{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Dennis Ortwein Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":36.2,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9031029,"projectId":10007482,"letterContent":"My students have been using coding drones in a really hands-on way that has made a noticeable difference in how they engage with both coding and math. Through grant funding, I was able to bring two drones into our classroom, and even with a small number of devices, the impact has been meaningful. These drones have given my students access to technology that they would not typically have, and it has completely shifted how they experience learning.\r\n\r\nWe've been working with Python, which is a coding language that connects to many others and is used across a variety of industries. Introducing them to Python at this level has helped them start building a strong foundation, while also showing them that coding is not just a school skill, it's something that exists in real-world careers.\r\n\r\nThe drones have also helped strengthen their understanding of math in a very natural way. In order to successfully maneuver through obstacles or complete challenges, students have to think about distance, angles, timing, and direction. They begin to see how math directly impacts the outcome, which makes those concepts more meaningful and easier to understand.\r\n\r\nEven with just two drones, students have learned to collaborate, take turns, and support each other. They often work in small groups, talking through their code and helping troubleshoot when something goes wrong. This has created a really positive learning environment where they are learning from each other just as much as they are from the lesson itself.\r\n\r\nHaving access to these drones has also allowed me to begin introducing the idea of drone coding competitions. Students are starting to see that these skills can extend beyond the classroom into something bigger, which has been exciting for them. It gives them a goal and helps build confidence in what they are capable of learning.","fullyFundedDate":1768187454109,"projectUrl":"project/from-code-to-flight-k-5-innovators-lear/10007482/","projectTitle":"From Code to Flight: K-5 Innovators Learn Python With Drones","teacherDisplayName":"Mx. Vazquez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9031029_orig.jpg?crop=609,608,x0,y115&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1683590633044","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mx-vazquez"},{"teacherId":6932423,"projectId":8016942,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, my students now have access to a classroom library filled with books they are excited to read, and I want to sincerely thank you for making this possible.\r\n\r\nYour support has done far more than place books on shelves—it has opened doors for my students. Many of them now have opportunities to explore new topics, discover favorite authors, and develop a love of reading in a way that was not possible before. The excitement on their faces as they browse the library, choose books that interest them, and share what they have read has been incredible to witness.\r\n\r\nThese books have already begun to make a meaningful impact in our classroom. Students are reading more often, engaging more deeply in discussions, and growing in confidence as readers. For some, having access to books they can truly connect with has been transformative. Your donation has helped create an environment where literacy can flourish and where every child feels empowered to learn.\r\n\r\nPlease know that your kindness and belief in education are making a lasting difference in the lives of my students. The classroom library you helped build will continue to inspire curiosity, imagination, and academic growth throughout the year.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in my students and for helping us create a richer, more engaging learning environment. Your generosity is deeply appreciated.","fullyFundedDate":1699744520358,"projectUrl":"project/become-a-star-reader/8016942/","projectTitle":"Become a Star Reader","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Vance","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6932423"},{"teacherId":6932423,"projectId":9994410,"letterContent":"On behalf of my students and our entire classroom community, I want to extend our heartfelt gratitude for your generous donation of science materials through Donors Choose.\r\n\r\nBecause of your kindness, our students now have access to hands-on tools that bring science to life in ways that textbooks alone never could. The donated equipment has transformed our classroom into an exciting environment where students can explore, experiment, and discover. Whether conducting investigations, observing scientific phenomena, or working collaboratively on experiments, students are now engaging with science in meaningful and memorable ways.\r\n\r\nYour support is doing more than providing materials—it is inspiring curiosity, building confidence, and helping students develop critical thinking skills that will serve them for years to come. Many of our students have never had the opportunity to use real scientific equipment before, and the excitement on their faces as they learn through direct experience has been incredible to witness.\r\n\r\nThanks to your generosity, our classroom is better equipped to nurture the next generation of scientists, problem-solvers, and innovators. Your investment in education is making a lasting difference, and we are deeply grateful for your commitment to helping students succeed.\r\n\r\nThank you again for believing in our students and for making science come alive in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1768113898740,"projectUrl":"project/hands-on-science-tools-for-curious-mind/9994410/","projectTitle":"Hands-On Science: Tools for Curious Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Vance","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6932423"},{"teacherId":10411030,"projectId":10037156,"letterContent":"I would love to share my gratitude for assisting me with this project. Making the Health Office more comfortable has been a beautiful success. All supplies have been utilized perfectly. The update here in the Health Office has yet to go unnoticed.\r\n\r\nThe floor stickers are the first thing students engage with when entering the H.O..The calendar is a huge and everyday help here. I have reordered more chips due to the first delivery being eaten by our scholars. The waffle snacks and suckers are still standing but are getting low. The baskets are a beautiful addition here. Our wall stickers are a beautiful upgrade from what we had before. \r\n\r\nI want to thank you all again for taking time out of your day and making the Health Office comfortable for my scholars. They enjoy and love it and so do I. Thank you all for this beautiful service you do to help improve students environments. Thank you for this beautiful opportunity. Please have a blessed and beautiful weekend. 🌹","fullyFundedDate":1768766748871,"projectUrl":"project/making-the-health-office-comfortable/10037156/","projectTitle":"Making the Health Office Comfortable","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Royal","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10411030"},{"teacherId":8153998,"projectId":9995003,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has been transformed in a meaningful and exciting way. With these new resources, my students have been able to engage in hands-on, interactive learning experiences that bring our lessons to life. For example, during a recent project, students used the materials to collaborate in small groups, problem-solve, and think creatively in ways that weren't possible before. I watched as they took ownership of their learning, asking deeper questions and supporting one another as they explored new concepts.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the excitement in the room was unforgettable. Students were eager, curious, and immediately drawn in—they couldn't wait to start using everything. Some even said it felt like \"a brand-new classroom.\" That enthusiasm has continued as they've incorporated these tools into their daily learning, helping build both confidence and a love for learning.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we're continuing to build on this momentum. Students are currently working on a project that will allow them to apply what they've learned in new and creative ways, and these resources will play a key role in that process. Your support has not only enhanced our classroom today but has also opened the door for future growth and opportunities. Thank you for being an essential part of our journey!","fullyFundedDate":1768446615748,"projectUrl":"project/morning-bins/9995003/","projectTitle":"Morning Bins","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Torres","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8153998"},{"teacherId":4423271,"projectId":10007715,"letterContent":"Thank you so very much for supporting my \"Choose Non-Violence\" quest in my classroom. The book Hands by Torrey Maldonado is a little-known gem of a text. It mirrors a struggle that many of my students face daily. For others it is a window into observing and finding empathy for classmates that are different from them and allows a connection.\r\n\r\nWe are reading the book as a class (three separate classes) and as we sit and share the story I can see the faces of my students and I see their empathy growing. In a world where violence is often the norm my students are finding a better solution for misunderstandings through this story of a boy who must make a choice between violence and creativity.\r\n\r\nThe music boxing machine has brought a tangible element to this book. Many of my students had no idea the strength they have and how a simple punch can be devastating. The boxing machine, while fun, showed them their strength. We used the machine and every punch was a choice. The impact on my students was dynamic. They are still talking about it.\r\nThank you ever so much for giving my students this opportunity and insight.","fullyFundedDate":1768669316275,"projectUrl":"project/choose-non-violence/10007715/","projectTitle":"Choose Non-Violence","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Valdes","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4423271_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1704756269857","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4423271"},{"teacherId":4310511,"projectId":10000613,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for donating to my students' project of Innovation, Design, and Engineering. My students have loved using the materials to innovate ideas, design their ideas, and engineer their ideas.\r\n\r\nWe have used the pocket charts to introduce, refer to, and review vocabulary linked with innovation and innovators. My students have used their new rulers to help design and engineer their ideas and projects.\r\n\r\nFinally, my students have been using the 3-D printer to put their ideas into practice. They are in awe of seeing their ideas come to life.\r\n\r\nThank you for supporting current and future innovators!","fullyFundedDate":1768191690482,"projectUrl":"project/innovation-design-and-engineering/10000613/","projectTitle":"Innovation, Design, and Engineering","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Homen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-homen"},{"teacherId":8109151,"projectId":9989821,"letterContent":"It's time to say THANK YOU for your generous support of our project, **\"Exploring Spanish-Speaking Countries Through Books and Art.\"** Because of your kindness, our students have been able to travel beyond the classroom—discovering new cultures, traditions, and perspectives through meaningful literature and creative expression.\r\n\r\nWith the books and art materials you helped provide, students explored the rich diversity of Spanish-speaking countries. They connected stories to real places, expressed their learning through art, and built a deeper appreciation for language and culture. Your support made these experiences possible and helped bring learning to life in a way that is both engaging and memorable.\r\n\r\nWe are so grateful for your generosity and belief in our students. Thank you for helping inspire curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning.","fullyFundedDate":1768058267396,"projectUrl":"project/exploring-spanish-speaking-countries-thr/9989821/","projectTitle":"Exploring Spanish-Speaking Countries Through Books and Art","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Agatone","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8109151_orig.jpg?crop=478,478,x59,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1633058710912","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-agatone"},{"teacherId":9349345,"projectId":9990078,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, my students are using these materials every day to learn, play, and grow. We use them during centers and small groups to practice early reading, math, communication, and independent work skills. The hands-on materials have made learning more engaging and helped my students stay focused and confident.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials arrived, my students were so excited and eager to explore. Even students who usually need extra encouragement were motivated to participate. I've already seen growth in their attention, independence, and willingness to try new things.\r\n\r\nThanks to you, we're continuing to build on these skills each day. My students are becoming more confident learners and are beginning to apply their skills in new ways. Your support has truly made our classroom a happier and more successful place—thank you so much! 💙","fullyFundedDate":1768062360526,"projectUrl":"project/engaged-happy-learners-in-our-autism-cl/9990078/","projectTitle":"Engaged, Happy Learners in our Autism Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Amulong","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9349345_orig.png?crop=400,400,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1714011020498","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9349345"},{"teacherId":10400458,"projectId":10001447,"letterContent":"Once again, we express our sincere gratitude for the invaluable donations received. These contributions have been instrumental in enhancing our library's functionality and aesthetics.\r\n\r\nThe newly acquired wooden book rack has been instrumental in organizing our book shelves. By grouping books within series, we have achieved a visually appealing and orderly arrangement, which aligns with our library's commitment to maintaining a clean and organized environment.\r\n\r\nThe donated colored paper has been utilized to create visually appealing book fair flyers for each of our approximately 950 students. This initiative aims to promote literacy and encourage student engagement in the library's activities.\r\n\r\nFurthermore, the Clorox wipes have been employed to maintain the library's sanitary conditions. This includes wiping down student tables, book shelves, librarian's desks, books, and other relevant areas.\r\n\r\nIn summary, the donations have had a profound impact on our library, enabling us to implement various projects that enhance its functionality and contribute to the overall well-being of our students. \r\nOnce again thank you so much!","fullyFundedDate":1768184417167,"projectUrl":"project/loving-library/10001447/","projectTitle":"Loving Library","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Istefan","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10400458"},{"teacherId":2704744,"projectId":9996881,"letterContent":"On behalf of our students and school community, we extend our heartfelt thanks for your generous donation of neon art supplies. Your support brought a vibrant spark into our classrooms—one that reached far beyond color and creativity.\r\n\r\nAs our students explored the importance of conserving the rainforest, they used your donated materials to bring their ideas to life in bold, luminous ways. The neon hues became more than just art supplies; they became a voice—highlighting the beauty of endangered ecosystems, the urgency of protecting them, and the hope for a more mindful future.\r\n\r\nYour generosity helped make this meaningful connection possible. It reminded our students that there are people who care, who give, and who believe in the power of education and creativity.","fullyFundedDate":1768155126143,"projectUrl":"project/art-that-glows-nature-that-grows/9996881/","projectTitle":"Art that Glows, Nature that Grows","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Mealus","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2704744_orig.jpg?crop=1024,1024,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1726163882836","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-mealus"},{"teacherId":10403630,"projectId":10032841,"letterContent":"We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to each and every donor who contributed to funding our classroom. Your generosity has made a meaningful and lasting impact on our kindergarten students with autism.\r\n\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, our students now have greater access to a variety of rewards and snack options, as well as opportunities to engage in role-playing activities with their peers. These additions have not only enhanced their social development but have also helped us create a calming corner that is significantly more comfortable, supportive, and safe.\r\n\r\n\r\nThe toys provided, including balls for recess, have encouraged students to stay active while practicing important social skills such as sharing and good sportsmanship. The addition of toy animals has inspired imaginative play, allowing students to explore concepts such as zoos, farms, and animal interactions, while also incorporating creativity into other activities like building and pretend play.\r\n\r\n\r\nThe variety of snacks has also had a positive impact. By offering visual choices and observing their peers, students have felt more encouraged to try new foods, helping them expand their comfort zones and build confidence.\r\n\r\n\r\nAdditionally, the tent has created a dedicated space where students can go when they need time to calm and regulate themselves. The padding mats placed underneath have further ensured that this space is not only comforting but also safe.\r\n\r\n\r\nWe are truly grateful for your kindness and support. Your contributions have enriched our classroom environment and provided our students with valuable tools for growth, learning, and well-being.","fullyFundedDate":1768711916683,"projectUrl":"project/sensory-overload-to-calmness/10032841/","projectTitle":"Sensory Overload to Calmness","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Mimi","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10403630"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_122077","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":828,"numTeachers":null,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":14,"percentBlack":11,"percentWhite":24,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":30,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":null,"demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":63.8,"schoolId":122077,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Dennis Ortwein Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Dennis Ortwein Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/nevada/clark-county-school-district/dennis-ortwein-elementary-opening-fall-2018-/122077"}