our students and helping us create a classroom where every learner is set up for success.","fullyFundedDate":1749142086336,"projectUrl":"project/focus-and-flexibility-for-every-learner/9333226/","projectTitle":"Focus and Flexibility for Every Learner","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jenks","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9700690_orig.jpg?crop=1440,1440,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1738568128014","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/kumujey"},{"teacherId":9968675,"projectId":9224183,"letterContent":"I cannot express my gratitude. I received the material at the end of last year and will be using it throughout this year. The year has only just begun but I am anxiously waiting for us to pop open the materials and use them. \r\nwe will be studying cells and microorganisms, testing newtons law and learning about energy and force. The materials donated will make my classroom more engaging with the hands on activities. The wave machine is what I am waiting for the most. Last year my room was essentially empty, and so a lot of my examples came from what I could find or videos. Having my students with disabilities be able to physically see and make the lessons come to life will bring their learning to a whole new level. My students and I are beyond ecstatic.","fullyFundedDate":1746786059461,"projectUrl":"project/math-and-science-material/9224183/","projectTitle":"Math and Science Material","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. K","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9968675_orig.jpg?crop=1239,1239,x0,y78&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1764788053874","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9968675"},{"teacherId":9968675,"projectId":9224456,"letterContent":"My students are over the moon with the fidgets and I cannot tell you how much I use them. I have my drawer in my classroom where I do ask them to return so we can continue using them, I keep some in my bag for when I go to my inclusion classroom. I help my hole team out with providing fidgets. \r\nThis has been a game changer for me and my classroom. Providing students who have disabilities as well as students who may not qualify for accomodations but still need a little extra, I am able to help my fellow teachers and keep my students engaged while they move around. It has almost eliminated the wondering around my room which is amazing. This donation has shown me how essential fidgets are for students. Thank you!","fullyFundedDate":1746785705931,"projectUrl":"project/fidgets-for-students-with-disabilities/9224456/","projectTitle":"Fidgets for Students with Disabilities","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. K","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9968675_orig.jpg?crop=1239,1239,x0,y78&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1764788053874","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9968675"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_50872","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":564,"numTeachers":56,"percentFrplEligible":75,"percentAsian":25,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":0,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":8,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"10.1:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":47.3,"schoolId":50872,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Governor Sanford Dole Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Governor Sanford Dole Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/hawaii/honolulu-school-district/dole-middle-school/50872"}
Join the 165 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Governor Sanford Dole Middle School is
an urban public school
in Honolulu, Hawaii that is part of Honolulu School District.
It serves 564 students
in grades 6 - 8 with a student/teacher ratio of 10.1:1.
Its teachers have had 158 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
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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
33%
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.
Governor Sanford Dole Middle School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Dec 5, 2025
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.
Governor Sanford Dole Middle School
$118,068
raised using DonorsChoose
158
projects
funded
42
teachers
funded
165
donors
20
projects
for
basic supplies
33
projects for
technology
11
projects for
books
9
projects
for
art supplies
Governor Sanford Dole Middle School has received support from
78 individuals from Hawaii and
87 individuals out-of-state.