{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"William DeBerry Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":35.4,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10048126,"projectId":9417276,"letterContent":"Many of our donors use technology at home, but in our classroom, it's a powerful tool for learning. Thanks to Ripple and all of our generous supporters, my students now have access to resources that make lessons interactive and engaging. This technology allows them to explore concepts visually, collaborate on projects, and receive instant feedback, which builds confidence and deepens understanding. It has opened doors for students who need extra support and given advanced learners opportunities to stretch their thinking.\r\n\r\n The most exciting part for my students is the creativity and independence this technology brings. They love being able to design, experiment, and see their ideas come to life. For example, one student who struggled with traditional reading activities now thrives using interactive e-books and voice-to-text features. Another student passionate about art has embraced digital design tools, creating projects that showcase incredible talent. These experiences have transformed learning into something joyful and empowering.\r\n\r\n This project has had a profound impact on both my students and my teaching. With these materials, I've been able to incorporate more personalized lessons, integrate STEM activities, and provide real-time feedback that wasn't possible before. Students are more engaged, collaborative, and confident in their abilities. Ripple's support—and the kindness of every donor who contributed—didn't just provide technology; it provided opportunities for growth, creativity, and success that will last far beyond this school year. Thank you for making this possible!","fullyFundedDate":1758150993540,"projectUrl":"project/future-scholars/9417276/","projectTitle":"Future Scholars!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gail K. Joseph","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10048126"},{"teacherId":10065230,"projectId":9471202,"letterContent":"This fall has been truly special. Returning to William H. DeBerry School—the same place that first inspired me to teach—has been a full-circle moment. As a little girl, I once walked these same halls and sat in these very classrooms, dreaming of becoming a teacher. Now, years later, I have the incredible privilege of guiding a new generation of learners in the place that first nurtured my own dreams.\r\n\r\nThanks to your generosity, our classroom is now filled with tools that make learning joyful, creative, and meaningful. The preschool journals and triangle-shaped pencils have become an integral part of our daily writing block, where children practice forming letters, drawing self-portraits, and expressing their ideas through both pictures and words. The dot markers and watercolor trays have quickly become favorites during art time—especially when we painted our \"All About Me\" portraits and fall leaf collages. Every child has found their own way to shine through color, creativity, and storytelling.\r\n\r\nWhen the supplies arrived, the excitement was contagious! The children gathered around as we unpacked each box, their eyes wide with curiosity and joy. They gasped at the colorful markers, proudly held up their new journals, and couldn't wait to start creating. One student even said, \"Now our room looks like a real art studio!\" That moment reminded me how powerful access to simple materials can be—it gave them a sense of pride, ownership, and belonging.\r\n\r\nAs we move into our \"My Family and Friends\" theme, the children will continue using their journals to write and draw about the people and traditions that shape their lives. The take-home folders are already helping us stay connected with families, allowing parents to share in their children's growth and creativity. And the clear storage bins, paper towels, and disinfecting wipes have helped us maintain a classroom that's calm, organized, and safe—so we can focus on what matters most: learning, growing, and playing together.\r\n\r\nYour support has helped me create a nurturing and inspiring learning environment that my students deserve—one that reflects the true value they hold. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for believing in our classroom, in our children, and in the promise of education.\r\n\r\nWith heartfelt gratitude,\r\nMs. Jamilla Jones\r\nPre-K Teacher, William H. DeBerry School","fullyFundedDate":1754354806057,"projectUrl":"project/stocked-for-success-empowering-young-le/9471202/","projectTitle":"Stocked for Success: Empowering Young Learners\"","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jamie","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10065230_orig.jpg?crop=1142,1142,x393,y1227&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1751410863170","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jamillajones"},{"teacherId":9305421,"projectId":9107347,"letterContent":"The students have been working very hard building and strengthening their fine motor skills. They are all so excited to explore our new toys. They love to lace up the sea creatures. We are working very hard building on our puzzle skills with all the amazing theme related puzzles we got!!! The children love to use their pincer grip with our fun scoops and water dropers. We are so thankful for all our donors and their support making our classroom so engaging and exciting to explore while we learn!!! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!! You truly are amazing!","fullyFundedDate":1743039790939,"projectUrl":"project/fine-motor-fun-in-preschoool/9107347/","projectTitle":"Fine Motor Fun In Preschoool","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Kellie Ciavola","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9305421"},{"teacherId":10048126,"projectId":9390186,"letterContent":"The introduction of LCD writing tablets into our math classroom has transformed the way my students engage with learning. These tablets have become more than just tools—they are catalysts for curiosity, confidence, and creativity. Students who once hesitated to participate are now eager to solve problems, show their work, and share their thinking. The instant feedback and ease of erasing have removed the fear of making mistakes, encouraging a growth mindset and a willingness to take academic risks.\r\n\r\nOne of the most noticeable changes has been in student attitude. Math used to be a subject that caused anxiety for many of my learners, but the LCD tablets have made it feel more like a game or challenge they want to conquer. The tactile experience of writing on the tablet is engaging, and students enjoy the novelty of using technology in a hands-on way. This shift in attitude has led to increased participation, better focus during lessons, and a stronger sense of ownership over their learning.\r\nAcademically, the tablets have supported deeper understanding and improved performance. Students are able to quickly model equations, draw number lines, and visualize place value concepts without the limitations of paper and pencil. The ability to revise their work easily has led to more thoughtful problem-solving and clearer mathematical communication. I've seen significant growth in students' ability to explain their reasoning and collaborate with peers, which has elevated the overall quality of math discourse in our classroom.\r\nThanks to the generosity of donors, these LCD writing tablets have made a lasting impact on my students. They've helped create a more inclusive and dynamic learning environment where every child feels empowered to succeed. The joy and confidence I see during math time are direct results of this support, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to provide my students with tools that truly make a difference.","fullyFundedDate":1748827180149,"projectUrl":"project/developing-scholars-at-our-school/9390186/","projectTitle":"Developing Scholars at Our School!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gail K. Joseph","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10048126"},{"teacherId":9715861,"projectId":9026439,"letterContent":"First let me thank you all so very much for investing in this class. We have seen so much growth with all our students in so many ways this year and that is partly due to your generosity. All students have enjoyed learning some of the classic games like Go Fish and Simon. Learning how to follow patterns and match images is an essential part of the PreK curriculum and these games have helped. \r\n The class we have this year truly LOVED art projects. We had different types of painting projects such as painting with feathers, using sponges and cotton balls to make clouds and just painting some of our favorite things. This would not be possible without the art supplies. \r\n The biggest help, not just for the adults but also for the students, was all the bins and organizational things to help with putting things away. The rolling cart helped with keeping supplies for the week ready and available right by my desk, but most significantly is that the students learned to put the manipulatives and toys being used back in the bins so they can put them back neatly on the shelves. This has helped them learned how to make sure to keep their class clean, have pride in their space but has also translated into their home life. Some of the families have expressed gratitude because they have seen a willingness now at home in helping in cleaning. That is a huge impact when it spreads from the classroom to the home.\r\n All the students were so incredibly excited with the art supplies and the new games and things to explore. Believe it or not they have truly enjoyed having new bins to put things away in or find some way to use them to carry supplies. Thank you all so very much for generosity and willingness to invest in our youngest learners. With all of these new tools, my class will be able to help grow amazing learners and explorers for many years to come.","fullyFundedDate":1740604280634,"projectUrl":"project/getting-down-to-the-basics/9026439/","projectTitle":"Getting Down to the Basics","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Amy","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9715861"},{"teacherId":6826094,"projectId":8506200,"letterContent":"I want to extend my heartfelt thanks for your generous donation of new classroom items to our kindergarten class. Your support has brought so much excitement and joy to our students, and we are truly grateful.\r\n\r\nThe new materials have already made a big difference in our daily routines and learning experiences. Whether it's through creative play, hands-on activities, or organizing our learning space, each item has helped us create a more engaging, comfortable, and inspiring classroom environment.\r\n\r\nThank you for thinking of our young learners and for investing in their early education. Your kindness and generosity are deeply appreciated, and we feel fortunate to have your support.","fullyFundedDate":1723655458181,"projectUrl":"project/new-materials-for-a-new-year/8506200/","projectTitle":"New Materials for a New Year!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Millett","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6826094_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1597252885347","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6826094"},{"teacherId":6826094,"projectId":7546752,"letterContent":"I want to extend my heartfelt thanks for your generous donations of new classroom items to our kindergarten class. Your support has brought so much excitement and joy to our students, and we are truly grateful.\r\n\r\nThe new materials have already made a big difference in our daily routines and learning experiences. Whether it's through creative play, hands-on activities, or organizing our learning space, each item has helped us create a more engaging, comfortable, and inspiring classroom environment.\r\n\r\nThank you for thinking of our young learners and for investing in their early education. Your kindness and generosity are deeply appreciated, and we feel fortunate to have your support.","fullyFundedDate":1691014320975,"projectUrl":"project/fresh-start-in-kindergarten/7546752/","projectTitle":"Fresh Start in Kindergarten!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Millett","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6826094_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1597252885347","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6826094"},{"teacherId":2561468,"projectId":9027838,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of this project! Your contribution has made a meaningful impact, allowing me to better meet the needs of both my students and colleagues in my classroom and across the general education setting.\r\n\r\nSince receiving Boardmaker, I've been able to create and print customized teaching materials that directly support my students' learning, communication, and social-emotional development. The software's flexibility—offering both ready-made resources and the ability to design Picture Communication Symbols from scratch—has empowered me to create targeted visuals that support each student's unique needs. It's also enabled me to collaborate more effectively with general education colleagues by providing them with tools to enhance inclusive learning environments.\r\n\r\nI am incredibly grateful for your generosity. Because of your support, my students are better equipped to engage, communicate, and grow—no matter where learning takes place.\r\n\r\nWith sincere appreciation.","fullyFundedDate":1741308314367,"projectUrl":"project/teaching-more-creatively-and-efficiently/9027838/","projectTitle":"Teaching more Creatively and Efficiently Using Picture Communication Symbols","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Domaingue","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2561468_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1695774200109","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2561468"},{"teacherId":2561468,"projectId":9025493,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous donation to \"Clear Our Clutter\" project. My student and I are so very grateful for your generosity, support, and investment in our project. I was able to create an efficient and conducive learning atmosphere where my students can focus on their academic journey with ease.\r\n\r\nThe cabinet has allowed me to organize all of my teaching manuals out of sight but close to our small group area for easy access. This has allowed me to neatly store tools needed for activities, decreasing the clutter and distractibility. The magnets and steel cabinets allow me to hang charts and tools needed by students. Students are able to independently access the materials they need with ease. My students are less distracted by the clutter and are taking pride in their classroom and being responsible for the materials now that we are able to neatly organize and access the tools. \r\nThank you again for your generosity!","fullyFundedDate":1737563725432,"projectUrl":"project/clear-our-clutter/9025493/","projectTitle":"Clear Our Clutter","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Domaingue","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2561468_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1695774200109","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2561468"},{"teacherId":9484105,"projectId":8908697,"letterContent":"Thank you thank you thank you! In the photos attached are just a couple of the items donated to my classroom. These students are constantly learning and making progress every day! Just in those two toys they have learned color and shape recognition and have even used the wooden puzzle shape pieces to trace and make art work. The books they have enjoyed reading and looking at, and we will continue to add more and more fun new items which excites the students when there is new inviting toys and learning supplies! This project has done so much.","fullyFundedDate":1735658691622,"projectUrl":"project/abcs-and-123-learning-can-be-fun/8908697/","projectTitle":"ABC's and 123 Learning Can Be Fun","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gina","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9484105"},{"teacherId":2561468,"projectId":8973797,"letterContent":"Thank you for giving my class a comfortable designated space for opportunities to bond with each other, have fun, work collaboratively, and support each other as they learn together. The new, larger carpet has given us a safe and comfortable environment for us all to sit and engage in all our learning activities. \r\n\r\nOur new carpet has given us a central place to gather, our individual spaces have allowed us to improve our focus and provide me a place where I can quickly way to gather students to get their attention. We all LOVE our new carpet.\r\nThank you again for your generosity.","fullyFundedDate":1734656402897,"projectUrl":"project/cozy-carpet-with-room-for-all/8973797/","projectTitle":"Cozy Carpet with Room for All!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Domaingue","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2561468_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1695774200109","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2561468"},{"teacherId":2561468,"projectId":9014788,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous donation to our Developing Struggling Readers Literacy Learning project. My student and I are so very grateful for your generosity, support, and investment in our project. We love using the exciting and engaging hands-on manipulatives to help foster early literacy skills.\r\n\r\n We love using the whisper phones while practicing our reading fluency and the tablets when we are encoding words. Our word work center has become our favorite center to visit. Thank you again for your generosity!","fullyFundedDate":1735658192109,"projectUrl":"project/developing-struggling-readers-literacy-l/9014788/","projectTitle":"Developing Struggling Readers Literacy Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Domaingue","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2561468_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1695774200109","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2561468"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_60908","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":483,"numTeachers":22,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":20,"percentWhite":3,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":71,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"22.0:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":64.6,"schoolId":60908,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about William DeBerry Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"William DeBerry Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/massachusetts/springfield-public-school-district/william-deberry-elementary-school/60908"}
Join the 178 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
William DeBerry Elementary School is
an urban public school
in Springfield, Massachusetts that is part of Springfield Public School District.
It serves 483 students
in grades Pre-K - 5 with a student/teacher ratio of 22.0:1.
Its teachers have had 77 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. Each classroom request for funding was created by a classroom teacher and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
of students receive free or reduced price lunch
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
Source: the National Center for Education Statistics
91%
of students are Black, Latino, Native
American, or Asian
Data about school demographics comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. The numbers in this chart may not add up to 100% because of limitations in the available data.
William DeBerry Elementary School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Dec 4, 2025
DonorsChoose makes it easy for anyone to help a teacher in need, moving us closer to a nation where students
in every community have the tools and experiences they need for a great education.
William DeBerry Elementary School
$46,509
raised using DonorsChoose
77
projects
funded
37
teachers
funded
178
donors
4
projects
for
basic supplies
12
projects for
technology
5
projects for
books
1
project
for
art supplies
William DeBerry Elementary School has received support from
115 individuals from Massachusetts and
63 individuals out-of-state.