{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Hayt Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":38.4,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10419914,"projectId":10063895,"letterContent":"A Sewing Machine, A Quilt, and Endless Smiles\r\n\r\nDuring our clothing study, we received a beautiful sewing machine along with several sewing supplies for our Pre-K classroom, thanks to the wonderful donors on DonorsChoose.\r\nMrs. Pauline and I introduced our students, who are four to five years old, to the sewing machine and taught them how it works. Together, we explored the different parts of the machine, learned how clothes are made, practiced making patterns, and learned how to cut them.\r\n\r\nIn celebration of Black History Month in February, we decided to focus on Jan Erns Matzeliger, the inventor of the Shoe Making Machine, which made it possible for not just a few people to be able to afford shoes. This gave us the idea of making our own shoes by tracing our feet on the fabric and making the shoe pattern, cutting it, and sewing it on the fabric to create the quilt. This hands-on experience allowed the students to connect creativity, history, and learning in a meaningful way.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the sewing machine and materials being delivered, they were beyond excited. As you can see in the pictures, they could hardly contain themselves. They were laughing, giggling, smiling, and filled with joy and curiosity. Seeing their excitement and enthusiasm made the experience even more special for us as teachers.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, I plan to continue these lessons in my classroom. We are also hoping to make another quilt because the children truly enjoyed the entire experience.\r\n\r\nThank you very much for this wonderful gift and opportunity. You have made a tremendous impact not only on the lives of my students, but also on us as teachers. Watching our children learn with such excitement and joy reminds us why we do what we do and motivates us to continue making a positive difference in their lives.","fullyFundedDate":1770393728029,"projectUrl":"project/pre-k-sewing-fun/10063895/","projectTitle":"Pre-K Sewing Fun","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Cook","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10419914"},{"teacherId":4707277,"projectId":9741819,"letterContent":"Many of our students use technology at home for games, videos, and entertainment, but this project has helped them see technology as a tool for creating, designing, solving problems, and learning in deeper ways. In our STEM classroom, students are using the technology to practice collaboration, critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving.\r\n\r\nThe most exciting part for students has been seeing their ideas come to life. They love the hands-on nature of the new materials and the feeling that they are working like real engineers, designers, and inventors.\r\n\r\nFor many students, STEM gives them a new way to shine. Your donation has helped create learning experiences where students feel capable, curious, and excited about what they can build and create. Thank you for making that possible.","fullyFundedDate":1763602747126,"projectUrl":"project/design-thinking-with-a-classroom-laser-c/9741819/","projectTitle":"Design Thinking with a Classroom Laser Cutter","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Hale","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4707277_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1504290911624","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ronhale"},{"teacherId":4707277,"projectId":9735877,"letterContent":"The most exciting part about stop motion videos for students has been seeing their ideas come to life. They love the hands-on nature of the new materials and the feeling that they are working like real engineers, filmmakers, designers, and inventors. When students can test something, improve it, and try again, they become much more engaged and confident.\r\n\r\nSome students who are usually quiet or hesitant in traditional classroom activities have really warmed to this technology. They are more willing to take risks, help classmates, explain their thinking, and lead during group work. For many of them, STEM gives them a new way to shine. Your donation has helped create learning experiences where students feel capable, curious, and excited about what they can build and create. Thank you for making that possible.","fullyFundedDate":1763620511172,"projectUrl":"project/animating-ideas-empowering-student-stor/9735877/","projectTitle":"Animating Ideas: Empowering Student Storytelling with Stop Motion Movies","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Hale","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4707277_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1504290911624","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ronhale"},{"teacherId":4707277,"projectId":9970016,"letterContent":"The most exciting part about 3D printing for students has been seeing their ideas come to life. They love the hands-on nature of the new materials and the feeling that they are working like real engineers, coders, designers, and inventors. When students can test something, improve it, and try again, they become much more engaged and confident.\r\n\r\nSome students who are usually quiet or hesitant in traditional classroom activities have really warmed to this technology. They are more willing to take risks, help classmates, explain their thinking, and lead during group work. For many of them, STEM gives them a new way to shine. Your donation has helped create learning experiences where students feel capable, curious, and excited about what they can build and create. \r\n\r\nThank you for making that possible.","fullyFundedDate":1769611482876,"projectUrl":"project/keep-our-3d-printer-printing/9970016/","projectTitle":"Keep Our 3D Printer Printing","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Hale","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4707277_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1504290911624","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ronhale"},{"teacherId":193967,"projectId":10049532,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of my Pre-K Art Class Because of your kindness, my students now have the tools they need to explore their creativity and develop essential skills in a whole new way.\r\n\r\nOur new project materials have been a massive hit! My students were absolutely thrilled when we opened the packages. There is something truly magical about watching a four-year-old's eyes light up when they realize they get to create their very own necklace.\r\n\r\nThe Impact of Your Gift:\r\n\r\nFine Motor Development: Stringing pony beads onto lacers is more than just a fun craft—it is a critical exercise. As my students carefully manipulate the beads, they are building the hand strength and coordination they will need for writing and other complex tasks as they grow.\r\n\r\nContained Creativity: The new trays have been a game-changer for our art time. By keeping the beads from \"escaping\" across the floor, the children can focus entirely on their work. They feel a great sense of pride in maintaining an organized workspace, and these trays are a staple in our classroom for many projects.\r\n\r\nConfidence Building: Seeing a student complete their first necklace and beam with pride is why I love teaching. Your donation provided the materials that turned a simple idea into a moment of pure accomplishment for these children.\r\n\r\nPlease know that you have made a tangible difference in our school day. You haven't just provided beads and trays; you've provided an opportunity for my little artists to practice patience, focus, and creativity.\r\n\r\nFrom all of us, thank you for believing in the potential of my students.","fullyFundedDate":1769263584479,"projectUrl":"project/beading-bonanza/10049532/","projectTitle":"Beading Bonanza!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Decker","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp193967_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1542247657759","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/decker"},{"teacherId":193967,"projectId":10091005,"letterContent":"I am writing to you today with immense gratitude. Thanks to your generous support of my DonorsChoose project, Graduation Portraits, my students and I were able to secure the canvases and materials needed for our 8th grade graduation portraits.\r\n\r\nBecause of your contribution, our classroom has been transformed. Seeing my students stand before their finished portraits was a powerful moment. Many of these eighth graders have faced significant hurdles, but this project gave them a space to celebrate their hard work, express their individuality, and prepare for their futures with a newfound sense of confidence.\r\n\r\nThe materials you funded did more than just provide supplies; they provided my students with the confidence to dream big and take pride in their artistic voice. It is truly inspiring to see how your belief in our classroom has opened doors for these young artists. This project also gives younger students an opportunity to think about creating their own portraits when they are in 8th grade. \r\n\r\nYour generosity reminds my students that there is a community of people who care about their success and value their creativity. Thank you for investing in their potential and for being a vital part of our journey.","fullyFundedDate":1772504015476,"projectUrl":"project/graduation-portraits/10091005/","projectTitle":"Graduation Portraits","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Decker","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp193967_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1542247657759","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/decker"},{"teacherId":4707277,"projectId":9910817,"letterContent":"The technology is helping my students learn by making STEM concepts more hands-on and interactive. Sphero bots give immediate feedback, encourages experimentation, and helps them build persistence as they test ideas, make improvements, and try again. It also supports collaboration, communication, and creativity, which are all essential skills for success in school and beyond. \r\n\r\nWhat excites my students most is that the product makes learning feel real, engaging, and fun. They love being able to create, build, test, and see their ideas come to life.\r\n\r\n I have seen several students especially connect with this technology, including students who may not always shine during traditional academic tasks. Some of my quieter students have become more confident because the technology gives them a way to show their thinking through building and creating.","fullyFundedDate":1767210951584,"projectUrl":"project/from-blocks-to-bots-learn-to-code-with/9910817/","projectTitle":"From Blocks to Bots: Learn to Code with Sphero Mini","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Hale","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4707277_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1504290911624","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ronhale"},{"teacherId":10419547,"projectId":10062697,"letterContent":"Students reacted with tremendous excitement when they were provided with high‑quality materials for this hands‑on learning project. Their enthusiasm highlighted just how meaningful these opportunities are in helping young learners engage deeply with the content and take pride in their work.\r\n\r\nEqually powerful was the joy students experienced through the act of giving. Participating in a project that allowed them to create something for others fostered a sense of generosity, empathy, and connection—important skills that extend far beyond the classroom.\r\n\r\nThank you again for funding this invaluable lesson.","fullyFundedDate":1770392872886,"projectUrl":"project/valentines-for-veterans/10062697/","projectTitle":"Valentines for Veterans","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. E","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10419547"},{"teacherId":4707277,"projectId":9730940,"letterContent":"We're using the Simple Machines class set during our engineering design challenges so every student has hands-on materials to build, test, and improve real solutions. One of our favorite projects so far was a \"Rescue the Stuffed Animal\" challenge: students had to move a \"rescued\" item across a gap without touching the floor. Teams tested different setups using levers, pulleys, and wheel-and-axle designs, then measured how far the object traveled and how much force they needed to apply.\r\n\r\nStudents were genuinely excited. The best part was how quickly the room shifted into a maker mindset: students were careful with the materials, eager to collaborate, and motivated to test ideas.\r\n\r\nOur next steps are to deepen our understanding of how simple machines show up in everyday life and to apply that learning in a bigger design challenge.","fullyFundedDate":1763620606141,"projectUrl":"project/building-understanding-with-simple-machi/9730940/","projectTitle":"Building Understanding with Simple Machines!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Hale","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4707277_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1504290911624","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ronhale"},{"teacherId":193967,"projectId":9704750,"letterContent":"I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for your generous support of our project, \"Block Printing Kits for 8th Grade.\" Because of your kindness, my students have the high-quality tools and materials they need to explore the intricate and rewarding world of printmaking. Some students have even said this was their favorite project of the year!\r\n\r\nEighth grade is a pivotal year for students as they begin to develop their unique artistic voices. Block printing is a fantastic medium for this age group because it requires patience, precision, and a bit of \"happy accidents.\" Before your donation, we lacked the specialized tools—like linoleum cutters, rollers, and printing blocks—to teach this technique properly. Now, every student had the opportunity to carve their own designs and see their vision come to life in multiple prints.\r\n\r\nBeyond the technical skills, this project teaches my students about the history of art and the power of mass communication. Your contribution has provided more than just supplies; it has provided an experience that encourages my students to think critically, work with their hands, and feel the pride of creating something truly original.\r\n\r\nIt is incredibly moving to know that there are people like you who value arts education and believe in the potential of our public school students. Thank you for making our classroom a more vibrant, creative place to learn.\r\n\r\nWith sincere thanks,","fullyFundedDate":1758811130000,"projectUrl":"project/block-printing-kits-for-8th-grade/9704750/","projectTitle":"Block Printing Kits for 8th Grade","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Decker","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp193967_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1542247657759","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/decker"},{"teacherId":4707277,"projectId":9712436,"letterContent":"Since receiving these new resources, my students have been using them almost every week during STEM Lab to build, test, and improve their ideas like real engineers. One moment that really captures the impact happened during a recent challenge where students had to design a solution, test it, collect data, and then redesign. Watching a group troubleshoot together—changing one small variable at a time and cheering when their design finally worked—was one of those \"this is why we do STEM\" moments. The materials didn't just make projects possible; they raised the quality of student thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving.\r\n\r\nAs soon as we opened everything, kids were pointing out parts, making predictions, and already planning what they wanted to create. Even students who are usually quiet lit up—because they could see and touch the learning before we even started the lesson.\r\n\r\nNext, we're building on that excitement with a new round of challenges that push students to go deeper.","fullyFundedDate":1757944645669,"projectUrl":"project/snapping-boredom-with-cardboard/9712436/","projectTitle":"Snapping Boredom with Cardboard","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Hale","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4707277_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1504290911624","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ronhale"},{"teacherId":9700097,"projectId":9575551,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for providing our classroom with these new math manipulatives. When the materials first arrived, the students were incredibly excited to open the boxes and see tools like the fraction tiles and base ten magnets. We have started using them to tackle difficult concepts. For example, during our recent lesson on fractions, students used the tiles to physically compare sizes, which helped those who usually struggle with paper-and-pencil math to finally \"see\" the answers. It has made our math block much more active and engaging for everyone!\r\n\r\nThese resources allow my students to check their own work and visualize problems in a way that a textbook cannot. We are truly grateful for your support in helping us build a more hands-on learning environment where every student has the tools they need to succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1755727651935,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-every-math-learner-with-manip/9575551/","projectTitle":"Empowering Every Math Learner With Manipulatives","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Maria","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9700097_orig.jpg?crop=1728,1728,x0,y299&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1724362598343","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9700097"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_5455","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":854,"numTeachers":59,"percentFrplEligible":82,"percentAsian":23,"percentBlack":19,"percentWhite":10,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":41,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":3,"gradesServed":"Pre-K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"14.5:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":61.6,"schoolId":5455,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Hayt Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Hayt Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/illinois/chicago-public-school-district-299/hayt-elementary-school/5455"}