{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Gerald Dawkins Academy ","outOfStateSupporters":13.6,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8218075,"projectId":9146089,"letterContent":"We want to extend our deepest gratitude for your support of our 3D printing program. Your contribution of the new, vibrant filament colors has had a profound, immediate, and positive impact on our students' learning experience.\r\n\r\nIf you were to ask any of our students what they find most exciting, they would point to the new range of colors and materials. This might seem like a small detail, but it has completely revolutionized their sense of ownership and the aesthetic quality of their projects. Previously, they were limited to basic colors; now, they can choose deep blues, brilliant reds, and even translucent filaments.\r\n\r\nThis simple change has dramatically increased student engagement and pride in their work. A project on designing an ergonomic tool is no longer just a functional object—it's now a beautifully designed, multi-colored prototype. The ability to express their creative vision fully has turned the design process into an even more exciting artistic and engineering endeavor.","fullyFundedDate":1741501004730,"projectUrl":"project/unspooling-potential-3d-filament-for-st/9146089/","projectTitle":"Unspooling Potential: 3D Filament for Student Success","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Doyle","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8218075"},{"teacherId":8218075,"projectId":9423463,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our classroom project. Your funding has allowed us to purchase a set of Sphero Mini robots, and the impact on our students has been truly remarkable. These robots have completely changed how we approach STEM learning. While many students are familiar with technology for entertainment, the Sphero Minis are helping them understand it as a powerful tool for creation. They are learning foundational coding concepts, like loops and conditionals, in a tangible way. Instead of just seeing code on a screen, they can instantly see their code come to life as the Sphero rolls, changes color, or beeps. This immediate, visual feedback makes abstract concepts concrete and keeps them engaged and motivated. The most exciting part for the students is the sheer fun of it all. They love the challenge of navigating the robots through mazes they've built, and they get a thrill out of competing in \"robot races.\"\r\n\r\nThe Sphero Minis have given all of my students a new way to learn, empowering them to think creatively and solve problems. These tools have provided a unique platform for many students to shine, boosting their confidence in their own abilities. This technology has shown them that their ideas can be brought to life and that they are capable of creating something that is both fun and educational. Thank you again for your incredible gift. You've not only given us a new piece of technology but also a new way for my students to learn, play, and discover.","fullyFundedDate":1756222071512,"projectUrl":"project/rolling-into-stem-with-sphero/9423463/","projectTitle":"Rolling Into STEM with Sphero!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Doyle","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8218075"},{"teacherId":4182476,"projectId":9290401,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our classroom resources! Your donation toward the 180 Days of Practice Grade K Bundle and the TREND Essential Skills: Explore Kindergarten Readiness kit is already making a meaningful impact on our students' learning.\r\n\r\nWith these materials, my kindergarteners are able to practice reading, writing, grammar, and math every day in small groups, independently, and during whole-class activities. The 180 Days bundle also provides assessments that help me monitor student progress and tailor instruction to meet each child's unique needs, while the TREND Essential Skills activities reinforce critical kindergarten readiness skills in a fun and engaging way.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, students are gaining consistent, structured practice that strengthens their skills, builds confidence, and supports their growth across core learning areas. Your contribution is helping each child reach their fullest potential and creates a lasting impact in our classroom.\r\n\r\nWe are deeply grateful for your belief in the power of education and your support of our young learners!","fullyFundedDate":1746495153473,"projectUrl":"project/strengthening-kindergarten-skills/9290401/","projectTitle":"Strengthening Kindergarten Skills","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Huisken","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4182476_orig.jpg?crop=1649,1649,x1583,y319&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1565145792168","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/emily-corning"},{"teacherId":4182476,"projectId":9222003,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation toward our classroom laminator and laminating sheets. Your support has already made a big difference! We've been able to laminate important reading activities and math games that my kindergarteners now use daily during center time. The students are so excited to have hands-on materials they can practice with again and again without worrying about them getting torn or worn out.\r\n\r\nThis gift has not only helped extend the life of our learning tools but has also made center time more engaging, fun, and meaningful for all students. Thanks to you, we can create durable resources that support reading, math, and creativity while also preserving student work to celebrate their accomplishments.\r\n\r\nYour generosity truly helps our young learners shine, and we are so grateful for the positive impact you've brought to our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1746816038988,"projectUrl":"project/lasting-learning-tools-for-growing-minds/9222003/","projectTitle":"Lasting Learning Tools for Growing Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Huisken","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4182476_orig.jpg?crop=1649,1649,x1583,y319&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1565145792168","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/emily-corning"},{"teacherId":4182476,"projectId":9221774,"letterContent":"On behalf of my kindergarten students, I want to sincerely thank you for your generous donation toward our classroom Expo markers. These simple tools have already made such a big difference in our daily learning.\r\n\r\nWith your support, my students are able to practice tracing their names, writing letters, and building number skills in a fun and engaging way. Having fresh markers allows them to participate more confidently, erase mistakes easily, and enjoy the process of learning to read, write, and count.\r\n\r\nYour kindness is helping create meaningful learning opportunities and giving my students the tools they need to grow and succeed. Thank you for believing in them and investing in their education.\r\n\r\nWith gratitude,","fullyFundedDate":1745351482174,"projectUrl":"project/expo-markers/9221774/","projectTitle":"Expo Markers","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Huisken","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4182476_orig.jpg?crop=1649,1649,x1583,y319&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1565145792168","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/emily-corning"},{"teacherId":9744926,"projectId":8770151,"letterContent":"We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude for your generous donations to our elementary PE program through DonorsChoose.org. Your contributions of bowling pins, scooters, and hockey sticks have made a tremendous impact on our students' physical education experience.\r\n\r\nWith these new materials, we have been able to play more teamwork games, practice essential skills, and, most importantly, have fun together. The joy and excitement in our gym are palpable as students engage in activities that promote cooperation, coordination, and healthy competition.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our mission and for investing in the growth and development of our students. Your support has truly made a difference!","fullyFundedDate":1735603374416,"projectUrl":"project/gda-pe/8770151/","projectTitle":"GDA PE","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gillett","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9744926_orig.jpg?crop=2735,2735,x0,y565&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1726144573454","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9744926"},{"teacherId":4182476,"projectId":8944597,"letterContent":"I want to extend my deepest gratitude for your generous donation that allowed us to have a classroom mailbox system. This has become an essential part of our daily routine, helping to keep my kindergarteners organized and responsible while ensuring important communication between school and home.\r\n\r\nThese mailboxes serve as a dedicated space for take-home folders, letters, completed work, and homework, making it easier for my students to develop independence in managing their materials. Each day, they take pride in checking their mailboxes, gathering their belongings, and preparing to share their learning with their families. This simple yet impactful system has greatly improved organization and has helped students develop responsibility from an early age.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has not only provided a practical solution for classroom management but has also strengthened the connection between school and home, ensuring that families stay informed and engaged in their child's education. Thank you for your kindness and support—it truly makes a difference in our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1737753383836,"projectUrl":"project/mailboxes-for-kinders/8944597/","projectTitle":"Mailboxes for Kinders","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Huisken","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4182476_orig.jpg?crop=1649,1649,x1583,y319&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1565145792168","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/emily-corning"},{"teacherId":4182476,"projectId":8959076,"letterContent":"I cannot thank you enough for your kindness and generosity in donating snacks for my kindergarten classroom. Your support has made such a meaningful difference in ensuring that my students have the nourishment they need to stay focused, energized, and ready to learn throughout the day.\r\n\r\nFor many young learners, a simple snack can be the boost they need to stay engaged and motivated. Whether it's a mid-morning pick-me-up or an afternoon treat, these snacks provide comfort and fuel growing minds and bodies. Beyond just satisfying hunger, they also foster a sense of community as my students share and enjoy these moments together.\r\n\r\nYour generosity extends beyond just providing food—it shows my students that they are cared for and supported. Knowing that there are people like you who believe in their success and well-being is truly inspiring. Thank you for making a positive impact in our classroom. Your kindness is felt each and every day!","fullyFundedDate":1734472763725,"projectUrl":"project/snacks-for-littles/8959076/","projectTitle":"Snacks for Littles","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Huisken","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4182476_orig.jpg?crop=1649,1649,x1583,y319&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1565145792168","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/emily-corning"},{"teacherId":4182476,"projectId":8957623,"letterContent":"I want to express my sincerest gratitude for your kindness and generosity in supporting my kindergarten classroom. Because of your thoughtful donations, I was able to add engaging and enriching materials that will create a warm, inviting, and stimulating learning environment for my students.\r\n\r\nThe jellyfish lamp has already become a classroom favorite, providing a calming and mesmerizing focal point that helps my young learners regulate their emotions and focus during quiet moments. The fairy string lights add a soft, magical glow that makes our classroom feel cozy and welcoming, fostering an atmosphere where students feel safe and eager to learn.\r\n\r\nThe world map tapestry is not only a beautiful decoration but also a valuable educational tool, sparking curiosity about geography, animals, and different parts of the world. My students love pointing out different countries and learning about the diverse cultures and environments beyond our classroom walls.\r\n\r\nFinally, the rubber duck toys bring so much joy! Whether used for counting, color recognition, or as rewards for positive behavior, these small but meaningful additions encourage playful learning and engagement. Seeing my students' smiles and excitement as they interact with these items is a direct result of your generosity.\r\n\r\nYour support means the world to me and to my kindergarteners. With your help, I am able to create an environment where learning feels exciting, comforting, and full of possibilities. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of my students—your kindness will have a lasting impact on their educational journey.","fullyFundedDate":1733530939632,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-decor/8957623/","projectTitle":"Classroom Decor","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Huisken","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4182476_orig.jpg?crop=1649,1649,x1583,y319&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1565145792168","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/emily-corning"},{"teacherId":8218075,"projectId":8792878,"letterContent":"3D printers have revolutionized student learning by offering hands-on experiences that bridge theory and practice. Students transform digital designs into tangible objects, boosting creativity, problem-solving, and STEM understanding. For instance, they can design geometric solids or prototype simple machines, making learning more engaging and fostering collaboration. The most exciting aspect for students is bringing their ideas to life. Seeing a design materialize is empowering, fueling creativity and motivating them. They recognize 3D printing's potential in fields like engineering and medicine, sparking genuine excitement.\r\n\r\nStudents, especially those who struggle with traditional methods, thrive with 3D printing. One student, initially hesitant, blossomed after designing custom phone cases. His confidence and collaboration improved, positively impacting his overall academic performance. These transformations highlight the profound impact of 3D printing on our students.","fullyFundedDate":1733351154778,"projectUrl":"project/printing-the-future-3d-innovation-in-st/8792878/","projectTitle":"Printing the Future: 3d Innovation in STEM Education","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Doyle","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8218075"},{"teacherId":4182476,"projectId":8956639,"letterContent":"I hope this message finds you well. On behalf of my kindergarten class at Gerald Dawkins Academy, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for your generous contribution towards purchasing durable storage bins for our classroom. Your support means the world to us and has already made a significant difference in how we organize and manage our materials.\r\n\r\nThese new storage bins have helped create a more efficient and inviting learning environment for my students. With everything neatly organized and easy to access, the children can now focus more on their activities and learning without distractions. From art supplies to reading materials and math manipulatives, every item has its place, and our classroom feels more structured and welcoming.\r\n\r\nYour kindness is a reminder of the incredible impact a community can have on education. Your willingness to support our needs not only helps us stay organized but also teaches my young students the value of generosity and community care.\r\n\r\nThank you once again for your thoughtful donation and for investing in our classroom's success. Please know that your contribution is greatly appreciated by both myself and my students. We are so fortunate to have such caring supporters.","fullyFundedDate":1733372729900,"projectUrl":"project/cleaner-space-for-learning/8956639/","projectTitle":"Cleaner Space for Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Huisken","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4182476_orig.jpg?crop=1649,1649,x1583,y319&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1565145792168","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/emily-corning"},{"teacherId":8218075,"projectId":8794083,"letterContent":"We are incredibly grateful for your generous donation of iPads for our classroom's 3D printing program. This gift has revolutionized our students' learning experience, allowing them to seamlessly transition from digital design to tangible creations. The immediate feedback from the 3D printer fosters a dynamic learning environment where students can rapidly iterate and refine their designs, cultivating creativity and critical thinking.\r\n\r\nThe most exciting aspect for our students is witnessing their ideas come to life. The tangible results of their digital designs are incredibly motivating, inspiring them to push creative boundaries and explore new possibilities. We've seen a significant increase in student engagement and a deeper understanding of design principles and the engineering process.\r\n\r\n\r\nSincerely,","fullyFundedDate":1732116901393,"projectUrl":"project/unleashing-creativity-the-ultimate-ipad/8794083/","projectTitle":"Unleashing Creativity: the Ultimate iPad-Powered 3D Printing Revolution","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Doyle","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8218075"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_131810","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":100,"numTeachers":null,"percentFrplEligible":89,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":83,"percentWhite":0,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":4,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 3","studentTeacherRatio":null,"demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":86.4,"schoolId":131810,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Gerald Dawkins Academy on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Gerald Dawkins Academy ","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/michigan/-county-run-/gerald-dawkins-academy/131810"}
Join the 44 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Gerald Dawkins Academy is
an urban public school
in Grand Rapids, Michigan that is part of [County run].
It serves 100 students
in grades K - 3.
Its teachers have had 23 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Boost support for our school's classrooms. Share this page with friends and family who want to make a difference. If you're a teacher, sign up to get started!
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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
87%
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.
Gerald Dawkins Academy Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Dec 5, 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.
Gerald Dawkins Academy
$9,998
raised using DonorsChoose
23
projects
funded
6
teachers
funded
44
donors
2
projects
for
basic supplies
6
projects for
technology
1
project for
books
1
project
for
art supplies
Gerald Dawkins Academy has received support from
38 individuals from Michigan and
6 individuals out-of-state.