{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Las Estrellas Dual Language Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":33.1,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":6530152,"projectId":9614542,"letterContent":"Having all the materials you funded has changed the way our classroom feels. We have a chance to come to school and enjoy building things, talking to each other and have a slow start to the day. Another impact is students can come in and have more independence in their activities. This gives me a chance to check in with them and make emotional connections that help our day be successful. Please know that students are loving and enjoying your donations and they are thriving because we get to start the day in a more relaxed way. It is still academic in a way that doesn't feel academic. Building and connecting with others as they make things with their hands has been wonderful. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.","fullyFundedDate":1757771791772,"projectUrl":"project/morning-bins-to-ditch-the-sheets/9614542/","projectTitle":"Morning Bins to Ditch the Sheets","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. D. Ortiz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6530152_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y386&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755402173686","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6530152"},{"teacherId":8421626,"projectId":9516611,"letterContent":"The Laminate to Educate project has a meaningful educational impact by improving the quality, accessibility, and longevity of classroom learning materials. By laminating key instructional resources, such as visual aids, learning games, charts, and student reference tools, teachers build sturdy, reusable supports that foster consistent engagement and active learning. Such resources ensure that students get more opportunities to engage with materials frequently without the risk of damage, thus cultivating hands-on participation and collaboration. \r\n\r\nLaminated materials also open up flexible options of instructional practices through small-group activities, centers, and differentiated activities. Overall, the project fosters a more organized, interactive, and sustainable learning environment supportive of student understanding, independence, and long-term academic growth.\r\n\r\nI would like to thank everyone who supported and contributed to the project. Your generosity and collaboration have made possible the creation of lasting resources that will continue to benefit students for many years to come.","fullyFundedDate":1756135377867,"projectUrl":"project/laminate-to-educate-enhancing-classroom/9516611/","projectTitle":"Laminate to Educate: Enhancing Classroom Resources","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Noelia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8421626_orig.jpg?crop=768,768,x256,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1722461597876","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8421626"},{"teacherId":1528285,"projectId":9589378,"letterContent":"Thank you for helping to add some essential materials to our music classroom that will help us use the color-coding strategy in learning English and Spanish and some high interest materials for students like the globe and the flags of the world poster.\r\n\r\nBecause we are a Dual Language school and all students are learning English and Spanish, we use all green for Spanish language and all blue for English language to help students' (and ours') brains make connections quickly and to facilitate transfer between both languages. The hanging charts have helped us do this in a neat way with all of our vocabulary we have learned so far this year! Students also like being able to color-code when writing themselves, and the markers help us all to do that.\r\n\r\nLastly, the Dirt Devil helps keep our floor clean. We do a lot of movement and work with different instruments on the floor (no tables), so keeping the carpet clean is essential to our classroom being welcoming and inviting.","fullyFundedDate":1755714865360,"projectUrl":"project/color-coding-for-bilingual-learners/9589378/","projectTitle":"Color Coding for Bilingual learners","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Olson de Alvarez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1528285_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1507759780729","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/emilyolsondealvarez"},{"teacherId":1528285,"projectId":9200520,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for contributing to our Music, Language and Culture classroom environment by helping us to purchase scented markers, a circle stretchy band, a guira and a new set of rhythm sticks. All of the materials are being put to good use!\r\n\r\nWe use a color-coded system for learning to sing and read musical notes. The scented markers match perfectly with the system that we use, and the students are always surprised when they realize that they are scented. It makes marking their notes more fun. We have used the stretchy band for a number of different circle games and also marking the beat-it really helps our kinesthetic learners! We used the guira to play Cumbia and Merengue, and having that instrument helped it sound more authentic. The rhythm sticks are different colors (and no more splinters!) and have been used by our preschool and Kindergarten students to mark the beat.\r\n\r\nOur classroom would not be stocked without donors like you-thank you for contributing!","fullyFundedDate":1742994825122,"projectUrl":"project/music-room-stock-up/9200520/","projectTitle":"Music Room Stock Up!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Olson de Alvarez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1528285_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1507759780729","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/emilyolsondealvarez"},{"teacherId":9971445,"projectId":9297490,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your support of this project to help us get Spanish language texts into the classroom. A huge part of kindergarten is fostering a love of reading and that is accomplished by having a variety of books for students to explore. Thanks to your support we will be starting the school year with the majority of texts that we will be studying throughout the year. \r\n\r\nHaving physical copies of the books we read is so important! It allows student to become familiar with print concepts and have the opportunity to go back and read texts on their own after we have studied them. This year, we will read the books funded through this project as a large group and then the books will be added to our class library for students to explore. \r\n\r\nI would especially like to thank you because this project has provided my students with access to popular texts that can be difficult to find in Spanish at the local library or in stores. This has a direct positive impact on their ability to cultivate a love of reading and to share common interests with students who can read in English.","fullyFundedDate":1746740371006,"projectUrl":"project/provide-access-to-books-in-spanish-for-d/9297490/","projectTitle":"Provide Access to Books in Spanish for Dual Language Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Tierra","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9971445_orig.jpg?crop=2320,2320,x0,y394&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742340900348","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9971445"},{"teacherId":8421626,"projectId":9188791,"letterContent":"In recent month, I've incorporated various sensory materials into my classroom environment with the intention of creating a more dynamic, engaging, and inclusive learning experience for my students. Among the materials I've introduced are the Crystiles Six Assorted Color Liquid Sensory Floor Tiles, the Peel-and-Stick White Board Wallpaper, and a variety of dry erase stickers. These resources, while seemingly simple, have had a profound impact on student engagement, motivation, and academic performance. The use of sensory materials has not only transformed the classroom setting but also led to noticeable improvements in the way students interact with learning tasks and absorb information.\r\n\r\n1. Creating a Multi-Sensory Learning Environment\r\n\r\nOne of the key strengths of the sensory materials I've introduced is their ability to cater to different learning styles. As educators, we know that students learn in diverse ways, some thrive with visual stimuli, others with hands-on interaction, and still others by hearing or physically moving. By integrating the Crystiles Liquid Sensory Tiles, I've been able to offer students a dynamic tactile experience that appeals to their need for movement and sensory exploration. The brightly colored, fluid-filled tiles invite students to walk, jump, or simply interact with the surface in creative ways, allowing them to experience their learning environment physically.\r\nThe tactile nature of the tiles has also been a calming tool for students who benefit from sensory input to self-regulate. For example, students with ADHD or sensory processing disorders have responded positively to the calming effect of moving over the tiles, which helps them focus better during lessons. This type of sensory engagement has provided an outlet for their energy while maintaining focus, a balance that can be difficult to achieve in traditional classroom settings.\r\n\r\n2. Encouraging Creativity and Problem-Solving with Dry Erase Materials\r\n\r\nAnother sensory tool that has proven invaluable is the Peel-and-Stick White Board Wallpaper, combined with the Cinvo Dry Erase Stickers. These resources have transformed the classroom into a creative, interactive space where students are not just passive receivers of information but active participants in their own learning process.\r\nWith the whiteboard wallpaper, I can create flexible workspaces throughout the room—on tables, walls, or doors—allowing students to visualize their thoughts, solve problems, and brainstorm in a way that's fluid and engaging. The ability to write, erase, and re-write helps foster a growth mindset by showing students that their work is a process that can evolve. In particular, students have used the wall space to work through math problems, practice vocabulary, and even draw diagrams for science concepts, seeing their progress as they go.\r\n\r\nThe Cinvo Dry Erase Stickers have been particularly effective in group activities. By placing these colorful, removable dots on various surfaces, I encourage students to work together to solve problems or develop group projects. The physical act of moving around and using the stickers to collaborate not only reinforces the material but also strengthens their teamwork skills. This hands-on approach makes abstract concepts more tangible and enjoyable, especially for students who may struggle with more traditional methods of learning.\r\n\r\n3. Building Confidence through Active Engagement\r\n\r\nOne of the most noticeable impacts of these sensory materials has been in boosting student confidence. With traditional learning methods, some students can feel disconnected from the content, particularly if they are visual or kinesthetic learners. However, by offering interactive tools like the liquid sensory tiles and dry erase materials, I've observed a shift in student attitudes toward learning.\r\nFor example, students who previously hesitated to participate in discussions or complete activities are now more willing to engage. The whiteboard stickers, which allow for immediate feedback and revision, have been especially empowering. Instead of fearing mistakes, students are encouraged to experiment, collaborate, and learn from their errors in real-time. This has fostered a classroom environment where mistakes are seen as part of the learning process, not as setbacks.\r\nSimilarly, the liquid sensory tiles have provided a space where students feel more comfortable expressing themselves. I've seen students who are generally more reserved begin to open up, using the tiles as a form of self-expression. Whether it's through group activities, free play, or even individual exploration, the tiles offer a sense of freedom that encourages students to take risks, both in their learning and social interactions.\r\n\r\n4. Fostering Inclusivity and Accessibility\r\n\r\nThe inclusion of sensory materials has also contributed significantly to making my classroom more inclusive. By offering students different ways to engage with the content, I've been able to better meet the needs of learners with various learning abilities and preferences. The tactile interaction with the sensory tiles is particularly beneficial for students with sensory processing challenges, providing them with a sensory outlet that helps them stay engaged without becoming overwhelmed.\r\nThe flexibility of the dry erase stickers has been equally beneficial for students who require alternative forms of expression. For instance, students who struggle with writing or find it difficult to organize their thoughts on paper can use the dry erase stickers to quickly draft, organize, and modify their ideas. The ability to move stickers around or draw diagrams that can be easily altered encourages creativity and helps build organizational skills, all while reducing the stress that might come with more traditional written tasks.\r\n\r\n5. Promoting Active Learning and Collaboration\r\n\r\nFinally, these sensory materials have helped shift the classroom dynamic toward more collaborative and active learning. In particular, the dry erase materials have made it easier to engage students in group activities, where they can contribute ideas and receive feedback from peers. The interactive nature of these materials has also promoted peer-to-peer learning, as students frequently work together to solve problems or create projects.\r\n\r\nThe liquid sensory tiles, in particular, have proven useful for group activities that require movement. Whether students are completing a scavenger hunt, working on a science experiment, or solving math problems, the tiles have added a layer of physical engagement that stimulates both mind and body. This combination of movement and cognitive work has enhanced memory retention and reinforced learning outcomes in a fun, immersive way.\r\n\r\nIncorporating sensory materials such as the Crystiles Liquid Sensory Tiles, whiteboard wallpaper, and dry erase stickers into my classroom has proven to be a game-changer in how students interact with content, collaborate with peers, and engage in their own learning processes. These materials have not only supported various learning styles but also provided an inclusive environment where all students feel empowered to express themselves, take risks, and approach learning with confidence. By creating a classroom that appeals to the senses, I've fostered a space where creativity, collaboration, and active participation are central to every lesson.","fullyFundedDate":1745846975474,"projectUrl":"project/spark-creativity-inspire-explorationh/9188791/","projectTitle":"\"Spark Creativity, Inspire Exploration—Help Build Our Sensory Space!\"","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Noelia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8421626_orig.jpg?crop=768,768,x256,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1722461597876","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8421626"},{"teacherId":9926134,"projectId":9118207,"letterContent":"I hope you've all had a sunny, relaxing start to your summer. I want to express my deepest thanks for the generous donation you made this past spring to my students at Las Estrellas Dual Language School in Minneapolis. My students were able to use the notebooks and binders for several literacy projects, such as a \"Diario Dúo,\" in which they wrote weekly journal entries about the same topic in both of our target languages (Spanish & English).\r\n\r\nAdditionally, with the donation of a class set of wired headphones, my students were able to more comfortably and equitably use their Chromebook devices for daily activities and evaluations.\r\n\r\nEach donor's contribution was noticed and appreciated. My students told me every day how lucky they felt that they got so many materials from perfect strangers!","fullyFundedDate":1739841514923,"projectUrl":"project/maestro-kevins-estrellas-nicas/9118207/","projectTitle":"Maestro Kevin's Estrellas Únicas","teacherDisplayName":"Maestro Kevin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9926134"},{"teacherId":9971445,"projectId":9181027,"letterContent":"I would like to thank you for your incredible contribution to our project surrounding access to play based reading and math centers. You donation has given my students access to manipulatives, gross motor toys, and phonics tools that they would not otherwise have access too. We were able to purchase all the materials listed in our initial project proposal including hula hoops, counting manipulatives, and letter manipulatives. \r\n\r\nThe funding of this project has had an immediate impact on my student's behavior. We are no longer using ipads in the classroom which means my students are having less screen time and less exposure to unintended apps and/or videos. Instead students are doing hands on, movement based activities and I have noticed a huge difference in their ability to stay engaged when working independently. In addition to this I have several kinesthetic learners and the incorporation of gross motor activities has allowed them to make huge gains in mathematics. \r\n\r\nThank you so much for your participation in this project, by helping to fund projects through donors choose, you have a huge impact on schools that are unable to internally fund these resources for students. Especially for teachers working in historically underfunded schools it makes a significant difference for my students who typically lack access to vital academic resources found in more resource rich districts.","fullyFundedDate":1742508801665,"projectUrl":"project/play-based-reading-and-math-centers-for/9181027/","projectTitle":"Play Based Reading and Math Centers for Kindergarten","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Tierra","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9971445_orig.jpg?crop=2320,2320,x0,y394&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742340900348","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9971445"},{"teacherId":3781163,"projectId":5118084,"letterContent":"I want to extend my deepest thanks to each of you for your generous donation of books to my kindergarten classroom. The excitement on my students' faces when they saw the new books was absolutely priceless. These books, full of vibrant illustrations and engaging stories, have already captured their imaginations and sparked their love for reading. Your thoughtful contribution has provided them with a wonderful opportunity to develop early literacy skills in a fun and engaging way.\r\n\r\nAs a kindergarten teacher, one of the most rewarding moments is seeing young children discover the joy of reading. Thanks to your support, my students now have access to a variety of books that are not only age-appropriate but also relevant to their interests and experiences. From colorful picture books to stories that teach important lessons, your donation is giving them a solid foundation in reading that will serve them throughout their academic journey.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has made such a positive impact on our classroom. These books are helping to build a love for learning that will last a lifetime. On behalf of my students and myself, thank you for investing in their education and providing them with the resources they need to succeed. Your donation is truly appreciated, and we are all so grateful for your kindness and support.","fullyFundedDate":1599756895157,"projectUrl":"project/a-classroom-library-for-kinders/5118084/","projectTitle":"A Classroom Library for Kinders","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Moen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3781163_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1503358784125","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3781163"},{"teacherId":3781163,"projectId":5218433,"letterContent":"I am incredibly grateful for your generous donation of classroom organization materials. As I settled into my new classroom, I quickly realized how important it would be to have the right tools to create an organized, welcoming, and efficient space for my students. Thanks to your support, I now have bins, folders, and shelves that are not only helping me stay organized but are also allowing me to create an environment where students can easily access materials and feel comfortable in their learning space.\r\n\r\nThe impact of your donation goes beyond just keeping the classroom tidy; it's helping to set the tone for a structured, positive learning experience. With everything in its place, my students can focus on what matters most – their education. The materials you provided have allowed me to establish a system where students can take responsibility for their supplies and materials, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in their classroom.\r\n\r\nYour thoughtful contribution has truly made a difference in helping me set up a space that is ready for learning and growth. I am so grateful for your support as I start this new chapter in a new classroom. On behalf of my students, thank you for making such a meaningful impact on our classroom's success and for helping me create an organized, inspiring place for them to thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1604945484357,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-organization-makeover/5218433/","projectTitle":"Classroom Organization Makeover","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Moen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3781163_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1503358784125","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3781163"},{"teacherId":8421626,"projectId":9087250,"letterContent":"The impact of this project has been profound, enriching both the academic and emotional growth of our students. Through the addition of new books that explore emotions, we've been able to introduce critical skills like emotional literacy, empathy, and self-regulation. These texts give students the opportunity to recognize and name their feelings, a fundamental step in developing emotional intelligence. By discussing how characters navigate emotions in various situations, students learn problem-solving strategies and how to handle their own feelings in healthy ways.\r\n\r\nIn our classroom, reading is an interactive experience. Students engage with the books through group discussions, journaling, and activities that encourage them to connect personally with the content.\r\n\r\nCertain students, particularly those who may struggle with emotional expression, have shown remarkable growth through these new texts. For instance, a few of our more introverted students have become more open and vocal about their feelings, feeling empowered by the characters' journeys. One student, who usually struggles with anxiety, has found comfort in a book that addresses fear and courage, often revisiting it for reassurance. Overall, the new books have provided a safe space for these students to explore and articulate their emotions, and it's been heartening to witness their personal growth in this area.\r\n\r\nThis project has not only sparked excitement around reading but also created an environment where emotional expression and understanding are encouraged and celebrated. The students are learning valuable lessons that will serve them far beyond the classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1741124319698,"projectUrl":"project/a-little-spot-of-social-emotional-learni/9087250/","projectTitle":"A Little Spot of Social Emotional Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Noelia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8421626_orig.jpg?crop=768,768,x256,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1722461597876","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8421626"},{"teacherId":2507358,"projectId":8758998,"letterContent":"I can't thank you enough for your generosity in providing my students with these amazing resources! The moment they saw the new materials, their faces lit up with excitement. Many of my students thrive with hands-on, sensory-based learning, and these tools have already made a big impact.\r\n\r\nOne special moment was when we introduced the new sensory tools for learning the alphabet. A student who usually struggles to engage was immediately drawn to a tactile alphabet set, tracing the letters with their fingers while practicing sounds. The extra sensory input is helping reinforce learning in a way that works best for them.\r\n\r\nThe fidgets have also been a game-changer for focus and participation. One student who often has difficulty staying seated now holds a small fidget while working on math, which helps them stay engaged without becoming overwhelmed.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, we're using these materials to support our lessons in literacy, math, and self-regulation. Right now, we are working on early reading skills, and the hands-on tools are helping students stay engaged while practicing letter recognition and simple words. We're also incorporating the cleaning materials into our daily routines, giving students ownership over their space and building life skills.\r\n\r\nThese resources are already making a lasting difference, and I'm so grateful for your support in helping my students succeed!","fullyFundedDate":1733353790545,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-educacin-especial-building/8758998/","projectTitle":"Empowering Educación Especial: Building Functional Skills and Emotional Growth","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Tison","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2507358_orig.png?crop=952,952,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1644079236491","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2507358"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_53163","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":402,"numTeachers":37,"percentFrplEligible":78,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":6,"percentWhite":13,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":76,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"10.9:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":66.9,"schoolId":53163,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Las Estrellas Dual Language Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Las Estrellas Dual Language Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/minnesota/minneapolis-public-schools/sheridan-global-arts-school/53163"}