{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Waiahole Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":49.5,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":2132718,"projectId":9155928,"letterContent":"My students were ecstatic at receiving our classroom items! It was like Christmas, going through all of our items as a class, each item receiving \"oohs\" and \"ahhs\", and murmurs of excitement from every student. The first items that every student wanted to try were our sand timers, squishy fidget balls, and bubble fidget toys. My students used these items whenever they needed a break so they could get back on track or needed something to fidget with during our lessons - these items really supported them as a calm down or focus strategy!\r\n\r\nIn addition to these SEL items, the students were also most excited to try out the SMATH games. We spent several afternoons this year having fun and growing our math skills through this game! Iʻm so glad to have this as part of our math games that students can have fun with while also strengthening their math skills!\r\n\r\nIt was also so beneficial to have all of the supplies, such as construction paper, watercolor paper, graph paper, and grid composition books. These were used for art projects, as well as for learning math! The graph paper was especially helpful when students learned about decimals. This was the first time I used graph paper in this way, and it was very helpful for students in visualizing decimals.\r\n\r\nAll of these items, with the exception of the bench cushion, have been put to incredibly good use! A funny story about the bench cushion...when I ordered it, I thought I was ordering the whole bench! I was so excited for this to be a part of our reading space. However, I didnʻt look carefully at what I had ordered, and only realized too late that I just ordered the cushion and not the whole bench! The students and I had a great laugh when I shared the cushion and the story with them! Iʻll just have to create a new project so that we can also actually get the bench!\r\n\r\nThank you, again, for your generous donation and continued support of Hawaii teachers like me. I canʻt express enough just how much I appreciate being able to get these items for my students.","fullyFundedDate":1742049246230,"projectUrl":"project/sel-and-academic-supplies/9155928/","projectTitle":"SEL and Academic Supplies","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Morishige","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2132718_orig.jpg?crop=960,960,x162,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1677960058417","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mori"},{"teacherId":1507185,"projectId":9154336,"letterContent":"I am incredibly grateful for your generous support of my DonorsChoose project, \"A Cozy Classroom and Creative Tools for Learning.\" Thanks to your kindness, my students now have a warm and inviting carpet for our reading and learning time, as well as a Cricut machine that has brought creativity and excitement into our daily lessons.\r\n\r\nThe new carpet has truly transformed our classroom environment. It's become a welcoming space where my students gather for stories, morning meetings, and collaborative activities. I've noticed that the carpet has made our class feel more like a community — students are eager to sit together, share their thoughts, and support one another.\r\n\r\nThe Cricut machine has opened up a world of creative possibilities. We've already used it to make personalized name tags, bulletin board decorations, and interactive learning materials. It is a huge learning curve to be able to teach myself how to use the cricut but once I am able to do more, then I will teach the students how to do it themselves for next year.\r\n\r\nYour donation has not only provided essential materials but also shown my students that people like you believe in them and their potential. Thank you for helping to make our classroom a place where learning feels engaging, warm, and inspiring.\r\n\r\nWith heartfelt appreciation and aloha...","fullyFundedDate":1741704438495,"projectUrl":"project/engaging-learning-with-hands-on-creativi/9154336/","projectTitle":"Engaging Learning with Hands-On Creativity!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Higgins","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1507185"},{"teacherId":9707667,"projectId":9153969,"letterContent":"The new resources have made a noticeable difference in our classroom environment, especially in supporting student focus, regulation, and engagement. We recently incorporated the wobbly stools, sensory board, and inflatable peapod into our sensory corner, which students now use regularly when they feel overwhelmed or need a break. During morning centers, we've used the LEGOs to support fine motor development and creative thinking. The sit and spin has been another great tool for movement breaks, allowing students to release energy in a controlled, fun way.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the new materials, their reactions were full of excitement and curiosity. Several of them immediately gravitated toward the wobbly stools, eager to test them out at their desks. The inflatable peapod quickly became a favorite—students took turns trying it out. There was laughter, smiles, and a genuine sense of excitement as they explored everything. It was clear right away that these tools were not only engaging but also empowering for students, giving them more control over how they learn and regulate themselves throughout the day.","fullyFundedDate":1741703296041,"projectUrl":"project/independent-sensory-integration/9153969/","projectTitle":"Independent Sensory Integration","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Miller","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9707667"},{"teacherId":8401468,"projectId":9152570,"letterContent":"The monitor has been a tremendous help in making videos accessible for all our keiki. Before, we struggled with pushing, shoving, whining, and shouting because 20 keiki couldn't all see from my tiny laptop. Now, with the monitor, every child has a clear view, making them more calm, focused, and engaged during video lessons and virtual guest speaker sessions.\r\n\r\nThe cleaning supplies have been essential in keeping our tables, toys, and high-touch areas clean—especially during times when sickness spreads through our classroom and school.\r\n\r\nThe math manipulatives, like the 10-frames and large Unifix cubes, have made both whole-group and small-group math lessons more engaging and accessible for our keiki. These hands-on materials have truly made a difference in their learning experience.\r\n\r\nWe are so grateful for the generous donations and support—these materials have had a real impact on our keiki, and we appreciate them more than words can say!","fullyFundedDate":1741639523880,"projectUrl":"project/clean-interactive-and-engaging/9152570/","projectTitle":"Clean Interactive and Engaging","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Pimentel","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8401468"},{"teacherId":9811227,"projectId":8894200,"letterContent":"All of the students have benefited from your kind donation of SEL books, games, and materials. The students were very excited to read books that addressed topics concerning them and their social emotional needs. They also love to play the games to practice their social skills and executive functioning. My student who needed the peanut ball greatly benefitted and has drastically improved her well-being. \r\n\r\nMy counseling students have been able to work on identifying feelings and emotions more effectively using the resources provided from this project. They have been able to connect to characters from literature through bibliotherapy. Students have learned a lot and been able to improve their behavior through engaging with the resources. \r\n\r\nAs a counselor I have been able to provide tools for kids to practice self-regulation and tactile items such as the textured breathing stickers and the theraputty. I also have been able to reward positive student behavior with the games provided. This has helped students build relationships with each other as well as a trusting relationship with me.","fullyFundedDate":1729597957882,"projectUrl":"project/social-skills-for-future-leaders/8894200/","projectTitle":"Social Skills For Future Leaders","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lerro","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9811227"},{"teacherId":8977821,"projectId":9006171,"letterContent":"The students and teachers of Waiāhole Elementary School would like to extend a huge mahalo for generously gifting us with outdoor supplies, games, and equipment! The students (and teachers) had so much fun trying out the corn hole games, tri-net volleyball/tennis/ badminton equipment, sidewalk shuffle board, and all of the supplies that was purchased with the funding through Donors Choose.\r\n\r\nAs a school, we've made social emotional learning and executive function a focus for the last couple of years. Moving forward both skills are still a focus and having the opportunity to practice and apply these skills while playing outdoors is such a fun way to do it!\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw all of the equipment and games they were shocked, but so happy!! Since we're a small school, we had everyone out there at the same time! So you will see sixth graders playing and helping kindergarteners! It was such a blast! We will continue to use these games for years to come!","fullyFundedDate":1734409138558,"projectUrl":"project/voice-and-choice-during-outdoor-play/9006171/","projectTitle":"Voice and Choice During Outdoor Play","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Kawasaki","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8977821"},{"teacherId":2132718,"projectId":8891069,"letterContent":"Mahalo, mahalo, mahalo to the Hawaii State Department of Education and Marc & Lynne Benioff for donating the items for our classroom! The students were so excited to receive everything! The light brings warmth to our reading corner - every student wants to sit or lie down right below the light during our independent reading block. They love the warm and cozy atmosphere it creates...a perfect space for reading a book! \r\nThe students were also eager to put the bouncy bands on their desks! I notice them using these to bounce their feet on when they work at their desks. It gives the students' bodies an opportunity to move and creates resistance under their feet. This has impacted their learning because being able to bounce their feet on the band helps them focus while working at their desks. They are able to accomplish more of the task at hand.\r\n\r\nStudents were also so excited to try out the watercolor pens, and went right to work creating a poster for our Project-Based Learning wall!\r\n\r\nWe truly appreciate your generosity with this donation! Thank you, again!","fullyFundedDate":1729435815606,"projectUrl":"project/creating-a-welcoming-and-inviting-learni/8891069/","projectTitle":"Creating a Welcoming and Inviting Learning Space","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Morishige","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2132718_orig.jpg?crop=960,960,x162,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1677960058417","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mori"},{"teacherId":9707667,"projectId":8880894,"letterContent":"On behalf of our students and myself, I want to extend my sincerest gratitude for your generous contribution of resources, including the table and wobble chairs, for my special education resource room.\r\n\r\nThese items are already making a tremendous difference. The wobble chairs, in particular, are helping our students focus and stay engaged, while the new table provides a welcoming and functional space for collaborative learning. Your support plays a vital role in creating an environment where every child can feel comfortable, included, and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in the potential of our students and for helping us meet their unique needs. Your kindness and generosity are deeply appreciated and will have a lasting impact on our classroom and community.","fullyFundedDate":1729198724758,"projectUrl":"project/resource-room-workstation-and-alternate/8880894/","projectTitle":"Resource room workstation and alternate seating","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Miller","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9707667"},{"teacherId":8401468,"projectId":8878124,"letterContent":"Since receiving our new resources for the \"Calm Loose Parts Play\" project, the transformation in our classroom has been incredible. The materials have become a central part of our daily learning experience, sparking creativity, problem-solving, and collaborative play. Our students have fully embraced the concept of using loose parts to explore mathematical concepts and build critical life skills. The flexibility of these materials has allowed for open-ended exploration, which has proven to be a powerful catalyst for student engagement.\r\n\r\nOne specific classroom project that stands out involved challenging students to create pictures using the loose parts. Each child was given a set of materials, including jewels, wooden rings, wooden domes, and buttons, and encouraged to arrange them into any image or design of their choice. The students were immediately captivated by the challenge, and the variety of their creations was astounding. Some crafted simple, recognizable images like robots and themselves, while others built elaborate, abstract designs. One student proudly exclaimed, \"Look! I finished!\" as he jumped up and down, pround that he covered his place mat entirely with loose parts. The level of focus during this activity was extraordinary—students were engaged for over 40 minutes, revising their designs until they were satisfied with their work.\r\n\r\nThe initial reaction from students when they first saw the materials was a mix of awe and excitement. Their eyes lit up, and the room was soon filled with gasps of delight and eager questions like, \"Can we play with them now?\" and \"Are these ours ?\" It was clear that the open-ended nature of the materials intrigued them, as they began exploring right away. Some started sorting and categorizing the pieces by color and shape, while others immediately began designing pictures. The novelty and versatility of the resources made them irresistible, and it didn't take long for the entire class to be immersed in play-based learning. Seeing their joy and natural curiosity reaffirmed the value of this project and highlighted how essential hands-on learning is for young minds.\r\n\r\nAs we look ahead, the next steps for our classroom project involves taking these foundational experiences to a deeper level. Our current focus is on \"Collaborative Creations,\" where students work together in small groups to design larger, more intricate projects using the loose parts. This activity emphasizes teamwork, communication, and compromise as students must negotiate their roles and agree on a shared vision. \r\n\r\nThe impact of the \"Calm Loose Parts Play\" project has exceeded all expectations. It's not just about math—it's about fostering independence, persistence, and a love for learning. The joy on our students' faces as they explore, build, and collaborate is a daily reminder of how important these opportunities are. Your support has opened new possibilities for our keiki, and we're excited to see how their creativity and confidence continue to grow.","fullyFundedDate":1728941720797,"projectUrl":"project/calm-loose-parts-play/8878124/","projectTitle":"Calm Loose Parts Play","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Pimentel","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8401468"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_50951","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":97,"numTeachers":9,"percentFrplEligible":58,"percentAsian":6,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":6,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":18,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 6","studentTeacherRatio":"10.8:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"RURAL_FRINGE"},"inStateSupporters":50.5,"schoolId":50951,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Waiahole Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Waiahole Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/hawaii/windward-school-district/waiahole-elementary-school/50951"}