{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Barack and Michelle Obama Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":46.7,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":6210005,"projectId":10175621,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for generous support in funding our STEM focused book club collection for our classroom resource library! Because of you, our expanding 6th and 7th graders will have access to engaging, science centered stories that bridge the gap between great literature and real world discovery.\r\n\r\nThese new titles, covering everything from space exploration to coding and scientific experiments, will transform our Readers Workshop and ELA classrooms. Having these shared books readily available gives our students the chance to dive into collaborative book clubs, spark vibrant discussions, and see how science connects to the stories they read.\r\n\r\nYour generosity does so much more than fill classroom shelves; it inspires curiosity, builds critical thinking, and helps nurture a lifelong love for both reading and STEM. We are deeply grateful for your investment in our growing students!","fullyFundedDate":1777321027087,"projectUrl":"project/science-through-books-where-reading-mee/10175621/","projectTitle":"Science Through Books: Where Reading Meets Reality","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Orensten","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6210005_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y907&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755727738110","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/orenstenlibrary"},{"teacherId":6210005,"projectId":10096977,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding our book repair project! While a Demco Cover One machine might not look like a high-tech gadget or a flashy new book haul, your generosity provides one of the most impactful gifts our library could receive: longevity.\r\n\r\nOur students read with so much enthusiasm that our most beloved books naturally take a beating over time. Thanks to your support, instead of pulling worn down favorites from our shelves, we can now repair the books and give these stories a second life. This machine allows us to stretch our library budget further, ensuring our shelves stay fully stocked and accessible for every reader who walks through our doors.\r\n\r\nYour investment shows our students that the books they love are worth caring for and preserving. We are so grateful for your kindness and support of our reading community! We were able to repair over two dozen books before the school year was out, and I know we'll be repairing books for years to come making sure the books are available for students to read. Thank you again so much.","fullyFundedDate":1775494453141,"projectUrl":"project/book-repair-machine-to-save-damaged-book/10096977/","projectTitle":"Book Repair Machine to Save Damaged Books","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Orensten","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6210005_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y907&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755727738110","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/orenstenlibrary"},{"teacherId":6210005,"projectId":10111876,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our library and expanding our graphic novel and manga collection! Because of your generosity, our voracious readers no longer have to wait on incomplete series or missing volumes to find out what happens next.\r\n\r\nBringing complete sets of Animorphs, Wings of Fire, 5 Worlds, Blue Lock, and other favorite series directly to our shelves means the world to our students. Beyond keeping up with their high demand, these books provide a crucial, positive outlet for their mental well-being, giving students a safe space to unwind, relieve stress, build empathy, and bond with peers over shared stories.\r\n\r\nYour kindness does far more than just stock our bookshelves; it validates our students' reading interests, nourishes their social emotional health, and keeps their excitement for reading alive. We are truly grateful for your support!","fullyFundedDate":1774758731317,"projectUrl":"project/more-manga-more-smiles/10111876/","projectTitle":"More Manga, More Smiles","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Orensten","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6210005_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y907&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755727738110","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/orenstenlibrary"},{"teacherId":6210005,"projectId":10135910,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for bringing more hands on, high interest books to our library shelves! Because of your generosity, our students won't have to wait nearly as long to get their hands on their favorite LEGO, origami, and drawing guides.\nThese \"art in action\" titles do so much more than teach a new skill, they show our students that reading is an active and creative process. They are especially powerful for our reluctant readers, transforming a book into an exciting starting point for building, folding, and imagining. Expanding this popular section allows every student to turn what they read on the page into a tangible, proud creation.\nYour kindness is directly inspiring our students' curiosity, confidence, and love of learning. We are deeply grateful for your support of our school community!","fullyFundedDate":1773183278984,"projectUrl":"project/read-it-build-it-fold-it/10135910/","projectTitle":"Read It. Build It. Fold It!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Orensten","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6210005_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y907&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755727738110","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/orenstenlibrary"},{"teacherId":6210005,"projectId":10093473,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our school library. Our makerspace is thriving, and the consumables are definitely being well used! The rolls of filament in so many vibrant colors have brought students so much joy as they design and print their own creations. They also love choosing colors for the items I print for our school store, where students can use their PBIS points to earn rewards.\r\n\r\nThe filament dryer has been a game changer for our makerspace. Instead of wasting filament, we can now dry and reuse it within just a few hours. This not only preserves more color options for students to enjoy, but also helps us reduce waste and make better use of our resources.\r\n\r\nThank you again for helping us create meaningful, hands-on STEM opportunities for our students. Your generosity is making a real difference in their learning and creativity.","fullyFundedDate":1770875437073,"projectUrl":"project/no-more-fil-a-mess-drying-for-3d-succes/10093473/","projectTitle":"No More Fil-a-Mess: Drying for 3D Success!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Orensten","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6210005_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y907&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755727738110","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/orenstenlibrary"},{"teacherId":6210005,"projectId":10161997,"letterContent":"I am so excited to share the spectacular real-world skills your donation has unlocked! While these games were intended to build math momentum, they have also become a massive win for literacy. My students are reading directions independently and even sourcing tutorial videos when they need to troubleshoot a more complex game.\r\n\r\nMy students favorite game is currently Sabobatage. Watching the kids act as boba tea shop owners racing to outwit their opponents is incredibly entertaining. When a \"Loyal Customer\" card is played to block a sabotage attempt, the room erupts in a mix of groans and laughter. \r\n\r\nI've also been moved by the leadership on display; students who have these games at home have stepped up to teach their classmates with such patience and pride. \r\n\r\nWhether students are solving logic puzzles like \"Cat Stacks\" independently or gaming as a group, your support has brought real-world reasoning and collaborative laughter into our library. We are truly thankful!","fullyFundedDate":1774967656730,"projectUrl":"project/math-games-letting-the-fun-add-up/10161997/","projectTitle":"Math Games: Letting the Fun Add Up!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Orensten","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6210005_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y907&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755727738110","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/orenstenlibrary"},{"teacherId":5037840,"projectId":10089595,"letterContent":"Thank you for bringing the \"Windows and Mirrors\" project to life! Because of your generosity, my 6th graders now have a library that truly reflects their diverse experiences and opens their eyes to the world beyond our classroom walls.\r\n\r\nWatching my students dive into these social issues book clubs has been incredible. They aren't just practicing reading skills; they are building empathy and perspective. Whether they are seeing their own culture celebrated in a \"mirror\" book or learning about a new walk of life through a \"window\" story, your gift has made them feel seen and heard.\r\n\r\nThese books have sparked the most meaningful conversations we've had all year. Thank you for investing in their growth as readers and as humans!","fullyFundedDate":1772551014748,"projectUrl":"project/windows-and-mirrors-6th-grade-social-is/10089595/","projectTitle":"Windows and Mirrors: 6th Grade Social Issues Book Clubs","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Huckleby","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5037840_orig.jpg?crop=250,250,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1771707786868","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5037840"},{"teacherId":5037840,"projectId":10065935,"letterContent":"I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for your incredible generosity in providing our classroom with a new collection of books focused on social issues. In today's world, it is more important than ever for students to develop empathy and a nuanced understanding of the diverse experiences of others. These books offer my students a window into lives different from their own and a mirror in which they can see their own struggles and triumphs reflected with dignity.\r\n\r\nWatching my students engage with these stories has been truly inspiring. They aren't just reading; they are asking critical questions, sparking meaningful debates, and discovering the power of their own voices. Because of your support, our classroom library has become a vibrant hub for social-emotional growth and advocacy. You haven't just given us books; you've given my students the tools to become more compassionate and informed citizens of the world. Thank you for investing in their education and their future.","fullyFundedDate":1770518640342,"projectUrl":"project/social-issue-books-for-middle-school/10065935/","projectTitle":"Social Issue Books for Middle School","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Huckleby","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5037840_orig.jpg?crop=250,250,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1771707786868","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5037840"},{"teacherId":6210005,"projectId":9971653,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting the bracelet makers at my school. When the boxes arrived, the joy and excitement on my students' faces were incredible to witness. Asking them to wait while I took photos before they could begin was both hilarious and heartwarming—they were practically bursting with anticipation, ready to dive in the moment they got the go-ahead.\r\n\r\nOnce we opened everything, students eagerly helped sort and organize the beads so they could easily find colors and styles (and keep things manageable for everyone!). As soon as the materials were ready, their creativity took off. They made bracelet after bracelet, proudly sharing their designs and ideas, and then came back the next day ready to create even more.\r\n\r\nWe're also planning a celebration for the end of the third quarter, where arts and crafts will be an option. I know students will be thrilled to make bracelets for themselves, their friends, and even their teachers. Thank you for making this joyful, creative experience possible for our students—we are so grateful!","fullyFundedDate":1770907284638,"projectUrl":"project/bead-yond-the-mess-beads-and-storage/9971653/","projectTitle":"Bead-yond the Mess: Beads and Storage","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Orensten","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6210005_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y907&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755727738110","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/orenstenlibrary"},{"teacherId":6210005,"projectId":9767518,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting the readers in my school. Your generosity has made an immediate impact, and my students are absolutely devouring the new graphic novels and manga. Since we put them out, the shelves have hardly stayed full—series like Bleach and Fairy Tail are constantly in students' hands.\r\n\r\nOne of the most meaningful parts of your donation was the addition of single volumes that filled gaps in our existing manga collections. These missing pieces had left students waiting a long time to continue their favorite stories, and your support finally made it possible for them to do so.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, our library is a more exciting and complete space for young readers. You've helped spark enthusiasm, support literacy, and bring joy to so many students—thank you for making that difference!","fullyFundedDate":1770873067520,"projectUrl":"project/more-manga-please/9767518/","projectTitle":"More Manga Please!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Orensten","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6210005_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y907&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755727738110","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/orenstenlibrary"},{"teacherId":6210005,"projectId":10096971,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of LEGO materials to our library makerspace. Your support has made an immediate and meaningful impact on our students' learning environment.\r\n\r\nStudents have been experiencing a special kind of joy as they build and create without the use of technology. The simple act of working with bricks has sparked creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving in ways that are both engaging and refreshing. They've especially enjoyed working independently as well as tackling fun LEGO challenges together.\r\n\r\nBecause of your kindness, our makerspace has become an even more vibrant place for imagination and hands-on learning. We are truly grateful for your support in helping our students explore, create, and grow.\r\n\r\nSometimes the exact items we request aren't available—and this time, that turned out to be a wonderful surprise. I was able to substitute one set of LEGO bricks with the MindWare KEVA Contraptions wooden marble run kit, which has quickly become a favorite. The creativity and ingenuity students have shown while designing and building their contraptions have been truly incredible to witness. Their creations go far beyond what I imagined, and it's been exciting to watch their ideas come to life in such dynamic ways.\r\n\r\nThank you again for supporting my students through our school library makerspace giving all students fun and creative opportunities.","fullyFundedDate":1771109655658,"projectUrl":"project/lego-to-the-library/10096971/","projectTitle":"LEGO to the Library","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Orensten","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6210005_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y907&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755727738110","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/orenstenlibrary"},{"teacherId":6210005,"projectId":9617931,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for granting us the upgrade to our Cricut in the library makerspace. Adding the heat press has truly made all the difference. Students have been thrilled to expand what they can create, and the energy in our makerspace has grown right along with their creativity.\r\n\r\nWith the new equipment, students have been designing and pressing custom mugs for themselves and for their families. One especially meaningful moment stands out. A student who became sick at school was cared for so kindly by our school nurses. She immediately wanted to do something to thank them. Together, we designed and created personalized mugs just for them.\r\n\r\nI had the privilege of watching her present the mugs to the nurses. The joy in her eyes as she gave her gifts of gratitude was unforgettable. The nurses were deeply touched --- not just by the mugs themselves, but by the thoughtfulness and initiative of a student who wanted to say thank you in such a personal way.\r\n\r\nYour generosity made that moment possible. Because of you, our students are not only building creative skills but also learning how to use those skills to express kindness and appreciation. Thank you for supporting our makerspace and the meaningful experiences it brings to our students.","fullyFundedDate":1755726078095,"projectUrl":"project/operation-cricut-makerspace-overhaul/9617931/","projectTitle":"Operation Cricut Makerspace Overhaul","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Orensten","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6210005_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y907&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755727738110","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/orenstenlibrary"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_134237","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":null,"numTeachers":null,"percentFrplEligible":68,"percentAsian":26,"percentBlack":22,"percentWhite":20,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":14,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":8,"gradesServed":"Not specified","studentTeacherRatio":null,"demographicsDataSource":"MDR District Record","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"UNCLASSIFIED","ncesMetroType":null},"inStateSupporters":53.3,"schoolId":134237,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Barack and Michelle Obama Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Barack and Michelle Obama Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/minnesota/saint-paul-public-schools/barack-and-michelle-obama-middle-school/134237"}