{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Larsen Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":26.6,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":3017099,"projectId":9258020,"letterContent":"New technology makes all the difference in our students' education. When a child can't provide their own calculator, it shouldn't become a barrier to their learning. Calculators, however, are expensive—especially when school budgets are already stretched thin. Thanks to your generosity, I was able to secure enough calculators for every student who needed one.\r\n\r\nThe most exciting part of this project has been seeing my students' reactions. They were thrilled to have \"fancy\" calculators—ones that are new, fully functional, and capable of operations like fractions. Many of them are used to using old or partially damaged calculators, so having something high-quality felt special and empowering.\r\n\r\nYour generosity will support students for many years to come, and I truly appreciate it. My students are grateful to know that there are people in the world who believe in them and want to help them succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1752166540785,"projectUrl":"project/new-calculators-to-solve-our-problems/9258020/","projectTitle":"New Calculators To Solve Our Problems!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Rocen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3017099_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1467901583742","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/hrocen"},{"teacherId":3017099,"projectId":9483384,"letterContent":"When students start the school year without basic supplies, it can set the tone for frustration and discouragement. Thanks to your donations, I was able to give every student their own notebook and pencil from day one. When they realized these weren't shared materials but their tools for success, they were genuinely shocked, it felt to them like I'd handed out a lifetime supply of their favorite chips. They were so appreciative knowing we had enough for everyone, plus extras to replace what gets used throughout the year.\r\n\r\nIn our classroom, pencils are truly like gold. You can't solve math problems without them, so having a steady supply sets us up for daily success. We also use glue sticks regularly to add important notes, examples, and doodles into our math notebooks. This keeps students organized, helps them create personalized study tools, and gives them something they're proud to reference.\r\n\r\nThank you for making such a meaningful difference in our everyday learning. Your generosity has not only provided supplies, but also boosted my students' confidence, motivation, and sense of belonging in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1754065675376,"projectUrl":"project/sticky-problems/9483384/","projectTitle":"Sticky Problems!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Rocen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3017099_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1467901583742","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/hrocen"},{"teacherId":9969196,"projectId":9489066,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support through DonorsChoose. Because of you, our school library now has rotating floor shelves and an additional face-out shelving unit that have truly transformed our space. Our goal was to create a library that invites students to explore, browse, and fall in love with books and your contribution made that possible.\r\n\r\nThese new shelves allow us to display books in a way that is both welcoming and visually exciting. Instead of rows and rows of spines, students now see covers first bright, colorful, and full of possibility. The rotating shelves encourage discovery, while the smaller shelf helps us highlight new arrivals, genres, and student favorites. The library now feels dynamic, interactive, and engaging.\r\n\r\nStudents have shared how much easier it is to find books that interest them. One student described it perfectly:\r\n\"It feels like shopping in a real bookstore!\"\r\n\r\nWe've also seen a noticeable increase in book check-outs. Students are not only finding what they're looking for more quickly, they're finding books they didn't even know they wanted. Browsing has become a joyful experience instead of something overwhelming.\r\n\r\nYour generosity didn't just provide furniture.\r\nYou helped create an environment where reading feels exciting, accessible, and fun.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our students, in the power of literacy, and in the magic of a well-designed library space. We are deeply grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1758807376474,"projectUrl":"project/bookshelves-for-the-library/9489066/","projectTitle":"Bookshelves for the Library","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. von Rohr","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9969196"},{"teacherId":9791978,"projectId":9239894,"letterContent":"Your donations have had a considerable effect on my students. They have all been able to enjoy the ability to equally participate. Having new pizza pans has been amazing. All sections of the day have been able to create their own pizzas as a team this year! \r\n\r\nThe disposable tins have also been essential for students to be able to work on more advanced recipes since they have more time due to less dishes. We all couldn't not be more excited to be using these wonderful additions to our class. Thank you so much!!","fullyFundedDate":1753288760693,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-young-chefs-through-hands-on/9239894/","projectTitle":"Empowering Young Chefs Through Hands-On Kitchen Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. AJ","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9791978"},{"teacherId":3017099,"projectId":9224142,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous financial donation to our classroom. Your support of public education makes a real difference in our students' success.\r\n\r\nThe materials you helped provide are already being put to meaningful use. For Hispanic Heritage Month, students are using the new colored pencils and markers (organized in their zipper pouches) to design and color the flags of their cultural countries. While working on this project, they have been sharing stories about their backgrounds, which has given me a wonderful opportunity to connect with them on a more personal level. Earlier this year, those same supplies were used to create \"shoe designs\" that represented each student's personal journey and helped us build a classroom community centered on empathy and understanding.\r\n\r\nIn math, your donation of dry erase markers and erasers has been just as impactful. Instead of passively listening, students are up at the boards solving problems together, sharing strategies, and learning from one another. This active engagement is key to their growth and confidence in math, and it's made possible by your generosity.\r\n\r\nYour kindness does more than provide supplies—it shows students that their learning matters and that people beyond our classroom believe in them. The tools you've given us help spark creativity, foster collaboration, and build connections that make learning both meaningful and memorable. Each time my students pick up a marker, color a project, or explain their math thinking to a peer, they are reminded that someone cared enough to invest in their education. For that, we are deeply grateful.\r\n\r\nWe are also thankful to General Motors for generously matching every donation. Their partnership doubled the impact of your gift, ensuring that our classroom has even more opportunities for growth, creativity, and success. Together, your support and GM's commitment are helping our students see what is possible when communities and companies invest in education.","fullyFundedDate":1746800786805,"projectUrl":"project/it-smells-new/9224142/","projectTitle":"It Smells New!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Rocen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3017099_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1467901583742","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/hrocen"},{"teacherId":9498949,"projectId":9199156,"letterContent":"Thank you for the rug, floor cushions, side table, conversation cards, and weighted stuffed animals. These thoughtful items have helped create a calm, inviting space where students can take breaks, reflect, or connect with a teacher. The cozy setup makes students feel safe and supported, while the conversation cards and weighted animals provide emotional comfort and guidance. This space has quickly become a favorite in our classroom, offering both relaxation and meaningful connection. Your generosity has made a true impact on our students' well-being and learning. We are so grateful for your donation.","fullyFundedDate":1746786480194,"projectUrl":"project/creating-a-social-emotional-corner-supp/9199156/","projectTitle":"Creating a Social-Emotional Corner: Supporting Self-Regulation and Growth in ISI","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Moeller","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9498949_orig.jpg?crop=1510,1510,x744,y1133&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1711296729562","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/missmoeller95"},{"teacherId":9498949,"projectId":9204824,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous contribution of the four stools to our classroom. They have made a tremendous difference in how we use our learning space. Before, students had to come to our teacher desk for support, which was not ideal, it felt cramped and didn't offer a welcoming environment. Now, with the stools around our small table, we have a designated space that feels much more inviting and comfortable. Students are more eager to come over for help or small group work, and the change has helped foster a stronger sense of community and collaboration in our room.\r\n\r\nThe impact of this simple addition has been incredible. Whether students are working one-on-one with a teacher, collaborating with a peer, or focusing independently, the new setup gives them the space and structure to thrive. We've noticed students are more engaged and confident when they have a designated place to sit and work, and the flexible seating option helps meet a variety of learning needs. Thank you for helping us create a more effective and student-centered classroom, we truly appreciate your support!","fullyFundedDate":1746786353063,"projectUrl":"project/enhancing-small-group-learning-with-flex/9204824/","projectTitle":"Enhancing Small Group Learning with Flexible Seating in ISI","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Moeller","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9498949_orig.jpg?crop=1510,1510,x744,y1133&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1711296729562","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/missmoeller95"},{"teacherId":9498949,"projectId":8819978,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for the support you have shown to my students it is such a blessing. These students have loved all the materials you have provided and they have shown so much growth since receiving them. I can not begin to describe the impact and importance of having materials donated to my students and having them set up for success everyday! Without you support this would have never been possible and my students and I thank you million times over for providing such essential tools to the classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1733254990364,"projectUrl":"project/enhance-learning-support-sensory-tools/8819978/","projectTitle":"Enhance Learning: Support Sensory Tools for Our Students’ Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Moeller","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9498949_orig.jpg?crop=1510,1510,x744,y1133&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1711296729562","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/missmoeller95"},{"teacherId":9498949,"projectId":8840369,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support in helping me build a classroom library for my students. Your kindness has made it possible for them to engage with books in a way that suits their unique learning styles and interests.\r\n\r\nIn our classroom, reading is more than just absorbing text—it's an opportunity to expand minds, build vocabulary, and spark imagination. Thanks to you, my students now have access to a variety of books that cater to their diverse preferences. Whether they're diving into a novel, exploring a graphic book, or flipping through pages filled with vibrant pictures, every book offers them a chance to grow, learn, and discover new perspectives.\r\n\r\nYour gift has provided my students with a space where they can take a mental break, re-center, and stay engaged in learning. It has been incredible to watch students light up as they find stories that resonate with them, challenge their thinking, or inspire creativity.\r\n\r\nThank you for nurturing their love for reading and for making a lasting impact on their curiosity, imagination, and academic growth. Your generosity is truly changing lives, one book at a time","fullyFundedDate":1727967129202,"projectUrl":"project/help-build-a-classroom-library-inspirin/8840369/","projectTitle":"Help Build a Classroom Library: Inspiring Minds and Imagination","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Moeller","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9498949_orig.jpg?crop=1510,1510,x744,y1133&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1711296729562","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/missmoeller95"},{"teacherId":9498949,"projectId":8780780,"letterContent":"I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude for your generous donation to support Social Emotional Learning (SEL) resources for our In-School Intervention (ISI) program. Your contribution is helping us provide essential tools that empower students to develop self-awareness, manage their emotions, and build meaningful relationships.\r\n\r\nThanks to your support, we are equipping our ISI program with workbooks, interactive activities, and games that focus on key skills such as self-management, social awareness, and responsible decision-making. These resources are creating a safe and supportive environment where students can reflect on their behavior, rebuild relationships, and develop the confidence they need to succeed both in and out of the classroom.\r\n\r\nYour generosity directly impacts students who need emotional and social support the most. With these resources, we can teach vital skills like conflict resolution, empathy, and self-discipline, setting our students up for lasting success. Your investment goes far beyond the classroom, helping to build resilience and emotional strength that will benefit them throughout their lives.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in the importance of SEL and for making a difference in the lives of our students. Your kindness is creating a brighter, more emotionally resilient future for these young learners, and we are so grateful to have your support.","fullyFundedDate":1727193147115,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-students-social-emotional-le/8780780/","projectTitle":"Empowering Students: Social Emotional Learning for In-School Intervention Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Moeller","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9498949_orig.jpg?crop=1510,1510,x744,y1133&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1711296729562","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/missmoeller95"},{"teacherId":9498949,"projectId":8617076,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support in providing snacks, candy, and small toys as student incentives for my classroom. Your contribution is making a meaningful impact on my students' learning experience by encouraging their efforts and fostering a positive, motivating environment.\r\n\r\nThese incentives are already serving as powerful tools to reinforce hard work, perseverance, and positive behavior. By offering immediate rewards, my students are not only engaging more in their academic activities but are also building confidence and adopting a growth mindset. Your generosity helps me create an environment where every student feels valued and recognized for their unique strengths and determination.\r\n\r\nThe resilience and perseverance of my students inspire me every day. Many face challenges that can make learning difficult, yet they continue to strive and grow. Thanks to your support, I can provide these small but meaningful rewards to help them see the value of their hard work and feel appreciated for their efforts.\r\n\r\nYour kindness has made school a more enjoyable and rewarding experience for my students, and for that, I am deeply grateful. Thank you for believing in the potential of these remarkable young individuals and for helping us create a space where they can thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1727193147050,"projectUrl":"project/boosting-brains-building-confidence-i/8617076/","projectTitle":"Boosting Brains & Building Confidence: Incentives for Student Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Moeller","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9498949_orig.jpg?crop=1510,1510,x744,y1133&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1711296729562","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/missmoeller95"},{"teacherId":9498949,"projectId":8769596,"letterContent":"I am incredibly grateful for your generous support in providing essential classroom supplies and student prizes for my students and our school community. Your contribution will have a lasting impact, fostering an engaging, interactive, and supportive learning environment.\r\n\r\nWith these supplies, students will be better equipped to succeed academically and creatively. The markers, pens, pencils, and notepads are already sparking excitement as students use them to express their ideas and stay organized. The games and prize wheel have added a layer of fun and motivation to our lessons, reinforcing teamwork and positive behaviors.\r\n\r\nI'm especially excited about how items like the speaker and earbuds will benefit students who need enhanced auditory support, ensuring an inclusive learning environment. Additionally, tools like the glue gun are opening up new opportunities for hands-on, project-based learning, fostering creativity and collaboration in ways that truly inspire my students.\r\n\r\nYour generosity doesn't just support my classroom—it creates a ripple effect throughout the school. When students feel supported and rewarded, their confidence grows, improving their overall school experience. Thanks to you, we are one step closer to achieving our goal of nurturing well-rounded, eager learners.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our mission and for helping create a space where students can thrive. Your kindness and support mean the world to us, and we are so fortunate to have you as part of our community.","fullyFundedDate":1727193147160,"projectUrl":"project/support-classroom-engagement-and-growth/8769596/","projectTitle":"Support Classroom Engagement and Growth with Essential Supplies","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Moeller","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9498949_orig.jpg?crop=1510,1510,x744,y1133&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1711296729562","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/missmoeller95"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_27761","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":527,"numTeachers":42,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":4,"percentBlack":4,"percentWhite":8,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":78,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"7 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"12.5:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":73.4,"schoolId":27761,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Larsen Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Larsen Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/illinois/elgin-school-district-u-46/larsen-middle-school/27761"}
Join the 109 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Larsen Middle School is
an urban public school
in Elgin, Illinois that is part of Elgin School District U - 46.
It serves 527 students
in grades 7 - 8 with a student/teacher ratio of 12.5:1.
Its teachers have had 37 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Boost support for this school! Share this page with friends, family, alumni, and fellow supporters. Every connection helps teachers get the supplies they need and shows how much your community cares about its students.
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for public school teachers.
Every donation funds real needs — pencils, books, lab equipment, art supplies, and more — helping students learn and thrive. We ship supplies directly to the school, and you'll see exactly where each dollar goes.
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
86%
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.
Larsen Middle School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Dec 19, 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.
Larsen Middle School
$19,217
raised using DonorsChoose
37
projects
funded
10
teachers
funded
109
donors
5
projects
for
basic supplies
2
projects for
technology
6
projects for
books
2
projects
for
art supplies
Larsen Middle School has received support from
80 individuals from Illinois and
29 individuals out-of-state.