{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Ogden Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":18.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":1317924,"projectId":8592118,"letterContent":"Thank you for helping me present this wonderful Timeline of Life to my students! They were memorized by the beautiful illustrations and interesting facts about the different Paleozoic eras, especially the Jurassic and Triassic periods. We completed about 6 different lessons using the timeline and students were allowed to use it independently (and carefully!) in order to do some follow up work and research. \r\n\r\nMany of my students commented that the Timeline of Life is one of their favorite parts of the classroom. It has helped foster curiosity and interest in the history of life on Earth. I really appreciate the impact you have had on my students!","fullyFundedDate":1723680007378,"projectUrl":"project/trilobits-mammoths-and-dinosoh-my/8592118/","projectTitle":"Trilobits, Mammoths and Dinos...Oh My!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Zablocki","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1317924_orig.jpg?crop=481,481,x0,y65&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1595962121896","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/dzablocki"},{"teacherId":8008660,"projectId":8678687,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom library has transformed into a space where reading is a passion. These new books opened doors for my students to connect with inspiring figures and build real reading skills in the process. From the start of the year, we used the Zoey and Sassafras series in small groups to launch our reading routines. These high-interest, lower-level chapter books helped students feel confident while tackling complex tasks like citing text evidence, making predictions, and engaging in peer-led discussions.\r\n\r\nLater in the year, we moved our book clubs outdoors to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air. Students secretly voted on their top book choices, then formed groups on our rooftop to dive into their picks. They reviewed and rated each book, discussing their thoughts like true literary critics. Watching them lead these conversations- laughing, debating, even defending their favorite characters- was one of the best parts of my year.\r\n\r\nOne unforgettable impact came from the Rebel Girls chapter books. Several students loved them so much they asked to stay after school just to read. While I graded papers, they curled up on the library carpet with a book in hand and stayed completely engrossed. Others begged to borrow them overnight, always returning the next day ready to talk about what they had read. We had already studied inspiring women like Wangari Maathai and Madam C.J. Walker through picture books and documentaries, but when I asked which format they preferred, students didn't hesitate: \"The chapter books are better.\" Your donation didn't just give us more books- it helped create readers who truly love reading.","fullyFundedDate":1726687319745,"projectUrl":"project/breaking-barriers-with-3rd-grade-book-cl/8678687/","projectTitle":"Breaking Barriers with 3rd Grade Book Clubs","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Mara","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8008660_orig.jpg?crop=2448,2448,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1631033775158","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8008660"},{"teacherId":8008660,"projectId":9124184,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, my students became scientists, advocates, authors, and reporters this year. Our classroom transformed into a climate lab, a newsroom, a poster workshop, and even a volcano testing site. You sparked curiosity and joy.\r\n\r\nWe began by getting hands-on with weather tools. Students shook the barometer, squinted at its labels, and guessed it measured temperature. They flicked the weather vane, spun the anemometer, and stuck their heads through the wind sock. The giant thermometer was a hit- they eagerly recorded the classroom temperature. When they examined the rain gauge, many noticed the beaker but weren't sure what it was for. Most had never seen these tools before. Their surprise and curiosity were real. We carried the instruments up to the school's rooftop to observe the weather around us. Then, students used a cloud chart to identify the types of clouds overhead- a perfect connection to our earlier study of the atmosphere's layers.\r\n\r\nNext, we studied global climates: tropical, temperate, polar, desert, and continental. In teams, students researched and proudly presented their findings to another third grade class through skits, songs, and handmade items.These performances gave students a reason to speak up, collaborate, and have fun.\r\n\r\nWe dove deeper into climate change with The Magic School Bus and the Climate Challenge, which helped students understand global warming and their role in protecting the Earth. Inspired by Posters for the Planet, students created powerful advocacy posters filled with bold ideas and color. Then, we read Autumn Peltier, Water Warrior, a moving story about youth activism. It helped students realize that kids just like them can be powerful.\r\n\r\nOur classroom library became a hotspot. I Survived books flew off the shelf, especially I Survived the Destruction of Pompeii and I Survived Hurricane Katrina. Students asked to take them home. They returned the next day ready for the next one. That excitement about reading? It's priceless.\r\n\r\nTo support writing, we read The Princess and the Warrior: A Tale of Two Volcanoes. This launched our fractured fairy tale unit. Students wrote imaginative versions of their own and shared them aloud. Then, of course had to conduct a real volcanic eruption in class. \r\n\r\nWhen it came time for students to present their own severe weather research, they were ready. They became news anchors- writing scripts, creating slideshows, and presenting \"live\" in front of their classmates. Most chose to wear rainbow umbrella hats during their broadcast. It was hilarious, unforgettable, and inspiring to see their creativity live in action.\r\n\r\nThe tools you funded- our globe, wind vane, Galileo thermometer, and weather posters- were used again and again. Students constantly returned to them to find answers, build knowledge, or fuel their next idea. Thanks to the giant map and globe, free time often turned into a geography challenge. Students became hooked on a game called Globle, where they had to deduce the name of a mystery country using clues and teamwork. \r\n\r\nBecause of you, science wasn't just science. You helped bring the world into our classroom and gave students the tools to explore it. Thank you for believing in them.","fullyFundedDate":1744238212817,"projectUrl":"project/forecasting-a-greener-future-young-mind/9124184/","projectTitle":"Forecasting a Greener Future: Young Minds on the Frontlines","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Mara","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8008660_orig.jpg?crop=2448,2448,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1631033775158","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8008660"},{"teacherId":8008660,"projectId":8507350,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has been transformed into a space of exploration. Students are asking big questions and tackling challenges with confidence. These resources have turned abstract concepts into real, tangible experiences, making learning more meaningful.\r\n\r\nBecoming Meteorologists & Disaster Experts\r\nAs we enter Quarter 4, we're diving into natural disasters and severe weather. Students will step into the role of meteorologists, researching survival strategies for a natural disaster of their choice. Our volcano model will be a class favorite as we explore the eruption of Pompeii using Google Arts & Culture. Students will read first hand, eye witness accounts in order to better understand the perspectives of others. I can't wait to see their curiosity ignite as they uncover the science behind various weather events!\r\n\r\nDuring Quarter 3, students studied clouds, creating cotton ball models and conducting liquid experiments to demonstrate precipitation and condensation. When exploring the layers of the atmosphere, they conducted a density experiment, used NASA resources, and sorted objects into the correct atmospheric layers through collaborative research. The Science Comics: Wild Weather book was a class favorite; these third graders adore graphic novels. \r\n\r\nMath in Action: Dream Theme Parks\r\nMath has come alive in our classroom! Students just wrapped up an area and perimeter unit by designing their own theme parks. With tiles, rulers, and grid paper, they carefully measured and calculated the area and perimeter of each section. Thanks to the rulers, their final drafts showed precision and creativity! These skills were also reinforced in small groups and free after-school math tutoring.\r\n\r\nTime was a focus during Quarter 2, and learning to read clocks became an adventure! Using wipe-off clocks and math bingo games, students mastered time-telling in a fun and interactive way. Multiplication cards became part of our daily routine, used in warm-ups, small group work, and even as \"passwords\" to enter class. Hands-on materials like pentominoes, plastic square tiles, and our area/perimeter kit helped students visualize complex math concepts.\r\n\r\nCelebrating Black Innovators & Inspiring Future Creators\r\nDuring Black History Month, students explored the impact of Black inventors through engaging magazines and discussion protocols. They read about Garrett Morgan and participated in a \"tea party\" discussion to dive deeper into his inventions. But they didn't stop there. After reading about over ten different inventors, including Lonnie Johnson and Tahira Reid Smith, students designed and created their own inventions. The creativity was incredible- each invention was unique, reflecting the problems they wanted to solve in their own lives.\r\n\r\nMore Than Just Learning\r\nThese materials have enriched our classroom beyond lessons. Indoor recess is no longer just a break- it's a time for strategic thinking with Gravity Maze, wooden puzzles, and math-based games. Magnets have made science more interactive, and our economics unit came to life with bartering, trading, and the \"Buy It Right\" math program. Even something as simple as multiplication flashcards has helped students build confidence in math.\r\n\r\nMy students are thinking like scientists, solving problems like engineers, and creating like inventors. These experiences are shaping the way they see the world- and it's all because of you. Thank you for bringing hands-on learning to life in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1731525537786,"projectUrl":"project/third-grade-thrills-stem-adventures-aw/8507350/","projectTitle":"Third Grade Thrills: STEM Adventures Await!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Mara","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8008660_orig.jpg?crop=2448,2448,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1631033775158","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8008660"},{"teacherId":8008660,"projectId":8507641,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for making this project possible! Because of your generosity, my students are exploring new worlds, connecting with diverse histories, and diving deeper into reading and problem-solving- all in a cozy, welcoming learning space that you helped create.\r\n\r\nA Magical Reading Experience\r\nFridays in our classroom have been completely transformed thanks to the mini flashlights you provided. Flashlight Friday is now a cherished tradition! When we draw the curtains, turn off the lights, and let the soft beams of our handheld flashlights guide our reading, the excitement is electric. Students love partner reading, independently getting lost in a book, or listening to a whole-class story under the warm glow. This small addition has made reading feel like an adventure rather than an assignment.\r\n\r\nThe floor lamp has also been a game-changer. Fluorescent lights can feel harsh and impersonal, but the warm glow of the new lamp has made our reading space feel inviting and homey. Students eagerly take turns switching it on and off each day, showing just how much they prefer this cozy environment.\r\n\r\nBooks That Inspire and Empower\r\nOur classroom library has never been more loved! With the incredible books from this grant, students are engaging with powerful stories that spark curiosity, reflection, and creativity.\r\n\r\nGraphic novels like When Stars Are Scattered are constantly checked out, especially by reluctant readers who find the format more accessible and exciting.\r\nInspiring biographies such as Ketanji: Justice Jackson's Journey to the U.S. Supreme Court and A Computer Called Katherine have helped students see how perseverance and courage can lead to groundbreaking achievements.\r\nStories of activism like Side by Side: The Story of Dolores Huerta and Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta: A Hero to Migrant Workers inspired students to create their own protest posters for change.\r\nSTEM-focused books such as Whoosh!: Lonnie Johnson's Super-Soaking Stream of Inventions and The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind have sparked conversations about invention and problem-solving. Students are now brainstorming their own inventions to tackle real-world challenges!\r\nConnecting Books to Learning\r\nYour generosity has had an impact far beyond just reading. These books are woven into every part of our learning:\r\n\r\nDuring our food scarcity unit, students read Farmer Will Allen and the Growing Table and designed their own solutions to food insecurity, drawing inspiration from urban farming, food trucks, and rooftop greenhouses.\r\n\r\nIn our Black History Month studies, students have been captivated by Buzzing with Questions: The Inquisitive Mind of Charles Henry Turner and Hidden Figures, leading them to ask deeper questions about how innovation shapes our world. Students decorated our classroom door to honor various Black Inventors that we explored, including Sarah E Goode, Garrett Morgan, Lonnie Johnson, Tahira Reid Smith, and William Kamkwamba. \r\n\r\nAs part of our archaeology unit, The Girl Who Heard the Music introduced students to the idea of sustainability and resourcefulness, showing how discarded materials can be transformed into something beautiful.\r\n\r\nDuring Native American Heritage Month, students explored Autumn Peltier, Water Warrior while studying Indigenous environmental activism and the importance of water conservation.\r\n\r\nA More Organized, Student-Friendly Classroom\r\nThis grant didn't just enhance our library- it also helped create a more functional, student-centered learning environment! The clipboard holders, book display, and lap desks have given students more independence in choosing their reading materials and working comfortably around the room. \r\n\r\nLooking Ahead\r\nI'm especially excited for AAPI Heritage Month, where we'll be reading Tu Youyou's Discovery, Larry Itliong: My Itty-Bitty Bio, and Surfer of the Century: The Life of Duke Kahanamoku—stories that will introduce students to inspiring Asian and Pacific Islander leaders. These books, like so many others in our classroom, will serve as windows into new experiences and mirrors reflecting students' own identities.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, my students are not just reading- they are connecting, questioning, and imagining a world where they, too, can make a difference. Thank you for making this possible. Your kindness has helped create a classroom full of wonder, empowerment, and possibility, and we are forever grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1726687319859,"projectUrl":"project/diverse-stories-bright-futures-a-cozy/8507641/","projectTitle":"Diverse Stories, Bright Futures: A Cozy Library for 3rd Graders","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Mara","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8008660_orig.jpg?crop=2448,2448,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1631033775158","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8008660"},{"teacherId":8008660,"projectId":8629440,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity! Your contributions have truly transformed our classroom, creating a more engaging, supportive, and inspiring learning environment for my third graders. Here's how your gifts have made a difference:\r\n\r\nA Cozy & Inviting Classroom Library\r\nThe library has become the most popular spot in our classroom, largely thanks to the giant, cozy rug. Students now love curling up with a book, and the addition of the essential oil diffuser (with eucalyptus being the class favorite!) has made it an even more inviting space.\r\n\r\nTools for Focus & Engagement\r\nThe chair fidget bands have helped students stay focused at their seats, allowing them to channel their energy in a productive way while continuing their learning. Similarly, the weighted lap pad in our \"Take a Break\" station has provided comfort and regulation for students who need a moment to reset before returning to class activities.\r\n\r\nInteractive Learning & Writing Support\r\nThanks to the additional anchor chart paper, students have been able to engage in hallway silent discussions. For example, during our opinion writing unit, they debated Lunar New Year topics such as \"Would you rather celebrate with fireworks or lanterns?\" and \"Should fireworks be banned due to environmental impact, or kept to honor tradition?\" This interactive approach strengthened their writing skills far beyond traditional worksheets.\r\n\r\nThe lined sticky notes have been an invaluable tool for scaffolding. They've helped students edit one another's writing, making peer feedback more structured and legible—especially during projects like writing about their dream schools.\r\n\r\nBuilding Community & Social-Emotional Learning\r\nThe 50 More Energizers book and 80 Morning Meeting Ideas have enhanced our morning meetings and closing circles, helping to build a stronger, more connected classroom community.\r\n\r\nStudents have also embraced our reward jar system, where they set class goals together. Right now, they are working on kindness—brainstorming ways to support one another and tracking their progress toward a celebration when they reach their goal.\r\n\r\nSTEM & Hands-On Learning\r\nThe craft sticks have served multiple purposes: students used them to design and build their own bridges during a STEM project, and I also use them as equity name sticks to ensure all students have a chance to participate in discussions.\r\n\r\nThe playdough has been a fun and effective tool for small-group math lessons, particularly when building fractions. It's also been a hit during indoor recess, which happens frequently due to winter weather!\r\n\r\nGames, Creativity, & Engagement\r\nStudents love our giant checkers set, often teaming up to play during Fun Friday and indoor recess. The microphone has also been a class favorite—students take turns using it during read-alouds, amplifying their voices while reading Winn-Dixie, Dyamonde Daniel, and soon I Survived the Great Chicago Fire.\r\n\r\nThe multiplication flashcards have turned math practice into a fun challenge. Every morning, students answer a multiplication \"door password\" as a warm-up activity.\r\n\r\nOur Astrobrights paper has added a pop of color to our classroom, making student work stand out during scavenger hunts, scoot-around-the-room activities, anchor charts, and creative projects like making cards and posters.\r\n\r\nTechnology Organization & Accessibility\r\nThanks to the cable labels, student Chromebooks are now neatly organized and easy to manage. The new headphones have ensured that every child has access to learning resources, like Zearn math videos, without interruption.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has not only provided essential materials but has also created an engaging, interactive, and joyful learning space for my students. We are so grateful for your support and the positive impact you've made in our classroom!\r\n\r\nWith heartfelt appreciation,\r\nMs. Mara","fullyFundedDate":1726687319768,"projectUrl":"project/headphones-and-hope-a-calm-responsive/8629440/","projectTitle":"Headphones and Hope: a Calm, Responsive Classroom for All","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Mara","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8008660_orig.jpg?crop=2448,2448,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1631033775158","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8008660"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_5263","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":500,"numTeachers":null,"percentFrplEligible":53,"percentAsian":7,"percentBlack":43,"percentWhite":21,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":19,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 4","studentTeacherRatio":null,"demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":81.7,"schoolId":5263,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Ogden Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Ogden Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/illinois/chicago-public-school-district-299/ogden-int-l-school-of-chicago/5263"}