{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Walker Mill Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":46.7,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8936731,"projectId":10149915,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our \"Headphones Fun\" project has made a meaningful difference in our classroom. With individual headphones, students are now able to fully engage with digital learning tools in a focused and personalized way. Whether they are listening to audiobooks, practicing phonics, or working through interactive lessons, the headphones help eliminate distractions and allow each child to learn at their own pace. This has been especially helpful during small group rotations and independent work time, where students can concentrate without background noise interrupting their progress.\r\n\r\nWhat excites students most is the sense of ownership and independence these headphones provide. They love being able to plug in, log on, and immerse themselves in their learning. It has transformed everyday activities into something they look forward to—students often smile when they put on their headphones, ready to dive into stories, games, and lessons designed just for them. The ability to clearly hear instructions and content has also boosted their confidence, as they feel more successful completing tasks on their own.\r\n\r\nSeveral students who previously struggled to stay focused or felt overwhelmed in a busy classroom environment have especially benefited from this addition. With fewer distractions, they are more engaged, participate more actively, and show greater persistence when learning gets challenging. Your support has not only provided a valuable tool, but it has also created a more inclusive and supportive learning environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive. Thank you for making this possible!","fullyFundedDate":1773864530742,"projectUrl":"project/headphones-fun/10149915/","projectTitle":"Headphones Fun","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Fishkin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8936731_orig.png?crop=985,985,x144,y500&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1689080451929","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8936731"},{"teacherId":8936731,"projectId":10128838,"letterContent":"options into our classroom. Because of your generosity, our students now have access to protein-rich snacks that help keep them energized and focused throughout the school day. We have been using these snacks during our mid-morning break and before challenging learning blocks, which has helped students stay attentive and ready to participate. One moment that really stood out was during a math activity when several students who usually struggle to stay focused were able to work steadily and complete the entire task.\r\n\r\nWhen the snacks first arrived, the students were incredibly excited. They were curious about the different options and eager to try them. Many students talked about how the snacks helped them feel \"full\" and ready to learn. It also opened the door for a great classroom discussion about healthy eating and how protein helps our bodies and brains stay strong.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, we will continue incorporating these snacks into our daily routine, especially before lessons that require extra concentration, such as reading groups and problem-solving activities. We are also planning to connect this experience to a simple nutrition mini-lesson where students learn about balanced foods and how they fuel learning. Your support has made a meaningful difference in our classroom, and we are so grateful for your generosity and care for our students.","fullyFundedDate":1773073291971,"projectUrl":"project/protein-snacks/10128838/","projectTitle":"Protein Snacks!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Fishkin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8936731_orig.png?crop=985,985,x144,y500&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1689080451929","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8936731"},{"teacherId":9270169,"projectId":9860175,"letterContent":"Students enthusiastically embraced the opportunity to work with new clay materials to create clay heart boxes, and decorative clay pieces for Jamaica, and the experience quickly became one of the most meaningful projects of the year! The new art resources allowed students to explore hand-building techniques while also connecting their artwork to a larger purpose—creating pieces that represent kindness, cultural awareness, and artistic expression. Students enjoyed working in clay and helping others.","fullyFundedDate":1763059632056,"projectUrl":"project/clay-hearts/9860175/","projectTitle":"Clay HeArts","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Crushshon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9270169_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723873235879","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9270169"},{"teacherId":8936731,"projectId":10121730,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project, \"A Clean Classroom.\" Because of your generosity, our classroom now has the supplies we need to keep our learning space organized and comfortable. My students were incredibly excited when they first saw the new materials. Many of them immediately wanted to help organize and set everything up. It was wonderful to see them take pride in their classroom and work together to create a clean environment where everyone can focus on learning.\r\n\r\nWe are already using the supplies every day. Students are responsible for helping keep different areas of the classroom tidy, which has become part of our daily routine. Recently, during a group activity, students worked together to clean their tables and organize materials before starting their project. This small moment showed how much they value having a neat and welcoming classroom space.\r\n\r\nYour support has helped create an environment where students feel proud of their classroom and ready to learn. As we continue with our lessons and projects, we will keep practicing teamwork and responsibility by taking care of our shared space. Thank you again for making such a meaningful difference for my students and helping us maintain a clean, positive classroom environment.","fullyFundedDate":1772476962747,"projectUrl":"project/a-clean-classroom/10121730/","projectTitle":"A Clean Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Fishkin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8936731_orig.png?crop=985,985,x144,y500&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1689080451929","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8936731"},{"teacherId":8936731,"projectId":8686570,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our \"Cell Phone Locker\" project. Because of your generosity, our classroom now has a dedicated space for students to securely store their phones during instruction time. From the very first day we introduced the locker system, it made an immediate difference. Students place their phones in assigned slots at the start of class, which has helped create a focused, distraction-free learning environment. During a recent small-group math problem-solving activity, I noticed students collaborating more, maintaining eye contact, and staying engaged in discussions without the constant pull of notifications.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the cell phone locker, their reactions were mixed—some were curious, others unsure—but they quickly adjusted to the new routine. Within a few days, it became a normal part of entering the classroom. Many students have even shared that it helps them concentrate better and feel less tempted to check their phones. Establishing this clear structure has created a calmer atmosphere where students can fully participate in lessons, class discussions, and independent work time.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we are continuing to build strong academic habits and increase student engagement during upcoming projects, including our research and presentation unit. With fewer distractions, students are better prepared to take notes, participate in peer feedback sessions, and complete thoughtful, high-quality work. Your support has helped strengthen our learning environment and given students the opportunity to focus on their growth and success. We are truly grateful for your investment in our classroom and our students' future.","fullyFundedDate":1724467395302,"projectUrl":"project/cell-phone-locker/8686570/","projectTitle":"Cell Phone Locker","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Fishkin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8936731_orig.png?crop=985,985,x144,y500&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1689080451929","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8936731"},{"teacherId":8936731,"projectId":9146576,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our \"White Paper\" project. Because of your generosity, we are now able to make clear, high-quality copies for student projects, anchor charts, and daily learning materials. What may seem like a simple resource has made a tremendous difference in our classroom. We recently used the white paper to publish final drafts of our personal narrative writing pieces. Students carefully revised their work, added detailed illustrations, and proudly displayed their finished stories around the room. Having clean, bright paper for their final copies made the experience feel authentic and important—like real authors preparing their books for publication.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the fresh stacks of paper ready for their projects, their excitement was immediate. Several students commented that their work \"looked professional,\" and they took extra care with handwriting, spacing, and presentation. The quality materials encouraged them to slow down, focus, and take pride in their learning. It was a powerful reminder that access to the right tools can boost confidence and motivation in meaningful ways.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, we will continue using these copies for upcoming research reports and collaborative science projects. Students are beginning a nonfiction unit where they will draft, revise, and publish informational booklets to share with younger classes. Thanks to you, they will be able to present their learning clearly and confidently. Your support has not only provided paper—it has helped create opportunities for creativity, ownership, and academic growth. We are truly grateful for your investment in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1741895194809,"projectUrl":"project/white-paper/9146576/","projectTitle":"White Paper","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Fishkin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8936731_orig.png?crop=985,985,x144,y500&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1689080451929","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8936731"},{"teacherId":8936731,"projectId":9192559,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our reset room now has a punching bag that has truly transformed the way our students manage big emotions. We use the punching bag as part of our calm-down routine when students feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or angry. Instead of escalating in the classroom, they can choose to take a short reset break where they practice breathing techniques and safely release their energy on the punching bag. Just last week, one of our students who often struggles with impulsive reactions asked to use the reset room before a situation became a conflict. After a few minutes of punching and deep breathing, he returned to class calm, focused, and ready to learn. That moment showed us just how powerful this resource can be.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the punching bag, their excitement was immediate—but what stood out even more was their understanding of its purpose. We introduced it as a tool, not a toy, and discussed how it helps our brains and bodies regulate strong feelings. Many students shared that it feels good to have a safe, acceptable way to let out frustration. They take pride in using the reset room responsibly and supporting one another in making positive choices.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, we are continuing to build social-emotional learning lessons around self-regulation, coping strategies, and conflict resolution. The punching bag is now an important part of those lessons, helping students connect physical regulation with emotional awareness. Because of you, our students are learning that it's okay to have big feelings—and that they have healthy tools to handle them. Thank you for helping us create a safer, calmer environment where every child can reset and return to learning ready to succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1750256122049,"projectUrl":"project/punching-bag/9192559/","projectTitle":"Punching Bag","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Fishkin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8936731_orig.png?crop=985,985,x144,y500&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1689080451929","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8936731"},{"teacherId":7968386,"projectId":9683328,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our after-school study hall snack project. Because of your kindness, our students now have access to snacks that help them stay focused, energized, and ready to learn after a long school day. Many of our students come directly from a full day of classes into study hall, and having something to eat makes a meaningful difference in their ability to concentrate, complete assignments, and actively participate in tutoring and enrichment activities. Your donation is not just providing food—it is creating an environment where students feel cared for, supported, and set up for success.\r\n\r\nYour generosity strengthens our entire school community. Study hall is more than a quiet place to do homework; it is a space where students build confidence, collaborate with peers, and develop strong academic habits that will carry them into high school and beyond. By ensuring they have snacks available, you are removing barriers and helping us maintain a welcoming, productive atmosphere. We are incredibly grateful for your investment in our students' growth and achievement. Thank you for believing in them and in the work we do every day.","fullyFundedDate":1758818847194,"projectUrl":"project/nourishing-knowledge-snacks-for-scholar/9683328/","projectTitle":"Nourishing Knowledge: Snacks for Scholars","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. G.","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7968386"},{"teacherId":8936731,"projectId":9852655,"letterContent":"Thank you for making our \"Healthy Snacks\" project possible! Because of your generosity, our students now have access to nutritious snacks that help fuel both their bodies and their minds. We incorporate snack time into our daily routine, using it not only as a chance to nourish students, but also as a learning opportunity to practice sharing, table manners, counting, and making healthy choices. The first day the snacks arrived, students were so excited—they immediately noticed the colorful fruit cups, whole-grain options, and wholesome choices. Many proudly talked about trying something new and \"eating healthy to grow strong.\"\r\n\r\nThese healthy snacks have made a noticeable difference in our classroom. Students are more focused during lessons and have improved stamina throughout the day. For some children, this is the most consistent access they have to nutritious options, which makes your support even more impactful. Snack time has become a positive, community-building part of our day where students connect, converse, and recharge.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, we will continue integrating conversations about nutrition into our health and science lessons. Students are beginning to learn how food choices affect energy, mood, and overall well-being. Your contribution has not only supported their physical health but has also strengthened their ability to concentrate, participate, and succeed academically.\r\n\r\nThank you for caring about our students' well-being and for making a lasting difference in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1766675288782,"projectUrl":"project/healthly-snacks/9852655/","projectTitle":"Healthly Snacks","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Fishkin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8936731_orig.png?crop=985,985,x144,y500&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1689080451929","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8936731"},{"teacherId":8145327,"projectId":9831896,"letterContent":"Thank you for the snacks — students now have something to sustain them during our busy school days, and we're so grateful. \r\n\r\nWhen we received the snacks, we used them immediately during a cross-curricular project on community helpers and nutrition. After reading about food deserts and local services, small groups planned a \"healthy snack station\" for a classroom event. The snacks you provided allowed each group to create taste-test stations, record observations, and present short persuasive posters explaining why their choices were healthy and accessible for families. One memorable moment was watching a typically reserved student lead a group discussion about portion sizes and confidently explain their poster to visiting classes.\r\n\r\nThe students were thrilled — you could see their faces light up when they realized we could use the snacks as part of a real-world lesson. They were excited to sample, compare, and talk about the foods, and many expressed pride that donors cared enough to support their learning. That excitement translated into stronger collaboration and richer classroom conversations for the rest of the week.","fullyFundedDate":1763498222766,"projectUrl":"project/fueled-for-success/9831896/","projectTitle":"Fueled for Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Dowling","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8145327_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1651263511964","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8145327"},{"teacherId":1586097,"projectId":9178991,"letterContent":"I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude for your generous support in providing our classroom with sublimation paper, acrylic markers, colored pencils, and sticker paper. These materials have truly brought a new level of creativity and excitement to our lessons.\r\n\r\nMy students and I have been using the new resources to create personalized art projects that combine design and technology. For example, during our recent \"Express Yourself Through Art\" project, students designed their own digital artwork and then transferred it onto keychains and tote bags using the sublimation paper. The acrylic markers added bold details, while the colored pencils allowed for beautiful shading and personal touches. Students also loved making custom labels with the sticker paper to decorate their folders and classroom displays.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, my students were overjoyed! Their eyes lit up as they imagined all the creative possibilities. Many couldn't wait to start experimenting right away—there was a buzz of energy and excitement across the room.\r\n\r\nOur next steps will build on this momentum. Students will be using the same tools to create holiday gifts and classroom decor, integrating art with writing as they design and print their own positive affirmation stickers. These projects continue to inspire collaboration, confidence, and pride in their work.\r\n\r\nThank you again for helping make our classroom a place where creativity and learning come alive. Your generosity has made a lasting impact on my students and their love of learning.","fullyFundedDate":1746698824752,"projectUrl":"project/lets-finish-with-a-bang/9178991/","projectTitle":"Let's Finish With a BANG!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Rhonda V. Patterson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1586097_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1508816749150","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1586097"},{"teacherId":9465096,"projectId":8680101,"letterContent":"Our 8th-grade science classroom is a place where curiosity and hands-on learning come alive, and thanks to your support, we can take this experience even further! Having a power surge tower means our technology stays powered and protected during experiments, so lessons flow smoothly without interruptions. The mobile laptop desk gives me the freedom to move around and engage with each student individually, providing real-time support and making learning more interactive.\r\n\r\nThe photo printer excites students by letting them print images of their experiments and projects, turning their work into vivid reports and visual portfolios that they take pride in. Our new terrarium brings a living ecosystem right into the classroom, allowing students to observe biology and environmental science up close. STEM kits spark creativity and problem-solving, helping build critical thinking skills that will prepare students for success in future STEM careers.\r\n\r\nThese tools don't just enhance lessons — they inspire my students to explore, create, and innovate. Each resource supports different learning styles and helps students become more confident scientists. With your support, we're building a dynamic classroom where every student can thrive and become the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.","fullyFundedDate":1724432865670,"projectUrl":"project/support-our-science-classroom-empowerin/8680101/","projectTitle":"Support Our Science Classroom: Empowering the Next Generation of Innovators!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. White","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9465096_orig.jpg?crop=1311,1311,x0,y183&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1720807160558","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-whitescienceclass"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_65042","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":1054,"numTeachers":52,"percentFrplEligible":75,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":73,"percentWhite":2,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":21,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"20.3:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":53.3,"schoolId":65042,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Walker Mill Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Walker Mill Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/maryland/prince-george-s-county-public-schools/walker-mill-middle-school/65042"}