{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Montello Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":51.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":7125399,"projectId":9493670,"letterContent":"Our new book boxes and storage cart have already made a huge difference in our classroom. Students are now aable to keep their books, reading journals and supplies organized in a way that makes sense for them and empowers them. \r\n \r\nMost importantly, these materials have helped create an exciting environment in our classroom and student take pride in putting the materials in their correct home. \r\n\r\n Finally, the materials help us build stronger routines and independence, especially for students who benefit from clear structure and access to materials. This independence allows them to focus on growing as readers every day.\r\n\r\n Thanks so much for supporting our classroom and making this possible for our students.","fullyFundedDate":1753823398095,"projectUrl":"project/a-home-for-our-books/9493670/","projectTitle":"A Home for Our Books","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Lindell","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7125399_orig.jpg?crop=1837,1837,x223,y965&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1722990733104","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsklindell"},{"teacherId":996705,"projectId":10070287,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for donating to our classroom project. When we opened the boxes, children were particularly excited about the floor cushions and the new lap desks. Students were fighting for a chance to use the lap desks and work away from their desks. I was excited to build my standing desk and it has come in handy for my work at the whiteboard and organizing group materials and cleaning supplies. \r\n\r\nWe love using the giant square floor cushion during reading block. It is very thick and comfortable when we are listening to read alouds. The floor cushions are fun to stack and make forts out of in our free time. Lap desks get used when we work around the room and our new vacuum has been helping us to stay more tidy. We very much appreciate your help with getting these materials and look forward to using them the rest of the school year and then with future classes.","fullyFundedDate":1770681811748,"projectUrl":"project/clean-cozy-and-ready-to-learn/10070287/","projectTitle":"Clean, Cozy, and Ready to Learn","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Derouche","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp996705_orig.jpg?crop=1767,1767,x0,y517&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1704805260684","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-julian"},{"teacherId":9765652,"projectId":9898288,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom was able to dive into our space unit in a way that was both meaningful and exciting. We used the new space books to research constellations, with students working in small groups to learn about different star patterns, their names, and the stories behind them. Using the mini Lite-Brites, students then designed and recreated their constellations, carefully placing each \"star\" to match what they had learned. This hands-on project helped them truly understand how constellations are formed and why they are important.\r\n\r\nWhen my students first saw the materials, their excitement was immediate. The room filled with curiosity and questions as they eagerly flipped through the books and couldn't wait to start creating. Many of my students, especially those who don't always feel confident during traditional reading tasks, were fully engaged because they could connect what they read to something they were building and seeing come to life. It was incredible to watch their confidence grow as they shared their constellations and explained their thinking to classmates.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, students will continue building on this experience by comparing constellations, exploring how they change with the seasons, and connecting their learning to other space concepts. They will also use the books for ongoing research projects and discussions, strengthening both their science understanding and literacy skills. Your support has made a lasting impact on how my students experience learning—thank you for helping bring our classroom to life!","fullyFundedDate":1764773102882,"projectUrl":"project/glow-grow-illuminating-space-learning/9898288/","projectTitle":"Glow & Grow: Illuminating Space Learning With Books and Lite-Brites","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Van Garsse","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9765652_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1731818228126","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9765652"},{"teacherId":9765652,"projectId":10150385,"letterContent":"Because of your support, my students now have access to graphic novels that are both engaging and meaningful. These texts have helped us focus on key reading skills like inference, character development, and understanding theme in a more approachable way. Students are learning to use both visuals and text together to build meaning, which has strengthened their overall comprehension and confidence.\r\n\r\nReading in my classroom now looks more intentional and energized. Students are making thoughtful choices about what they read, spending more time focused on their books, and participating more naturally in discussions. I'm hearing students reference specific scenes, compare characters, and make connections between different texts—something that didn't happen as often before.\r\n\r\nWhat has stood out most is how students are beginning to branch out. Instead of sticking only to familiar series, they are trying new types of stories, including graphic novel versions of more complex texts. Some have even started recommending books to each other and asking for similar titles, which shows a growing sense of ownership over their reading. Your support has helped create a classroom where students are not just reading more, but thinking more deeply about what they read.","fullyFundedDate":1776140885622,"projectUrl":"project/hooking-readers-with-graphic-novels/10150385/","projectTitle":"Hooking Readers With Graphic Novels","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Van Garsse","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9765652_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1731818228126","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9765652"},{"teacherId":9765652,"projectId":9665059,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students now have access to high-interest books that truly match their enthusiasm for reading. In our classroom, reading is active, social, and meaningful—students are constantly discussing characters, making predictions, and recommending books to one another. These new texts have allowed us to go deeper into important skills like understanding theme, analyzing character development, making inferences, and building vocabulary in a natural, engaging way.\r\n\r\nFor my multilingual learners especially, these books have been incredibly powerful. They provide rich, accessible language and repeated exposure to vocabulary, helping students build confidence as they read and participate in discussions. I've seen students who were once hesitant become more willing to take risks, share ideas, and connect with stories in meaningful ways.\r\n\r\nSome students have already found series they can't put down—they come in excited to continue reading, ask thoughtful questions, and even encourage their classmates to join them. Others are discovering new genres and realizing they are readers. Because of your support, reading in our classroom isn't just a task—it's something students look forward to every day. Your donation has helped create a space where all students can grow, connect, and truly enjoy the power of a good book.","fullyFundedDate":1773830192712,"projectUrl":"project/fueling-our-readers-next-chapter/9665059/","projectTitle":"Fueling Our Readers’ Next Chapter","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Van Garsse","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9765652_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1731818228126","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9765652"},{"teacherId":8960773,"projectId":9497936,"letterContent":"My students have been enjoying the sports equipment! The entire grade has created a soccer league that plays every day at recess! The pinnies have been helpful in identifying each team! \r\nI also have a large group of girls who have fallen in love with volleyball thanks to your generosity!\r\nIt makes my teacher heart so happy seeing the interest in sports and movement in my kids! So many of these kids would not have the opportunity to play sports outside of school, so having the equipment for them to use is often life changing!","fullyFundedDate":1753822242149,"projectUrl":"project/sports-and-activities/9497936/","projectTitle":"Sports and Activities","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. White","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8960773_orig.jpg?crop=356,356,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1750658246045","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8960773"},{"teacherId":10225989,"projectId":9927410,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your thoughtfulness and generosity. Our Donors Choose packages arrived at the perfect time. Now more than ever, my sixth grade students are finding anything that allows them to relax, builds their confidence and allows them to focus on learning is truly a gift! \r\n\r\nYour thoughtful support helps us keep our classroom safe, welcoming, and well-stocked so learning can stay the focus. Students are so excited to use the \"fancy\" Lysol wipes at the end of each day, I've now assigned a dedicated \"Daily Wiper!\" Likewise, the hand sanitizing wipes are terrific for individual use and much more pratical that constantly rehanging and repairing a wall pump. \r\n\r\nStudents were overjoyed when I handed each their own \"Best Selves\" packs. I created these with the deoderant, hygene/personal wipes and a few other items purchased on my own. All were pleasantly surprised that the brands were exactly what they prefer. Lastly, my female students continually express their gratitude about having their own monthly materials in the classroom and not having to go to the nurse or their lockers.\r\nAgain, the ability to focus on their academic tasks and feel confident throughout the school day is priceless.","fullyFundedDate":1767120752086,"projectUrl":"project/the-basics-lead-to-best-selves/9927410/","projectTitle":"The Basics Lead to Best Selves","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Gottlieb","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10225989_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1764169789556","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10225989"},{"teacherId":8960773,"projectId":9885307,"letterContent":"Thank you for your donation to my class! My students are thoroughly enjoying being able to read stories in their native languages!\r\nThe joy you have provided by this simple act of kindness is unmatched!\r\nI have watched students reading to their peers from these books and beaming with pride! Students are asking them to teach them how to say certain words and phrases in their language. I have even watched my other students attempt to read books in the multilingual text! What a beautiful thing!\r\n\r\nI am forever grateful!","fullyFundedDate":1763585587822,"projectUrl":"project/creating-a-multilingual-classroom-librar/9885307/","projectTitle":"Creating a Multilingual Classroom Library","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. White","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8960773_orig.jpg?crop=356,356,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1750658246045","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8960773"},{"teacherId":9765652,"projectId":9680624,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, reading in our classroom has become more purposeful, engaging, and joyful. These new books allow me to teach important skills in a meaningful way. In our reading groups, students are practicing comprehension strategies like identifying theme, making inferences, citing text evidence, and analyzing characters' motivations. We work on fluency, vocabulary development, and thoughtful discussion skills. Having shared texts at just the right level makes it possible to truly meet students where they are and help them grow with confidence.\r\n\r\nReading time in our classroom now looks like a community of engaged learners. During small groups, students lean in, ask questions, and build on one another's ideas. During independent reading, the room settles into a focused calm as students dive into books they chose themselves. That choice has been powerful. When students can read texts that match their abilities and interests, they take more risks, read for longer periods of time, and talk excitedly about what they're discovering.\r\n\r\nI've already seen particular students blossom. One student who used to avoid reading now eagerly grabs his group book and volunteers to read aloud. Another, who struggled to find \"just right\" books before, has finished multiple independent novels and proudly shares recommendations with classmates. Your support didn't just add books to our shelves—it gave my students confidence, ownership, and a stronger belief in themselves as readers.","fullyFundedDate":1762632076644,"projectUrl":"project/a-world-of-books-for-growing-readers/9680624/","projectTitle":"A World of Books for Growing Readers","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Van Garsse","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9765652_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1731818228126","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9765652"},{"teacherId":9765652,"projectId":9659101,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom feels more organized, comfortable, and ready for learning each day. Students are using the book bins to keep their materials neatly stored and easy to access, which has helped build independence and responsibility. The floor cushions have quickly become a favorite during independent reading and partner work. Students love having a cozy spot to sit while diving into a good book or collaborating on a project. Even something as simple as having tissues readily available has helped us stay focused and comfortable throughout the day.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, my students were so excited. They immediately noticed how bright and inviting the space felt with the new seating and organized bins. Several students commented on how \"cozy\" our classroom felt, and they were eager to choose a cushion and get started on their work. It was wonderful to see their pride in taking care of the new materials and setting up their own organized spaces.\r\n\r\nAs we continue our current lessons, these resources are supporting independent reading, small group discussions, and collaborative projects. Our next step is building stamina during reading workshop and deepening our discussions through partner and small-group conversations. Thanks to you, my students have a classroom environment that supports focus, comfort, and a love of learning. We are so grateful for your support and for being part of our classroom story.","fullyFundedDate":1762632076428,"projectUrl":"project/a-cozy-and-organized-classroom-for-succe/9659101/","projectTitle":"A Cozy and Organized Classroom for Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Van Garsse","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9765652_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1731818228126","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9765652"},{"teacherId":7125399,"projectId":9608909,"letterContent":"The art materials, including the paints and the easel, have brought a new level of creativity to our classroom. Students are eager to participate in anything art related and take pride in having high quality materials that help their ideas come to life. \r\n\r\n The materials provide a location for deomonstratons and to help students follow along with confidence. My students are becoming risk takers when it comes to art and their experiments with color and texture bring about great discussions and great pride. \r\n\r\n The pencil sharpener has also made life much easier. The students rotate through to sharpen pencils and help the teacher with makeing sure everyone has the right materials. It is also useful for all the colored pencils they love to use!\r\n\r\n We are so grateful for your generosity and for helping provide a maeningful experience this year!","fullyFundedDate":1762632076570,"projectUrl":"project/lively-language-learning/9608909/","projectTitle":"Lively Language Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Lindell","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7125399_orig.jpg?crop=1837,1837,x223,y965&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1722990733104","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsklindell"},{"teacherId":9765652,"projectId":9712600,"letterContent":"My students have been absolutely thrilled with the resources your generosity provided. One of the biggest highlights has been receiving their own individual Time for Kids copies. Even though the issues don't have their names on them, the fact that each child gets their own magazine makes it feel special and personal. They can't wait for each new issue to arrive, and these magazines are helping them build skills like identifying main ideas, exploring text features, and connecting what they read to the world around them.\r\n\r\nReading time has taken on a whole new energy in our classroom. Students spread out with their magazines or their National Geographic books, diving into topics that spark genuine curiosity. Some read with partners while others read independently and then excitedly share interesting facts they've discovered. These nonfiction texts have opened the door to lessons on vocabulary strategies, comparing information across sources, and asking deeper questions about animals, nature, and history.\r\n\r\nA few students in particular have really blossomed with the National Geographic books. My animal lovers are fully absorbed in the pages about mammals, sharks, and animal armor, and I've seen hesitant readers become more confident and engaged. These books give them subjects they're passionate about and the tools to explore them in meaningful ways. Your support has brought so much joy, curiosity, and growth into our classroom, and we are truly grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1760365847807,"projectUrl":"project/time-for-kids-national-geographic-adve/9712600/","projectTitle":"Time for Kids + National Geographic Adventures","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Van Garsse","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9765652_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1731818228126","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9765652"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_65183","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":628,"numTeachers":62,"percentFrplEligible":92,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":55,"percentWhite":33,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":4,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":5,"gradesServed":"Pre-K - 6","studentTeacherRatio":"10.1:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_SMALL"},"inStateSupporters":48.7,"schoolId":65183,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Montello Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Montello Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/maine/lewiston-public-schools/montello-elementary-school/65183"}