{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Western Junior High School","outOfStateSupporters":30.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":7219483,"projectId":9481283,"letterContent":"My students were excited to see the new supplies. The art students used them for their new projects they were doing to show what they learned about the elements of art. They liked having fresh supplies. \r\n\r\nThe art students will be sculpting with paper and cardboard in the future. This will involve markers, crayons, construction paper, and glue guns. The supplies you donated will allow them more choices and plenty of supplies. \r\n\r\nThe social studies students dove into the new supplies to create posters for a colony sales booth project they were working on. Several of the students said they were glad we had new supplies.","fullyFundedDate":1757423973743,"projectUrl":"project/creativity-captures/9481283/","projectTitle":"Creativity Captures","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Askew","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7219483_orig.jpg?crop=960,960,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1647020330408","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7219483"},{"teacherId":8078933,"projectId":9196198,"letterContent":"My students just completed their first Wildcat Coffee Cart deliveries on Friday. Our first week was very successful! I received all the materials at the very end of our previous school year, so we first opened boxes and unpacked all of our new supplies for the coffee cart. My students were so excited to begin making drinks for the teachers and staff. Students have spent the first two weeks of school, learning how to use our coffee maker, iced tea pot, and hot water kettle. We practiced making drinks for our paras and organized our coffee cart. \r\nThis project has already given my students great practice in communication skills as they have taken orders and delivered drinks. They have had to follow step by step directions as they prepared orders. Their money counting abilities have also been put to the test.\r\nWe plan to add to what we offer on our coffee cart and hope to be able to prepare simple snacks and treats to offer to the staff. As we progress throughout the year, students will be able to use the money we are receiving to replenish supplies and also make decisions on how to spend our profits. \r\nThank you so much for making this hands on learning project possible for my students! Your support will impact their lives for a life time!","fullyFundedDate":1747178146846,"projectUrl":"project/wildcat-coffee-cart/9196198/","projectTitle":"Wildcat Coffee Cart","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Gilbert","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8078933"},{"teacherId":2658805,"projectId":9332700,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support in providing cheer shoes and bows for our team's summer camp! The students are absolutely thrilled—especially with the bling on the bows! They can't stop showing them off and love how it adds that extra sparkle to their look.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, our cheerleaders stepped into camp with confidence, spirit, and style. Your kindness helped us create unforgettable moments and a strong start to our season.\r\n\r\nWe truly appreciate your support and belief in our team!","fullyFundedDate":1746891832000,"projectUrl":"project/weve-got-spirit-but-need-shoes/9332700/","projectTitle":"We've Got Spirit, but Need Shoes!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Koeller","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2658805_orig.jpg?crop=453,453,x0,y77&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1646676229935","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-koeller"},{"teacherId":2658805,"projectId":9261264,"letterContent":"We are incredibly grateful for your generous support of our project focused on building a diverse classroom library and a book lending system. Thanks to you, our students now have access to a wide range of books that celebrate different cultures, perspectives, and experiences.\r\n\r\nThe addition of these books has already made a meaningful impact. Students are discovering characters who reflect their own identities, as well as those who are different from them—sparking thoughtful conversations about empathy, acceptance, and respect. It's been truly powerful to see how stories can open minds and hearts.\r\n\r\nYour support also provided us with book cards and pockets that we've used to create a simple check-in/check-out system. This has transformed the way students interact with our library. They take pride in borrowing books, tracking their reading, and sharing recommendations with one another. It has fostered a sense of responsibility and ownership that extends beyond the classroom.\r\n\r\nYour contribution is helping us cultivate not only stronger readers, but more thoughtful and compassionate individuals. We are deeply thankful for your belief in our students and the future they represent.","fullyFundedDate":1746625318131,"projectUrl":"project/check-out-our-diverse-book-club-books/9261264/","projectTitle":"Check Out Our Diverse Book Club Books","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Koeller","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2658805_orig.jpg?crop=453,453,x0,y77&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1646676229935","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-koeller"},{"teacherId":9071341,"projectId":8742420,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our \"Mental Health in Math\" project! The new resources—mindfulness tools, stress-relief items, and calming math manipulatives—have had an incredible impact on my students. When the materials arrived, the students were excited to see how they could help create a calmer, more focused learning environment. Many expressed relief at having tools to reduce anxiety, and they eagerly incorporated deep breathing exercises, fidget tools, and stress-relief strategies into their daily routines.\r\n\r\nOne memorable moment occurred during a challenging algebra lesson when students, feeling overwhelmed, used the new tools to center themselves before diving into the material. After a few minutes of focused breathing and using the fidget toys, they were able to approach the problem with a clear mind and a renewed sense of confidence. We've also been using mindfulness exercises at the beginning of each class to help students start the day feeling grounded and ready to learn, especially before tackling complex word problems.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, our lessons will continue to integrate mental health practices alongside math skills. In our next unit on data analysis, students will be encouraged to reflect on how stress and anxiety can affect their problem-solving and work on strategies to manage those feelings. The resources provided are not only helping them succeed in math—they're equipping them with valuable tools for managing their mental health in the classroom and beyond. Thank you again for helping make this all possible!","fullyFundedDate":1725776912134,"projectUrl":"project/mental-health-in-math/8742420/","projectTitle":"Mental Health in Math","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Harpole","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9071341_orig.jpg?crop=1440,1440,x0,y196&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1687994464744","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsharpole"},{"teacherId":9071341,"projectId":8401793,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our \"Write it Out\" project! The materials you provided—like math journals, markers, and graphing tools—have made a huge difference in how my students approach math. The moment they saw the new supplies, their faces lit up with excitement. For many, having a dedicated journal for their math work has made math feel more organized and less intimidating. They eagerly began using their journals to take notes, solve problems, and document their thinking in ways they hadn't before.\r\n\r\nWe've already used these materials to enhance our work with math word problems and multi-step problem-solving exercises. For example, in a recent project, students used the journals to break down complex word problems into smaller, manageable steps, illustrating their reasoning with diagrams and models. This approach helped many students deepen their understanding and see math as more than just numbers on a page—it became a process they could actively engage with. The visual tools and space to organize their thoughts have been game-changers for both struggling and advanced learners alike.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, students will continue using these resources for our upcoming unit on geometry, where they'll be graphing shapes, calculating areas, and developing their spatial reasoning. With these new tools, they're not just learning math—they're learning how to communicate their ideas effectively and approach challenges with confidence. We are incredibly grateful to The Tracy Family Foundation for making this possible and for their continued support of our students' success.","fullyFundedDate":1715535927220,"projectUrl":"project/write-it-out/8401793/","projectTitle":"Write it out","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Harpole","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9071341_orig.jpg?crop=1440,1440,x0,y196&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1687994464744","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsharpole"},{"teacherId":9071341,"projectId":8393524,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our \"Supplies Restock\" project! The arrival of these materials was met with pure excitement from my students. As soon as they saw the fresh supply of pencils, markers, notebooks, and organizational tools, they couldn't wait to get their hands on them. Many of my students don't have consistent access to basic school supplies at home, so your gift truly leveled the playing field and helped every child feel prepared and valued.\r\n\r\nThese supplies have already made a big difference in our day-to-day learning. One standout moment was during a recent science unit, where students used the new materials to design and label diagrams of plant and animal cells. Having quality supplies meant students could work more independently and creatively, allowing them to take ownership of their learning. It also encouraged more participation and collaboration during group work, since no one felt left out or behind due to a lack of materials.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we're starting a cross-curricular project that connects math, writing, and research skills. Students will be creating informational posters about real-world careers that use math, and they'll use the donated supplies to design, organize, and present their work to the class. Because of your support, they'll be able to focus on the content and their creativity—not on whether they have the tools to complete the task. Thank you again for giving my students what they need to succeed and thrive!","fullyFundedDate":1715496961549,"projectUrl":"project/supplies-restock/8393524/","projectTitle":"Supplies Restock","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Harpole","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9071341_orig.jpg?crop=1440,1440,x0,y196&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1687994464744","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsharpole"},{"teacherId":9071341,"projectId":8354639,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous donation for essential classroom items, our learning environment has become more functional, welcoming, and empowering. From basic supplies like pencils, paper, and organizers to classroom essentials that support daily learning, these materials have removed barriers that many of my students regularly face. For many of them, having their own supplies for the first time was a powerful moment—they lit up with excitement and pride, knowing they were equipped to succeed.\r\n\r\nOne memorable moment came during a group math project when students used the new materials to create posters explaining different problem-solving strategies. With access to markers, rulers, and chart paper, they took ownership of their learning and proudly presented their work to the class. These simple items gave them the tools—and confidence—to express their thinking creatively and clearly.\r\n\r\nThe materials have also helped streamline our daily routines, allowing more time for meaningful instruction and collaboration. Students now come to class ready to learn, without the stress of lacking basic supplies. This shift has had a huge impact on classroom morale and student independence.\r\n\r\nAs we move into our next unit, students will be using these resources to research and present on real-world math applications, tying together academic skills and personal interests. Your donation has laid a strong foundation for deeper learning, and we're so grateful for the opportunities it continues to create. Thank you for being a vital part of our classroom community!","fullyFundedDate":1715136856208,"projectUrl":"project/math-essentials/8354639/","projectTitle":"Math Essentials","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Harpole","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9071341_orig.jpg?crop=1440,1440,x0,y196&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1687994464744","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsharpole"},{"teacherId":9071341,"projectId":8141145,"letterContent":"The donation for flexible seating and fidgets has transformed our classroom into a more inclusive, focused, and student-centered space. Flexible seating options give students the freedom to choose how they learn best—whether it's sitting, standing, or moving—leading to increased engagement and comfort. Fidgets help students with attention challenges stay calm and focused without disrupting others. Together, these tools have improved behavior, boosted participation, and created a learning environment where every student feels supported and empowered.\r\nIn addition to enhancing focus and comfort, the donation has positively impacted classroom culture. Students feel a greater sense of ownership and responsibility for their learning space, which has led to improved collaboration and mutual respect. The flexible seating encourages movement and choice, while fidgets provide quiet sensory support—both of which have reduced stress and anxiety. This supportive environment allows all students, especially those with diverse learning needs, to thrive academically and socially.","fullyFundedDate":1714248556389,"projectUrl":"project/movement-in-math/8141145/","projectTitle":"Movement in Math","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Harpole","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9071341_orig.jpg?crop=1440,1440,x0,y196&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1687994464744","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsharpole"},{"teacherId":9071341,"projectId":8009069,"letterContent":"In a time when many schools face tight budgets and limited resources, a donation for math manipulatives has been a game-changer for our classroom. What might seem like a simple contribution of tools and materials has, in reality, had a profound and lasting impact on our students' learning, confidence, and overall classroom experience.\r\n\r\nBefore we received the donation, our math instruction was largely paper-based. Students often struggled to visualize abstract concepts like fractions, decimals, and geometry. Many became frustrated and disengaged because they couldn't connect what they saw on paper to what they were supposed to understand in their minds. As a result, their confidence waned, and the joy of learning math began to disappear. We did our best with what we had—drawing diagrams on the board, using colored pencils, and sometimes improvising with coins or paper clips—but it wasn't enough to meet the needs of every learner, especially those who benefit most from hands-on experiences.\r\n\r\nThe arrival of the manipulatives changed everything.\r\n\r\nSuddenly, students had access to fraction tiles, base ten blocks, pattern blocks, number lines, algebra tiles, and geometric solids. With these tools in hand, math came to life. Students who previously struggled to grasp concepts were now building, touching, rotating, and arranging the ideas they once found confusing. Abstract concepts became concrete. Fractions could be seen and compared. Volume and surface area could be explored by building shapes. Negative numbers made more sense with number lines and counters. The manipulatives didn't just support struggling students—they challenged advanced learners too. They allowed all students to explore mathematical ideas more deeply and creatively.\r\n\r\nOne of the biggest transformations has been in student engagement. Hands-on materials naturally invite curiosity and participation. Students lean in. They collaborate more. They ask better questions. Our classroom has become more active—not in a chaotic way, but in the kind of energized, productive way that real learning invites. Math time used to be filled with sighs and groans; now it's full of \"aha!\" moments and excited chatter as students work together to solve problems and explain their thinking.\r\n\r\nAnother noticeable shift is in student confidence. When students can manipulate objects to work through a problem, they feel more in control of their learning. They experience success more frequently, and that success builds momentum. Students who used to say, \"I'm just not good at math\" are now saying, \"I get it!\" or \"Let me show you how I figured it out.\" These moments of pride and accomplishment are what every teacher hopes for—and this donation made them possible.\r\n\r\nThe manipulatives have also made differentiation more effective. In our diverse classroom, we have students at varying levels of understanding. The same manipulative can be used in multiple ways to support different learners. For example, base ten blocks can be used to teach place value to some, while others use them for multi-digit multiplication or decimal operations. With these tools, I can provide targeted instruction that meets each student where they are.\r\n\r\nBeyond academics, the donation has fostered a stronger sense of community. Students share tools, discuss strategies, and help each other. Learning math is no longer a solitary or silent task—it's collaborative and supportive. They celebrate each other's progress and work together to overcome challenges.\r\n\r\nIn summary, this donation was more than just a set of tools—it was an investment in our students' future. It has brought energy, equity, and excellence into our math instruction. The impact of this gift will be felt for years to come as our students carry their strengthened understanding and confidence into higher grades and everyday life. We are deeply grateful, and we hope the donors know that their generosity has truly changed lives.","fullyFundedDate":1703961066222,"projectUrl":"project/math-manipulatives-with-ease/8009069/","projectTitle":"Math Manipulatives With Ease","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Harpole","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9071341_orig.jpg?crop=1440,1440,x0,y196&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1687994464744","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsharpole"},{"teacherId":9071341,"projectId":7975556,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation toward STEAM resources in our math classroom! Your support directly enhances student learning by making math more engaging, hands-on, and connected to real-world problem-solving. With your help, students can explore mathematical concepts through creative projects, technology integration, and interactive activities that deepen their understanding and spark curiosity. Donations like yours help us provide materials for coding, engineering challenges, art-integrated math lessons, and more—empowering students to see math as both meaningful and exciting. We are truly grateful for your investment in their success!","fullyFundedDate":1699231315523,"projectUrl":"project/steam-in-math/7975556/","projectTitle":"STEAM in Math","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Harpole","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9071341_orig.jpg?crop=1440,1440,x0,y196&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1687994464744","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsharpole"},{"teacherId":2658805,"projectId":9143919,"letterContent":"My class and I are incredibly grateful for the new books we've added to our classroom library. These additions have made a meaningful impact, especially for our junior high students who are drawn to realistic fiction. These stories speak directly to their experiences, and many students find themselves unable to put the books down. They relate to the characters' challenges and emotions, often seeing their own lives reflected in the pages. Through these narratives, they not only feel seen, but also learn important coping skills.\r\n\r\nWe've also added an exciting selection of mystery and fishing novels—genres that have sparked the interest of some of our most reluctant readers. These stories are engaging and accessible, pulling in students who previously didn't consider themselves readers. It's been wonderful to see their enthusiasm grow.\r\n\r\nMany of these books will be used in student book groups. These discussions encourage students to think deeply, share perspectives, debate ideas, and connect with the motives and decisions of characters. Watching them engage in respectful, thoughtful conversations is one of the most rewarding parts of teaching.\r\n\r\nThis project has truly energized our classroom reading culture. While I always encourage my students to read, having access to fresh, vibrant titles with eye-catching covers makes a huge difference. It's a joy to see students curled up in our cozy reading area, completely immersed in their new books. This experience has made my job even more fulfilling, and I'm so thankful for the support that made it possible.","fullyFundedDate":1744079338629,"projectUrl":"project/just-read/9143919/","projectTitle":"Just Read!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Koeller","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2658805_orig.jpg?crop=453,453,x0,y77&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1646676229935","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-koeller"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_30489","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":95,"numTeachers":11,"percentFrplEligible":55,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":95,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":1,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"5 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"8.6:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"RURAL","ncesMetroType":"RURAL_DISTANT"},"inStateSupporters":69.7,"schoolId":30489,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Western Junior High School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Western Junior High School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/illinois/western-cusd-12/western-junior-high-school/30489"}