{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Higher Ground Academy","outOfStateSupporters":35.4,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9742889,"projectId":9529287,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom has truly come to life! The colorful paper, ink, and organization tools you provided have transformed both our lessons and learning environment. Students' faces light up when they see the vibrant materials—graphic organizers, word work activities, and certificates that celebrate their growth. The colorful visuals not only capture their attention but also make learning feel exciting and joyful every day. The paper trimmer, hole punch, and chart stand rings have made it much easier to prepare and display classroom resources, while the hooks and mesh holder keep everything organized and within reach.\r\n\r\nThe biggest impact has been on student engagement and confidence. My students are more motivated to participate and take pride in their work, often commenting on how \"fun\" the lessons feel with all the new colorful materials. Our classroom now feels brighter, more welcoming, and efficient, allowing me to focus more on teaching and less on setup. Your kindness has truly helped create a learning space where creativity thrives and every student feels inspired to do their best. Thank you for helping make this vision a reality!","fullyFundedDate":1754398441883,"projectUrl":"project/colorful-tools-to-brighten-learning-and/9529287/","projectTitle":"Colorful Tools to Brighten Learning and Boost Organization","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Shela","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9742889_orig.jpg?crop=1983,1983,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1726067172249","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/shela-sabang"},{"teacherId":9742889,"projectId":9754973,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom has been transformed into a space buzzing with curiosity and confidence! My students have been using the new magnetic letters and word-building tools during pull-out intervention time. These resources have helped them connect sounds to letters, form simple words independently, and visually see how language works. One of my favorite moments was watching them excitedly spell out their first complete sentences with the magnetic tiles — their smiles said it all!\r\nWhat used to feel like \"hard work\" now feels like a fun challenge that builds teamwork and confidence. These tools have not only supported literacy development but also encouraged my students to take more risks with reading and writing in English.","fullyFundedDate":1758825789035,"projectUrl":"project/magnetic-minds-building-words-letters/9754973/","projectTitle":"Magnetic Minds: Building Words, Letters, and Confidence","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Shela","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9742889_orig.jpg?crop=1983,1983,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1726067172249","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/shela-sabang"},{"teacherId":9324278,"projectId":9221990,"letterContent":"On behalf of my students, I would like to extend my sincerest gratitude for the wonderful gifts you have given us. Now that the materials are available, we were able to work smoothly and achieve our targets every single day. Our English Language Learners become more interested and motivated in participating in the learning processes because they know they have materials to use.\r\n\r\nI hope you can help other students and teachers in need. These supplies become our instruments to guide every single student towards their level and bridge learning gaps that serve as walls to reach their full potential.\r\n\r\nAgain, thank you and have a wonderful day!","fullyFundedDate":1746785730031,"projectUrl":"project/request-for-enhancing-english-language-l/9221990/","projectTitle":"Request for Enhancing English Language Learning With Colored Printing Resources","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ruby","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9324278_orig.jpg?crop=1080,1080,x0,y18&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1743531449402","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9324278"},{"teacherId":9324278,"projectId":9213266,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for the wonderful supplies you provided to our classroom. I can't express enough the difference they've made for my ESL students and for me as their teacher. Every day, I see the excitement in my students' eyes as they get to use their very own markers and sharpeners-things that, believe or not, are new for many of them.\r\n\r\nThe sharpeners have quietly become one of our greatest treasures. Now, my students don't have to worry about broken pencils or waiting in line to borrow a class sharpener that barely works. Being able to keep their pencils sharp means more time spent learning and less time digging through supplies or feeling embarrassed to ask for help.\r\n\r\nAnd the markers! The room lights up when I bring them out. With all the different colors, even my most timid students want to participate-labelling new vocabulary, creating posters, and sharing their ideas in bright, bold ways. Watching them take pride in their work and express their creativity in a language that isn't their first is something I'll never forget.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has created both comfort and inspiration for kids who are learning so much more than just English in our classroom-they're learning confidence, independence, and that there are people out there who truly care about their journey.\r\n\r\nThank you from the bottom of my heart for supporting us and for believing in the power of these simple supplies to change lives. We are all better for your kindness.","fullyFundedDate":1743515674613,"projectUrl":"project/empower-young-minds-essential-markers/9213266/","projectTitle":"\"Empower Young Minds: Essential Markers & Heavy-Duty Sharpener for Success!\"","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ruby","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9324278_orig.jpg?crop=1080,1080,x0,y18&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1743531449402","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9324278"},{"teacherId":9779529,"projectId":9096947,"letterContent":"Thank you from the bottom of our hearts:) Your generous donation of a laminating machine and laminating films has made a meaningful and lasting impact on our classroom. What might seem like a simple tool has truly transformed how we teach, learn and student growth every single day. \r\n\r\nWith your donation, we've been able to create durable, reusable materials that support daily instruction-everything from anchor charts and math drill cards to display materials. These resources effectively reinforce key concepts and provide students with tools they return again and again. Our laminated math drill cards have become a favorite in our room. \r\n\r\nThis gift did more than a provide tool-it gave us the power to make learning visible, meaningful, and lasting. From all of us-thank you for helping us teach, learn, and grow with joy, confidence and creativity.","fullyFundedDate":1742681883554,"projectUrl":"project/long-lasting-visual-materials/9096947/","projectTitle":"Long-Lasting Visual Materials","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Rose","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9779529_orig.jpg?crop=1536,1536,x0,y256&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1739411309821","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9779529"},{"teacherId":9742889,"projectId":9153138,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of my project. The new materials have arrived and were used last summer school tutoring, and I can't express how grateful my students and I are for your contribution. We've been using the materials for our recent summer school tutoring, and the impact has been immediate and incredible.\r\nThe classroom was buzzing with excitement when the boxes first arrived. My students, especially, had huge smiles as they unpacked everything. I was so touched by their reaction and seeing how much it meant to them to have these new materials. We spent the day exploring and getting familiar with the resources, and it felt like a new wave of energy and engagement had been brought into our classroom. Your contribution has provided my students with valuable, hands-on learning experiences that will stay with them for years to come. Your donation has been instrumental in making this possible. We will continue to build on the skills they've developed and explore new ways to use the materials during intervention time. We are so excited to continue this project and see what else we can create!\r\nThank you again for believing in my students and supporting our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1746475918920,"projectUrl":"project/read-play-learn-a-phonics-journey-for/9153138/","projectTitle":"Read, Play, Learn: A Phonics Journey for Beginning Readers","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Shela","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9742889_orig.jpg?crop=1983,1983,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1726067172249","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/shela-sabang"},{"teacherId":9737613,"projectId":9222332,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous donation of an HP printer, my third-grade classroom has been transformed in so many ways. This technology is helping my students access learning materials more quickly and in a format that excites them. Instead of waiting for copies from the office, I can now provide immediate practice sheets, reading passages, and creative project templates right inside our classroom.\r\n\r\nWhat excites my students the most is seeing their own work printed out—whether it's a story they've written, a drawing they've colored, or a certificate celebrating their progress. Holding their work in their hands makes learning feel real and meaningful.\r\nSome of my students, especially those who are more visual learners, have especially benefited. For example, one of my students who struggles with handwriting has been motivated to type his work on the computer and print it out neatly. Seeing his ideas \"published\" has built his confidence and encouraged him to participate more in class.\r\nYour support has truly made learning more engaging and accessible. On behalf of my students, thank you for making this possible.","fullyFundedDate":1746787013393,"projectUrl":"project/printing-the-path-to-learning/9222332/","projectTitle":"Printing the Path to Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Krish","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9737613"},{"teacherId":9223120,"projectId":8807032,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our project, \"Empowering Unique Learners with Essential Materials.\" Because of you, my 3rd-graders have the tools they need to be organized, thrive and succeed.\r\n\r\nSince receiving the 1.5-inch 3-ring binders and copy paper, our classroom has seen a positive change. The students are now able to organize their materials easily, which has boosted their independence and confidence. During a literacy activity, one student proudly shared her completed story, saying, \"Now I can keep my work neat, organize, and find my marked papers quickly!\" Seeing their excitement and pride when they first saw the new binders was truly inspiring.\r\n\r\nThe copy paper has been invaluable for literacy and math activities. We've been using it for reading journals, writing prompts, and math practice sheets. The students love having fresh, high-quality paper to express their ideas and work on problems.\r\nLooking ahead, the next step is to build on this momentum. We're planning a creative writing project where students will use their organized materials to draft, revise, and share their stories. With your support, these resources are making a real difference, helping our students develop skills that will serve them well throughout their education.\r\n\r\nThank you again for your kindness and generosity. Your support truly empowers our learners to reach their full potential.","fullyFundedDate":1730308448127,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-unique-learners-with-essenti/8807032/","projectTitle":"Empowering Unique Learners with Essential Materials","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jo Feria","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9223120_orig.jpg?crop=963,963,x222,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1709684396634","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9223120"},{"teacherId":9223120,"projectId":8513835,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support through the \"Tools for Learning: Help Our Classroom Shine!\" project, our students are experiencing a transformative boost in their learning environment. The Epson EcoTank ET2400 wireless printer has made it easier for me print colorful materials for my ELL and Title learner, as well as for my new to the country students. With this on hand, learners' fosters independence and a sense of ownership over their learning. The easel pad has become an invaluable tool during group activities and brainstorming sessions, encouraging collaboration and visual thinking. Meanwhile, the electric pencil sharpener has saved time and reduced frustration, allowing students to focus more on their work rather than on sharpening pencils. \r\n\r\nMy students are most excited about the new technology because it makes learning more engaging and accessible. The wireless printer, in particular, allows me to generate colorful materials for my students' learning activities. Many students have expressed how the ease of printing and creating colorful visuals has helped them better understand concepts and express their ideas more confidently. \r\n\r\nThank you for your support, which has truly helped our classroom shine and opened up new pathways for our learners to learn, create, and succeed. Your generosity is making a lasting impact on their educational journey, and we are grateful to have such dedicated partners in our mission.","fullyFundedDate":1725847318035,"projectUrl":"project/tools-for-learning-help-our-classroom/8513835/","projectTitle":"\"Tools for Learning: Help Our Classroom Shine!\"","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Jo Feria","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9223120_orig.jpg?crop=963,963,x222,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1709684396634","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9223120"},{"teacherId":9737613,"projectId":8951638,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous contribution to our \"Equip Our Students for Active Play\" project. The new resources have already made a significant impact on our students, and we are excited to share how they are enhancing our classroom experience. With the addition of new playground equipment and sports materials, students now have access to a variety of activities that encourage teamwork, physical activity, and creativity. One of the most memorable moments came when the students first saw the new equipment—they were absolutely thrilled! Their faces lit up as they explored the new items, eager to jump into action and try them out. It was truly heartwarming to see their excitement and the positive energy it brought to the classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1733279949416,"projectUrl":"project/equip-our-students-for-active-play/8951638/","projectTitle":"Equip Our Students for Active Play","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Krish","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9737613"},{"teacherId":9737613,"projectId":8840446,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has been transformed! The new mat and book rack have already made a huge impact on our students' learning experience.\r\n\r\nThe cozy mat has created a welcoming space where students can gather for storytime, group discussions, and independent reading. It's amazing to see how comfortable and engaged they are during lessons now. One of my favorite moments was watching a group of students sprawled out on the mat, deeply engrossed in their books, sharing their favorite parts with each other.\r\n\r\nThe book rack has made our classroom library more accessible and inviting. Instead of books being tucked away in bins, students can now see their choices clearly, making it easier for them to pick something that excites them. Their faces lit up with excitement the first time they browsed through the neatly displayed books!\r\n\r\nMoving forward, we are using these resources to encourage more independent reading and group activities. Students are eager to take turns being the \"librarian,\" organizing books and recommending new reads to their classmates. We're also planning a reading challenge to inspire even more enthusiasm for books!\r\n\r\nNone of this would be possible without your support. Thank you for bringing joy, comfort, and a love of reading into our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1734099400633,"projectUrl":"project/cozy-reading-corner-building-a-bookshel/8840446/","projectTitle":"Cozy Reading Corner: Building a Bookshelf and Mat Oasis","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Krish","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9737613"},{"teacherId":9742889,"projectId":8908236,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, my students now have access to durable, long-lasting learning materials! The laminator and laminating sheets provided through this project have helped us preserve essential printed resources—such as alphabets, vocabulary word cards, interactive worksheets, —ensuring they can be used again and again.\r\n\r\nThis has been especially impactful for my young learners whose English language learners, who benefit from hands-on, reusable materials. With protected resources, my students can engage in repeated practice, interactive learning, and even take materials home without fear of damage.\r\n\r\nYour kindness has created a lasting impact in my classroom, helping students build literacy skills with materials that will stand the test of time. Thank you for investing in my students' learning journey!","fullyFundedDate":1734099426728,"projectUrl":"project/protecting-printed-materials-for-longevi/8908236/","projectTitle":"Protecting Printed Materials for Longevity: Laminating Sheets","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Shela","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9742889_orig.jpg?crop=1983,1983,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1726067172249","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/shela-sabang"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_68886","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":1163,"numTeachers":14,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":97,"percentWhite":2,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":0,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 7","studentTeacherRatio":"83.1:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":64.6,"schoolId":68886,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Higher Ground Academy on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Higher Ground Academy","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/minnesota/minnesota-department-of-education/higher-ground-academy/68886"}