{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Ulysses S Grant Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":26.0,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":2572479,"projectId":10454354,"letterContent":"Having a reliable, fully stocked supply of essential classroom tools—including dry-erase erasers, vibrant markers, pencil pouches, a wireless pencil sharpener, a full year's supply of pencils, a solid supply of pink erasers, and dedicated headphone storage—has brought smooth, seamless efficiency to our daily routines. In middle school math and technology, instructional momentum is everything. Before receiving these supplies, significant class time was lost to sharpening dull pencils, hunting down working markers for dry-erase board work, or untangling headphones. Having dedicated headphone storage keeps our tech setup tidy, while having pouches and plenty of writing utensils ensures that every student can jump straight into collaborative problem-solving, sketching tech diagrams, or showing their math work on whiteboards without delay.\r\n\r\nWhat excites my middle schoolers most is the independence, reliability, and modern feel of these supplies. They love using the wireless pencil sharpener to prep their work quickly without cord hassles, and having high-quality dry-erase markers makes interactive math practice feel much more engaging than standard paper-and-pencil drills. This project has been especially transformative for students who come to school without their own supplies, removing the subtle anxiety or embarrassment of having to ask around for a pencil or marker. Knowing that everything they need is always ready and accessible builds confidence, fosters a sense of equity, and lets our entire class focus on what truly matters—learning and growing together. Thank you for your amazing generosity!","fullyFundedDate":1787934499505,"projectUrl":"project/building-a-thinking-classroom-and-beyond/10454354/","projectTitle":"Building A Thinking Classroom and Beyond","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Hayes","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2572479_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y386&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1774984684011","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/swaggybob"},{"teacherId":2572479,"projectId":10176652,"letterContent":"Having dedicated technology cleaning supplies—like compressed air cans and microfiber cleaning cloths—has had an immediate, practical impact on our daily computer and classroom routines. In middle school technology and math classes, laptop keyboards are used by students throughout the day. Keeping this equipment clean is essential for both hygiene and proper maintenance. Before receiving your generous support, dust, crumbs, and smudges quickly accumulated, which not only felt unappealing but could also affect how well the devices performed. Now, we are able to maintain a clean, crisp learning environment that shows students their digital tools are valued and cared for. Thank you so much for providing the essential tools that keep our classroom technology running smoothly!","fullyFundedDate":1776108665449,"projectUrl":"project/clean-that-tech/10176652/","projectTitle":"Clean That Tech","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Hayes","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2572479_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y386&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1774984684011","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/swaggybob"},{"teacherId":2572479,"projectId":10613242,"letterContent":"Having a dedicated supply of small incentives—like stickers, fidgets, and bookmarks—has completely transformed our classroom management and daily motivation. In middle school math and technology, staying organized and maintaining focus during complex, multi-step tasks can be challenging. By using these items both for immediate recognition when students show great behavior and as prizes during random drawings for keeping binders organized and completing assignments, we have created an environment built on positive encouragement. The excitement of the random drawings adds an element of fun and anticipation that keeps everyone engaged and striving to keep their work on track.\r\n\r\nWhat excites the students most is the variety of fun items and the thrill of having their names drawn. Middle schoolers love personalizing their water bottles and notebooks with stickers, while fidgets give them a healthy, non-disruptive way to channel energy during focused work time. This system has been particularly transformative for students who struggle with executive functioning or attention, as the combination of instant rewards and surprise drawings gives them continuous motivation to stay organized. Seeing their eyes light up when their effort is noticed—or when their ticket is picked in a drawing—has created a supportive, high-energy momentum in our room. Thank you for helping us celebrate our students' hard work and growth!","fullyFundedDate":1789566538811,"projectUrl":"project/incentivizing-excellence-every-day/10613242/","projectTitle":"Incentivizing Excellence Every Day","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Hayes","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2572479_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y386&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1774984684011","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/swaggybob"},{"teacherId":2572479,"projectId":10249778,"letterContent":"Having supplies to create personalized birthday cups has brought an incredible spark of joy and belonging to our middle school community. In middle school, students often navigate a tricky transition where they still crave celebration, but might feel too old or self-conscious for traditional elementary routines. Having clear plastic cups filled with fun prizes, sweet treats, and special writing utensils gives us a perfect, age-appropriate way to honor each student. So far, we've handed out cups to all our August birthdays and nearly all of our September birthdays, and the positive energy in our math and technology classes every time a new cup is presented has been amazing to watch.\r\n\r\nWhat excites the students most is the surprise factor and the tangible feeling of being recognized. When a student receives their birthday cup, their peers cheer, and you can instantly see them light up with pride. This project has especially warmed the hearts of students who might not otherwise have their birthdays celebrated in a big way outside of school, as well as quieter students who don't always like being the center of attention but love having a thoughtful kit curated just for them. Having fun writing utensils is also a practical bonus they proudly use during math and tech assignments! Your kindness has created a warm, inclusive classroom culture where every single student knows they matter on their special day. Thank you so much for your generosity!","fullyFundedDate":1787236369767,"projectUrl":"project/making-birthdays-special-for-my-students/10249778/","projectTitle":"Making Birthdays Special for My Students","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Hayes","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2572479_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y386&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1774984684011","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/swaggybob"},{"teacherId":2572479,"projectId":10202774,"letterContent":"Having a fully stocked classroom hygiene station has made an immediate, deeply meaningful difference in our daily school environment. Middle school is a time of rapid physical growth and heightened self-consciousness, and basic hygiene necessities—like deodorant, feminine products, body wipes, tissues, and hand sanitizer—play a direct role in a student's ability to focus on learning. In our fast-paced math and technology classes, students spend their time collaborating on complex problem-solving and sharing digital equipment. Having these essential supplies readily available in a discreet, welcoming space eliminates the stress and anxiety that often stem from unmet personal needs, allowing our students to show up as their best selves every day.\r\n\r\nWhat excites my students most about the new station is the dignity, privacy, and care it provides them. Instead of having to make an awkward trip to the nurse's office or go without basic items, they can access what they need quietly and independently. This project has especially impacted students whose families face financial hardship, as well as those who simply experience unexpected middle school moments during a busy day. Seeing the immediate relief on a student's face when they realize they can grab a quick refresh without missing class time or feeling embarrassed has been incredible. Your generosity has provided far more than physical supplies—it has fostered a safe, supportive classroom culture where every student feels valued, respected, and ready to learn. Thank you!","fullyFundedDate":1777635861456,"projectUrl":"project/middle-school-hygiene-station/10202774/","projectTitle":"Middle School Hygiene Station","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Hayes","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2572479_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y386&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1774984684011","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/swaggybob"},{"teacherId":2572479,"projectId":10176610,"letterContent":"Having a classroom set of dedicated headphones has completely transformed the daily learning environment in both my middle school math and technology classes. In modern education, digital platforms play an essential role in delivering individualized instruction—whether students are working through adaptive math software, listening to step-by-step video tutorials, or engaging in online learning tools. Prior to receiving your generous support, keeping students focused was a constant challenge, as overlapping audio created a noisy, distracting environment. Now, each student can immerse themselves in their own tailored learning path, progressing at their own pace without distraction or feeling self-conscious about where they are relative to their peers.\r\n\r\nWhat excites my middle schoolers most about these new headphones is the sense of independence and ownership they bring. Middle school is a critical developmental stage where students crave autonomy, and having high-quality, comfortable headphones gives them a dedicated personal focus zone within our busy classroom. Particular groups of students have benefited enormously, including our English Language Learners and students with learning accommodations, who rely heavily on screen-reading tools and audio translations to comprehend complex mathematical concepts. Seeing them put on their headphones, lock in with quiet confidence, and build key skills is incredible. Thank you for empowering our classroom with this essential tool!","fullyFundedDate":1777635861386,"projectUrl":"project/headphones-for-learning/10176610/","projectTitle":"Headphones for Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Hayes","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2572479_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y386&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1774984684011","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/swaggybob"},{"teacherId":8915077,"projectId":10248146,"letterContent":"Your donations are making a real difference in my classroom! Many of my students cannot afford basic school supplies, so having binders, folders, and other materials provided helps ensure they are prepared and organized for the school day. \r\n\r\nThe Kleenex and hand sanitizer are also a huge help in keeping our classroom clean and healthy, this will especially come in handy during cold and flu season. Thank you for supporting my students and helping create a classroom where they can learn, stay organized, and be successful!","fullyFundedDate":1785597539441,"projectUrl":"project/stocking-success-essential-supplies-fo/10248146/","projectTitle":"“Stocking Success: Essential Supplies for Bright Minds”","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Meyer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8915077_orig.jpg?crop=1177,1177,x1034,y849&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1777653079210","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8915077"},{"teacherId":4291952,"projectId":10510778,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping provide supplies for our classroom! Your support has made a positive difference in our students' everyday learning experience.\r\n\r\nThe students have really enjoyed the candy and sticker rewards, which have been a fun way to recognize their hard work and positive choices. The classroom lights and headphone caddy have helped make our classroom feel more comfortable, welcoming, and organized. The digital wall clock helps students keep track of time and stay on schedule throughout the day.\r\n\r\nThe slow-rising stress cubes have also been a favorite! Students enjoy using them as a calming strategy when they need a quick break or a way to refocus. The classroom posters have added a welcoming touch to our space, while the number line is being used daily during math lessons to help students visualize numbers and strengthen their understanding.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in our students and helping create a classroom where they can feel comfortable, supported, and ready to learn. Your generosity truly makes a difference!","fullyFundedDate":1787934499575,"projectUrl":"project/creating-a-positive-supportive-classro/10510778/","projectTitle":"Creating a Positive & Supportive Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Silveri","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4291952_orig.jpg?crop=863,863,x0,y51&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1671411772508","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4291952"},{"teacherId":9784754,"projectId":10598189,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting my students! Your generosity helps bring fun, engaging learning experiences into our classroom. We truly appreciate your kindness and support! 😊\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThis project has had a positive impact on my students by giving them a fun, hands-on opportunity to build creativity, problem-solving, teamwork, and critical-thinking skills. The LEGO PAC-MAN project has encouraged students to work together, communicate, and stay engaged while learning in a different way. It has created excitement in our classroom and shown students that learning can be both educational and fun!","fullyFundedDate":1789566539263,"projectUrl":"project/game-on-building-teamwork-strategy-an/10598189/","projectTitle":"Game On! Building Teamwork, Strategy, and Movement in PE","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Montooth","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9784754_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1758296714161","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9784754"},{"teacherId":10303966,"projectId":10187799,"letterContent":"Choking is a silent, rapid emergency, where seconds count! The introduction of these LifeVac devices gives our staff a powerful non-invasive tool to clear a fully obstructed airway when standard protocols like the Heimlich maneuver and back blows fail or cannot be performed. Because of your donation, I was able to distribute these life saving devices around our school to have in a time of need. The staff in our school will be trained on how to use these, should an emergency arise. Thank you for your donation!","fullyFundedDate":1778006322550,"projectUrl":"project/a-simple-device-that-can-save-a-student/10187799/","projectTitle":"A Simple Device That Can Save a Student’s Life","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Beveridge","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10303966_orig.png?crop=811,811,x0,y70&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1760914926022","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10303966"},{"teacherId":10303966,"projectId":10279370,"letterContent":"The presence of this wheelchair has immediately dismantled physical barriers for our students. Those navigating long-term mobility constraints or temporary injuries, are no longer restricted to a single classroom or left behind during transitions. They can now travel independently and smoothly to the cafeteria, library, gymnasium, and anywhere within the school grounds. This continuity ensures that physical limitations do not lead to social isolation, allowing students remain fully engage, engaged alongside their peers in every aspect of their school day. Thank you for your contribution!","fullyFundedDate":1779969766279,"projectUrl":"project/wheels-of-comfort-for-injured-students/10279370/","projectTitle":"Wheels of Comfort for Injured Students","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Beveridge","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10303966_orig.png?crop=811,811,x0,y70&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1760914926022","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10303966"},{"teacherId":4752988,"projectId":10148883,"letterContent":"Thank you for your donation! This really impacts my students in a positive way. We have already gone through a box of tissues in less than 2 weeks due to allergies.\r\nStudents are using binders to stay organized. Having pencil holders in every desk keeps the pencils handy for use without falling off the table! The desk top calendar keeps me organized. All of the meetings and student activities are on one handy place!\r\nThe page protectors help me to reduce paper waste. I use them to house the passages for the oral ready fluency checks.","fullyFundedDate":1777635861249,"projectUrl":"project/lets-get-organized/10148883/","projectTitle":"Let's Get Organized","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Minton","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4752988"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_30148","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":494,"numTeachers":44,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":52,"percentWhite":30,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":3,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":13,"gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"11.2:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":74.0,"schoolId":30148,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Ulysses S Grant Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Ulysses S Grant Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/illinois/springfield-public-schools-district-186/ulysses-s-grant-middle-school/30148"}