{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Edna M Rollins Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":22.2,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9001514,"projectId":9372160,"letterContent":"The **Deep Space Sparkle membership** has truly elevated my teaching practice and enriched my students' learning experiences. With access to high-quality lesson plans and professional development resources, I've been able to design more structured, engaging, and inclusive art lessons that meet the needs of all learners. The variety of projects and step-by-step guidance has allowed me to confidently introduce new media and techniques, from watercolor resist paintings to paper sculptures inspired by world cultures. Having these resources has also helped me plan more efficiently, freeing up time to focus on supporting individual students—especially English learners—through visual and hands-on instruction.\r\n\r\nOne of my favorite moments since implementing these new lessons was watching my third graders explore color mixing through a \"warm and cool landscapes\" project. Many students who are usually hesitant to participate were completely absorbed in experimenting with paint, proudly explaining how their color choices reflected mood and temperature. Their excitement reminded me how powerful art can be for building both confidence and communication skills, especially in a bilingual classroom.\r\n\r\nAs I continue using Deep Space Sparkle, I'm excited to grow in creating even stronger cross-curricular connections between art, literacy, and social-emotional learning. I plan to explore upcoming lessons that connect to cultural studies and storytelling, allowing students to celebrate their diverse backgrounds through creative expression. Thanks to your support, my teaching has grown, my students are more engaged than ever, and our classroom continues to be a vibrant space for imagination and joy.","fullyFundedDate":1748347264210,"projectUrl":"project/inspiring-young-artists-with-deep-space/9372160/","projectTitle":"Inspiring Young Artists With Deep Space Sparkle!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gallin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9001514_orig.jpg?crop=725,725,x927,y241&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1698435075519","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9001514"},{"teacherId":9001514,"projectId":9304283,"letterContent":"When the new printmaking supplies arrived, my students' excitement filled the room. They were thrilled to see the bright inks, brayers, and printing plates, and many immediately began brainstorming what positive messages and images they could create for their kindness cards. During our first printmaking session, students worked carefully to carve their designs, experimenting with color and texture to express messages of hope, gratitude, and encouragement. One student, who is a newcomer learning English, proudly printed a card that said \"You are important\" with a bright sun design — a message that perfectly captured the heart of this project. It was an inspiring moment to see students encouraging one another and taking pride in creating something meant to make others smile.\r\n\r\nWe are now using these materials regularly as part of our **Service Stars** community project. Students are planning themed kindness card drops throughout the year, such as thank-you cards for school staff, welcome cards for new families, and encouragement cards for local hospitals and libraries. This ongoing project not only teaches printmaking techniques but also builds empathy, communication skills, and a strong sense of community pride. Our next step is to expand the project by showcasing student prints in a \"Gallery of Kindness\" at school, where others can be inspired to spread compassion through art. Thanks to our generous donors, my students have discovered that their creativity can be a powerful force for good.","fullyFundedDate":1747768231950,"projectUrl":"project/printing-kindness-for-our-community/9304283/","projectTitle":"Printing Kindness for Our Community","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gallin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9001514_orig.jpg?crop=725,725,x927,y241&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1698435075519","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9001514"},{"teacherId":9001514,"projectId":9143053,"letterContent":"When the new materials arrived, my students were absolutely thrilled! They couldn't believe that all of the hygiene items, art supplies, and games were just for them. Several students immediately asked if they could use the new markers and clay during free art time, while others were excited to try out the cooperative games with their classmates. One special moment was watching a small group of students who often struggle with teamwork successfully complete a game challenge together — they were cheering each other on, laughing, and communicating in both English and Spanish. It was a joyful reminder of how powerful shared, hands-on experiences can be for building confidence and community.\r\n\r\nWe are now using the hygiene items to make sure every student feels prepared and comfortable throughout the day, which has helped reduce distractions and increase focus during lessons. The art supplies are being incorporated into cross-curricular projects, such as illustrating science concepts or designing story scenes in literacy centers. The cooperative games have become a regular part of our social-emotional learning time, where students practice teamwork and communication. Our next step is to continue integrating these materials into creative, project-based learning experiences that combine art, language, and problem-solving. Thanks to our generous donors — especially **An Anonymous Supporter in memory of Francinia Hall** — my students are growing not only as learners but also as caring, confident members of our classroom community.","fullyFundedDate":1742823938101,"projectUrl":"project/body-and-mind-care/9143053/","projectTitle":"Body and Mind Care","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gallin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9001514_orig.jpg?crop=725,725,x927,y241&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1698435075519","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9001514"},{"teacherId":9001514,"projectId":9111736,"letterContent":"When the Buddha Boards arrived, my students' faces lit up with excitement and curiosity. Many had never seen anything like them before and were amazed that they could create art using only water. During our first lesson, I explained how the images slowly fade away as the water dries, symbolizing that mistakes are temporary and creativity is about the process, not the product. The room grew calm and focused as students began painting — some drew simple shapes and patterns, while others created detailed designs and watched them disappear with awe. It was a moment of quiet joy and mindfulness, something rare and special in a busy school day.\r\n\r\nWe are now using the Buddha Boards as part of our \"Mindful Moments\" at the start or end of art class. Students take a few minutes to center themselves, breathe, and express their feelings through temporary art before moving into larger projects. This simple practice has already helped many students approach their creative work with more confidence and calm. Our next step is to connect these moments of mindfulness to our upcoming watercolor unit, where students will apply the patience and focus they've practiced on the Buddha Boards to more permanent artworks. I'm so grateful to our donors for helping make these meaningful experiences possible — they've given my students not just a new art tool, but a lasting lesson in mindfulness and resilience.","fullyFundedDate":1741099902506,"projectUrl":"project/mindful-art-wellness-buddha-boards-fo/9111736/","projectTitle":"Mindful Art & Wellness: Buddha Boards for Creative Expression","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gallin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9001514_orig.jpg?crop=725,725,x927,y241&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1698435075519","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9001514"},{"teacherId":9001514,"projectId":9043996,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom has become a more colorful, expressive, and inclusive space where students feel empowered to share their stories through art. When the new markers, crayons, and brushes arrived, the students were overjoyed. For many, it was their first time using such vibrant, high-quality materials, and their enthusiasm was immediate. They couldn't wait to begin creating, and the excitement in the room was palpable.\r\n\r\nWe recently used the materials to create artwork celebrating Lunar New Year. Students learned about the traditions, symbols, and significance of the holiday, then created their own lanterns, dragons, and decorative pieces using their new supplies. This project not only supported their artistic development and fine motor skills but also sparked meaningful conversations about cultural traditions—both familiar and new. Our English language learners especially benefited from this experience, as they were able to express ideas visually while building new vocabulary in a low-pressure, joyful environment.\r\n\r\nNext, we'll be diving into projects focused on other multicultural celebrations represented in our school community. Each student will design a piece of art that reflects a holiday or tradition from their culture, allowing them to share and celebrate their heritage with classmates. Your support has made this possible, and we are so grateful for the opportunity to build bridges of understanding and pride through creativity.","fullyFundedDate":1738895843379,"projectUrl":"project/amazing-lunar-new-year-art/9043996/","projectTitle":"Amazing Lunar New Year Art","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gallin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9001514_orig.jpg?crop=725,725,x927,y241&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1698435075519","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9001514"},{"teacherId":9001514,"projectId":8820663,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our students are now creating beautiful, meaningful art that celebrates who they are and brings joy to our school community. When the new paints, papers, tools, and storage trays arrived, the classroom was buzzing with excitement. Students immediately began exploring the new materials, eager to try out stamps, mix paint colors, and plan their next big projects. For many of them, this was their first experience with professional-quality art supplies—and they couldn't wait to get started.\r\n\r\nOur first major project using the materials was a collaborative mural celebrating the cultures represented in our school. Students worked in small groups to design panels that reflected their heritage, traditions, and families. This project not only allowed them to express pride in their backgrounds but also taught valuable skills in planning, color theory, and teamwork. As they saw their artwork come together to form a larger piece, students felt a deep sense of accomplishment and connection—not just to the project, but to one another.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we'll be using the remaining supplies to create art installations that will be displayed in the surrounding neighborhood. These pieces will reflect themes of unity, kindness, and community pride. The impact of your donation goes far beyond the art itself—it has helped our students develop confidence, voice, and a powerful sense of belonging. Thank you for believing in their creativity and for helping them see the beauty they can bring to the world.","fullyFundedDate":1729097926525,"projectUrl":"project/community-art-collective-projects/8820663/","projectTitle":"Community Art Collective Projects!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gallin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9001514_orig.jpg?crop=725,725,x927,y241&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1698435075519","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9001514"},{"teacherId":9001514,"projectId":8813575,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom has been transformed into a peaceful, creative studio where students are learning to express themselves through the calming techniques of Bob Ross. When the painting supplies arrived, the excitement was immediate—students couldn't believe they would each have access to real canvases, brushes, and paints. For many, this was their first time using high-quality materials, and the sense of pride and ownership they felt was unmistakable.\r\n\r\nWe recently completed our first Bob Ross-inspired landscape paintings, and the results were nothing short of magical. With gentle encouragement and step-by-step guidance, students created mountain scenes, forest paths, and \"happy little trees\" that reflected their personal vision. What was even more powerful than the finished products was the process—students who often hesitate to speak up in class began to take risks and express themselves through color and form. Our English language learners, in particular, found confidence in describing their artwork, using new vocabulary to share their thoughts and stories. The painting sessions also provided a calming, therapeutic environment where students could focus, relax, and support each other in their artistic journey.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we are beginning to explore the idea of art as a career. Students will learn about how artists work professionally—freelancing, studying at art schools, or combining art with other careers. We're also planning a classroom gallery walk where students can showcase their work and practice presenting their pieces in both English and their native language. Your contribution made all of this possible, and we are deeply thankful for the joy, opportunity, and learning you've brought into our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1727705416867,"projectUrl":"project/students-that-want-to-experience-the-joy/8813575/","projectTitle":"Students that Want to Experience the Joy of Painting!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gallin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9001514_orig.jpg?crop=725,725,x927,y241&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1698435075519","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9001514"},{"teacherId":9001514,"projectId":8802607,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom has been transformed into a vibrant, creative space where art and language come alive together. The new art supplies and books you helped provide have opened doors for our students to explore bilingual learning in dynamic and meaningful ways. One of the most memorable moments came when the students first saw the materials—they were absolutely thrilled! Their eyes lit up at the sight of colorful paints, markers, and brushes, and they eagerly flipped through the new books, pointing out familiar words in both languages and discovering new artists and styles from around the world.\r\n\r\nWe recently completed a project where students created self-portraits while writing bilingual artist statements to describe their work and identity. This allowed them to practice vocabulary, grammar, and storytelling in both languages while expressing who they are through art. It was powerful to see how confidently they shared their stories, with many connecting their artwork to family traditions, cultural backgrounds, and personal experiences. The classroom buzzed with creativity and conversation in two languages, and it was a joy to witness how the project sparked critical thinking, collaboration, and pride.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we're diving into a new unit that explores global art traditions. Using the books you helped us add to our library, students will study artists from various cultures, then create their own works inspired by what they've learned. These projects will continue to blend art and literacy, encouraging students to explore new perspectives and deepen their appreciation of diversity. Your support has truly empowered our students, and we're so grateful for the joy and learning you've brought into our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1727192663277,"projectUrl":"project/bilingual-art-for-all-students/8802607/","projectTitle":"Bilingual Art for All Students!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gallin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9001514_orig.jpg?crop=725,725,x927,y241&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1698435075519","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9001514"},{"teacherId":9001514,"projectId":8809855,"letterContent":"Thanks to your incredible support, our classroom has been filled with excitement, color, and creativity. The new art supplies you helped provide have made a tremendous difference in our students' learning experiences. When the materials first arrived, the students were overjoyed—many had never had access to such high-quality supplies before. Their eyes lit up as they unpacked paints, markers, pastels, and paper, immediately bursting with ideas for what they wanted to create.\r\n\r\nWe recently completed a project where students illustrated scenes from stories they had written in class. With their new supplies, they were able to bring their words to life through detailed, imaginative artwork. This project not only helped strengthen their storytelling and writing skills but also gave them a deeper connection to their work, encouraging them to revise, elaborate, and proudly present their final pieces. One student, who usually struggles to engage, said, \"This is the first time I've felt like an artist and a writer.\" Moments like that speak volumes about the power of access and opportunity.\r\n\r\nNext, we're planning a unit that explores community and culture. Students will study different cultural art styles and create pieces that reflect their own heritage or identity. These lessons will help build cultural appreciation while continuing to develop fine motor skills, language development, and confidence. Your generosity has helped us lay the foundation for a vibrant arts program, and we are so thankful for the joy and learning you've made possible in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1727192663950,"projectUrl":"project/creative-artists-need-supplies/8809855/","projectTitle":"Creative Artists Need Supplies!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gallin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9001514_orig.jpg?crop=725,725,x927,y241&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1698435075519","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9001514"},{"teacherId":9105122,"projectId":8801868,"letterContent":"The impact it has had in our classroom has been truly remarkable. With this resource, I've been able to create a variety of hands-on materials that have made a significant difference in my students' learning experiences.\r\n\r\nThe cardstock has allowed me to design customized printables, including bookmarks, letters, and interactive center activities. These materials have made learning more engaging for my students, especially as many of them are newcomers to the American school system. The physical act of manipulating the materials—whether it's arranging letters, completing word puzzles, or creating their own projects—has helped them connect with the content in a more meaningful way.\r\n\r\nIn particular, the ability to print tailored resources has made language development more accessible and enjoyable for my students. It has been incredibly rewarding to see their excitement as they work with printed materials that support their individual learning needs. Not only has it enhanced their language skills, but it's also fostered creativity, collaboration, and a sense of pride in their work.","fullyFundedDate":1727192663759,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-projects/8801868/","projectTitle":"Classroom Projects!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hernandez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9105122_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1720999149085","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9105122"},{"teacherId":9105122,"projectId":8496237,"letterContent":"I am grateful for the opportunity to use books that celebrate diversity and help my students navigate their emotions. Each week I introduce a new book that focuses on important topics such as friendships, managing emotions, facing difficult situations, and personal growth. These books help my 5th graders explore complex emotions and experiences in a relatable way.\r\n\r\nFor my classroom which includes newcomers these stories are particularly valuable. They help students see themselves reflected in the characters and situations which validates their feelings and shows them that they are not alone in their experiences. When students read about characters dealing with similar challenges whether it is making friends, feeling sad or angry, or coping with tough days they understand that other kids face the same difficulties. This shared recognition fosters empathy, comfort, and a sense of belonging.\r\n\r\nWhat makes these SEL books so powerful is that they guide students in learning that while difficult emotions and challenges are a part of life what truly matters is how we respond to them. These stories emphasize resilience, problem-solving, and the importance of kindness both to ourselves and to others. By the end of the day the lesson is clear it is not just about facing challenges but how we grow from them and support each other creating a stronger and more connected community.","fullyFundedDate":1727192664156,"projectUrl":"project/spark-a-love-of-reading-resources-for-o/8496237/","projectTitle":"Spark a Love of Reading: Resources for Our Newcomer Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hernandez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9105122_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1720999149085","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9105122"},{"teacherId":9001514,"projectId":8390469,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for making this project a reality for us. We have been able to laminate multiple sets of review bingo games, dry erase practices, instructional drawing guides, student flashcards, wall displays and labels to help improve teacher lessons and deepen student understanding, learning and retention. The laminator has been especially great to create meaningful and hands on materials for Spanish, art, music and physical education classes. We are so grateful to have this tool so we can save and reuse materials to help benefit our students and our community.","fullyFundedDate":1715733212436,"projectUrl":"project/a-laminator-to-make-it-last/8390469/","projectTitle":"A Laminator to Make It Last","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gallin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9001514_orig.jpg?crop=725,725,x927,y241&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1698435075519","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9001514"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_26320","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":492,"numTeachers":22,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":9,"percentWhite":1,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":85,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"22.4:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":77.8,"schoolId":26320,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Edna M Rollins Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Edna M Rollins Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/illinois/east-aurora-school-district-131/edna-e-m-rollins-elementary-school/26320"}