{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Higher Ground Academy","outOfStateSupporters":35.7,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10331462,"projectId":10124675,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom with the donation of headphones. Your generosity has made a big difference in helping our students stay focused and engaged during their learning time. We primarily use the headphones when students are working on IXL and during science lab simulations. The headphones allow students to clearly hear instructions, explanations, and feedback without distractions, which helps them concentrate and better understand the material.\r\n\r\nStudents especially enjoy using the headphones during science lab simulations because it makes the experience feel more interactive and immersive. They can follow the steps of experiments, listen to explanations, and observe virtual demonstrations while staying focused on their tasks. During IXL practice, the headphones help students work independently and at their own pace as they listen to directions and problem explanations.\r\n\r\nI have also noticed that some students who normally struggle to stay focused during independent work are more engaged when using the headphones. Being able to block out background noise helps them concentrate and feel more confident as they complete their work. Thank you again for your support and for helping create a learning environment where our students can succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1772422141273,"projectUrl":"project/quiet-ears-busy-minds/10124675/","projectTitle":"Quiet Ears, Busy Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. John Rick Melo Domingo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10331462_orig.jpg?crop=2529,2529,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1761837559686","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10331462"},{"teacherId":10231104,"projectId":10033809,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom library now reflects the beautiful diversity of the children who sit on our carpet each day. These books have allowed us to intentionally teach lessons on identity, inclusion, empathy, and courage. When we read stories like The Proudest Blue, Hair Love, Eyes That Kiss in the Corners, Just Ask!, and All the Way to the Top, students are learning to celebrate differences, ask thoughtful questions, and stand up for themselves and others. With books such as The Invisible String and A Family Full of Love, we also explore connection, belonging, and the many ways families are formed. These texts help us build vocabulary around fairness, disability, immigration, culture, and kindness, big ideas taught in developmentally appropriate, meaningful ways.\r\n\r\nReading in our classroom is interactive and reflective. We pause often to notice illustrations, think about characters' feelings, and make text-to-self connections. Students turn and talk, share stories from their own families, and practice respectful listening. During our neurodivergent and inclusion-focused read-alouds, like All the Ways Sterling Communicates, students learn that everyone communicates and experiences the world differently, and that different does not mean less. These books spark rich conversations that go far beyond the page, shaping how students treat one another during play, problem-solving, and group work.\r\n\r\nOne of the most powerful moments came when a student excitedly pointed out that a character in The Proudest Blue wore a hijab just like she does. She beamed with pride and said, \"That's like me!\" That small moment of recognition meant everything. Other students have eagerly shared about their hair, their languages, their traditions, and their families after seeing themselves reflected in stories like Hair Love, Mama, What's an Immigrant?, and I Am Whole. These books have helped my students feel seen, valued, and proud of who they are, while also learning to honor and uplift others. Your support has helped us build not just readers, but compassionate and confident human beings. Thank you for making that possible.","fullyFundedDate":1769260140719,"projectUrl":"project/picture-books-that-help-every-child-feel/10033809/","projectTitle":"Picture Books That Help Every Child Feel Seen","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Davis","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10231104_orig.jpg?crop=424,424,x134,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1768616452270","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10231104"},{"teacherId":10231104,"projectId":9690366,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, my kindergarteners now have daily opportunities to build the social-emotional skills that are just as important as learning letters and numbers. Our new A Little SPOT of Emotion book sets, the Pete the Cat stories, The Kids' Book of Diversity, Making Good Choices Match-Ups, and It's Okay To Not Be Okay have allowed us to explicitly teach skills like identifying emotions, practicing empathy, making responsible choices, and celebrating differences. When we read these books, we pause to model thinking aloud (\"How is this character feeling?\" \"What could they do instead?\"), practice turn-and-talk conversations, and connect the stories to real classroom situations. Students are learning to name their feelings, use calming strategies, and problem-solve with peers, tools that will stay with them far beyond kindergarten.\r\n\r\nReading in our classroom is interactive and joyful. We gather together on the carpet, often with a plush character in hand, and students eagerly participate by acting out emotions, matching scenarios to \"good choice\" cards, and sharing personal connections. The books have helped us build a common language around feelings; words like \"frustrated,\" \"proud,\" \"lonely,\" and \"brave\" are now part of our everyday conversations. For many of my students, especially those from low-income or new-to-the-country families, these discussions create space to process experiences they may not always have words for at home. Our classroom feels safer and more connected because of it.\r\n\r\nSeveral students, in particular, have blossomed through these stories. One student who often struggled with big emotions now independently asks for a \"calm-down minute\" after we read about managing anger. Another student, who is newer to the country and still building English skills, lights up during our emotion lessons. The visuals, repetition, and plush characters help bridge language gaps and give them confidence to participate. Watching my students hug the plush characters, reference the books during conflicts, and remind one another to \"make a good choice\" has shown me that your donation did more than provide books; it helped build a kinder, more emotionally aware classroom community. Thank you for making that possible.","fullyFundedDate":1766953715365,"projectUrl":"project/social-emotional-tools-needed/9690366/","projectTitle":"Social-Emotional Tools Needed!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Davis","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10231104_orig.jpg?crop=424,424,x134,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1768616452270","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10231104"},{"teacherId":10331462,"projectId":10091265,"letterContent":"My students absolutely love reading, and the new books have quickly become a meaningful part of their daily routines. It's common to see them carrying books everywhere — from lunch to recess — because they genuinely want to keep reading. Favorites like Dog Man and The Chronicles of Narnia have sparked excitement and motivation in even reluctant readers.\r\n\r\nThese texts allow me to teach important literacy skills in an engaging way. Students practice comprehension strategies such as predicting, visualizing, and summarizing while reading stories they care about. We also work on character traits, problem-and-solution, vocabulary development, and understanding theme. Because the books vary in style and difficulty, students can read at their level while still participating in shared discussions, which builds both confidence and critical thinking.\r\n\r\nReading in our classroom looks active and joyful. Students participate in independent reading, partner discussions, and small-group conversations where they share favorite parts, make connections, and ask questions. Some of my quieter students have especially connected with the new books — they are eager to talk about characters and proudly recommend titles to classmates. The books have helped transform reading from an assignment into a habit.\r\n\r\nThanks to your support, my students now see themselves as readers, not just students learning to read.","fullyFundedDate":1771011974694,"projectUrl":"project/expanding-our-classroom-library-fantasy/10091265/","projectTitle":"Expanding Our Classroom Library: Fantasy Favorites of Our Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. John Rick Melo Domingo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10331462_orig.jpg?crop=2529,2529,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1761837559686","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10331462"},{"teacherId":9700431,"projectId":8936835,"letterContent":"I'm reaching out to invite you to be part of something very special in my 2nd grade classroom.\r\n\r\nMy students are eager learners who thrive when they feel comfortable, supported, and excited about reading. I am currently seeking donations for classroom mats and a cozy reading chair to create a warm and engaging learning environment for them.\r\n\r\nThe classroom mats will give each child a designated space during lessons and group discussions, helping improve focus, organization, and classroom routines. The reading chair will provide a special, comfortable spot that encourages students to develop a love for reading and build confidence as independent readers.\r\n\r\nFor many of my students, school is where they discover their strengths and feel a sense of belonging. These simple resources will make a meaningful difference in their daily learning experience.\r\n\r\nIf you are able to donate, no amount is too small. Every contribution brings us closer to creating a classroom where students feel safe, motivated, and inspired to learn.\r\nThank you for considering supporting our 2nd graders. Your generosity will directly impact their growth, comfort, and love for learning.","fullyFundedDate":1741055117518,"projectUrl":"project/project-ese-enhance-students-engageme/8936835/","projectTitle":"Project E.S.E Enhance Students Engagement","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. JOSEPHINE MANGALINO","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9700431_orig.jpg?crop=996,996,x0,y338&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1725938182193","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9700431"},{"teacherId":9737613,"projectId":9573144,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, reading in our classroom has become more meaningful, engaging, and skill-focused than ever before.\r\n\r\nWhile many of our donors love reading books (we do too!), teaching reading goes far beyond simply enjoying a story. These new texts have allowed us to explicitly teach important third-grade skills such as:\r\n\r\nIdentifying the main idea and supporting details\r\nMaking inferences using text evidence\r\nComparing characters, settings, and themes\r\nUnderstanding vocabulary in context\r\nAnalyzing nonfiction text features like headings, captions, and diagrams\r\nBuilding fluency and reading stamina\r\n\r\nWith these new books, reading in our classroom is active and student-centered. You would see students highlighting evidence, discussing ideas with partners, annotating in the margins, and participating in small-group guided reading. Some students read independently while others work with me in targeted skill groups to strengthen comprehension and fluency. The classroom buzzes with meaningful conversations about characters' choices, big ideas, and real-world connections.\r\n\r\nOur diverse classroom includes students at many different reading levels. These new texts have made it possible to meet students where they are. Struggling readers feel more confident because they have access to books that are both engaging and appropriately challenging. On-level and advanced readers are diving deeper into complex themes and critical thinking discussions.\r\n\r\nOne student who previously avoided reading now eagerly volunteers to read aloud during small group. Another student, who is typically quiet, lights up during partner discussions and confidently shares her inferences with the class. Several of my English learners have especially benefited from the rich vocabulary and visual supports in the nonfiction texts, helping them grow both academically and socially.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, these books have helped build a community of readers. Students are recommending books to one another, asking thoughtful questions, and seeing themselves reflected in stories. Reading is no longer just an assignment — it is becoming a habit and a joy.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in our students' literacy growth. Your support is not just providing books; it is building confident, capable readers who are learning how to think deeply about the world around them.","fullyFundedDate":1763917112957,"projectUrl":"project/books-to-brighten-young-readers-futures/9573144/","projectTitle":"Books to Brighten Young Readers’ Futures","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Krish","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9737613_orig.jpg?crop=1340,1340,x0,y17&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1771039312525","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9737613"},{"teacherId":10331462,"projectId":9866495,"letterContent":"My students were immediately excited when the new printer, laminator, and supply cart arrived in our classroom. These tools may seem simple at home, but in a school setting they make a huge difference in how students access learning materials every day.\r\n\r\nThe printer has allowed me to create colorful anchor charts, engaging bulletin boards, and differentiated worksheets right when students need them. Instead of waiting days or weeks for materials, I can quickly respond to student misunderstandings and print new supports the same day. This means lessons stay relevant, visual, and easier for students to understand — especially for learners who benefit from clear visuals and step-by-step examples.\r\n\r\nThe laminator has had an especially powerful impact. Many of my students are not able to purchase personal learning tools, so I used it to create individual math whiteboards for each child. We now use these boards during every math lesson. Students can practice strategies, make mistakes safely, and try again without fear because they can simply erase and redo their work. Participation has increased dramatically because every student has an equal opportunity to engage.\r\n\r\nStudents who are typically hesitant to share answers have become more confident using the boards — they are willing to attempt problems and show their thinking. The most exciting part for them is being able to interact with the lesson instead of just watching it. They feel like active learners rather than observers.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, our classroom runs more smoothly, transitions are quicker, and students have hands-on tools that help them practice skills repeatedly. What once required expensive individual supplies is now available to everyone, every day. Thank you for helping create a more equitable and engaging learning environment for my students.","fullyFundedDate":1770647772303,"projectUrl":"project/from-print-to-shine-enhancing-classroom/9866495/","projectTitle":"From Print to Shine: Enhancing Classroom Effectivity","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. John Rick Melo Domingo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10331462_orig.jpg?crop=2529,2529,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1761837559686","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10331462"},{"teacherId":9746330,"projectId":9525936,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity, my first graders are enjoying their new toys during learning and play time. We use them in the classroom to practice sharing, problem-solving, and working together. One special moment was seeing students take turns and cheer each other on while playing—skills we practice every day in first grade.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the toys, they were so excited! Big smiles, happy gasps, and lots of \"Wow!\" filled the room. They felt proud knowing the toys were just for them.\r\n\r\nNext, students will keep using these toys during choice time and lessons to build social skills, creativity, and cooperation. Thank you for helping make our classroom a joyful place to learn and grow! 🧸💛","fullyFundedDate":1764161053497,"projectUrl":"project/clean-active-and-ready-to-learn/9525936/","projectTitle":"Clean, Active, and Ready to Learn","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Bontong","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9746330_orig.jpg?crop=827,827,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1726183883515","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9746330"},{"teacherId":10377452,"projectId":9948999,"letterContent":"When my students first saw the new materials, their faces lit up with excitement, and they were eager to start using them right away. They now use these resources during classwork and IXL activities, which keeps them engaged, allows them to practice important skills, and helps build confidence in their learning.\r\n\r\nThanks to your generosity, my students will continue using these tools in upcoming lessons to explore new concepts, collaborate with classmates, and grow as learners. Your support is making a lasting impact in our classroom, helping students thrive every day.","fullyFundedDate":1765864493037,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-6th-graders-with-hands-on-mat/9948999/","projectTitle":"Empowering 6th Graders with Hands-On Math Tools","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Marjonh","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10377452_orig.jpg?crop=600,600,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1765074265755","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10377452"},{"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"}],"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":64.3,"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"}