{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Pomaikai Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":33.7,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":2044862,"projectId":9783733,"letterContent":"The phonics readers, new classroom organization and materials have already made such a positive impact on our learning environment. \r\n\r\nThe phonics readers have helped my first graders feel successful, confident, and eager to read every day. Because the books align with our phonics sequence, students can apply their sound skills in meaningful ways. Even reluctant readers have been choosing books from the baskets and reading to a partner with newfound enthusiasm. The improved classroom organization has also made our routines smoother; students now know exactly where to find what they need, which has increased their independence and pride in taking care of our classroom library.\r\n\r\nNext, we'll continue using the phonics readers to practice blends, digraphs, and long-vowel patterns. Students will rotate through a \"Read to Partner\" station and use the book baskets to choose texts that are just right for them. We'll also use the organized bins to build student book boxes for reading stamina. Thanks to your generosity, our classroom is more functional, inviting, and joyful—and my students are growing as readers every single day. We are truly grateful for your support.","fullyFundedDate":1759622558393,"projectUrl":"project/essential-extras/9783733/","projectTitle":"Essential Extras","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Golis","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2044862_orig.jpg?crop=2061,2061,x254,y802&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1628013863297","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2044862"},{"teacherId":2086888,"projectId":8890895,"letterContent":"I am writing to extend my deepest gratitude for your incredibly generous material donations to our project. Your support, including the essential Cricut machine, the heat iron press, the transfer paper, and a supply of t-shirts, instantly transformed our capability for hands-on, creative work and conversations. These tools allowed my ELL students to move from abstract ideas to tangible, personalized items, giving them a practical way to express themselves, develop new skills, and feel a profound sense of accomplishment. Every single donation is not just an item; it's an investment in empowering our community, and I was so thrilled to be using these materials to bring these students artistic visions to life.\r\n\r\nThrough your donations I was able to create an activity that all students enjoyed. After reading an inspirational story from the books, my students chose a personal mantra—such as \"I can do it,\" \"I won't quit,\" or \"Keep trying\"—to feature on their shirts. Using the Cricut machine to select a font and cut the design onto the transfer paper, they then applied the image directly to their t-shirts using the donated heat iron press. They also used cubes to measure out how big they wanted their mantra. This project not only taught them valuable design and production skills but also allowed them to literally wear their motivation, fostering personal growth, self-reflection, and renewed enthusiasm. Thank you, once again, for providing the resources that allowed us to create such meaningful, hands-on experiences and make a real, lasting impact. We are truly fortunate to have partners like you.\r\n\r\nSincerely,","fullyFundedDate":1729435460106,"projectUrl":"project/positive-affirmations/8890895/","projectTitle":"Positive Affirmations","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. L.","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp2086888_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1472797275543","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-labuanan"},{"teacherId":7378050,"projectId":6936022,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has been filled with the essential tools our students need to learn and thrive. From the moment the supplies arrived, the excitement in the room was contagious—students' faces lit up as they explored their new crayons, pencils, notebooks, and markers. Many of them couldn't believe that these supplies were theirs to use every day.\r\n\r\nWe immediately put the materials to use during a writing and art activity. Students worked on illustrating and labeling their own \"All About Me\" books, proudly using their new pencils, markers, and glue sticks. Having the right supplies gave them confidence and helped them stay focused, and the results were wonderful—each child was able to fully express their creativity and share their stories.\r\n\r\nYour support did more than provide supplies—it gave my students a sense of pride and ownership in their work. They no longer have to worry about not having what they need, which allows them to focus on learning and growing.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we'll be using these materials to support our math and literacy centers. Students will practice hands-on number games, word building, and small group projects—all made possible with the notebooks, pencils, and manipulatives you helped provide.\r\n\r\nOn behalf of my students and myself, thank you for making such a meaningful impact in our classroom. Your kindness and generosity are helping to build a strong foundation for learning every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1666836092913,"projectUrl":"project/basic-school-supplies-for-the-children/6936022/","projectTitle":"Basic School Supplies for the Children","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Jessica Ford","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7378050_orig.png?crop=1125,1125,x0,y322&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1627000721998","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7378050"},{"teacherId":3001086,"projectId":9531419,"letterContent":"The 10 boxes of Otter Pops have been an absolute game-changer for our after-school Cross-Country practices! When the treats arrived, the excitement was immediate and tangible. This donation is perfectly fueling the determination and heart our runners show during practices, providing a cool, rewarding incentive that helps them push through the toughest parts of their training. It's more than just a snack; it's a tangible celebration of their perseverance. \r\n\r\nWe've seen a powerful effect at the finish line: after conquering their longest loop, every runner lines up to high-five their teammates, and coaches reinforcing a strong culture of teamwork and compassion before enjoying their frozen reward. Our next step is to use this motivation to help students continue their love for running. Thank you for helping us reward their incredible hard work!","fullyFundedDate":1754532104484,"projectUrl":"project/cool-treats-for-hardworking-student-athl/9531419/","projectTitle":"Cool Treats for Hardworking Student Athletes","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Domingo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3001086_orig.jpg?crop=475,475,x1650,y432&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1627467814802","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3001086"},{"teacherId":3001086,"projectId":9154804,"letterContent":"My students were absolutely bursting with excitement to share how your generous support has transformed our PE classes! The moment the new equipment arrived, the energy was electric. The students especially loved the Giant Team Run Mat and the stacks of potato sacks. Also when using the plyo box, a cautious student hesitated, but their teammates were encouraging. When that student finally made the jump, the sense of pride that student showed was more than just a physical win; it was a powerful moment of trust, resilience, and peer support that proved we are achieving our goal of making every child feel like a valued teammate.\r\n\r\nThis is just the beginning! Your contribution is enabling us to teach essential life skills that go far beyond fitness. Thank you for believing in our students' ability to strengthen their bodies, minds, and friendships—one race, jump, and high-five at a time! We're so excited for you to follow along on this journey with us.","fullyFundedDate":1741739655044,"projectUrl":"project/stronger-together-team-building-fun-for/9154804/","projectTitle":"Stronger Together: Team-Building Fun for Everyone","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Domingo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3001086_orig.jpg?crop=475,475,x1650,y432&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1627467814802","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3001086"},{"teacherId":7995105,"projectId":8880981,"letterContent":"With heartfelt appreciation, my students and I thank you for your generous donations for the new items. My students now have book and folder holders to help them stay organized and ready to learn. Additionally, the photo storage cases have been transformed into task boxes, allowing students to work on differentiated tasks that strengthen their reading skills in fun and engaging ways.\r\n\r\nAs part of our morning routine, we use the giant magnetic Number of the Day chart to build number sense. The students eagerly look forward to this activity and love practicing the math skills they are learning in a hands-on way. The giant magnetic early writing page is also a valuable tool that helps me teach proper handwriting formation and guide students in writing sentences during our writing lessons. Both items are meaningful visuals that have inspired my students to grow as mathematicians and writers.\r\n\r\nThanks to your generosity and commitment to their education, my students have become stronger, more confidant learners who are excited to learn every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1729359369776,"projectUrl":"project/bright-minds-creative-hearts-building/8880981/","projectTitle":"Bright Minds, Creative Hearts: Building Skills and Sparking Creativity!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Pablo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7995105_orig.png?crop=577,577,x136,y92&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1728361891783","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7995105"},{"teacherId":7995105,"projectId":8858058,"letterContent":"With your generous donations, my students were able to build their phonics and reading skills using the Primary Phonics storybooks and Phonics Instant Learning Centers. This support sparked a true love of reading and, in turn, helped improve their reading assessment scores. They were so excited to dive into new stories and proudly share their progress with each other. In math, they strengthened their understanding through hands-on learning with the geoboards and base-ten block sets, making math both fun and engaging. None of this would have been possible without your kindness and generosity, and we are so grateful for the joyful and lasting impact you have made on my students' learning journey.","fullyFundedDate":1728760248289,"projectUrl":"project/creating-a-hands-on-learning-wonderland/8858058/","projectTitle":"Creating a Hands-On Learning Wonderland for First Graders","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Pablo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7995105_orig.png?crop=577,577,x136,y92&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1728361891783","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7995105"},{"teacherId":9694027,"projectId":9158072,"letterContent":"I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for your incredibly generous donation of glue guns and poster board for our \"Artist in Me\" projects. Your contribution is so valuable and comes at the perfect time. These essential supplies will directly empower my students to bring their creative visions to life, transforming simple ideas into tangible works of art. Without the support of people like you, these projects would not be possible, and I am so thankful for your kindness.\r\n\r\nThe excitement among the students is already palpable. With the new glue guns, they were able to securely assemble models and intricate crafts, while the poster board will serve as a blank canvas for everything from imaginative collages to detailed presentations. Your donation goes beyond simply providing materials; it creates an opportunity for my students to explore their artistic potential and build confidence through self-expression. I am so excited to see the amazing projects they will create.\r\n\r\nOnce again, thank you from the bottom of my heart for supporting my \"Artist in Me\" projects. Your generosity truly makes a difference in our community and helps me foster a love for art in the next generation. I deeply appreciate your belief in my mission and your commitment to helping my students grow.","fullyFundedDate":1741908316692,"projectUrl":"project/artist-in-me/9158072/","projectTitle":"Artist in Me","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Leanne Stanley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9694027_orig.jpg?crop=1806,1806,x0,y455&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1729119511048","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9694027"},{"teacherId":9351287,"projectId":9152193,"letterContent":"Mahalo for helping to replenish supplies that my students use in class daily. The profound and often unseen impact of having daily school supplies extends far beyond the classroom. For students, the simple act of having a new notebook, a working pen, or a set of colored pencils can be a powerful catalyst for engagement, confidence, and academic success. This consistent access to essential tools creates an equitable learning environment, ensuring that every student, regardless of their socioeconomic background, has the resources they need to participate fully in their education.\r\n\r\nWhen a student is not worried about lacking a pen to take notes or paper to complete an assignment, their focus shifts from resource scarcity to the act of learning itself. This seemingly small detail has a cumulative effect, boosting their confidence and encouraging them to take risks, ask questions, and engage more deeply with their studies. Thanks to your generous donation, I can also dedicate more time to instruction, as I no longer need to manage a deficit of supplies among my students. Ultimately, providing these daily school supplies has had a foundational investment in a student's future, fostering an environment where curiosity thrives and every child has the chance to realize their full potential.","fullyFundedDate":1741712102542,"projectUrl":"project/replenish-the-necessities/9152193/","projectTitle":"Replenish the Necessities!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Dugan","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9351287_orig.jpg?crop=846,846,x544,y126&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1700168629200","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9351287"},{"teacherId":8980453,"projectId":9417531,"letterContent":"Mahalo for your generous donation to our classroom. Our new carpet arrived a week ago and the students love it. They walked in the door and were so excited to feel it under their feet and sit on it. The carpet area is where students have instruction throughout the day. We use it to sit on during collaborative conversations in reading and math. We also have been using it daily to create tableau (frozen body shapes) to describe vocabulary words we are using (substantial) and also to show about what we are reading (slow and fast changes of the Earth). The best time of day is when a students spread out and enjoy the comfort on the carpet as they read their self selected books during \"DEAR\" or Drop Everything and Read time.\r\n\r\nTo have a new carpet that is clean is one of the most welcoming parts of our 4th grade classroom. We are looking forward to showing it off at Open House to all of our parents in a couple of weeks. We have become a community on that carpet this first month of school. Mahalo nui loa.","fullyFundedDate":1750701693397,"projectUrl":"project/our-creative-canvas-a-new-carpet-for-4t/9417531/","projectTitle":"Our Creative Canvas: A New Carpet for 4th Grade!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Welch","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8980453_orig.png?crop=818,818,x36,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1741794047437","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8980453"},{"teacherId":8980453,"projectId":9158085,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding my page turner library project. As a seasoned educator, recently back into a 4th grade classroom position I knew I needed a solid classroom library for my incoming students. As soon as school started, my students were taught the procedures for using the library and how to respectfully take care of our books. I informed them that they were a gift to us and that others wanted us to truly enjoy our books. \r\n\r\nWe also have learned and are continuing to practice silent sustained reading. Meaning we are reading the whole time and concentrate on our \"just right\" books. Students often have 2 books at their desks and are tearing through them. The bins keep the books organized and the open shelf makes some of our featured books easy to grab. The most popular so far are our graphic novels including Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Dog Man and Frizzy. Even the classics are getting some traction.","fullyFundedDate":1741975431268,"projectUrl":"project/page-turners-classroom-corners-4th-gr/9158085/","projectTitle":"Page Turners & Classroom Corners: 4th Grade Library","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Welch","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8980453_orig.png?crop=818,818,x36,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1741794047437","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8980453"},{"teacherId":9452179,"projectId":9153244,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for allowing my students to experience chemical reactions through an artistic lense. They were extremely curious what the materials were and when I showed them what they'd be making they were so excited. They felt like they were doing \"grown up\" work. \r\nStudents were able to create one constellation coaster as a group and then I extended it to any other student who wanted to create their own after. \r\nThey were so intrigued by how two liquids combined could form a solid. They felt the heat that radiated from the mixture and were able to identify why and how this was an example of a chemical reaction. I'm pretty sure their favorite part was being able to take it home!","fullyFundedDate":1741701202856,"projectUrl":"project/chemical-reactionsmasterpieces/9153244/","projectTitle":"Chemical Reactions=Masterpieces!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Alexander","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9452179"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_93933","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":545,"numTeachers":39,"percentFrplEligible":27,"percentAsian":22,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":13,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":21,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"14.0:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"RURAL_FRINGE"},"inStateSupporters":66.3,"schoolId":93933,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Pomaikai Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Pomaikai Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/hawaii/maui-school-district/pomaikai-elementary-school/93933"}
Join the 433 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Pomaikai Elementary School is
a rural public school
in Kahului, Hawaii that is part of Maui School District.
It serves 545 students
in grades Pre-K - 5 with a student/teacher ratio of 14.0:1.
Its teachers have had 269 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Boost support for our school's classrooms. Share this page with friends and family who want to make a difference. If you're a teacher, sign up to get started!
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. Each classroom request for funding was created by a classroom teacher and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
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
43%
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.
Pomaikai Elementary 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.
Pomaikai Elementary School
$185,153
raised using DonorsChoose
269
projects
funded
66
teachers
funded
433
donors
24
projects
for
basic supplies
37
projects for
technology
32
projects for
books
26
projects
for
art supplies
Pomaikai Elementary School has received support from
287 individuals from Hawaii and
146 individuals out-of-state.