{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Van Buren Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":16.9,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9568909,"projectId":9437933,"letterContent":"I want to extend my heartfelt thanks for your generous donation of adjustable tables to my special education classroom. Your kindness and support mean so much to both my students and me. These tables are already making a meaningful difference in the way my students learn and engage each day.\r\n\r\nThe adjustable tables allow for flexibility to meet each child's unique needs. Many of my students benefit from being able to change the height of their workspace to sit, stand, or use adaptive seating comfortably. This not only helps with focus and attention but also encourages independence and active participation in classroom activities. Having tables that adapt to my students, rather than the other way around, truly helps create a more inclusive and accessible learning environment.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, my classroom is now more functional, comfortable, and welcoming. The new tables make it easier for students to collaborate, complete hands-on tasks, and stay engaged in their lessons. Thank you for helping me create a learning space where every child can feel supported and successful.","fullyFundedDate":1761496235847,"projectUrl":"project/help-me-bring-more-free-seating-options/9437933/","projectTitle":"Help Me Bring More Free Seating Options in Our Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Krystal","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9568909_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1718651710053","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9568909"},{"teacherId":9568909,"projectId":9437907,"letterContent":"Adding lamps, lights, and light covers to a classroom helps create a warm and calming atmosphere that feels more like home. Fluorescent lighting can often feel harsh and overwhelming for students, but softer lighting from lamps provides a gentle glow that makes the room inviting and comfortable. Light covers can also reduce glare and brightness, making the classroom a more pleasant space where students feel relaxed and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nDecorations, such as light covers with calming patterns or seasonal themes, bring personality and warmth into the classroom. These small touches show students that the classroom is a welcoming environment designed with their comfort in mind. A decorated and thoughtfully lit room also helps reduce stress and anxiety, allowing students to focus better on their work while feeling safe and at ease.\r\n\r\nOverall, lamps, lights, light covers, and decorations transform a classroom from a standard learning space into a cozy, home-like environment. When students feel comfortable, they are more engaged and motivated to participate in activities. A homey classroom encourages positive social interaction, fosters creativity, and helps students take pride in their space, making it a place they enjoy coming to each day.","fullyFundedDate":1758636757262,"projectUrl":"project/help-me-create-a-fun-and-home-atmosphere/9437907/","projectTitle":"Help Me Create a Fun and Home Atmosphere for Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Krystal","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9568909_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1718651710053","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9568909"},{"teacherId":10078428,"projectId":9461187,"letterContent":"I want to say thank you from the very depths of my heart for donating to this project for my 5th grade music students. These students have enjoyed being able to create their very own instrument! I am blown away with the personalization and decorating these kiddos are doing! They are very interested and very thrilled to be doing it. \r\n\r\nThese kiddos have gotten to have their own ideas and show their personality in each Ukulele. They have learned the parts and how they work. Thank you so much for your generous donation to my classroom and to my kids! Thank you for helping me fulfill some of their dreams! You rock! A special thank you to the LOFT donor, this project would not have been funded without you!","fullyFundedDate":1752586408552,"projectUrl":"project/build-your-own-ukulele/9461187/","projectTitle":"Build Your Own Ukulele","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Howell","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10078428_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1752434964571","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10078428"},{"teacherId":9568909,"projectId":9109005,"letterContent":"I want to take a moment to share just how transformative your generous gift of a laminating machine has been for my classroom. As an educator, I spend countless hours creating materials designed to engage, support, and challenge my students. Before we had a laminator, many of those resources were only useful for a short time. Paper charts, flashcards, and learning games would become worn, torn, or stained within weeks. Now, thanks to the ability to laminate, the tools I work so hard to make can last not just for this group of students, but for many years to come.\r\n\r\nLaminating has instantly elevated the quality and durability of my teaching materials. Visual aids, word walls, anchor charts, and reference sheets are now sturdy enough to withstand daily handling by eager hands. Instead of worrying that a spilled drink or accidental tear will ruin an important resource, I have peace of mind knowing everything is protected. This has freed me to focus more energy on instruction rather than constant reprinting and repairing of supplies. It has also saved valuable classroom funds, as the same laminated materials can be reused term after term.\r\n\r\nFor students, laminated resources have made learning more interactive. They can use dry-erase markers on laminated task cards, checklists, and math practice sheets, allowing us to wipe them clean and start fresh. This reusable feature encourages repeated practice and reinforces skills without generating unnecessary paper waste. My students especially enjoy using laminated game boards and flashcards because they feel \"professional\" and sturdy—almost like something you would find in a store. It makes learning feel special and organized.\r\n\r\nBeyond convenience, laminating supports accessibility and equity in the classroom. Many of my learners benefit from clear, colorful visuals that remain crisp and legible over time. Lamination keeps colors vibrant and prevents fading, which is especially important for charts and cues used daily by students with different learning needs. By preserving key resources, every child—current and future—can count on consistent, high-quality supports to guide their progress.\r\n\r\nOn a personal level, the laminator has made me feel more prepared and professional. Teaching resources that once looked temporary now appear polished and permanent. I take pride in maintaining a library of durable materials that will benefit not only this year's students but also classes for many years. This sense of preparedness reduces stress and allows me to be more creative, knowing that the time invested in designing a resource is truly worthwhile.\r\n\r\nYour donation has made an enduring difference in my classroom. Something as simple as a laminator has multiplied the impact of every worksheet, chart, and learning center I create. Because of your generosity, I can preserve materials, protect my hard work, and give students the reliable resources they deserve year after year. Thank you for believing in the power of education and helping us build a lasting foundation for learning.","fullyFundedDate":1746785256142,"projectUrl":"project/continuing-to-preserve-our-materials/9109005/","projectTitle":"Continuing to Preserve Our Materials.","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Krystal","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9568909_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1718651710053","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9568909"},{"teacherId":9568909,"projectId":9331869,"letterContent":"I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt thanks for your generous donation of snacks for our classroom. What may seem like a simple gift of granola bars, fruit cups, or crackers has had a meaningful and lasting impact on my students' ability to focus and learn—especially in the afternoon hours when attention spans tend to waver.\r\n\r\nEvery teacher knows that the period after lunch can be one of the most challenging times of the school day. By early afternoon, many children's energy levels begin to dip, and even the most engaging lessons can lose their sparkle when hunger starts to creep in. For several of my students, particularly those who may not have consistent access to nutritious food outside of school, this \"afternoon slump\" can lead to restlessness, frustration, and reduced participation. Your donation of snacks has been a genuine game-changer, giving my students the fuel they need to stay alert and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nSince introducing a structured snack time, I have noticed remarkable improvements in student engagement. Children who previously had difficulty staying on task are now more willing to participate in discussions, complete assignments, and stay attentive during lessons. The act of taking a few minutes for a healthy snack also creates a moment of calm—a reset that allows students to transition smoothly into the next block of instruction. This routine has been especially beneficial for students who struggle with focus or have additional learning needs; a small snack can make the difference between distraction and determination.\r\n\r\nBeyond the physical benefits, your donation has nurtured an atmosphere of care and equity in our classroom. Having a snack available for every student ensures that no child feels left out or embarrassed because they didn't bring food from home. It fosters a sense of community and fairness, reminding the children that their needs matter and that people beyond the school walls believe in their success. This boost in morale has translated into stronger peer relationships, improved self-confidence, and greater enthusiasm for learning.\r\n\r\nThe impact reaches further than academics. Sharing a snack gives us opportunities to practice social skills—taking turns, showing gratitude, and discussing healthy eating habits. Many students now remind each other to clean up responsibly and to thank whoever made the snack possible. These small but meaningful moments help build character and reinforce the values of kindness, respect, and gratitude.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has also given me peace of mind. I can focus on teaching, knowing that my students are not distracted by hunger. I can create lessons that challenge them intellectually without worrying that an empty stomach will keep them from performing their best. In a very real way, your gift has strengthened both the academic and emotional foundation of our classroom.\r\n\r\nOn behalf of every student, I want to thank you again. Your thoughtful contribution has made afternoons brighter, calmer, and far more productive. The smiles after snack time—and the renewed energy for learning—are proof that even small acts of kindness can create lasting change.","fullyFundedDate":1755695361127,"projectUrl":"project/hungry-bellies-equal-unfocused-students/9331869/","projectTitle":"Hungry Bellies Equal Unfocused Students!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Krystal","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9568909_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1718651710053","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9568909"},{"teacherId":9866469,"projectId":8993264,"letterContent":"Thank you for helping my school receive much needed supplies for our classroom. We have enjoyed our new games, our new talking device, and evening snack. \r\n We have actually invited our friends from next door to come play (of course when they are finished with their work). This is not only helping others, but helping interact and learning to share!! We appreciate the organization and everyone who helps support it. So a big THANK YOU TO ALL!! \r\n We are forever grateful and will continue using our new activities, and bragging on how wonderful this site truly is!","fullyFundedDate":1746452863007,"projectUrl":"project/please-help-our-rural-school-and-support/8993264/","projectTitle":"Please Help Our Rural School and Support our SPED class!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Tara Nicole Chitwood","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9866469"},{"teacherId":9568909,"projectId":9105127,"letterContent":"I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for your generous donation of rolling file carts to my classroom. Your gift has made an immediate and meaningful difference in helping me stay organized and prepared for my students each day.\r\n\r\nWith these file carts, I now have a practical and efficient way to store, transport, and access materials quickly. This not only saves me valuable time during the school day but also ensures that my students have what they need right when they need it. Having resources organized and within reach helps keep our classroom running smoothly and allows me to focus more on teaching and supporting my students rather than searching for supplies.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has created a lasting impact on both me and my students. The organization and efficiency these carts bring make our classroom a calmer, more structured environment, which is especially important for student success. Thank you for believing in the power of education and for investing in tools that help my students thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1746785396848,"projectUrl":"project/making-space-in-my-small-classroom/9105127/","projectTitle":"Making Space in My Small Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Krystal","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9568909_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1718651710053","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9568909"},{"teacherId":9568909,"projectId":9108978,"letterContent":"I want to sincerely thank you for your generous donation that allowed us to purchase a laminating machine for our classroom. Your kindness has made a lasting impact on the way I can prepare and preserve learning materials for my students.\r\n\r\nWith this new tool, I am now able to protect resources so that they can be used over and over again for many years. This not only saves time and money, but it also ensures that students will always have durable, high-quality materials that support their learning. Laminated resources can withstand daily use, giving my students the opportunity to engage with activities hands-on without worry that materials will quickly wear out.\r\n\r\nYour gift directly benefits my students by creating a more engaging, organized, and long-lasting learning environment. I am so grateful for your support and belief in the importance of education. Because of your generosity, my teaching tools will continue to serve students for years to come.","fullyFundedDate":1746786403218,"projectUrl":"project/preserving-our-work-to-pass-on-year-to-y/9108978/","projectTitle":"Preserving Our Work to Pass on Year to Year","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Krystal","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9568909_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1718651710053","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9568909"},{"teacherId":9568909,"projectId":8993259,"letterContent":"Board games have a profound impact on the learning environment of a 4th-6th grade special education classroom. They offer a hands-on, interactive way for students to develop key social, cognitive, and motor skills in a fun and engaging manner. Games like Sorry, Connect 4, or candyland can help students practice taking turns, following rules, and developing problem-solving abilities, all of which are crucial in building their overall cognitive development. For students with special needs, these games provide a structured yet flexible environment to work on their communication and social interaction skills, encouraging collaboration and boosting their confidence.\r\n\r\nIn addition to these cognitive benefits, board games also offer emotional support for students by creating a safe, low-pressure environment where they can feel a sense of accomplishment. The competitive yet supportive nature of many games allows students to learn how to handle both success and failure in a constructive way. This can help build resilience and self-regulation, skills that are essential for academic and personal growth. Through board games, students not only have fun, but they also develop essential life skills that enhance their overall learning experience and social interactions with peers.","fullyFundedDate":1742911171898,"projectUrl":"project/is-it-really-learning-if-your-having-fun/8993259/","projectTitle":"Is It Really Learning if Your Having Fun?","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Krystal","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9568909_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1718651710053","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9568909"},{"teacherId":9568909,"projectId":8877855,"letterContent":"Donating books to my special education class has had an incredibly positive and profound impact on both my students and me as an educator. Books are more than just reading material; they serve as gateways to understanding, growth, and empowerment. As a special education teacher, my primary goal is to foster an environment where my students feel supported, valued, and capable of achieving their full potential. The generous donation of books to our classroom has not only contributed to achieving this goal but has also enriched the learning experience in ways we could never have imagined.\r\n\r\nOne of the most significant impacts of this donation has been the way it has inspired my students to engage with learning. For many of my students, traditional learning materials can sometimes feel disconnected from their needs and interests. By adding a variety of books—ranging from colorful picture books to engaging non-fiction—our classroom has become a much more inviting space. These books provide a sense of ownership and pride, allowing my students to explore stories and information that resonate with them. Their faces light up when they discover a new favorite book or share a passage they've found interesting. It's a beautiful reminder that learning can be fun and exciting, and it encourages them to continue exploring and growing in their academic journey.\r\n\r\nFurthermore, the impact of these books goes beyond just academics. The stories help my students develop empathy and understanding for others. Books with diverse characters and experiences open up new worlds for my students, allowing them to see beyond their own circumstances and relate to people and situations they may not have encountered in their own lives. In turn, this helps them to build social and emotional skills, such as understanding different perspectives and navigating complex feelings. This development of empathy is crucial not only for their personal growth but also for fostering a classroom culture built on kindness, respect, and inclusion.\r\n\r\nThe books also provide a sense of calm and comfort for students who may struggle with stress or anxiety. Reading is often a therapeutic escape that allows them to immerse themselves in a world that feels safe and manageable. The new library of books has allowed us to create a peaceful reading corner in the classroom, which is a favorite spot for many of my students. Here, they can take a break from their daily challenges, relax, and engage in the power of storytelling. It's moments like these that remind me of how important it is to create spaces where students feel both supported and empowered.\r\n\r\nI want to take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to those who generously donated these books. Your kindness has made a world of difference in our classroom. Your donation has not only filled our shelves but has also filled our hearts with gratitude and joy. I know my students are more excited about learning because of you, and as their teacher, I am incredibly thankful for the positive impact your gift has had. Together, we are building a foundation for a future where these students can not only overcome challenges but can also thrive and make meaningful contributions to society. Thank you once again for your generosity and for being a part of their educational journey.","fullyFundedDate":1738786958923,"projectUrl":"project/reading-is-fun/8877855/","projectTitle":"Reading is Fun!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Krystal","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9568909_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1718651710053","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9568909"},{"teacherId":9568909,"projectId":8829620,"letterContent":"Books have had a profound impact on my students' love for learning, transforming their educational experience and fostering a deep curiosity about the world. When books are introduced into the classroom, they serve as more than just tools for teaching literacy; they become gateways to imagination, knowledge, and personal growth. Through carefully chosen stories, my students have been able to connect with characters, explore diverse cultures, and discover new perspectives. For many, books have sparked a curiosity that goes far beyond the classroom, encouraging them to ask questions, seek answers, and think critically about the world around them. Whether through fiction or nonfiction, books have provided them with opportunities to explore topics of interest in a way that is both engaging and meaningful.\r\n\r\nOne of the most significant changes I have witnessed is how books have allowed students to develop empathy and emotional intelligence. Stories enable students to step into the shoes of others, feeling the joy, pain, and struggles of the characters they read about. For example, novels about overcoming adversity inspire students to persevere through their own challenges, while books featuring diverse characters help them appreciate the value of inclusivity and kindness. This emotional connection to books has not only strengthened their understanding of the world but also fostered a stronger sense of community and respect within the classroom. Books have taught them that learning is not just about facts and figures; it is also about understanding human experiences, connecting with others, and cultivating compassion.\r\n\r\nMoreover, books have inspired a love for learning by catering to my students' varied interests and learning styles. Some students are drawn to thrilling adventures, while others enjoy the discovery of scientific wonders or the beauty of poetry. Providing access to a diverse range of books ensures that every student can find something that resonates with them. Reluctant readers, who may have once seen reading as a chore, often find themselves engrossed in a story that speaks to their passions. I have seen students light up when they discover a book that matches their interests, motivating them to read more and learn independently. This autonomy in learning has been invaluable, as it empowers students to take ownership of their education and explore topics on their own terms.\r\n\r\nBooks also foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as students learn to analyze texts, draw conclusions, and engage in meaningful discussions. By examining themes, questioning motives, and debating ideas, my students have become more thoughtful and articulate learners. Books challenge them to think beyond the surface, encouraging deeper reflection and intellectual curiosity. I have seen students excitedly share their thoughts about a story, sparking classroom discussions that create an enriching, collaborative learning environment.\r\n\r\nUltimately, books have transformed my classroom into a space where learning is dynamic, personal, and joyful. They have instilled in my students a sense of wonder, a thirst for knowledge, and a belief in their own potential. By connecting students to stories, ideas, and experiences, books have opened doors to learning that will extend far beyond their time in the classroom. The impact of books on my students' love for learning is both immeasurable and enduring, shaping not only who they are as learners but also who they will become as individuals.","fullyFundedDate":1733291245220,"projectUrl":"project/lets-make-reading-fun/8829620/","projectTitle":"Let's Make Reading Fun!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Krystal","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9568909_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1718651710053","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9568909"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_76635","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":225,"numTeachers":24,"percentFrplEligible":67,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":96,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":0,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 6","studentTeacherRatio":"9.4:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"RURAL","ncesMetroType":"RURAL_REMOTE"},"inStateSupporters":83.1,"schoolId":76635,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Van Buren Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Van Buren Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/missouri/van-buren-r1-school-district/van-buren-elementary-school/76635"}