{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":46.9,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8826146,"projectId":9419910,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for donating and supporting my classroom. Our prizes have helped motivate students to work towards a goal, and the chairs have helped them move their bodies to ensure they can focus. \r\nWhen the students unpacked and put everything together, they were thrilled to know that they have a chance and that someone other than me believes in them. Their imaginations as well as their futures have expanded past the edges of our little island. \r\nOur next step is to make sure our growth is reflected in our testing scores. We have been reading and parents have reported that student are even independently reading at home! \r\nThank you again so much.\r\nOur future is so bright here, you'll need sunglasses!","fullyFundedDate":1756731485261,"projectUrl":"project/organization-helps-change-the-world/9419910/","projectTitle":"Organization Helps Change the World!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Abe","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8826146_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1738051421736","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8826146"},{"teacherId":9968147,"projectId":9781841,"letterContent":"I am writing to express my profound gratitude—on behalf of myself and my chorus students—for your incredible donation. Because of your generosity, our classroom now has the resources to provide much-needed support for our students, and the impact has been immediate and transformative. Many students wake up at 5:30 or 6:00 AM to catch the bus and arrive at school feeling hungry and unable to focus. This early morning challenge often meant they were disengaged during our first classes, including chorus. Since the start of the semester, your donation has been entirely distributed to provide healthy morning snacks. When they get the snack, they are so happy, energized, and able to sing better in chorus. This simple, yet crucial, resource has successfully addressed a basic need, allowing their focus to shift from their empty stomachs back to their lessons and music.\r\n\r\nOur students are utilizing this resource every day, and we recently saw the impact during our preparation for the upcoming winter concert. For our project on \"The Lion Sleeps Tonight,\" we needed sustained energy for complex vocal parts and movement. The students, fueled by a healthy start, were able to approach the challenging harmony and rhythm exercises with enthusiasm and focus we hadn't seen before. Their initial reaction to the snack materials was pure joy and relief. They were so excited to simply have options—granola bars, fruit, and yogurt—to choose from. One student shared that the snack was the \"best part of the morning,\" as it helped them \"wake up their brains to sing.\" Their energy and appreciation were palpable, and it made the learning environment lighter and more successful.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, the foundational support you provided will continue to benefit our learning. Our next step is to use this sustained energy and focus to deepen our understanding of music theory as applied to performance. We will be moving into sight-reading exercises and analyzing the structure of our new piece, \"For Good\" from Wicked. This lesson requires intense focus and precision, skills that are directly supported by the consistent nourishment your donation made possible. Thank you, once again, for investing in our students' health, happiness, and ability to pursue their love of music. You have truly given them the gift of focus for this semester.","fullyFundedDate":1759805348949,"projectUrl":"project/thank-you-for-providing-snacks-to-my-stu/9781841/","projectTitle":"Thank You for Providing Snacks to My Students","teacherDisplayName":"Dr. Rina","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9968147"},{"teacherId":9787356,"projectId":9715423,"letterContent":"Thanks to your incredible generosity, our classroom has gained both valuable learning tools and the flexibility to access high-quality instructional resources. The two TPT gift cards have already allowed me to purchase engaging lessons, hands-on activities, and differentiated materials to support students at all levels. These resources have helped me provide clearer instruction, stronger scaffolds, and more creative learning experiences—things that directly impact students' confidence and success. My students immediately noticed the updated materials and were excited to try out the new activities we brought into our lessons.\r\n\r\nThe Newton's Cradle and precision gyroscope have become instant favorites in our room. Students were fascinated the moment they saw them—crowding around to watch the cradle's motion and taking turns spinning the gyroscope to explore balance, momentum, and rotational forces. These tools have sparked meaningful conversations about physics concepts and provided memorable demonstrations that make abstract ideas feel real. They've also become great tools to refocus students during transitions or to inspire curiosity at the start of class.\r\n\r\nThe surge-protected power strip has been a practical but essential addition, allowing students to safely charge their Chromebooks and helping us keep our devices organized during longer activities. Your support has truly elevated the learning environment—bringing in resources that are both educational and exciting. Thank you for giving my students new opportunities to explore, wonder, and succeed. Your generosity has made a powerful impact on our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1758902768611,"projectUrl":"project/spark-curiosity-inspire-learning/9715423/","projectTitle":"Spark Curiosity, Inspire Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Pastor","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9787356_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y967&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1728953977492","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9787356"},{"teacherId":9787356,"projectId":9713625,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom has become a more comfortable, creative, and engaging environment for all students. When they first walked in and saw the new tower fan, gaming chair, and the display of LEGO sets, their excitement was immediate. The 48-inch oscillating fan has made a huge difference in keeping our room cool and comfortable—something my students immediately appreciated during warm afternoons. The new chair has given us a dedicated \"creator's seat\" where students take turns sitting while leading group discussions, presenting ideas, or working on extended projects. It has quickly become a symbol of leadership and responsibility in our classroom.\r\n\r\nThe LEGO sets have brought an incredible burst of creativity into our learning space. Students were amazed to see the da Vinci flying machine, the piranha plant, the mini orchid, and the 3-in-1 flowers set. These building kits are now used during enrichment, brain breaks, and STEM rotations to support fine motor skills, problem-solving, and imaginative thinking. It has been especially inspiring to watch students collaborate on the more advanced builds, discussing engineering concepts and celebrating each step as the models come together. The Scotch laminator has also become a valuable tool—students now proudly see their work displayed around the classroom, protected and preserved for long-term use.\r\n\r\nYour generous contribution did so much more than provide supplies—it gave students new ways to express creativity, collaborate, and feel comfortable in their learning environment. The excitement these materials brought to our classroom has been truly heartwarming, and my students talk about them every day. Thank you for making such a meaningful impact on their learning and their joy in coming to school.","fullyFundedDate":1758757674478,"projectUrl":"project/a-cozy-corner-for-creative-minds/9713625/","projectTitle":"A Cozy Corner for Creative Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Pastor","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9787356_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y967&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1728953977492","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9787356"},{"teacherId":9787356,"projectId":9472756,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom has become more organized, energized, and student-centered than ever before. The snacks—especially the crackers, OREO Minis, and Pringles—were an instant hit and have helped students stay focused and motivated throughout the day. For many of them, having a small snack during work time makes a huge difference in their ability to stay engaged. \r\n\r\nOne of the most exciting additions was the JBL speaker—students love when we use it during collaborative work time, brain breaks, and presentations. It has helped create a positive, uplifting classroom atmosphere where students feel ready to participate and work together.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has truly transformed our learning environment. These resources have improved our organization, increased student engagement, and built a stronger sense of community. My students and I are deeply grateful for your kindness and support. You didn't just donate supplies—you invested in their confidence, comfort, and daily success. Thank you for making such a meaningful impact on our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1757533116646,"projectUrl":"project/equipping-minds-essential-tools-for-lea/9472756/","projectTitle":"Equipping Minds: Essential Tools for Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Pastor","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9787356_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y967&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1728953977492","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9787356"},{"teacherId":9787356,"projectId":9372911,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, my classroom has become a more welcoming, engaging space where students feel excited to learn every day. When they first walked in and saw the new rugs, snacks, board games, and learning tools, their eyes lit up. Several students immediately gathered around the new wooden chess set, proudly challenging classmates to a match, while others explored the trivia games, riddles, and flash cards. The snacks have also made a huge difference—many students rely on them to stay energized and focused throughout the day, and it has created a sense of stability and care in our room.\r\n\r\nThese resources are now part of our daily routines. The chess set and brain-teaser games are used during advisory and enrichment periods to strengthen students' critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The world flags and geography cards help us bring global awareness into warm-ups and transitions, sparking conversations about countries and cultures. The new rugs have transformed our classroom atmosphere, giving students a comfortable place to gather for group discussions and collaborative work.\r\n\r\nAs we continue our current classroom projects, these materials are helping students build focus, confidence, and community. Your donation provided much more than supplies—you helped create a learning environment where students feel supported, motivated, and proud to participate. We are truly grateful for your generosity.","fullyFundedDate":1757623874288,"projectUrl":"project/learning-through-play-and-representation/9372911/","projectTitle":"Learning Through Play and Representation","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Pastor","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9787356_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y967&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1728953977492","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9787356"},{"teacherId":2338935,"projectId":5711816,"letterContent":"Having the proper equipment to instruct and model art work and the works of artists is essential in my classroom. After working for many years with a projector that distorted color so that my students were not able to see what I was saying this new equipment is a complete change. I am so grateful for this platform and to my donors to be able to research and create projects that have a long lasting impact in my art classroom . I cannot thank you enough for your support and generous donations. Mahalo nui loa!","fullyFundedDate":1636946008276,"projectUrl":"project/color-our-world-in-our-art-class/5711816/","projectTitle":"Color Our World in Our Art Class","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Frasier","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2338935_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723396323606","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/leslie-frasier"},{"teacherId":2338935,"projectId":8621289,"letterContent":"The year started out with a The year started out with a decrease in supplies in our department when our ceramics teacher colleague was not able to return to the classroom due to personal reasons. After a big pivot, these 7th and 8th graders students received these materials and were able to start the school year with what they needed to be successful. The substitute teacher that has filling in for my colleague is so grateful to have a support of you as donors. Thank you for supporting the arts and arts education.","fullyFundedDate":1723655638301,"projectUrl":"project/art-classroom-essentials/8621289/","projectTitle":"Art Classroom Essentials","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Frasier","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2338935_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723396323606","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/leslie-frasier"},{"teacherId":3497437,"projectId":9283777,"letterContent":"Thank you so much! The new organization containers for the sticker maker and Breakout Box materials spurred immense student gratitude and immediate hands-on enthusiasm. Students instantly engaged with the digital cutter. Students felt such pride that they spontaneously organized the entire craft area, to label containers and demonstrating full ownership. This reinforces digital literacy, responsibility, and collaboration, promising enhanced engagement in all content areas fostering a sustainable, student-led learning environment for future projects.","fullyFundedDate":1746538766343,"projectUrl":"project/organize-to-explore/9283777/","projectTitle":"Organize to Explore","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Chiba","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3497437_orig.jpg?crop=1364,1364,x0,y140&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1614810581426","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3497437"},{"teacherId":2338935,"projectId":8596818,"letterContent":"This project was in response to my ceramics teacher partner who has been out of the classroom due to Family illness. We had to pivot and create a different kind of art program for the substitute teacher who was due to cover for her. The materials purchased with for this project have helped significantly to create a project that was engaging and educational. The students studied coral reefs, engaged the Elements of Art and Principles of Design and learned about mixed media and how to apply it to their work. \r\nAnother project where students utilized the supplies from this donation was a Artist Trading Card assignment. Here, students were tasked with using mixed media again, but this time they were able to use the colored pencils.\r\nThese materials were essential in helping the substitute teacher create an engaging art program for the students since they were unable to work in clay, as was expected.","fullyFundedDate":1723260523134,"projectUrl":"project/illuminate-my-art-classroom/8596818/","projectTitle":"Illuminate my Art Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Frasier","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2338935_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723396323606","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/leslie-frasier"},{"teacherId":8823481,"projectId":9153575,"letterContent":"We are so grateful for your generosity in funding our DonorsChoose project! Thanks to your support, our class now has Kan Jam and Cornhole—two awesome games that bring teamwork, friendly competition, and lots of laughter to our students.\r\n\r\nThese games are helping us build community, encourage physical activity, and give students a fun, positive outlet during breaks and class activities. It's been amazing to see their smiles, teamwork, and sportsmanship grow.\r\n\r\nYour contribution truly makes a difference every day. Thank you for believing in our classroom and helping us create a joyful and engaging learning environment!","fullyFundedDate":1741661977826,"projectUrl":"project/engaging-games-for-middle-school-student/9153575/","projectTitle":"Engaging Games for Middle School Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Thomas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8823481"},{"teacherId":7495069,"projectId":9712274,"letterContent":"Mahalo for the generous gift you have given my school. \r\nYour incredible generosity is truly inspiring! On behalf of everyone here, I want to extend our deepest and most sincere gratitude for your donation of these 5M Flashforge 3D printers. This gift represents more than just cutting-edge technology; it's an investment in the future, a commitment to innovation, and a profound belief in the potential of our students.\r\n\r\nThe impact of this donation cannot be overstated. 3D printing has become a pivotal technology in fields ranging from engineering and medicine to art and architecture. By placing these tools directly into the hands of our students, you are instantly transforming the learning environment from a passive space to an active, hands-on workshop.\r\n\r\nYour donation provides an immediate, tangible resource that breaks down barriers to entry for advanced manufacturing and design. It allows individuals who may not have access to large industrial equipment to create, iterate, and innovate on a personal level.","fullyFundedDate":1758757674220,"projectUrl":"project/3-d-printing/9712274/","projectTitle":"3 D Printing","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Hreljac","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7495069_orig.jpg?crop=720,720,x294,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1627716326479","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7495069"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_69801","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":826,"numTeachers":62,"percentFrplEligible":48,"percentAsian":25,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":7,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":20,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"13.3:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"TOWN","ncesMetroType":"TOWN_REMOTE"},"inStateSupporters":53.1,"schoolId":69801,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/hawaii/kapaa-kauai-waimea-school-district/chiefess-kamakahelei-mid-school/69801"}
Join the 256 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School is
a town public school
in Lihue, Hawaii that is part of Kapaa-Kauai-Waimea School District.
It serves 826 students
in grades 6 - 8 with a student/teacher ratio of 13.3:1.
Its teachers have had 279 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Share and help support Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle 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.
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for public school teachers.
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
45%
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.
Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Dec 25, 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.
Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School
$238,662
raised using DonorsChoose
279
projects
funded
76
teachers
funded
256
donors
36
projects
for
basic supplies
60
projects for
technology
12
projects for
books
19
projects
for
art supplies
Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School has received support from
136 individuals from Hawaii and
120 individuals out-of-state.