{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Kailua Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":30.2,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8368425,"projectId":9774899,"letterContent":"The kids love the new game that was denoted by you. Their interest to participate and practice sounds or answer questions make it fun while still learning. \r\n\r\nThe other is the hands on manipulatives help to learn vocabulary more engaging. The kids love to touch and play with the toys. \r\n\r\nThe books are also a great way to learn new vocabulary and to be able to listen and answer questions. \r\n\r\nThank you for your dedication to help special education students learn in a fun way. Your generosity is truly appreciated!!","fullyFundedDate":1759446809459,"projectUrl":"project/language-vocab-and-more/9774899/","projectTitle":"Language, Vocab, and More!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Otani","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8368425"},{"teacherId":9804377,"projectId":9772803,"letterContent":"The integration of sensory tools and skill-based games like kinetic sand, Perfection, and Crocodile Dentist has created remarkable positive impacts on students' social-emotional development and learning environment. These tools offer powerful, low-stakes opportunities for social interaction and cooperative play. For example, the shared activity of sculpting with kinetic sand naturally encourages students to communicate, share tools, and collaborate on projects, fostering essential skills such as turn-taking and mutual respect. Similarly, games like Perfection and Crocodile Dentist, which require following rules and reacting to unpredictable outcomes, provide a structured setting for students to engage with peers, practice polite communication—like asking for a turn or offering encouragement—and celebrate achievements together. These shared, engaging experiences strengthen peer relationships and cultivate a more inclusive classroom community.\r\n\r\nBeyond social opportunities, these tools function as invaluable emotional regulation outlets. When students experience feelings of frustration, anxiety, or sensory overload, engaging with kinetic sand offers a non-verbal, tactile means of self-soothing and grounding. The repetitive squeezing, shaping, and manipulating of the sand provides a constructive and calming way to release pent-up energy, effectively channeling intense emotions into a safe, sensory activity.","fullyFundedDate":1759271481878,"projectUrl":"project/sensory-scaffolds/9772803/","projectTitle":"Sensory Scaffolds","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Becky","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9804377"},{"teacherId":2393990,"projectId":9199530,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation to our 2nd grade class. We just love everything we got for our room.\r\n\r\nWe havenʻt had a chance to try everything out as it got here at the end of the school year but weʻre happy to share with next yearʻs class. \r\n\r\nHaving items that enrich our learning experience is so vital to our education. Students who have an opportunity to touch and use as many senses possible have a higher rate of retention. Learning while doing is the best way.\r\n\r\nThank you again for giving us the tools to learn about the world around us.","fullyFundedDate":1743509427757,"projectUrl":"project/hands-on-stem-and-science/9199530/","projectTitle":"Hands-On STEM and Science","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Doane","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2393990_orig.jpg?crop=775,775,x468,y667&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1741979726072","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-doane"},{"teacherId":2393990,"projectId":9162975,"letterContent":"These phonics activities are a lifesaver and we are so happy to have them in our room as a resource.\r\nAs we know phonics are the corner stone for learning. These games and activities have given my students a fun way to practice and learn how to read through phonics practice. My students love to work in small groups and do the activities and games that are available for them to use. When they are playing, they are learning. They donʻt always know this but it makes them more engaged and have fun while doing it.\r\nMaking learning fun helps to solidify learning into their long term memory.","fullyFundedDate":1742076037764,"projectUrl":"project/phonics-for-the-win/9162975/","projectTitle":"Phonics for the Win","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Doane","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2393990_orig.jpg?crop=775,775,x468,y667&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1741979726072","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-doane"},{"teacherId":8820960,"projectId":9152070,"letterContent":"It is always an amazing thing to witness students getting excited about new materials. Often, students can fall into a routine of spending time with the same peers and doing the same activities day after day, but new materials can ignite curiosity in students, coax them out of the comfort zone and encourage them to try something new. Even after months of being in the same class, these materials helped me get students to play with new peers and try new things at school. I truly appreciate your support in allowing my students these fresh opportunities and helping them realize that every day is a new opportunity to make new friends and discover something new about themselves.","fullyFundedDate":1741634944378,"projectUrl":"project/building-healthy-peer-friendships/9152070/","projectTitle":"Building Healthy Peer Friendships","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Kaiser","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8820960_orig.jpg?crop=480,480,x0,y62&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1667184098027","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8820960"},{"teacherId":9369450,"projectId":9160819,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your kind donations to my first grade class! Your help has made a big difference and brought joy to our students. This project has really made a difference in my classroom with students being able to build independence and promote problem solving strategies when working together.\r\nBecause of you, we now have a new whiteboard and expo markers for students to work together during math center time. Students are learning from each other. The new draw carts help students put away the materials in the proper place and clean up when center time is over. These items help us organize our classroom time better. Our new things are making learning fun and helping kids enjoy reading and school even more.\r\nI would also like to say Mahalo for the new addition to books to our classroom library. Some of the titles were books that my students wished we had in our class. Students were yelling with excitement when I showed them that your contribution purchased the new books for us!\r\nIt's wonderful that you care about our young learners. Your gifts help us create a great classroom where every child feels happy and ready to learn. We are truly thankful for your generosity.","fullyFundedDate":1742163381501,"projectUrl":"project/friends-in-first-collaborate/9160819/","projectTitle":"Friends in First Collaborate!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Dalpos","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9369450"},{"teacherId":9804377,"projectId":9156370,"letterContent":"Hawaii State Department of Education, and A heartfelt mahalo to Marc and Lynne for your incredibly generous donation to my project. Your support has profoundly impacted my students by enabling the creation of a dedicated calming space within our classroom. This sanctuary has become invaluable, offering them a private area to practice the precious self-regulation strategies we've been learning. Having this personal space empowers them to truly internalize these techniques. Furthermore, the diverse materials provided have expanded their opportunities for self-soothing through engaging activities, fostering a greater sense of well-being and enhancing their ability to learn. Your kindness has truly made a tangible difference in their lives.","fullyFundedDate":1741905987812,"projectUrl":"project/sensory-shenanigans-join-the-fun/9156370/","projectTitle":"Sensory Shenanigans: Join the Fun!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Becky","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9804377"},{"teacherId":9368785,"projectId":9109856,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation! Because of your support, our classroom received various incredible resources that have impacted our students' learning and engagement.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials arrived—felt storyboards, an alphabet jumbo floor puzzle, pencil grip tools, sensory balls, snap-together ABC llamas, a solar system viewfinder, mini mirrors for speech, a weighted sloth, and sheet protectors—our students were overjoyed! Their excitement as we unboxed each item was contagious, and they couldn't wait to begin exploring everything.\r\n\r\nWe've been using these new tools in so many ways. During circle time and small group lessons, the felt storyboards have helped students with storytelling and sequencing skills. The ABC llamas and jumbo floor puzzle have been a big hit in our literacy centers, giving students a fun and interactive way to practice letter recognition and matching.\r\n\r\nThe solar system viewfinder has become a favorite item, especially for students fascinated by planets and space. We use it during morning drop-off and center time as a calming and engaging tool for students who may have difficulty with transitions. It helps ease anxiety and creates a positive start to the day.\r\n\r\nThe sensory balls and weighted sloth have quickly become go-to tools for students who need help with regulation, especially those with Autism and ADHD. The pencil grip tools support fine motor development and help students build better control while writing. The mini mirrors are being used during speech sessions to help students observe their mouth movements and work on articulation goals. The sheet protectors make our writing practice reusable and more accessible during small groups.\r\n\r\nThanks to your support, our students are more engaged and have the tools they need to feel successful and supported throughout the day. Our next steps include embedding these resources into our daily routines and individual learning goals, especially literacy, communication, and social-emotional development.\r\n\r\nWe're so grateful for your kindness and generosity. Your donation has brought joy, comfort, and meaningful learning opportunities to our classroom. Thank you for being part of our journey!","fullyFundedDate":1739822315836,"projectUrl":"project/once-upon-a-time-in-a-classroom-of-presc/9109856/","projectTitle":"Once Upon a Time in a Classroom of Preschoolers","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Riedy","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9368785_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1708128898981","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9368785"},{"teacherId":9368785,"projectId":9117984,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation, which allowed us to purchase a trampoline—a much-needed sensory and movement resource—for our classroom!\r\n\r\nWhen our students first saw the trampoline, their faces lit up excitedly! They immediately ran over to try it out, and it quickly became a favorite part of the day. We've placed it outside under our covered lanai so students can use it in any weather. It's not only fun—it serves an essential purpose in supporting students with Autism, ADHD, and sensory needs who benefit from regular movement breaks to stay regulated and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nStudents use the trampoline at several key times throughout the day: when they arrive at school, before whole-group circle time, before outdoor play, and during transitions. One memorable moment was when a student who often has difficulty settling in during mornings arrived, jumped for a few minutes, and could then join the group calmly and happily. It's been a game changer for many of our students.\r\n\r\nThe trampoline plays a key role in helping students understand and manage their energy and feelings. We're beginning to introduce visual supports and simple communication strategies so students can identify when they need a movement break and use the trampoline as a self-regulation tool.\r\n\r\nYour support has made a lasting impact. Because of your generosity, our students now have a safe, engaging, and effective way to meet their sensory needs and participate more successfully in classroom routines. Thank you for being part of our learning journey!","fullyFundedDate":1739829292115,"projectUrl":"project/jump-our-wiggles-out/9117984/","projectTitle":"Jump Our Wiggles Out!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Riedy","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9368785_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1708128898981","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9368785"},{"teacherId":8368425,"projectId":9158361,"letterContent":"the students love the game and new cards that I received!! They are more interactive and are willing to work on their objectives while having fun. I am also using them with AAC equipment by modeling, using pointing cues, and verbal cues to assist in communication. \r\n\r\nThey also liked the books that went along with Easter to learn more vocabulary and to create sentences while retelling the story, while looking at the pictures.\r\n\r\nThey were excited to see new things, that made them engaged into learning with bright colorful pictures.","fullyFundedDate":1741959157814,"projectUrl":"project/a-speech-tacular-environment/9158361/","projectTitle":"A Speech-tacular Environment","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Otani","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8368425"},{"teacherId":2393990,"projectId":8879915,"letterContent":"Building Thinking Classrooms is a strategy we have been using this year to teach our students math that is both engaging and helps retain the skills that they are learning. The idea is that the students do their math tasks on a vertical surface with a partner sharing a dry erase marker and an eraser. They take turns sharing ideas, writing, calculating and talking. This teaches them to work together, be community contributors, self directed learners and quality producers. The students do a variety of math tasks that progressively get more and more difficult. They love the opportunity to do mat in a different way and share what they learn with the rest of their classmates. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to purchase the vertical whiteboards so we can build thinking classrooms.","fullyFundedDate":1729100410554,"projectUrl":"project/building-thinking-classrooms/8879915/","projectTitle":"Building Thinking Classrooms","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Doane","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2393990_orig.jpg?crop=775,775,x468,y667&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1741979726072","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-doane"},{"teacherId":2393990,"projectId":8030117,"letterContent":"My students had been studying fossils in our language arts program. Some of the materials that we received helped give them a hands on opportunity to dig for their own dinosaurs. It was so much fun. They each got a dinosaur egg, chisel, and brush. The chipped and dug for their dinosaur. This really helped them when they had to write their compelling narrative about being a paleontologist. They will always remember this experience. We know that giving children opportunities to use more of their senses the more they will retain the information they have learned.","fullyFundedDate":1700267919926,"projectUrl":"project/dinosaur-dig/8030117/","projectTitle":"Dinosaur Dig","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Doane","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2393990_orig.jpg?crop=775,775,x468,y667&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1741979726072","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-doane"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_50934","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":267,"numTeachers":24,"percentFrplEligible":52,"percentAsian":6,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":14,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":22,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 6","studentTeacherRatio":"11.1:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":69.8,"schoolId":50934,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Kailua Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Kailua Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/hawaii/windward-school-district/kailua-elementary-school/50934"}
Join the 225 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Kailua Elementary School is
a suburban public school
in Kailua, Hawaii that is part of Windward School District.
It serves 267 students
in grades Pre-K - 6 with a student/teacher ratio of 11.1:1.
Its teachers have had 203 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
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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
28%
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.
Kailua 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.
Kailua Elementary School
$136,742
raised using DonorsChoose
203
projects
funded
49
teachers
funded
225
donors
20
projects
for
basic supplies
15
projects for
technology
21
projects for
books
11
projects
for
art supplies
Kailua Elementary School has received support from
157 individuals from Hawaii and
68 individuals out-of-state.