{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"West Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":22.2,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9051438,"projectId":10286986,"letterContent":"As I prepare to welcome my 5th-grade students into our resource room, I am excited to have been able to create a space where learning is active, collaborative, and hands-on. The dry-erase table will become a central part of our classroom, giving students a place to brainstorm, work through challenging problems, practice strategies, and learn alongside one another. Whether we are working through a math problem, breaking down a reading passage, or organizing our thinking with a graphic organizer, students will have the opportunity to put their ideas on the table, make mistakes, erase, and try again. I want my students to see mistakes as part of learning rather than something to be afraid of.\r\n\r\nThe dry-erase markers, erasers, and wipes will allow us to make our lessons more interactive and give students frequent opportunities to actively participate instead of simply listening or completing work on paper. The desk organizer will also help create the structure and organization my students need to access materials independently and stay focused on the task at hand. My goal is for students to walk into our resource room and immediately feel that it is a place where they can take risks, ask questions, collaborate, and grow.\r\n\r\nAs the school year begins, I will introduce students to these materials and build routines that encourage independence, collaboration, and a growth mindset. I am looking forward to watching students who may initially hesitate to share an answer become more willing to put their thinking on the table, work through challenges with their peers, and celebrate their progress. Thank you for helping me create a resource room that moves students from passive learners to active participants in their own learning. Your generosity is helping me build a space where my students can discover that they are capable of more than they may realize.","fullyFundedDate":1779922487263,"projectUrl":"project/from-passive-to-active-creating-an-enga/10286986/","projectTitle":"From Passive to Active: Creating an Engaging Resource Room","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Anderson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9051438_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1741659521969","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9051438"},{"teacherId":9051438,"projectId":10277099,"letterContent":"As we prepare to welcome our students for a new school year, these resources have helped me create a classroom environment that feels organized, predictable, and supportive from day one. The colored file folders will allow me to keep each student's data, progress-monitoring information, and important documentation organized and easy to access. This organization will help me closely track each student's growth and make informed decisions about the support they need throughout the year. The electric pencil sharpener and calculators will also give students access to practical tools that promote independence and reduce small frustrations that can sometimes become barriers to learning.\r\n\r\nI am especially excited to introduce the sensory fidget tubes, anxiety stickers, and Mini Emotion Plush Toys with Book Set. My goal is for students to know from the beginning that our classroom is a safe place to recognize and communicate their emotions. During transitions, independent work, or challenging moments, students will have appropriate tools to help them regulate and refocus. The emotion plush toys and feelings book will give us opportunities to build emotional vocabulary and practice identifying feelings and coping strategies together. I am looking forward to watching my students discover which strategies work best for them and grow more confident in asking for the support they need.\r\n\r\nAs the year begins, my next step will be teaching students how to use these resources responsibly and incorporating them into our daily routines. I want my students to grow in confidence, independence, and self-awareness while also making meaningful academic progress. Thank you for helping me prepare a classroom where my students will have the tools they need to feel calm, capable, and ready to learn. Your generosity is helping me build an inclusive space where every student can grow in their own way.","fullyFundedDate":1778513375044,"projectUrl":"project/organized-calm-building-an-inclusive/10277099/","projectTitle":"Organized & Calm: Building an Inclusive Classroom Space","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Anderson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9051438_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1741659521969","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9051438"},{"teacherId":10016324,"projectId":10207649,"letterContent":"These materials made such a difference in our classroom! My students were so excited when they saw the new rugs and seat cushions. They immediately wanted to find their favorite spot and were excited to have more comfortable choices for learning.\r\n\r\nWe used these spaces throughout our math lessons, especially during small groups, partner work, and independent practice. Instead of always sitting at their desks or on the hard floor, students can grab a cushion and work around the room. It has been great to see them spread out with their math materials, working through problems together and explaining their thinking to one another.\r\n\r\nThe printer ink has also been a huge help with all of the practice pages, math activities, and other materials we use each day. Having these supplies available makes it easier for me to plan hands-on and small-group activities without worrying about whether we have what we need.\r\n\r\nNext, we will use our new learning spaces each year as we work on new math skills and build our problem-solving skills. Thank you so much for helping make our classroom a more comfortable and welcoming place to learn. My students and I truly appreciate your support!","fullyFundedDate":1778010987431,"projectUrl":"project/a-soft-place-to-land-comfort-for-curiou/10207649/","projectTitle":"A Soft Place to Land: Comfort for Curious Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Jenkins","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10016324_orig.jpg?crop=1153,1153,x894,y273&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1768511545294","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10016324"},{"teacherId":10016324,"projectId":10167866,"letterContent":"This project gave my students an exciting opportunity to learn about kindness, responsibility, and empathy through hands-on experiences. Students loved seeing the hydroponic garden materials arrive and were especially excited to plant their own seeds and watch them grow right in our classroom.\r\n\r\nThroughout the project, students cared for the plants, monitored their growth, and learned how patience and consistent care can make a difference. We connected these experiences to our reading of *Seeds and Trees* and discussed how, just like plants, people are affected by the care, attention, words, and actions of others.\r\n\r\nStudents reflected on kindness and empathy through journaling and class discussions while also practicing these skills with their classmates. Watching our plants grow gave them a meaningful, real-life example of how small actions can lead to something positive.\r\n\r\nThank you for making this experience possible and helping my students grow both academically and personally! I cannot wait to share it with my future students!","fullyFundedDate":1778174464872,"projectUrl":"project/growing-compassion-learning-to-care-thr/10167866/","projectTitle":"Growing Compassion: Learning to Care Through Gardening","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Jenkins","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10016324_orig.jpg?crop=1153,1153,x894,y273&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1768511545294","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10016324"},{"teacherId":10036800,"projectId":9946606,"letterContent":"My students were so excited when our new classroom resources arrived! Seeing their faces light up as we unpacked everything was such a special moment. They couldn't wait to start using the new materials, and it immediately sparked excitement and engagement in our classroom.\r\n\r\nWe have already started incorporating the resources into our daily lessons and small group activities. The new materials have helped make learning more interactive, and my students are eager to participate and explore. It's been wonderful to see them building confidence as they work together, ask thoughtful questions, and stay engaged throughout our lessons.\r\n\r\nOver the next few weeks, we'll continue using these resources to support hands-on learning, strengthen important skills, and encourage collaboration. Thank you so much for making these opportunities possible. Your generosity is making a real difference in my students' learning, and we are truly grateful for your support!","fullyFundedDate":1771007813049,"projectUrl":"project/hands-on-reading/9946606/","projectTitle":"Hands-on Reading","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Norris","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10036800_orig.jpg?crop=272,272,x40,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1747320879035","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10036800"},{"teacherId":6319488,"projectId":10185542,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project. Your generosity has helped create meaningful experiences and opportunities for my students from the the start. The beginning of the year at a new school can be a bit overwhelming for some student sand their families. But, because of your kindness, our classroom has been filled with excitement, engagement, and memorable learning moments.Your donation helped make this season even more special for my students. Seeing their smiles, enthusiasm, and appreciation for the materials they received has been truly rewarding.","fullyFundedDate":1778010986691,"projectUrl":"project/simply-ready-for-third-grade/10185542/","projectTitle":"Simply Ready for Third Grade","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Smith","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6319488_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1688752854150","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6319488"},{"teacherId":6319488,"projectId":10199918,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our \"Transform the End of the Year\" project! Your generosity has helped create meaningful experiences and opportunities for my students during this special time of year.\r\n\r\nBecause of your kindness, our classroom has been filled with excitement, engagement, and memorable learning moments. The resources you provided allowed my students to celebrate their hard work, stay motivated, and enjoy enriching activities as we wrapped up a successful school year.\r\n\r\nThe end of the year is a time for reflection, growth, and celebration. Your donation helped make this season even more special for my students. Seeing their smiles, enthusiasm, and appreciation for the materials they received has been truly rewarding.\r\n\r\nOn behalf of my third graders and their families, thank you for believing in our classroom and investing in our students. Your support has made a lasting impact, and we are incredibly grateful for your generosity.","fullyFundedDate":1777981606324,"projectUrl":"project/transform-the-end-of-the-year/10199918/","projectTitle":"Transform the End of the Year","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Smith","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6319488_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1688752854150","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6319488"},{"teacherId":6319488,"projectId":10273230,"letterContent":"Thank you so for your donation to my project. My students are loving the ocean unit we are doing during summer school. The fact that they have books in hand to follow along and read is so amazing. My students are so engaged and love reading. Because of this project I am able to have these books for years to come so students in the future will have the same opportunity to read this book as well.\r\nThank you for supporting donors choose and my classroom. Your donation goes so far and makes my classroom a place students want to be in and a safe place for them to learn and explore.","fullyFundedDate":1778382369128,"projectUrl":"project/dolphins-at-daybreak/10273230/","projectTitle":"Dolphins at Daybreak","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Smith","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6319488_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1688752854150","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6319488"},{"teacherId":9051438,"projectId":9990865,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping us create a fun, welcoming, and encouraging environment for our students during state testing season. Because of your generosity, our hallways, bulletin boards, and common areas were transformed into exciting \"Rock the Test\" spaces filled with motivational messages and school spirit. Instead of walking into a stressful testing environment, students were greeted with positivity, excitement, and encouragement each day.\r\n\r\nOne of the most memorable moments was on the reward day of testing when students received their music-themed bracelets as their \"entrance bands\" for the reward party!\r\n\r\nWe continue using these resources to encourage students and celebrate their hard work throughout the remainder of the school year. The positive messages and decorations have continued to remind students that effort, perseverance, and confidence matter. Moving forward, we hope to continue creating supportive and engaging experiences that help students feel successful during important academic milestones.\r\n\r\nThank you again for supporting our students and helping make testing season a joyful and memorable experience!","fullyFundedDate":1777984607940,"projectUrl":"project/rock-the-test/9990865/","projectTitle":"Rock the Test","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Anderson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9051438_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1741659521969","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9051438"},{"teacherId":9966516,"projectId":10171393,"letterContent":"Every school year, we hold three grade-level music programs. Thanks in large-part to the Donors Choose community in providing this elementary music program's needed instruments, equipment, and musical supplies, students' love and knowledge of music education has grown tremendously this year. Therefore, our music programs are including anywhere from 140 - 160 students (in years' past, many students have not attended music programs, due to lack of interest, involvement, etc). \r\n\r\nWith this many students on stage at one time, this also means we have a large turn-out of family and community members - a turn-out that we previously, in years' past, hadn't experienced. We held our first music program (in over ten years) in our nearby school gym. After utilizing all bleacher seating, as well as any folding chair seating we previously owned in the gym (around 30 chairs), we still had a large portion of audience members without a seat. To say the gym was \"packed\" would be accurate; in fact, teachers were seated cross-legged in the floor, which allowed parents to have a seat.\r\n\r\nAny musical equipment is expensive at this time, and furniture (specifically folding chairs) are no different. With an allotment of only $150 annual budget, I wouldn't have been able to afford three additional folding chairs for our audience, let alone the 46 folding chairs provided in this grant. The 46 new chairs arrived within four days of shipment. Upon arrival, the excitement and gratitude expressed by students and staff both was unmatched. We have located a chair rack, unboxed them, and have them now covered, stored, and locked away in the gym until our next school music program, to be held in November (these chairs are like gold right now!). \r\n\r\nWe have big musical plans for next school year, when it comes to music programs. Fifth graders will present a \"decades\" themed music program, third grade, a 1980's-inspired Christmas music program, and fourth grade will present a patriotic program. All grade levels will eventually benefit form the use of these chairs, as well as their parents, for years to come. \r\n\r\nThank you all for once again supporting my classroom and students. It's nice to know that when I get into a bind, needing something to make my students successful, that I can count on the love and support of donors around the country to pull through for our students.","fullyFundedDate":1776088022937,"projectUrl":"project/concert-seating-needed/10171393/","projectTitle":"Concert Seating Needed!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Parks","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9966516_orig.jpg?crop=563,563,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1741713872428","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9966516"},{"teacherId":10016324,"projectId":10032564,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, my 4th grade students now have access to a Lenovo laptop and a color printer, and these tools are already making a meaningful difference in our classroom. While many donors use technology at home, in our classroom it serves as a powerful instructional tool that enhances learning in ways traditional materials alone cannot. The laptop allows students to engage with interactive math programs that adapt to their individual skill levels, providing immediate feedback and targeted practice. This personalized approach helps students build confidence, strengthen problem-solving skills, and deepen their understanding of key math concepts.\r\n\r\nThe addition of the color printer has been just as impactful. Being able to print materials instantly means students can transition seamlessly from digital learning to hands-on practice. Colorful charts, graphic organizers, math games, and assessments make lessons more engaging and easier to understand, especially for visual learners. Students take great pride in having their work printed, which boosts motivation and encourages them to put forth their best effort.\r\n\r\nWhat excites students most about this new technology is the opportunity to take ownership of their learning. They love using the laptop for small-group instruction and independent practice, and the vibrant printed materials make math feel more accessible and fun. The immediacy of printing also allows for quick feedback and celebration of student success.\r\n\r\nSeveral students, particularly those who previously struggled with math, have especially warmed to this technology. For example, students who benefit from additional support are now able to work at their own pace using adaptive programs, reducing frustration and increasing confidence. Visual learners and students who need extra practice have shown noticeable growth, and even some of my more hesitant learners are now eager to participate when technology is involved. Seeing their progress reflected in both digital activities and printed work has been incredibly empowering for them.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has provided more than just classroom tools, you have created opportunities for engagement, confidence, and academic growth. Thank you for investing in my students and for making a lasting impact on their educational journey","fullyFundedDate":1774314308291,"projectUrl":"project/from-screen-to-paper-boosting-4th-grade/10032564/","projectTitle":"From Screen to Paper: Boosting 4th Grade Math Success!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Jenkins","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10016324_orig.jpg?crop=1153,1153,x894,y273&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1768511545294","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10016324"},{"teacherId":10016324,"projectId":10168483,"letterContent":"The new resources from our \"Game Changers: Student Led Wellness Initiative\" project have transformed our classroom into a space where collaboration, kindness, and emotional well-being thrive. My students are actively using the games during indoor recess, morning meetings, and designated wellness breaks to build social skills, practice teamwork, and develop problem-solving strategies. One particularly meaningful moment occurred during our student-led Wellness Game Day, when my students confidently facilitated game stations for younger peers. Watching them patiently teach the rules of games like Connect 4 and UNO, while encouraging teamwork and sportsmanship, showcased their growth as leaders and compassionate community members.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the excitement was immediate and contagious. Students eagerly explored each game, expressing gratitude and a strong sense of responsibility for using the resources to benefit others. Many students shared that they felt \"special\" knowing that donors believed in their ability to make a positive impact. This enthusiasm set the tone for meaningful engagement and ownership of the project.\r\n\r\nThanks to our generous donors, the learning continues. The next steps for our students include integrating the games into ongoing social-emotional learning lessons and organizing additional service opportunities, such as hosting another wellness event and creating \"Kindness Kits\" with stress-relief tools for peers who may need extra support. Students are also reflecting on their experiences through writing activities, where they connect the importance of wellness, empathy, and community service to their everyday lives.\r\n\r\nThis project has not only enriched our classroom environment but has also empowered students to recognize that their actions can create lasting, positive change. Their leadership and compassion continue to inspire our entire school community.","fullyFundedDate":1775054186062,"projectUrl":"project/game-changers-student-led-wellness-init/10168483/","projectTitle":"Game Changers: Student-Led Wellness Initiative","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Jenkins","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10016324_orig.jpg?crop=1153,1153,x894,y273&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1768511545294","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10016324"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_77750","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":464,"numTeachers":35,"percentFrplEligible":60,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":1,"percentWhite":92,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":2,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":3,"gradesServed":"3 - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"13.3:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"TOWN","ncesMetroType":"TOWN_DISTANT"},"inStateSupporters":77.8,"schoolId":77750,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about West Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"West Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/missouri/central-school-district-r3/west-elementary-school/77750"}