{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Margarita Muniz Academy","outOfStateSupporters":27.1,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10227045,"projectId":10224379,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping us create a more organized, welcoming, and hands-on science classroom! My students were so excited to see all of the new materials, and we have already incorporated them into our everyday classroom routines. It has been wonderful to see how even small changes in our classroom environment can make such a difference for my students. \r\n\r\nThe organizational materials have been especially impactful. Each student now has a binder and pencil pouch to keep their science work and materials organized. Our pencil parking station has also become an important visual system in our classroom. Before, borrowed pencils seemed to disappear every day! Now, students can clearly see where classroom pencils belong and are learning to be accountable for returning what they borrow. \r\nOur sharpeners, paper organizers, magnets, sticky notes, and other supplies are helping our classroom routines run more smoothly and allowing us to spend more time focused on learning. The lamps have also helped us create a warmer, more comfortable classroom environment, especially during independent work when students appreciate a break from the bright fluorescent lights.\r\n\r\nOne of my favorite moments so far was using our new lab bins and trays during our first science lab of the year: a muffin investigation! Students worked collaboratively to measure ingredients, follow a procedure, bake muffins, and investigate why some muffins rose differently than others. The bins made it possible to keep each group's materials organized and accessible, allowing students to work more independently and making setup and cleanup much smoother. Seeing students excitedly working together, measuring ingredients, making observations, and asking questions was exactly what I hoped these resources would make possible.\r\n\r\nThis is only the beginning! As we continue our science investigations this year, students will use these materials to conduct experiments, build models, analyze evidence, and explain the phenomena we study. Most importantly, these resources are helping students develop independence and take ownership of our classroom and their learning. Thank you for investing in my students and giving them the tools and environment they deserve to explore, discover, and grow as scientists.","fullyFundedDate":1782754338779,"projectUrl":"project/tools-for-young-scientists-to-investigat/10224379/","projectTitle":"Tools for Young Scientists to Investigate and Thrive","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Juliana Caballero Blanco","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10227045_orig.png?crop=816,816,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1777062977639","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10227045"},{"teacherId":9365277,"projectId":10055583,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, my students were able to create a wonderful memory during one of the last days of the school year.\r\n\r\nA few days ago, my students enjoyed a special lesson featuring a colleague of mine playing the guitar and myself playing the castanets. Together, we designed a lesson focused on the origin, cultural significance and lyrics of El Vito, a traditional song from Spanish folklore. Thanks to the bluetooth speaker we received through this project, we were able to play different versions of the song while students practiced and reinforced what they had learned.\r\n\r\nThe students thoroughly enjoyed our performance and learning the lyrics of the song. It was wonderful to see their enthusiasm, participation, and engagement throughout the lesson.\r\n\r\nBest of all, the students were able to enjoy a snack at the end of the lesson, making the experience even more memorable.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping make these meaningful learning experiences possible. Your generosity brings culture, joy, and community into our classroom, and we are truly grateful for your support.","fullyFundedDate":1779284608662,"projectUrl":"project/lets-celebrate-life-with-music-and-snac/10055583/","projectTitle":"Let's Celebrate Life with Music and Snacks!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Mulet","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9365277_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1702931148172","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9365277"},{"teacherId":9528508,"projectId":9339368,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, my students now have access to headphones that allow them to use audio support while reading. For many of my students, especially multilingual learners, listening to text while following along visually is a powerful tool. It helps them hear correct pronunciation, build fluency, and better understand challenging vocabulary and complex passages. This technology makes grade-level texts more accessible and allows students to work more independently and confidently during reading time.\r\n\r\nStudents were genuinely excited to begin using the headphones. Being able to listen to their books while reading has helped them stay more focused and engaged, and it has reduced some of the frustration that can come with decoding unfamiliar words. Instead of feeling stuck, students can continue moving through the text and concentrate on understanding the ideas and themes we are studying.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, these headphones help create a more equitable reading environment. Students who are still developing their English skills now have the support they need to participate fully in our literacy work. Your support has helped give my students the tools to enter the classroom with equity at the heart of their reading journey.","fullyFundedDate":1756319274983,"projectUrl":"project/literary-equity-through-audio-support/9339368/","projectTitle":"Literary Equity Through Audio Support","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Barbosa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9528508_orig.png?crop=775,775,x1322,y558&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1715212261371","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9528508"},{"teacherId":9747362,"projectId":9909832,"letterContent":"On behalf of our students and staff, I want to extend a sincere thank you for your generous donation of classroom sensory tools.\r\n\r\nThe introduction of the fidget tools and fluorescent light covers has already made a visible impact on our learning environment. By softening the harsh overhead lighting and providing tactile outlets for energy, you have helped us create a much calmer, more focused atmosphere in both classrooms.\r\n\r\nYour support directly contributes to our students' ability to engage with their lessons and feel comfortable in their workspace. We are so grateful for your investment in their success.","fullyFundedDate":1764646313138,"projectUrl":"project/soft-lights-sharp-focus/9909832/","projectTitle":"Soft Lights, Sharp Focus","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ashley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9747362_orig.jpg?crop=1242,1242,x0,y583&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1741729515236","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9747362"},{"teacherId":9556264,"projectId":9674342,"letterContent":"The Reading Ambassador Partnership Program has had a profound and lasting impact on our high school students, our younger reading partners, and the broader community we serve. This project, which pairs high school students with elementary-aged children in a structured reading partnership, was designed to strengthen literacy skills, foster mentorship, and build a culture of service and leadership. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, this initiative was not only successfully implemented but was embraced with enthusiasm and pride by everyone involved.\r\n\r\nThrough this program, high school students served as Reading Ambassadors, taking on the responsibility of preparing, leading, and reflecting on read-aloud sessions with younger students. While the goal was to support elementary students in developing a love for reading, the impact on the high school participants was equally powerful. Many of our students entered the program with varying levels of confidence in their own literacy abilities. By reading aloud regularly, they experienced measurable growth in reading fluency, comprehension, vocabulary development, and expressive skills. Preparing to read to younger students required them to analyze texts more deeply, anticipate questions, and model strong reading strategies—skills that directly translated into improved academic performance in their own coursework.\r\n\r\nBeyond academic growth, the program strengthened essential social and community skills. High school students learned to communicate clearly, demonstrate patience, and adapt their approach to meet the needs of their younger partners. They developed leadership and responsibility by understanding that they were role models, not only as readers but as mentors. Many students expressed that this was their first opportunity to see themselves as leaders in an educational setting, which boosted their confidence and sense of purpose.\r\n\r\nThe elementary students benefited greatly as well. Being read to by older peers created a warm, engaging environment that encouraged curiosity and excitement around books. Younger students showed increased attentiveness, enthusiasm for storytelling, and a growing willingness to engage with reading independently. The relationships formed between the high school and elementary students made reading a social and joyful experience rather than a task, reinforcing positive literacy habits at an early age.\r\n\r\nThis project builds on the proven success of our previous partnership with a local daycare, where a similar model resulted in outstanding outcomes. That earlier collaboration demonstrated that peer-led reading initiatives can significantly enhance literacy development while fostering meaningful community connections. With the Reading Ambassador Partnership Program, we were able to expand this success to a broader school-based setting, reaching more students and deepening the educational impact.\r\n\r\nThe overwhelming positive response from students, educators, and families highlights the value of this program. High school participants consistently shared that the experience helped them feel more connected to their community and more confident in their academic abilities. Teachers observed increased student engagement, improved oral reading skills, and stronger interpersonal relationships. The program's success is a testament to the power of experiential learning and mentorship.\r\n\r\nNone of this would have been possible without the generous support of our donors. Your contributions provided the resources, materials, and structure necessary to bring this program to life. Because of your investment, students were given the opportunity to grow academically, socially, and emotionally while making a meaningful difference in the lives of younger learners.\r\n\r\nThe Reading Ambassador Partnership Program stands as a model of how thoughtful collaboration and community support can transform literacy education. We are deeply grateful for the donations that made this project possible and for the belief in our students' ability to lead, inspire, and succeed. Your support has helped create confident readers, compassionate mentors, and a stronger, more connected learning community.","fullyFundedDate":1762192711377,"projectUrl":"project/reading-ambassadors/9674342/","projectTitle":"Reading Ambassadors!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Quinones","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9556264_orig.jpg?crop=389,389,x0,y19&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1756831487398","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9556264"},{"teacherId":9909967,"projectId":9360019,"letterContent":"At the start of each school year, we brainstorm music selections that students are excited to learn and perform. I lead three ensembles—beginner, intermediate, and advanced—and each group performs three pieces twice a year.\r\n\r\nLast year, my advanced group expressed interest in exploring music from Brazil. I arranged Sergio Mendes' \"Magalenha\" and attempted to collaborate with a local Brazilian percussionist, but unfortunately, our schedules didn't align.\r\n\r\nEven without authentic Brazilian percussion, my students delivered a fantastic performance. When I shared the challenges with a colleague, she suggested launching a DonorsChoose campaign to help fund world percussion instruments. I started the campaign with no expectations—and was completely overjoyed and grateful to learn it was fully funded by a single donor: YOU!\r\n\r\nAfter sharing the exciting news with all my classes, we eagerly awaited the arrival of the instruments you helped fund. Each delivery felt like opening gifts on Christmas morning—students lit up with joy, cheering as we unboxed each item. The enthusiasm was contagious. As soon as the first pandeiros were played, the room burst into movement—students dancing, laughing, and celebrating the music they were now able to create. It was a powerful reminder of how meaningful your support truly is.\r\n\r\nWe'll be wrapping up our first quarter just before Thanksgiving, and when we return, we'll begin our second quarter with focused technique lessons for each instrument group. This includes pandeiros (both with and without tamborim beaters), agogô bells, and more. The students are excited to deepen their skills, and at least one Brazilian piece will be featured in our end-of-year Spring Showcase in May. We can't wait to show you how far they've come—thanks to your generous support!","fullyFundedDate":1752586581658,"projectUrl":"project/rhythms-of-the-world-help-students-disc/9360019/","projectTitle":"Rhythms of the World: Help Students Discover Brazilian Percussion","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Muñoz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9909967_orig.png?crop=578,578,x0,y48&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1747324828721","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9909967"},{"teacherId":9528508,"projectId":9217966,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, my classroom has become a more organized and student-centered learning space. We are using the printer daily to create clear, accessible materials for lessons, small groups, and assessments, especially for my English language learners who benefit from visual supports and scaffolded handouts. The laminator and paper cutter have allowed me to create reusable resources like vocabulary cards and anchor charts that maximize student learning. The speaker has become a classroom favorite, helping us with listening activities, transitions, and community-building moments.\r\n\r\nThanks to your support, we are now moving forward with more interactive lessons that promote independence and confidence. Students are using laminated materials during centers, partner work, and review activities, which allows them to take risks, make mistakes, erase, and try again. Thank you for investing in my students and our classroom community.","fullyFundedDate":1746698781176,"projectUrl":"project/writing-erasing-and-learning-classroo/9217966/","projectTitle":"Writing, Erasing, and Learning: Classroom Must-Haves","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Barbosa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9528508_orig.png?crop=775,775,x1322,y558&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1715212261371","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9528508"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_104548","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":400,"numTeachers":28,"percentFrplEligible":90,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":8,"percentWhite":0,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":90,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":0,"gradesServed":"7 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":"14.3:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":72.9,"schoolId":104548,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Margarita Muniz Academy on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Margarita Muniz Academy","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/massachusetts/boston-public-schools/margarita-muniz-academy/104548"}