{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"University Preparatory Art & Design Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":34.1,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9306952,"projectId":9305473,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our Helping Our Community project has made a powerful difference in our classroom. The toiletries, hygiene items, and snacks have been used daily by scholars who need a little extra support to feel prepared, confident, and ready to learn. One specific moment that truly stood out was when a scholar quietly asked if we had any deodorant because they were embarrassed to participate in group activities. Having these resources available allowed the scholar to feel comfortable and cared for, and they returned to class smiling and engaged. Our snack station has also been a huge help scholars who come in hungry are now able to grab a snack and stay focused during lessons, which has improved their stamina and participation.\r\n\r\nWhen scholars first saw the materials, the reaction was genuine surprise and gratitude. Many scholars said things like, \"This is for us?\" and \"Thank you for thinking about what we need.\" It was heartwarming to watch them recognize that people in the community care about their well-being. These supplies have opened the door to important conversations about self-care, responsibility and how taking care of ourselves affects how we show up in the classroom.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, these resources will continue supporting our upcoming lessons on community, leadership, and helping others. Scholars will participate in a project where they identify needs within our classroom and school community, brainstorm realistic solutions, and create action plans using this project as a real example of what it looks like when people give back. Your support gave our scholars more than items; you gave them dignity, comfort, and the reminder that kindness matters. Thank you for helping us build a community where every scholar feels seen, supported and valued.","fullyFundedDate":1746549962921,"projectUrl":"project/helping-our-community/9305473/","projectTitle":"Helping Our Community!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gaines","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9306952_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1703073122660","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9306952"},{"teacherId":9306952,"projectId":9755505,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our Wear It, Share It: Kindness Button Project has brought so much excitement and positivity into our 5th-grade classroom. We've been using the new button-making materials to help scholars express kindness, creativity, and leadership in a hands-on way.\r\n\r\nOne of our favorite moments was when scholars created their very first kindness buttons. As soon as they saw the bright materials, printed designs, and the button maker, their faces lit up with pure excitement. Many of them immediately said things like, \"Can I make one for someone who needs a smile?\" or \"I want to design a button about kindness!\" It was powerful to watch them think about how they could uplift others.\r\n\r\nWe used the project during a classroom activity where each scholar designed a button that represented an act of kindness they'd like to share with our school community. Scholars proudly wore their buttons during the day, and many chose to give theirs away to a friend or teacher who needed encouragement. This simple resource created meaningful conversations about empathy, community, and leadership.\r\n\r\nYour support gave my scholars a tangible way to spread positivity while also practicing important skills: brainstorming, designing, writing, and communicating their ideas. Even scholars who are usually more reserved became engaged and confident during the activity.\r\n\r\nAs our next steps, we plan to continue incorporating the button maker into upcoming lessons, especially our unit on character traits and our leadership projects. Scholars will create buttons tied to themes like respect, perseverance, and teamwork, and eventually we hope to start a \"Kindness Button Station\" where scholars can make buttons for others in need of encouragement.\r\n\r\nThank you for giving us the tools to not only create something fun, but to inspire a culture of kindness in our classroom and throughout the school. Your generosity is helping our scholars learn that even small acts of kindness can spark big change.","fullyFundedDate":1759111405362,"projectUrl":"project/wear-it-share-it-kindness/9755505/","projectTitle":"Wear It, Share It: Kindness!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gaines","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9306952_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1703073122660","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9306952"},{"teacherId":9306952,"projectId":8088895,"letterContent":"The Snackin' in 5th Grade project has been such a blessing for our classroom! Having these snacks available has helped ensure that every scholar can stay focused and energized throughout the day, especially those who may come to school without breakfast or need a little extra boost before learning.\r\n\r\nWhen the scholars first saw the bins of snacks, their faces lit up with excitement and relief. They couldn't believe that people they'd never met cared enough to support them in such a meaningful way. It truly made them feel seen and valued.\r\n\r\nThese new resources have also opened up great conversations about kindness and gratitude. As we continue through our current lessons of math problem-solving to reading comprehension, scholars are learning that meeting basic needs helps everyone bring their best selves to class.\r\n\r\nThank you again for your generosity and thoughtfulness. Your support made a real difference in creating a positive, nurturing learning environment for our 5th graders at","fullyFundedDate":1702006855154,"projectUrl":"project/snackin-in-5th/8088895/","projectTitle":"Snackin' in 5th!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gaines","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9306952_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1703073122660","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9306952"},{"teacherId":9686111,"projectId":9502561,"letterContent":"I hope this letter finds you well! I am writing to extend my heartfelt gratitude for your generous support of my classroom project, \"Fuel for Focus: Snacks and Storage to Power Learning.\" Your contribution has made a tangible difference in the lives of my students, and I want to share just how impactful your gift has been.\r\n\r\nOne of my scholars is currently living in a shelter, and the availability of healthy snacks has been transformative for him. For many of my students, having access to nutritious food is not just about fueling their bodies but also about fostering an environment where they can focus and thrive in their learning. The joy on my scholar's face when he enjoys a snack is a testament to the comfort and stability these resources provide during a time of uncertainty. \r\n\r\nEvery time a new box of snacks arrived in our classroom, my students reacted as if it were Christmas! The excitement and joy were palpable; they would cheer, run to the box, and eagerly unpack the treats together. It was more than just snacks; it was a moment of togetherness and celebration for our classroom community.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, I am excited to share that we will be embarking on an ELA module focused on creating a difference in our communities. Through this unit, my students will explore the importance of civic engagement and how they can make a positive impact. We will delve into stories of individuals and groups who have initiated change, inspiring my scholars to think critically about their roles in fostering a better environment around them.\r\n\r\nAs part of this module, students will engage in discussions and projects aimed at identifying needs in our community and brainstorming ways to address them. They will work on persuasive writing pieces that articulate their ideas and project proposals, encouraging them to take ownership of their learning and their community. The healthy snacks you've helped provide will serve as a practical example of how even small contributions can create significant change, reinforcing the message that we all have the power to make a difference.\r\n\r\nThank you once again for your incredible support. Your involvement in our classroom not only provides resources but also instills hope and motivation within my students. I look forward to sharing more stories and developments from our classroom as we continue this journey together.","fullyFundedDate":1758231319531,"projectUrl":"project/fuel-for-focus-snacks-storage-to-powe/9502561/","projectTitle":"Fuel for Focus: Snacks & Storage to Power Learning!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Rios","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9686111_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723928672381","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-rios333"},{"teacherId":9306952,"projectId":9060702,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of snacks for our classroom. The joy and excitement on my scholars' faces when they saw the variety of treats was priceless. Having access to these snacks has given them an extra boost of energy throughout the day, helping them stay focused and motivated during lessons. Something as simple as a healthy snack has truly made a big difference in their ability to learn and engage.\r\n\r\nYour kindness brought more than just food—it brought encouragement, comfort, and joy to our classroom community. Because of your support, my scholars feel cared for and valued, which motivates them to keep putting forth their best effort. We are so grateful for your generosity and for believing in our scholars' success.","fullyFundedDate":1746657823462,"projectUrl":"project/energy-booster/9060702/","projectTitle":"Energy Booster!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gaines","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9306952_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1703073122660","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9306952"},{"teacherId":9686111,"projectId":9004447,"letterContent":"I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for your generous support in funding our project to enhance our classroom library. Your contributions have made a profound impact on our students' love for reading and their social-emotional growth.\r\n\r\nSkills and Lessons Introduced by New Texts\r\n\r\nThe new books have become a vital resource in our classroom, introducing varied skills and lessons that are essential for our scholars. Each story is a gateway to exploring themes of empathy, inclusion, and resilience, helping students navigate their own emotions and develop critical social skills. For instance, stories that focus on kindness empower students to practice compassion, while tales of overcoming challenges instill confidence and perseverance. The diverse characters and experiences depicted in these texts also promote understanding and respect for different backgrounds, encouraging a culture of acceptance within our classroom.\r\n\r\nWhat Reading Looks Like in Our Classroom\r\n\r\nReading in our classroom is an animated and collaborative experience. Whether through guided reading sessions, storytelling circles, or independent reading time, students are fully engaged as they dive into each narrative. I watch them exchange ideas, share their interpretations, and even create alternate endings based on their imaginations. The joy on their faces as they get lost in a story is truly rewarding. We've also integrated discussions that allow students to express their thoughts and feelings about the characters and events, fostering deeper connections to the material and to one another.\r\n\r\nParticular Students Excelling with the New Books\r\n\r\nSeveral students have shown remarkable growth and enthusiasm since the introduction of the new texts. For example, one student who previously struggled with reading comprehension has found a newfound love for storytelling through our graphic novels. Their excitement during storytime has spurred participation in discussions, leading to improved confidence in sharing ideas. Another student, who often felt isolated, has connected deeply with books that feature themes of friendship and belonging, using the lessons from those stories to build connections with classmates. \r\n\r\nYour generosity has truly transformed our classroom into a vibrant learning environment where all students feel valued and inspired. Thank you once again for your support; you are helping to create lifelong readers and compassionate individuals.","fullyFundedDate":1734724673952,"projectUrl":"project/falling-in-love-with-reading-an-sel-jou/9004447/","projectTitle":"Falling in Love With Reading: an SEL Journey","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Rios","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9686111_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723928672381","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-rios333"},{"teacherId":4854787,"projectId":9296666,"letterContent":"We would like to express our deepest gratitude for your generous support. Because of your kindness and belief in our mission, our group of student scholars was able to take meaningful action in our community by distributing food to families in need.\r\n\r\nWith the donations we received, we assembled and delivered care packages that included macaroni noodles, soups, fruit cups, and drinks—items that provided both nourishment and comfort during difficult times. For many of the families, these meals offered relief and reminded them that someone cares.\r\n\r\nThis experience was incredibly impactful for us as students. It not only allowed us to give back to our neighbors, but it also showed us the power of community and compassion. We heard stories of gratitude, saw smiles on children's faces, and felt the warmth of connection that your contributions made possible.\r\n\r\nThanks to your support, we were able to serve with purpose and empathy. You helped us make a real difference—and for that, we are truly thankful.","fullyFundedDate":1746039065342,"projectUrl":"project/giving-back/9296666/","projectTitle":"Giving Back!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Rucker","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4854787_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755710781453","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4854787"},{"teacherId":4854787,"projectId":8965991,"letterContent":"The scholars were filled with excitement as they received friendship bracelets, footballs, crochet kits, bingo, and other engaging games to enjoy during recess. These thoughtful additions quickly became favorites among students, creating new opportunities for connection, collaboration, and creativity. Whether teaming up on the football field, learning to crochet together, or sharing a laugh over a game of bingo, these activities have played a meaningful role in enhancing social-emotional learning. Students are building stronger friendships, practicing empathy, and developing essential communication skills, all while having fun!","fullyFundedDate":1733254550095,"projectUrl":"project/oh-so-deserving/8965991/","projectTitle":"Oh So Deserving!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Rucker","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4854787_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755710781453","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4854787"},{"teacherId":4854787,"projectId":8864296,"letterContent":"As part of our project, students created baskets filled with non-perishable food items and donated them to families in our community. When the supply packages arrived and students saw all that we would be able to donate, their excitement was contagious—they couldn't wait to start assembling the baskets. Thanks to their hard work and your support, we were able to provide food baskets to 15 families in need. \r\nThe students were genuinely thrilled to participate in such a meaningful experience, with many asking why we don't do projects like this more often. We're excited to share that we are now working with the Allstate Foundation on a follow-up initiative to collect and donate non-perishable items to a local food bank, continuing our mission of giving back to the community.","fullyFundedDate":1729629179419,"projectUrl":"project/spreading-love/8864296/","projectTitle":"Spreading Love!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Rucker","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4854787_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755710781453","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4854787"},{"teacherId":9681319,"projectId":8718726,"letterContent":"I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for your generous funding of our project, \"Help Our 5th Graders Thrive with Healthy Snacks Throughout the Day.\" Your support has made a significant impact on the lives of our students, and we cannot thank you enough.\r\n\r\nAs you know, many of our 5th graders arrive at school early and face a long wait until lunch at 12:45 PM. For those students who come from families that qualify for free lunch, accessing nutritious snacks throughout the day is essential for maintaining their focus and energy levels. With your contribution, we have been able to provide healthy snacks that ensure no child goes hungry or struggles to concentrate in class.\r\n\r\nThanks to your generosity, we are creating a supportive environment where our young learners can thrive. The smiles on their faces when they receive healthy snacks are truly priceless, and we are witnessing the positive effect these meals have on their overall well-being and academic performance. Your belief in the importance of nourishing our students has made a real difference.\r\n\r\nOnce again, thank you for your incredible support. Together, we are fueling the minds and bodies of our bright young learners, helping them reach their full potential. We appreciate your commitment to our community and look forward to sharing more success stories with you in the future.","fullyFundedDate":1733235154800,"projectUrl":"project/hydration-and-nutriton-to-fuel-young-min/8718726/","projectTitle":"Hydration and Nutriton to Fuel Young Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Davis","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9681319_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753106344290","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9681319"},{"teacherId":4405911,"projectId":9128953,"letterContent":"Thank you Donor's Choose and the wonderful donors that joined together to bring this project to life. This project will make a huge impact on my scholars now and in the future. With your generosity, we have been refueling our bodies since these healthy snacks arrived to our studio.\r\n\r\nWith this project, I was also able to replenish my snack box. All scholars should be able to come to school to a healthy snack that refuels their body after a long day of learning and with your help they will be able to do just that. Thank you again.","fullyFundedDate":1740670630875,"projectUrl":"project/refueling-our-brains-and-bodies/9128953/","projectTitle":"Refueling Our Brains and Bodies","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Porter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4405911_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1583976960493","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4405911"},{"teacherId":9686111,"projectId":8672168,"letterContent":"Our students have been so excited about the new resources we've received, especially the snacks and cleaning supplies. One of the most impactful classroom moments was when we implemented a system where scholars could earn snacks by completing their classroom jobs. This not only motivated them to take on responsibilities but also taught them valuable lessons about accountability and teamwork. It was wonderful to see their reactions when they realized they could earn snacks for doing their part in keeping the classroom organized and clean.\r\n\r\nThe gratitude they expressed was overwhelming. Many students commented on how thankful they were to have the resources available, as it helped keep our space both clean and welcoming. It also gave them a sense of pride in contributing to maintaining our classroom environment.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, the next steps for the students are to continue using the cleaning supplies to keep the classroom in great condition while also incorporating some reflection time. After a week of working together, we'll discuss what they learned from their roles and how it helped the class as a whole. This will allow them to practice critical thinking and responsibility while also reinforcing how teamwork leads to a positive and successful classroom experience. The snacks will continue to be a fun motivator as we move forward, helping us maintain a positive and productive classroom culture.\r\n\r\nThank you again to the donors for making all of this possible! Your contribution has truly made a difference in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1734035420340,"projectUrl":"project/ms-rios-crew-strengthening-our-class/8672168/","projectTitle":"Ms. Rios’ Crew: Strengthening Our Class Family","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Rios","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9686111_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723928672381","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-rios333"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_103867","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":389,"numTeachers":27,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":98,"percentWhite":1,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":0,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"14.4:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":65.9,"schoolId":103867,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about University Preparatory Art & Design Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"University Preparatory Art & Design Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/michigan/michigan-department-of-education/henry-ford-academy-elementary-school/103867"}