{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"May Whitney Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":15.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9991780,"projectId":9496469,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your incredible generosity in providing cozy flexible seating for my classroom. Your thoughtful gift has completely transformed the learning environment for my students. What was once a traditional classroom space has now become a welcoming, student-centered environment where comfort, choice, and engagement support deeper learning. Your donation has made it possible for students to learn in ways that meet their individual needs while also fostering independence, focus, and a strong sense of classroom community.\r\n\r\nThe day the flexible seating arrived was filled with excitement and anticipation. My students could hardly wait to see what was inside the boxes. As we unpacked the cushions, floor seats, wobble stools, and cozy seating options, the classroom quickly filled with energy and curiosity. Students eagerly tried out each piece, smiling and laughing as they discovered their favorite spots. Many immediately commented on how \"comfy\" and \"cool\" our classroom had become. It was a joyful moment that helped students feel a sense of ownership and pride in their learning environment.\r\n\r\nSince then, flexible seating has become an essential part of our daily routines. Students now have the opportunity to choose where and how they learn best, whether that means sitting on a floor cushion during a read-aloud, using a wobble stool during independent work, or settling into a cozy chair for focused reading time. One particularly meaningful moment happened during a recent reading workshop. Students were spread throughout the room in their chosen seating spots, completely engaged in their books. A student who typically struggles with attention was sitting on a floor cushion near the bookshelf, fully immersed in a story and even whispering along with the text. It was a powerful reminder that when students are comfortable and given choice, their engagement and confidence grow significantly.\r\n\r\nFlexible seating has also strengthened collaboration and classroom community. During partner work and group projects, students naturally gravitate toward spaces that support conversation and teamwork. I have noticed more meaningful discussions, increased willingness to share ideas, and greater respect for one another's learning preferences. Students are also more mindful of their environment, taking care of the seating options and helping to keep our classroom organized and inviting. They understand that these special tools are here to support everyone's learning, and they treat them with care and responsibility.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward in our current units, flexible seating will continue to play an important role in how students engage with learning. We are beginning a cross-curricular project that includes reading informational texts, writing responses, and collaborating on presentations. Students will rotate between independent work, small-group discussions, and creative planning sessions. Having flexible seating options will allow them to choose the environment that best supports each part of their learning process, helping them stay focused, comfortable, and engaged throughout the project.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, your generosity has helped create a classroom where students feel valued, trusted, and empowered. Giving them choice in where they learn has built their independence and confidence in ways that extend far beyond academics. They are learning to listen to their own needs, make responsible decisions, and respect the needs of their peers—all essential life skills.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students and investing in their learning experience. Your gift has done so much more than provide seating; it has created a warm, inclusive, and flexible learning environment where every student can thrive. We are deeply grateful for your kindness and support, and for the lasting impact you have made in our classroom every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1757683065953,"projectUrl":"project/cozy-flexible-seating/9496469/","projectTitle":"Cozy Flexible Seating","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. LaVine","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9991780_orig.jpg?crop=335,335,x241,y85&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1743820084828","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9991780"},{"teacherId":9991780,"projectId":9791778,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your incredible generosity in providing STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) activities for my classroom. Your support has brought an entirely new level of excitement, creativity, and hands-on learning into our daily instruction. These materials have not only strengthened our science and math instruction but have also given my students opportunities to think critically, collaborate, and approach problems like real engineers and scientists. Your donation has truly transformed the way my students engage with learning.\r\n\r\nWhen the STEAM materials first arrived, my students were absolutely thrilled. Their eyes lit up as we unpacked kits filled with building materials, design challenges, and problem-solving tools. The room quickly filled with excitement, curiosity, and questions like \"What are we going to build first?\" and \"Can we start right now?\" Students eagerly explored the materials, sorting pieces, testing connections, and brainstorming ideas together. It was a moment filled with energy and anticipation, and it immediately set the tone for a more hands-on, discovery-based learning environment.\r\n\r\nSince then, we have been using the STEAM resources regularly across multiple subjects. In science, students have used the materials to explore engineering concepts such as balance, stability, and force. In math, they have built models to represent fractions, geometry shapes, and measurement challenges. One of the most memorable classroom moments came during our \"bridge engineering challenge.\" Students were tasked with designing and building a bridge strong enough to hold a set of classroom objects. Working in small groups, they tested different designs, made adjustments, and problem-solved when structures collapsed. The room was filled with collaboration, encouragement, and persistence. I watched students who are often hesitant in traditional settings become leaders, offering ideas and encouraging their peers to try again after setbacks. When one group finally created a bridge that held weight successfully, the entire class erupted in cheers. It was a powerful reminder of how hands-on learning builds confidence and resilience.\r\n\r\nThese STEAM activities have also encouraged students to take ownership of their learning in new and exciting ways. They are asking deeper questions, testing multiple solutions, and learning that failure is a natural and valuable part of the engineering process. The materials have created opportunities for meaningful collaboration, as students discuss strategies, share responsibilities, and reflect on what worked and what didn't. I have seen increased engagement across the board, including from students who are typically less confident in math or science tasks.\r\n\r\nAs we continue through our current unit, students will be applying what they've learned to a larger culminating STEAM project. They will work in teams to design solutions to real-world problems, incorporating both scientific thinking and creative design. Some groups will focus on building structures, while others will design systems or prototypes that solve everyday classroom or community challenges. The STEAM materials you provided will be essential as students plan, build, test, and revise their projects. This process will allow them to deepen their understanding while developing collaboration, communication, and problem-solving skills that extend far beyond the classroom.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, your generosity has helped my students see themselves as capable thinkers and creators. They now understand that learning is not just about answering questions but about exploring possibilities, testing ideas, and working together to solve problems. Every time they engage with these materials, they are building confidence and discovering their own potential.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students and investing in their education in such a meaningful way. Your donation has brought joy, curiosity, and hands-on discovery into our classroom. We are deeply grateful for your support and for the lasting impact you have made on our learning community.","fullyFundedDate":1759945975685,"projectUrl":"project/steam-fun-for-3rd-grade/9791778/","projectTitle":"S.T.E.A.M. Fun for 3rd Grade","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. LaVine","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9991780_orig.jpg?crop=335,335,x241,y85&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1743820084828","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9991780"},{"teacherId":9991780,"projectId":9881816,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your incredible generosity in providing STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) activities for my classroom. Your support has brought an entirely new level of excitement, creativity, and hands-on learning into our daily instruction. These materials have not only strengthened our science and math instruction but have also given my students opportunities to think critically, collaborate, and approach problems like real engineers and scientists. Your donation has truly transformed the way my students engage with learning.\r\n\r\nWhen the STEAM materials first arrived, my students were absolutely thrilled. Their eyes lit up as we unpacked kits filled with building materials, design challenges, and problem-solving tools. The room quickly filled with excitement, curiosity, and questions like \"What are we going to build first?\" and \"Can we start right now?\" Students eagerly explored the materials, sorting pieces, testing connections, and brainstorming ideas together. It was a moment filled with energy and anticipation, and it immediately set the tone for a more hands-on, discovery-based learning environment.\r\n\r\nSince then, we have been using the STEAM resources regularly across multiple subjects. In science, students have used the materials to explore engineering concepts such as balance, stability, and force. In math, they have built models to represent fractions, geometry shapes, and measurement challenges. One of the most memorable classroom moments came during our \"bridge engineering challenge.\" Students were tasked with designing and building a bridge strong enough to hold a set of classroom objects. Working in small groups, they tested different designs, made adjustments, and problem-solved when structures collapsed. The room was filled with collaboration, encouragement, and persistence. I watched students who are often hesitant in traditional settings become leaders, offering ideas and encouraging their peers to try again after setbacks. When one group finally created a bridge that held weight successfully, the entire class erupted in cheers. It was a powerful reminder of how hands-on learning builds confidence and resilience.\r\n\r\nThese STEAM activities have also encouraged students to take ownership of their learning in new and exciting ways. They are asking deeper questions, testing multiple solutions, and learning that failure is a natural and valuable part of the engineering process. The materials have created opportunities for meaningful collaboration, as students discuss strategies, share responsibilities, and reflect on what worked and what didn't. I have seen increased engagement across the board, including from students who are typically less confident in math or science tasks.\r\n\r\nAs we continue through our current unit, students will be applying what they've learned to a larger culminating STEAM project. They will work in teams to design solutions to real-world problems, incorporating both scientific thinking and creative design. Some groups will focus on building structures, while others will design systems or prototypes that solve everyday classroom or community challenges. The STEAM materials you provided will be essential as students plan, build, test, and revise their projects. This process will allow them to deepen their understanding while developing collaboration, communication, and problem-solving skills that extend far beyond the classroom.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, your generosity has helped my students see themselves as capable thinkers and creators. They now understand that learning is not just about answering questions but about exploring possibilities, testing ideas, and working together to solve problems. Every time they engage with these materials, they are building confidence and discovering their own potential.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students and investing in their education in such a meaningful way. Your donation has brought joy, curiosity, and hands-on discovery into our classroom. We are deeply grateful for your support and for the lasting impact you have made on our learning community.","fullyFundedDate":1766893328330,"projectUrl":"project/steam-for-3rd-grade/9881816/","projectTitle":"STEAM for 3rd Grade","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. LaVine","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9991780_orig.jpg?crop=335,335,x241,y85&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1743820084828","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9991780"},{"teacherId":9991780,"projectId":9388392,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your thoughtful generosity in providing essential classroom materials, including headphones and dry erase clipboards. Your support has had an immediate and lasting impact on my students' learning experience. These tools may seem simple on the surface, but in our classroom they have become powerful resources that support focus, independence, and active engagement across all subject areas. Because of your kindness, my students now have greater access to flexible learning opportunities that meet their individual needs and learning styles.\r\n\r\nWhen these materials first arrived, my students were beyond excited. They gathered around the boxes with wide eyes, eager to see what was inside. The moment they saw the headphones and clipboards, the room filled with cheers and curiosity. Many students immediately asked when they could use them, carefully trying them on and testing them out. The dry erase clipboards were especially exciting—they felt like \"personal whiteboards on the go,\" and students loved the idea of being able to work anywhere in the classroom. It was a joyful moment that reminded me how meaningful classroom resources are to students, even when they are the everyday tools that help learning happen.\r\n\r\nWe are now using the headphones daily for a variety of learning activities. During reading and literacy stations, students use them to listen to read-alouds, phonics practice, and comprehension activities at their own pace. This has been especially helpful in supporting differentiated instruction, allowing students to access content that meets their individual reading levels while minimizing distractions. One particularly memorable moment happened during independent reading rotations. Several students who typically struggle with focus were fully engaged as they listened to stories through their headphones, following along in their books and whisper-reading with confidence. It was incredible to see their engagement deepen simply because they were able to access learning in a way that worked best for them.\r\n\r\nThe dry erase clipboards have also transformed the way students participate in learning. We use them for math practice, brainstorming sessions, vocabulary work, and quick checks for understanding. Students love the freedom of moving around the room, sitting in flexible seating areas, or working collaboratively with partners while still having a sturdy workspace. During a recent math lesson on multi-step word problems, students used their clipboards to show their thinking, sketch models, and revise their work in real time. I was able to circulate and immediately see their thought processes, which allowed for more meaningful feedback and targeted support.\r\n\r\nThese resources have also encouraged greater independence and collaboration. Students are more willing to take academic risks when they can try, erase, and try again without fear of making mistakes. The clipboards in particular have helped build confidence, as students see that learning is a process and that their thinking matters more than getting the \"right answer\" on the first try. Meanwhile, the headphones have created a calmer, more focused environment where students can concentrate deeply on their tasks.\r\n\r\nAs we continue through our current curriculum units, these tools will remain essential to our daily learning. We are moving into a project-based learning unit where students will research topics of interest, gather information from texts and digital resources, and present their findings to the class. The headphones will allow them to access research materials independently, while the clipboards will support note-taking, planning, and drafting throughout the process. These tools will help students stay organized, engaged, and confident as they take ownership of their learning.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, your generosity has shown my students that people care about their success and believe in their potential. They understand that these tools were chosen specifically to help them learn and grow. Every time they put on their headphones or pick up their clipboards, they are benefiting from your kindness and support.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in my classroom and in my students' futures. Your donation has not only provided essential materials but has also strengthened engagement, independence, and joy in learning. We are deeply grateful for your support and for the lasting impact you have made in our classroom every day.","fullyFundedDate":1755717026446,"projectUrl":"project/headphones-dry-erase-clipboards-and-cl/9388392/","projectTitle":"Headphones, Dry Erase Clipboards, and Classroom Essentials!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. LaVine","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9991780_orig.jpg?crop=335,335,x241,y85&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1743820084828","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9991780"},{"teacherId":9991780,"projectId":9320942,"letterContent":"Thank you for your incredible generosity and for helping put new books into the hands of my students. Your support has made an immediate impact on our classroom, and I cannot express how grateful we are for your kindness. As we continue implementing our new curriculum, having access to engaging, high-quality books has enriched our lessons and inspired a genuine excitement for reading. Your gift has provided my students with opportunities to explore new ideas, strengthen their literacy skills, and discover stories that spark their curiosity and imagination.\r\n\r\nThe day our new books arrived was one of the most exciting moments of the school year. My students gathered around each box with eager smiles, wondering what new adventures were waiting inside. As we unpacked the books together, students excitedly pointed out titles they recognized and couldn't wait to read, while others were thrilled to discover entirely new stories. The excitement was contagious as they carefully flipped through pages, admired the colorful illustrations, and immediately began creating mental lists of which books they hoped to borrow first. It was wonderful to watch students celebrate books with such enthusiasm.\r\n\r\nSince receiving these books, they have quickly become an important part of our daily learning. We use them during whole-group read-alouds, small-group instruction, independent reading, and partner discussions. The variety of texts has allowed me to better match books to students' interests and reading levels, helping every child find stories that challenge and motivate them. One especially memorable moment occurred during our reading workshop when students participated in \"book tastings.\" They rotated from table to table, sampling different books and recording titles they wanted to read in the coming weeks. The room buzzed with excitement as students eagerly recommended books to classmates and shared predictions about the stories. It was one of those moments that reminded me how powerful the right book can be in creating lifelong readers.\r\n\r\nThe impact has extended far beyond reading instruction. Students have become more excited to discuss characters, compare themes, and make connections between books and their own lives. They are asking thoughtful questions, expanding their vocabulary, and building confidence as readers. Even some of my most reluctant readers have eagerly picked up books that captured their interests, often asking for extra reading time or requesting to take books home to continue reading with their families.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, these books will continue supporting meaningful learning experiences across our curriculum. Our next unit will include literature circles where students will work collaboratively to analyze characters, identify themes, and support their thinking with evidence from the text. We'll also complete response projects that encourage creativity through writing, illustrating, and presenting what we've learned. Having a classroom library filled with engaging, diverse books ensures every student has meaningful opportunities to practice critical thinking, communication, and a love of reading.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, your generosity has shown my students that there are caring people beyond our classroom who believe in their potential. They know these books were given with love and the hope that they will inspire learning and growth. Every time a student discovers a favorite author, becomes absorbed in a story, or proudly finishes a challenging book, your kindness is making a difference.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students and investing in their futures. Your donation has done far more than add books to our shelves—it has opened doors to imagination, strengthened our classroom community, and created opportunities for joyful learning every single day. We are so grateful for your support and for helping cultivate a classroom where every child has the chance to fall in love with reading.","fullyFundedDate":1746478283895,"projectUrl":"project/helping-our-readers-grow-with-the-right/9320942/","projectTitle":"Helping Our Readers Grow With the Right Books","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. LaVine","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9991780_orig.jpg?crop=335,335,x241,y85&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1743820084828","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9991780"},{"teacherId":9991780,"projectId":9317396,"letterContent":"Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your incredible generosity in helping provide a new classroom rug for my third-grade students. Your kindness has transformed more than just a space in our classroom—it has created a welcoming community gathering place where learning, collaboration, and connection happen every single day. From the moment the rug was unrolled, my students knew something special had arrived. Their faces lit up with excitement as they eagerly found a spot to sit, commenting on how cozy and inviting our classroom suddenly felt. It may seem like a simple resource, but to my students, it quickly became the heart of our classroom.\r\n\r\nEvery morning, we begin our day together on the rug during our class meeting. It has become the place where we greet one another, celebrate accomplishments, solve problems, and build the strong classroom community that helps every child feel safe and valued. During reading lessons, we gather there to explore new stories, practice comprehension strategies, and engage in thoughtful discussions. The rug has also become our favorite spot for interactive math lessons, science demonstrations, and partner activities. Instead of remaining at their desks, students eagerly move to the rug knowing that something exciting is about to happen.\r\n\r\nOne moment that perfectly captures the impact of your gift happened during a recent read-aloud. As we discussed the characters' choices and made connections to our own lives, every student was fully engaged. Students who are typically hesitant to share raised their hands and confidently joined the conversation. Sitting together in a comfortable space removed barriers and encouraged meaningful discussions. Watching my students listen respectfully, build on one another's ideas, and celebrate different perspectives reminded me how important a shared gathering space truly is. Your donation created the environment that made that moment possible.\r\n\r\nThe excitement hasn't faded since that first day. In fact, my students continue to ask if we can meet on the rug whenever possible. They proudly keep it clean, carefully make room for classmates, and treat it as a special part of our classroom. It has become more than just a place to sit—it represents teamwork, belonging, and a love of learning. Every child has a place, and every child feels included.\r\n\r\nAs we continue through the school year, the rug will play an important role in our next learning adventures. We are beginning collaborative literature circles where students will discuss novels, ask thoughtful questions, and support one another's understanding. We'll also use the space for hands-on STEM challenges, classroom debates, and small-group problem solving that encourage creativity, communication, and critical thinking. Having a dedicated gathering area allows me to create engaging lessons that keep students actively involved while fostering the confidence to take academic risks.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has given my students so much more than a classroom rug. You have created a space where friendships grow, curiosity thrives, and every child feels like they belong. Thank you for believing in my students and investing in their learning journey. Your support is making a lasting difference every single day, and we are incredibly grateful for your kindness and commitment to education.\r\n\r\nAs the year continues, I know this rug will hold countless more memories—from celebrating student successes and sharing favorite books to working through challenging lessons together and reflecting on all we've learned. It has quickly become the place where our classroom comes together as a family. Every time my students gather on the rug, I am reminded that your generosity provided more than a classroom resource; you created opportunities for meaningful conversations, joyful learning, and lasting connections. Thank you for making our classroom a warmer, more welcoming place where every child has a seat, a voice, and a sense of belonging.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has also reminded my students of the power of kindness and giving. They were amazed to learn that people they may never meet chose to invest in their education simply because they believe every child deserves a great place to learn. That lesson has inspired many conversations about gratitude, generosity, and how even one thoughtful act can make a lasting difference in someone else's life. Thank you for showing my students that there are caring people cheering them on and believing in their potential. Your gift has touched our classroom in ways that extend far beyond the rug itself.\r\n\r\nWith sincere appreciation,\r\n\r\nA Grateful Third-Grade Teacher","fullyFundedDate":1746459958287,"projectUrl":"project/a-classroom-rug-for-my-3rd-graders/9317396/","projectTitle":"A Classroom Rug for My 3rd graders","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. LaVine","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9991780_orig.jpg?crop=335,335,x241,y85&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1743820084828","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9991780"},{"teacherId":10263152,"projectId":9716817,"letterContent":"I wanted to share what a huge difference your generosity has already made in our classroom. My students and I have been using the new materials every single day, and they've truly transformed our learning space.\r\n\r\nOne of my favorite moments happened during a close-reading lesson last week. We gathered on the carpet, and I introduced a new story using the books and literacy tools you helped provide. As soon as I opened the bin of materials, my students' faces lit up. Several of them immediately asked, \"Can we start now?\" They were so excited to dive in, touch the resources, and explore them together.\r\n\r\nWe used the materials to break down the central message of the story — students highlighted text evidence, used vocabulary cards to support understanding, and even created mini poster visuals to show the lesson of the story. Watching them confidently share their ideas and support each other with the new tools was such a powerful moment.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, we'll be using these resources to build deeper comprehension during our next unit. Students will be comparing stories, identifying themes, and working in small groups to create short written responses using the materials you helped provide. These next steps would not be possible without your support.\r\n\r\nThank you for giving my students opportunities that genuinely elevate their learning. Your kindness is felt in our classroom every day.","fullyFundedDate":1761588608353,"projectUrl":"project/helping-english-language-learners-succee/9716817/","projectTitle":"Helping English Language Learners Succeed","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ortega","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10263152_orig.png?crop=147,147,x0,y20&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757963167981","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10263152"},{"teacherId":9323983,"projectId":9606265,"letterContent":"My students use their iPads throughout the school day, and during math class. In the past, low battery power or missing styluses often disrupted our lessons, since these are essential tools we rely on daily.\r\n\r\nThanks to your generous donation, we now have multiple charging stations placed around our classroom. Students can easily charge their iPads while they work. The variety of charging cord lengths allows flexibility so students can join collaborative work groups while charging, or use shorter cables to charge their devices when not in use.\r\n\r\nWe've also placed an emergency stylus at each seat, so one is always available for anyone who needs it. This simple addition has been a lifesaver! Instruction continues smoothly, and there's no more interruption when a student has misplaced their stylus.\r\n\r\nSince these materials arrived, they've been used every day. I know the students appreciate your generosity because everything is always returned to its place at the end of class, without me even needing to remind them!\r\n\r\nThank you for keeping us charged up about learning!","fullyFundedDate":1757084026265,"projectUrl":"project/from-low-battery-to-high-achievers/9606265/","projectTitle":"From Low Battery to High Achievers","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Salmon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9323983"},{"teacherId":9323983,"projectId":9318621,"letterContent":"With the new school year under way, the new games have arrived! Students noticed them right away and are looking forward to our first game day coming up soon. There was curiosity around what these new games will be like since the titles are unfamiliar to them. Building curiosity and an enjoyment of math is so very important and I appreciate the donations to build a library of fun math games!\r\n\r\nStudents work hard in my advanced pace classroom and have to bring their best each and every day. Being able to reinforce math skills in fun, playful ways through these high quality games allows us to reward all that hard work while still honing our math skills. And call me old fashioned, but I just love when I see students interacting without a screen in today's culture. Building social skills at the same time helps us prepare future ready citizens. After all, play was meant to be the hard work of childhood.\r\n\r\nWhile I have had another project focused on keeping us technologically powered, this one allows us to stay balanced. Thank you again for contributing to our classroom in meaningful ways!","fullyFundedDate":1746454246854,"projectUrl":"project/making-math-fun/9318621/","projectTitle":"Making Math Fun","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Salmon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9323983"},{"teacherId":9991780,"projectId":9253514,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous donations, our classroom is now buzzing with excitement over Rubik's Cube challenges! The cubes have turned problem-solving into a fun and interactive experience. Students are developing critical thinking, patience, and perseverance as they work through each twist and turn. What used to feel like a complicated puzzle has now become a shared challenge that builds confidence and teamwork.\r\n\r\nThese challenges have also encouraged collaboration in new ways. Students naturally gather to help one another, share strategies, and celebrate successes together. We've seen leaders emerge, quiet students find their voice, and friendships form as they work side by side to reach a common goal. The energy and joy in the room during these activities have been incredible to witness.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, your support has shown our students that learning can be creative, challenging, and fun all at once. You've helped them build problem-solving skills that stretch beyond the classroom, all while giving them a sense of accomplishment they'll carry with them. From all of us, thank you for making this unique and meaningful learning opportunity possible!","fullyFundedDate":1746455819735,"projectUrl":"project/rubiks-cube-challenge-for-3rd-graders/9253514/","projectTitle":"Rubik's Cube Challenge for 3rd Graders","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. LaVine","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9991780_orig.jpg?crop=335,335,x241,y85&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1743820084828","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9991780"},{"teacherId":9991780,"projectId":9236277,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous donations, our classroom has been transformed into a space full of curiosity, exploration, and meaningful learning. The STEAM kits have sparked excitement in every student. Hands-on activities now allow them to experiment, build, and problem-solve in ways that bring science, technology, engineering, art, and math to life. Students are no longer just reading about concepts — they are testing, designing, and discovering for themselves.\r\n\r\nThe biography books you provided have opened new doors for our readers. My students are inspired by real-life stories of people who faced challenges, pursued passions, and made a difference in the world. These books have encouraged thoughtful discussions about perseverance, empathy, and leadership. Many students have even found role models who reflect their own dreams and identities, which has been incredibly empowering.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, your support has shown my students that their learning matters — that people beyond the walls of our classroom care about their education and their future. You've helped create a richer, more engaging learning environment that nurtures both creativity and critical thinking. From all of us, thank you for investing in our students and giving them opportunities to learn in ways that will stay with them for years to come.","fullyFundedDate":1743953768727,"projectUrl":"project/3rd-grade-hands-on-steam-and-biography-s/9236277/","projectTitle":"3rd Grade Hands on Steam and Biography Study!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. LaVine","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9991780_orig.jpg?crop=335,335,x241,y85&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1743820084828","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9991780"},{"teacherId":9991780,"projectId":9256539,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our classroom and for helping provide an organizational system for our new curriculum. Your kindness has made an immediate and meaningful difference in the way my students and I learn each day. As we transitioned to a brand-new curriculum this year, having an organized space for our instructional materials has helped create a classroom environment where students can focus on learning instead of searching for supplies. Your thoughtful gift has given us the tools to stay organized, maximize instructional time, and build positive routines that set every student up for success.\r\n\r\nWhen the organizational materials arrived, my students were just as excited as I was. They eagerly watched as we sorted books, lesson materials, manipulatives, and student resources into their new homes. Many students commented on how neat and inviting our classroom looked, and they immediately noticed how much easier it was to find everything we needed. They took pride in helping label bins, organize shelves, and create systems that everyone could follow. It became a classroom project that encouraged teamwork and responsibility while helping students understand the importance of staying organized.\r\n\r\nAlready, these resources have transformed our daily routines. During reading and writing lessons, students can quickly locate the materials they need without interrupting instruction. Instead of spending valuable learning time passing out supplies or searching for curriculum resources, we are able to begin lessons right away. One memorable moment came during a small-group reading lesson when students independently gathered their materials, found the correct texts, and settled into their groups within minutes. That extra instructional time allowed us to dive deeper into meaningful discussions about the story and practice new comprehension strategies. It may seem like a small change, but those saved minutes add up and create more opportunities for learning every day.\r\n\r\nBeyond improving efficiency, the organizational system has encouraged students to become more independent. They know exactly where to find classroom materials and where to return them when they are finished. My students take ownership of keeping our classroom organized, and they enjoy being classroom helpers who ensure everything stays in its proper place. These routines build responsibility, confidence, and problem-solving skills while creating a calm learning environment where students feel prepared and successful.\r\n\r\nAs we continue exploring our new curriculum, these organizational resources will remain an essential part of our classroom. We are beginning larger collaborative projects that require students to access multiple materials, reference texts, and work together in small groups. Because everything has an organized home, students can transition smoothly between activities and spend more time collaborating, asking questions, and thinking critically. The organization system has become the foundation that supports engaging lessons across every subject area.\r\n\r\nPerhaps one of the greatest gifts you've given my students is the opportunity to learn in a classroom where organization reduces stress and increases confidence. Students know what to expect, where to find what they need, and how to take responsibility for our shared learning space. These are valuable life skills that extend far beyond the classroom and will continue to benefit them throughout their education.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students and investing in their success. Your generosity has provided so much more than storage solutions—it has created an organized, welcoming environment where learning can flourish. Every lesson runs more smoothly, every transition is more efficient, and every student benefits from the thoughtful systems your gift made possible. We are incredibly grateful for your kindness, your support, and your belief in the power of education. Your generosity will continue making a difference in our classroom every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1746832188868,"projectUrl":"project/new-reading-curriculum-organization-for/9256539/","projectTitle":"New Reading Curriculum Organization for 3rd Grade","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. LaVine","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9991780_orig.jpg?crop=335,335,x241,y85&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1743820084828","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9991780"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_28264","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":685,"numTeachers":40,"percentFrplEligible":26,"percentAsian":10,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":70,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":13,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":3,"gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"17.1:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":false,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":84.7,"schoolId":28264,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about May Whitney Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"May Whitney Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/illinois/lake-zurich-community-school-district-95/may-whitney-elementary-school/28264"}