{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Maple Crest Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":22.2,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":7919218,"projectId":9189245,"letterContent":"Thanks to your amazing support, my students now have a rich and engaging classroom library full of books that inspire both reading and emotional growth. When the books arrived we gathered together and you should have seen their faces, he excitement was real. They gravitated toward the adventurous Geronimo Stilton titles, diving right in, while also exploring the thoughtful Social-Emotional Learning books (like The Invisible Boy and Strictly No Elephants) that help them reflect on feelings, kindness, and friendship. Because of your generosity, students who were reluctant readers are now choosing books independently, discussing characters and themes, and supporting each other.\r\n\r\nNext we're launching a \"Reader's Roundtable\" where students will recommend their favorite books to classmates, create mini book-talks, and write short reviews. We'll also pair a SEL book with a fiction title each week to deepen discussion about connections between characters' choices and our own lives.\r\n\r\nYou didn't just provide books, you gave my students a world of readers in the making. They are already growing, learning, and loving to read because of you.","fullyFundedDate":1748722331067,"projectUrl":"project/building-a-world-of-readers-books-to-in/9189245/","projectTitle":"Building a World of Readers: Books to Inspire and Grow!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Brown","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7919218_orig.jpg?crop=923,923,x173,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1634941588649","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/caseyleebrown"},{"teacherId":7919218,"projectId":8950694,"letterContent":"Thanks to your amazing support, my students now have a classroom library full of the entire A to Z Mysteries series and fresh organization bins that are changing the way they think about reading. When the books arrived we gathered around as the first student carefully pulled one out, opened it wide-eyed, and announced \"I found a mystery!\" Their excitement lit up the room, the series is sparking curiosity, discussion, and a love for reading.\r\n\r\nNow we're already diving into group discussions: students work in small teams, sharing clues, predicting endings, and then comparing their ideas after reading. The organized bins mean every student sees new books clearly and picks them independently, no more hunting, just reading. You've given them access to thrilling stories that build comprehension, problem-solving, and confidence.\r\n\r\nOur next step: we'll launch a \"Mystery Club\" where students meet weekly to talk about their current book, swap favorite moments, and even create their own mini-mysteries inspired by their reading. We'll then display their storyboards in the classroom and host a \"detective day\" celebration.\r\n\r\nYou didn't just fund books, you opened the door to a world of readers. My students are already growing, thinking, solving, and smiling because of your generosity.","fullyFundedDate":1739374005216,"projectUrl":"project/building-a-world-of-readers-books-to-in/8950694/","projectTitle":"Building a World of Readers: Books to Inspire and Grow!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Brown","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7919218_orig.jpg?crop=923,923,x173,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1634941588649","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/caseyleebrown"},{"teacherId":7919218,"projectId":9374037,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity my students experienced science in a way they will never forget. Together we set up our incubator carefully measured temperature and humidity and made daily predictions about when our chicks might hatch. Each morning students rushed in to check for changes and record observations in their science journals. When the first chick finally cracked its shell the room exploded with cheers laughter and pure amazement. Now students are graphing data writing reflections and connecting what they learned to our life cycles and ecosystems units. You gave them more than a lesson you gave them a sense of wonder curiosity and pride in their own scientific discovery.","fullyFundedDate":1753468135722,"projectUrl":"project/peep-peep-hooray-were-hatching-scienti/9374037/","projectTitle":"Peep Peep Hooray! We’re Hatching Scientists!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Brown","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7919218_orig.jpg?crop=923,923,x173,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1634941588649","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/caseyleebrown"},{"teacherId":3830636,"projectId":9516221,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has been transformed into a space where students feel calm, supported, and excited to learn. The cozy corner you helped fund has quickly become a favorite spot for students who need a moment to reset, recharge, or regulate their emotions. I have several students who use this space to take a quick break and return to their work more focused and confident. It's also a favorite spot for silent reading time.\r\n\r\nThe STEM games you provided have also made a huge impact. Students who are typically hesitant to participate during whole-group lessons have been diving into these games with enthusiasm. They are collaborating, problem-solving, and discovering new strengths — all while building necessary social skills that matter so much in fourth grade.\r\n\r\nYour gift didn't just supply materials; it created opportunities. My students now have tools that help them manage big feelings, build friendships, and explore learning in new ways. Thank you for believing in them and supporting a classroom where every child can grow academically, emotionally, and socially. Your kindness is felt here every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1755746656961,"projectUrl":"project/cozy-corners-brain-boosters-for-4th-gr/9516221/","projectTitle":"Cozy Corners & Brain Boosters for 4th Grade Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. L.","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3830636_orig.jpg?crop=1158,1158,x0,y196&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753878948049","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-alli-lee"},{"teacherId":2927281,"projectId":9526982,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our new library is already making a huge impact on our students! The books you funded are more than just stories; they are powerful tools that are helping us teach critical life skills and foster a love for reading.\r\n\r\nMany of these new books, such as The Most Magnificent Thing and A Little SPOT of Life Skills, are helping us introduce key concepts like perseverance and the engineering design process. My students are learning that it's okay to make mistakes and that setbacks are just part of the journey to creating something magnificent. We are also using some books to have conversations about empathy, kindness, and the importance of celebrating what makes us all unique. These are the foundational skills our students need to become collaborative and compassionate members of our school community.\r\n\r\nReading is a vibrant and interactive experience. We use these new books for read-alouds, where students are not just listening, but also participating, asking questions, and discussing the big ideas presented in the stories. It has been amazing to watch them gravitate toward these new titles, especially the graphic novels and books about problem-solving, which have captured the attention of even our most reluctant readers. This project has truly given our students the resources they needed to see themselves as innovators, creators, and empathetic friends.\r\n\r\nFrom the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being a part of our journey.","fullyFundedDate":1755566409109,"projectUrl":"project/stem-art-and-stories-building-our-ele/9526982/","projectTitle":"STEM, Art, and Stories: Building Our Elementary Library","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Daleo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp2927281_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1510451581179","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-daleo"},{"teacherId":2927281,"projectId":9302081,"letterContent":"We wanted to share the incredible impact your generous contributions have had on our young scientists and environmentalists at Maple Crest STEM Elementary! Thanks to your support through DonorsChoose and Panda Express, our classrooms have been transformed into a vibrant hub of hands-on learning. The arrival of the two 9-pod AeroGardens and the impressive 60-pod vertical garden sparked immediate curiosity and excitement. I vividly remember the students' faces as we unboxed each system. Their eyes widened with wonder as they explored the different components, asking insightful questions about how the water and nutrients would help the plants grow without soil. The vertical garden, in particular, drew gasps of amazement at its size and potential. It was a truly magical moment to witness their budding scientific curiosity ignited by these tangible resources.\r\n\r\nWe've already embarked on our first major project: growing types of lettuce! Each class has taken ownership of several parts of the hydroponic systems. For the past few weeks, they've been diligently observing the tiny seeds sprout and grow into leafy greens. This hands-on experience has brought abstract concepts to life. They've learned about the importance of light, water, and nutrients in a way that textbooks simply cannot convey. Just recently, we celebrated our first harvest! The students carefully picked the mature lettuce leaves, their faces beaming with pride. We conducted a taste test, first trying the plain lettuce and then turning it into a simple salad with ranch dressing. The consensus was overwhelmingly positive—they were so proud to taste something they had grown themselves! Sharing our harvest with staff members throughout the school further amplified their sense of accomplishment and connection to the wider school community.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, our hydroponics gardens will continue to be integral to our science curriculum. Students will be actively involved in measuring plant height, counting leaves, and recording their observations in science journals. This will provide valuable opportunities to practice data collection, analysis, and drawing conclusions—essential skills for budding scientists. Your support has not only provided us with gardening equipment but has also cultivated a deeper understanding of the natural world and empowered our students to become active, engaged learners. Thank you for making this incredible learning journey possible!","fullyFundedDate":1746464555886,"projectUrl":"project/making-every-drop-count-a-student-initi/9302081/","projectTitle":"Making Every Drop Count: A Student Initiative for Garden Irrigation","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Daleo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp2927281_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1510451581179","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-daleo"},{"teacherId":9841449,"projectId":9086024,"letterContent":"Thanks so much for helping bring the Makey Makey kit to our classroom! My fourth graders had an absolute blast using it for all kinds of creative STEM projects. One of their favorite activities was making their own musical instruments using bananas, foil, and even paper clips! They connected everything to the Makey Makey and used Scratch to code the sounds. It was so cool to see their faces light up when their homemade instruments actually worked.\r\n\r\nThey also got super creative and made game controllers, talking posters, and even interactive quizzes. These projects helped them think like inventors and problem-solvers, and it was amazing to see them collaborate and get excited about learning.\r\n\r\nYour support truly made this experience possible. Thank you for giving my students the chance to explore, create, and have so much fun with technology!","fullyFundedDate":1739374008216,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-creativity-and-innovation-wit/9086024/","projectTitle":"Empowering Creativity and Innovation With Makey Makey Kits","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Diveley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9841449_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1731957742857","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9841449"},{"teacherId":2927281,"projectId":8951619,"letterContent":"We wanted to share the incredible impact your generous contributions have had on our first-grade scientists and environmentalists at Maple Crest STEM Elementary! The arrival of the two 9-pod AeroGardens and the impressive 60-pod vertical garden sparked immediate curiosity and excitement. The vertical garden, in particular, drew gasps of amazement at its size and potential.\r\n\r\nWe've already embarked on our first major project: growing lettuce! Each first-grade class has taken ownership of one of the hydroponic systems. For the past few weeks, they've been diligently observing the tiny seeds sprout and grow into leafy greens. This hands-on experience has brought abstract concepts to life. They've learned about the importance of light, water, and nutrients in a way that textbooks simply cannot convey. Just recently, we celebrated our first harvest! We conducted a taste test, first trying the plain lettuce and then turning it into a simple salad with ranch dressing. The consensus was overwhelmingly positive – they were so proud to taste something they had grown themselves! Sharing our harvest with staff members throughout the school further amplified their sense of accomplishment and connection to the wider school community.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, our hydroponics gardens will continue to be integral to our science curriculum. Students have been actively involved in measuring plant height, counting leaves, and recording their observations in science journals. This will provide valuable opportunities to practice data collection, analysis, and drawing conclusions – essential skills for budding scientists. Your support has not only provided us with gardening equipment but has also cultivated a deeper understanding of the natural world and empowered our students to become active, engaged learners. Thank you for making this incredible learning journey possible!","fullyFundedDate":1739374008460,"projectUrl":"project/growing-our-future-a-hands-on-hydroponi/8951619/","projectTitle":"Growing Our Future: A Hands-On Hydroponic Adventure","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Daleo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp2927281_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1510451581179","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-daleo"},{"teacherId":9841449,"projectId":8950683,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation to our DonorsChoose project! With your support, we were able to use the mixing bowls, measuring cups, and measuring spoons you provided to bake cookies in class. This hands-on activity not only allowed us to enjoy some delicious treats, but it also helped us put into practice the math skills we've been learning.\r\n\r\nWe measured ingredients, practiced fractions, and followed step-by-step instructions—all while having fun and developing our understanding of math in real-life situations. Your gift has truly made a difference in our learning experience, and we're so grateful for your kindness.\r\n\r\nThank you again for your support!","fullyFundedDate":1732037536024,"projectUrl":"project/baking-up-fractions-a-delicious-way-to/8950683/","projectTitle":"Baking Up Fractions: A Delicious Way To Learn","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Diveley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9841449_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1731957742857","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9841449"},{"teacherId":7919218,"projectId":9008313,"letterContent":"I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for your generosity in funding our flexible seating project. Now that the bean bag chairs have arrived and are part of our daily classroom routine, I can truly see the incredible impact they are making.\r\n\r\nThese new seating options have transformed our classroom into a more comfortable, student-centered learning environment. My students now have the freedom to choose a spot that helps them focus, collaborate, and feel at ease while working. Whether they are curling up with a good book, brainstorming ideas with a partner, or simply finding a quiet space to concentrate, the bean bags have given them a sense of ownership and excitement about their learning.\r\n\r\nSince introducing flexible seating, I've noticed a positive change in student engagement, motivation, and even classroom behavior. Students are more eager to participate, more comfortable during independent work, and better able to regulate their energy levels. The bean bags have truly created a more welcoming and inclusive space for all learners.\r\n\r\nNone of this would have been possible without your support. You have helped create a classroom that not only meets the academic needs of my students but also nurtures their well-being and love for learning. Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and belief in the power of education. You have made a lasting impact on my students, and we are so grateful!","fullyFundedDate":1736983078455,"projectUrl":"project/flexible-seating-for-all/9008313/","projectTitle":"Flexible Seating for All","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Brown","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7919218_orig.jpg?crop=923,923,x173,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1634941588649","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/caseyleebrown"},{"teacherId":7919218,"projectId":8950570,"letterContent":"I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for your generosity in funding our flexible seating project. Now that the bean bag chairs have arrived and are part of our daily classroom routine, I can truly see the incredible impact they are making.\r\n\r\nThese new seating options have transformed our classroom into a more comfortable, student-centered learning environment. My students now have the freedom to choose a spot that helps them focus, collaborate, and feel at ease while working. Whether they are curling up with a good book, brainstorming ideas with a partner, or simply finding a quiet space to concentrate, the bean bags have given them a sense of ownership and excitement about their learning.\r\n\r\nSince introducing flexible seating, I've noticed a positive change in student engagement, motivation, and even classroom behavior. Students are more eager to participate, more comfortable during independent work, and better able to regulate their energy levels. The bean bags have truly created a more welcoming and inclusive space for all learners.\r\n\r\nNone of this would have been possible without your support. You have helped create a classroom that not only meets the academic needs of my students but also nurtures their well-being and love for learning. Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and belief in the power of education. You have made a lasting impact on my students, and we are so grateful!","fullyFundedDate":1731952045088,"projectUrl":"project/flexible-seating-for-all/8950570/","projectTitle":"Flexible Seating for All","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Brown","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7919218_orig.jpg?crop=923,923,x173,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1634941588649","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/caseyleebrown"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_19918","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":127,"numTeachers":null,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":3,"percentBlack":18,"percentWhite":58,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":6,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 4","studentTeacherRatio":null,"demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_SMALL"},"inStateSupporters":77.8,"schoolId":19918,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Maple Crest Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Maple Crest Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/indiana/kokomo-school-corporation/maple-crest-elementary-school/19918"}