{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"McClernand Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":27.0,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9743706,"projectId":9467295,"letterContent":"As soon as we opened the boxes, the kids were so excited. They couldn't believe all of the new materials we had to work with. The team building games are a big hit, and it has been amazing to see them collaborate, problem-solve, and communicate in ways that have helped strengthen our classroom community. The hands-on classroom tools have also been so helpful, especially for my students who learn best through movement or need support with touch or visual supports. The materials you sent are concrete and accessible ways for these kids to practice skills that can be challenging to teach without using paper.\r\n\r\nThe new books you sent have also had a huge impact. Students use them during independent reading, as well as during our social-emotional learning time and choose books that help them navigate how they're feeling or what they're experiencing. I've seen students grab books as they need them, whether they're feeling overwhelmed or just plain curious, or trying to understand something about themselves or a friend. The squishies are their favorite classroom reward and have been an amazing motivator for positive behavior and goal-setting.\r\n\r\nNone of this would have been possible without your generosity. You have helped us create a space where students feel supported, empowered, and excited to learn not just academically, but socially and emotionally. We are so grateful for your kindness and belief in our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1758804880318,"projectUrl":"project/compassion-in-action/9467295/","projectTitle":"Compassion in Action","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Russell","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9743706_orig.png?crop=1340,1340,x0,y125&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1732301090097","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9743706"},{"teacherId":7198412,"projectId":9321100,"letterContent":"On behalf of our students and classroom community, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you for your generous donation to our Scholastic News fundraiser.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, our students now have access to engaging, age-appropriate news stories that help them build critical reading skills, expand their knowledge of the world, and spark meaningful conversations. These magazines have quickly become a favorite in our classroom — not only do they align with our curriculum, but they also make learning feel exciting and relevant.\r\n\r\nYour contribution has made a real difference. For many of our students, this may be their first time regularly reading about current events in a way they can understand and relate to. You've helped open their eyes to the world beyond the classroom — and that's a gift that will stay with them for years to come.\r\n\r\nThank you once again for your kindness and commitment to education. We are deeply grateful for your support.","fullyFundedDate":1746787047932,"projectUrl":"project/scholastic-news-in-first-grade/9321100/","projectTitle":"Scholastic News in First Grade!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Harris","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7198412"},{"teacherId":10088791,"projectId":9490963,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom has been transformed into an even more engaging, functional, and supportive space for our incredible learners with autism. The moment the new materials arrived—Velcro dots, laminating pouches, and protective cases, I had access to what I needed to create visual supports.\r\n\r\nWe've already begun using the materials in meaningful ways. Visual supports and communication books created with the Velcro and laminating supplies are now a daily part of our routine. One unforgettable moment was when a student who struggles to express himself used his newly assembled communication coreboard to tell us what he wanted for play time. His pride and excitement were contagious, and it was a powerful reminder of how critical these tools are.\r\n\r\nThe felt play items help our students practice social skills, turn-taking, and vocabulary in a way that felt more like fun than learning. These playful, low-pressure interactions are key to language development and social growth.\r\n\r\nYour contribution has made all of this possible. You've given our students tools to communicate, interact, and grow with confidence. Thank you for believing in them and in the power of a supportive, sensory-friendly classroom. We're so grateful to have you as part of our learning journey.","fullyFundedDate":1754401327982,"projectUrl":"project/k-2-autism-classroom-visual-aids-comm/9490963/","projectTitle":"K-2 Autism Classroom: Visual Aids & Communication Materials","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. McCord","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10088791_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753213059235","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10088791"},{"teacherId":10088791,"projectId":9490500,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom has become a more peaceful, engaging, and nurturing environment for my incredible young learners with autism. The materials you helped provide are making a real difference—every single day.\r\n\r\nWhen the new resources arrived, the students were instantly curious and excited. Some gravitated toward the sensory items right away, while others quietly explored the new tools at their own pace. One of my students, who usually struggles with transitions, immediately found comfort in one of the new sensory supports.\r\n\r\nSince receiving the materials, we've incorporated them into different parts of our day. The tools have helped promote communication, self-regulation, and independence. \r\nThese aren't just supplies—they are supports that meet our students exactly where they are, and help them grow in the ways they need most. Your generosity has made our classroom more inclusive, more responsive, and more joyful.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we are beginning a new unit focused on building language and social interaction through play-based centers. The materials you funded will play a key role, helping our students engage with peers and practice daily living skills in meaningful and motivating ways.\r\n\r\nFrom the bottom of my heart—and on behalf of every student in our room—thank you. You've given us more than tools. You've helped create a space where all children are respected, supported, and celebrated for who they are.","fullyFundedDate":1753924161683,"projectUrl":"project/k-1-autism-classroom-learning-play-mater/9490500/","projectTitle":"K-1 Autism Classroom Learning Play Materials","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. McCord","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10088791_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753213059235","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10088791"},{"teacherId":2938410,"projectId":9331246,"letterContent":"On behalf of our first-grade students, families, and teaching team, I would like to extend our deepest gratitude for your generous financial support in providing essential school supplies. Your contribution has ensured that every child in our classroom has access to the tools they need to learn, create, and thrive.\r\n\r\nFor many of us, items like pencils, crayons, paper, or headphones may seem simple or even ordinary. Yet in a classroom, these supplies are not just objects—they are the building blocks of daily learning. A sharpened pencil gives a child the confidence to write their first complete sentence. A box of crayons opens the door to self-expression, allowing a student to illustrate stories and ideas that words alone cannot capture. Sheets of paper hold math problems, journal entries, and drawings that represent each child's progress and imagination. Headphones offer focus and independence, giving students the ability to engage in personalized reading and math activities without distraction.\r\n\r\nWithout these basic materials, teaching and learning can quickly become a challenge. Students may feel unprepared, discouraged, or limited in their ability to participate fully. With your support, however, every child in our first grade class begins the day knowing they are equipped with the same resources as their peers. This not only levels the playing field but also builds a stronger sense of community and equality within our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1746832333163,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-supplies-for-first-grade/9331246/","projectTitle":"Classroom Supplies for First Grade!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Prusak","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp2938410_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1504275903995","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/meganprusak"},{"teacherId":2938410,"projectId":9246283,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generosity in supporting our classroom community. Building a strong sense of belonging and connection among students is crucial to their growth and learning. With your help, we are creating an environment where every child feels valued, supported, and inspired to contribute. These resources will directly impact how students learn to collaborate, share responsibilities, and celebrate each other's strengths.\r\n\r\nThe items you've helped provide will engage students in meaningful, hands-on experiences such as organization, designing, crafting, writing, and problem-solving in both small and large groups. These opportunities not only strengthen academic skills but also encourage creativity, teamwork, and perseverance. By working together, students will discover the importance of respecting diverse perspectives and relying on one another to achieve common goals.\r\n\r\nA key part of building this community is giving students the chance to express themselves and showcase their learning. Through the projects they create and present, children will gain confidence in their abilities and pride in their accomplishments. Thank you for investing in their success and for helping us foster a classroom where collaboration, creativity, and community thrive every day.","fullyFundedDate":1746452132737,"projectUrl":"project/building-classroom-community/9246283/","projectTitle":"Building Classroom Community!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Prusak","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp2938410_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1504275903995","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/meganprusak"},{"teacherId":2938410,"projectId":9219509,"letterContent":"Fostering a robust sense of community within both the classroom and the larger school environment is of paramount importance. To achieve this goal, we have implemented various engaging activities that encourage students to participate in collaborative tasks. Thanks to donors like you, these tasks will include mentorship opportunities, design projects, crafting initiatives, and problem-solving activities, all conducted in both small and large groups.\r\n\r\nWe plan to place a strong emphasis on encouraging self-expression through a variety of avenues, allowing students to explore their creativity and individuality. A central component of this strategy will be the promotion of teamwork among students in grades 3 through 5 alongside those in grades K through 2. This collaboration has fostered relationships and enhanced the learning experience for all involved.","fullyFundedDate":1744033048153,"projectUrl":"project/social-emotional-learning-for-all/9219509/","projectTitle":"Social Emotional Learning for All!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Prusak","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp2938410_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1504275903995","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/meganprusak"},{"teacherId":2938410,"projectId":9246237,"letterContent":"We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude for your generous support in funding our classroom project. Your kindness will enable us to delve into a variety of exciting and enriching topics, including citizenship, the fascinating world of insects, the remarkable characteristics of polar animals, the seasonal changes associated with pumpkins, as well as crucial themes in science and social-emotional learning.\r\n\r\nThe news magazines that you have graciously helped to provide will greatly enhance our students' skills in mapping, data collection, and much more. These invaluable resources will be instrumental in supporting the learning experiences of all students throughout this academic year.\r\n\r\nWe are truly grateful for your support and commitment to our educational endeavors! Thank you once again for making a difference in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1744202887145,"projectUrl":"project/first-grade-news/9246237/","projectTitle":"First Grade News!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Prusak","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp2938410_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1504275903995","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/meganprusak"},{"teacherId":2938410,"projectId":9215115,"letterContent":"I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for establishing such a versatile learning environment for my students. This space is not just a place for academic pursuits; it actively encourages collaboration and teamwork among them. By fostering this kind of atmosphere, you significantly enhance their ability to engage meaningfully across various subject areas. Your unwavering support and commitment truly make a profound difference in their overall educational experience, allowing them to thrive both individually and collectively. Thank you for all that you do!","fullyFundedDate":1746787322533,"projectUrl":"project/a-spot-for-everyone/9215115/","projectTitle":"A Spot for Everyone!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Prusak","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp2938410_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1504275903995","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/meganprusak"},{"teacherId":9743706,"projectId":9532787,"letterContent":"We are so grateful for the generous support that provided our classroom with a beautiful new rug. The students absolutely love it, and it has quickly become a favorite place to gather, read, and work together. Having a cozy, inviting space helps create an atmosphere where students feel comfortable, connected, and eager to learn. Every day, I see their excitement as they find a spot on the rug, whether it's for independent reading, small-group collaboration, or simply enjoying the sense of community it brings to our classroom.\r\n\r\nAlong with our rug, we are also thankful for the inspiring growth mindset posters. These reminders are already encouraging students to reframe their thinking and embrace challenges with confidence. By helping us focus on the power of our words and mindset, the posters will continue to guide students toward perseverance, resilience, and the belief that they can grow through effort. These daily affirmations support both academic and personal growth, shaping skills that extend far beyond the classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1755521914819,"projectUrl":"project/a-space-to-read-learn-and-grow/9532787/","projectTitle":"A Space to Read, Learn, and Grow","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Russell","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9743706_orig.png?crop=1340,1340,x0,y125&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1732301090097","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9743706"},{"teacherId":9743706,"projectId":9324262,"letterContent":"We are so grateful for your generous donation of books for our classroom. Your support has given our students access to a variety of new titles that will spark their curiosity and inspire a love of reading. Having engaging and diverse options available allows each student to find stories and topics that connect with their own interests and experiences.\r\n\r\nWith these books, our classroom library has become an inviting space where students are eager to pick up a book and dive into new adventures. From exciting fiction stories that let them imagine different worlds, to nonfiction texts that expand their knowledge about the real one, these resources will play a meaningful role in their growth as readers and learners.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, your gift helps us nurture a lifelong habit of reading. By providing books that truly excite our students, you are helping us create positive reading experiences that will stay with them for years to come. Thank you for investing in their joy, their curiosity, and their future success.","fullyFundedDate":1746786418067,"projectUrl":"project/building-readers-one-book-at-a-time/9324262/","projectTitle":"Building Readers, One Book at a Time","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Russell","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9743706_orig.png?crop=1340,1340,x0,y125&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1732301090097","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9743706"},{"teacherId":7198412,"projectId":5752347,"letterContent":"Dear [Donor's Name or \"Generous Donor\"],\r\n\r\nOn behalf of our students and classroom community, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you for your generous donation to our Readers are leaders project!\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, our students now have access to engaging, age-appropriate books to take home that help them build critical reading skills, expand their knowledge of the world, and spark meaningful conversations. \r\n\r\nYour contribution has made a real difference. For many of our students, this may be their first time receiving multiple books that they can keep. You've helped open their eyes to the world beyond the classroom — and that's a gift that will stay with them for years to come.\r\n\r\nThank you once again for your kindness and commitment to education. We are deeply grateful for your support.","fullyFundedDate":1631631812931,"projectUrl":"project/readers-are-leaders/5752347/","projectTitle":"Readers are Leaders!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Harris","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7198412"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_28272","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":193,"numTeachers":20,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":1,"percentBlack":50,"percentWhite":37,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":1,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"9.6:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":73.0,"schoolId":28272,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about McClernand Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"McClernand Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/illinois/springfield-public-schools-district-186/mcclernand-elementary-school/28272"}