{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Mater Academy Bonanza","outOfStateSupporters":55.0,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8116728,"projectId":10018707,"letterContent":"Thank you for your donation. I am a literacy strategist and I have about a hundred students receiving phonics instruction in small groups. The students range from kindergarten through fifth grade. I have been teaching my interventionist aides how to use the phonics sound boxes. Using the materials purchased with your donations have helped engage student for learning phonemic awareness, segmentation, blending, and writing. The dry erase markers and erasers are especially helpful as they are needed with both the Elkonin sound boxes and the magnetic phonics kit.\r\n\r\nI also have used the organizational materials for organizing teaching materials, progress monitoring materials, and student data.","fullyFundedDate":1768672872677,"projectUrl":"project/small-group-instruction-materials-for-rt/10018707/","projectTitle":"Small Group Instruction Materials for RTI Groups","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Iverson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8116728_orig.jpg?crop=2456,2456,x802,y243&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1649209127057","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8116728"},{"teacherId":9308225,"projectId":9991491,"letterContent":"Our students are using these new materials every day during our literacy small group time. They work on strengthening their fine motor skills by forming letters with playdough using Mat Man, as well as practicing proper letter formation with magnetic lines and curves. Having individual trays and mats for each student has made a huge difference—everyone can participate at the same time without waiting, allowing for more meaningful practice and review of letters.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials were first introduced, the students were incredibly excited. They loved having their own trays and mats to build letters, and it gave them a sense of independence. Now, each child can take their time learning the letter of the week, revisit previously learned letters, and even support one another during activities.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, we will continue using these materials weekly as part of our letter-of-the-week instruction. We've already seen growth in letter recognition and formation. Because the activities are hands-on and engaging, students feel more confident and are not afraid to make mistakes, making learning both fun and stress-free.","fullyFundedDate":1768078457048,"projectUrl":"project/hands-on-letters-and-numbers-for-small-g/9991491/","projectTitle":"Hands-On Letters and Numbers for Small Group Success","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Lopez A","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9308225_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1768080744552","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9308225"},{"teacherId":9874748,"projectId":9991884,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your incredible generosity and support of our classroom. Because of you, my students have access to resources that truly make a difference in their learning, engagement, and confidence.\r\n\r\nYour donation goes far beyond materials—it creates opportunities, sparks curiosity, and helps build a classroom environment where every student feels supported and excited to learn. Many of my students may not have access to these resources otherwise, and your kindness helps bridge that gap in such a meaningful way.\r\n\r\nI see the impact of your support every single day—in their smiles, their participation, and their growth. Please know that your generosity is deeply appreciated, not just by me, but by each and every student whose experience you've helped enhance.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students and investing in their future.","fullyFundedDate":1768141538013,"projectUrl":"project/more-than-paper-personalized-notebooks/9991884/","projectTitle":"More Than Paper: Personalized Notebooks That Grow Readers","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Zavaleta","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9874748"},{"teacherId":7558650,"projectId":10017006,"letterContent":"Our class was so excited when we received the supplies for our guinea pigs project! Thanks to our generous donors, we were able to get the items needed for Gina and Cookie, our classroom guinea pigs. \r\n\r\nThis project has given students a hands-on way to learn about responsibility, kindness to animals, and basic science concepts. Our next steps are to continue observing Gina and Cookie, recording what they eat, how they behave, and discussing how to properly care for small animals. Thank you again!","fullyFundedDate":1772047741736,"projectUrl":"project/ensuring-our-classroom-pets-well-being/10017006/","projectTitle":"Ensuring Our Classroom Pets' Well-Being","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Santana","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7558650"},{"teacherId":10405047,"projectId":10024978,"letterContent":"Thank you to the generous donors who helped provide art and science supplies for our classroom. Students are creating more colorful, meaningful, and creative art every day. They are also exploring and engaging with new science tools to expand their knowledge and imagination. Your support gives our students the tools they need to explore their creativity and curiosity through hands-on learning experiences. Because of your kindness, our students can experiment, create, and discover new ideas every day. These materials make learning more exciting and meaningful, and we truly appreciate the difference you have made in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1768688496484,"projectUrl":"project/explore-create-discover-stem-art-an/10024978/","projectTitle":"Explore, Create, Discover! STEM, Art, and Literacy Centers for Pre-K","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Stephanie","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10405047"},{"teacherId":8820435,"projectId":9998623,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous support of our kindergarten classroom. Because of you, our students are diving into the Pete the Cat book collection with excitement and joy! These engaging stories are strengthening vocabulary, building comprehension skills, and supporting social-emotional learning as students connect with Pete's positive attitude and problem-solving adventures. I have already seen students eagerly retelling stories, identifying new sight words, and making connections to their own lives. Most importantly, they are developing a genuine love of reading through familiar, beloved characters.\r\n\r\nThe colorful book bins have transformed our classroom library into an organized, student-friendly space that encourages independence and responsibility. Students are confidently selecting and returning books during independent reading time. The pencils, crayons, and lap desk trays are supporting hands-on learning, writing practice, and fine motor development during centers and small-group instruction. Even the cordless vacuum and classroom snacks are making a meaningful impact—helping us maintain a clean, welcoming environment while ensuring students can focus and regulate their emotions throughout the day.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, our classroom is more organized, engaging, and supportive. My students feel prepared, confident, and excited to learn every day. Thank you for investing in their success and helping create a space where kindergarten learners can truly thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1768156064829,"projectUrl":"project/creating-a-kindergarten-classroom-librar/9998623/","projectTitle":"Creating a Kindergarten Classroom Library and Learning Support Space","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Gray","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8820435_orig.jpg?crop=1569,1569,x0,y47&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1668719681002","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8820435"},{"teacherId":5012462,"projectId":10021918,"letterContent":"On the first day of use the students had great conversations ans the class was the loud noisey like it ca often be. Students were in a quiet hum , having great conversations about playing with the dough, how it feels and wishing we can do this weekly just to change the regular routines. Thank you. The impact and creativity is expressed in the objects students have designed. The one thing they all agree on is the ability to mold and shape, then being able to start over again. In the photos I took, the creativity is, just kids having fun.","fullyFundedDate":1768615054366,"projectUrl":"project/create-and-destress/10021918/","projectTitle":"Create and Destress","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Poindexter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5012462_orig.jpg?crop=1242,1242,x0,y455&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1768336020282","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5012462"},{"teacherId":5639709,"projectId":9992507,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our counseling office has become a calm, welcoming space where students feel safe, supported, and cared for. The calming lights have transformed the atmosphere, creating a soft and peaceful environment that immediately helps students relax when they walk through the door. The electric fish tank has become a wonderful regulation tool. Students often sit quietly watching the gentle movement of the fish as they slow their breathing and gather their thoughts. The snacks you provided ensure that students who come in feeling overwhelmed or hungry have something comforting to help them refocus. The fidgets have also been incredibly helpful, giving students a safe and appropriate way to manage anxiety, release nervous energy, and stay present during counseling sessions.\r\n\r\nWhen the items first arrived, students were excited and curious about the new additions to their safe space. Many commented on how cozy and different the office felt. Now, these tools are part of our daily counseling routines. Students independently choose fidgets during sessions, use the calming lighting to help regulate big emotions, or take a quiet moment near the fish tank before talking through challenges. Moving forward, we will continue teaching students self-regulation strategies and coping skills, helping them recognize what they need and how to use these tools in healthy ways. Because of you, our counseling office is more than just a room, it is a peaceful refuge where students can reset, reflect, and grow emotionally.","fullyFundedDate":1768425288395,"projectUrl":"project/a-place-to-breathe-reset-and-learn/9992507/","projectTitle":"A Place to Breathe, Reset, and Learn","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Barnes","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5639709_orig.jpg?crop=751,751,x0,y5&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1719258786801","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5639709"},{"teacherId":9350017,"projectId":8261520,"letterContent":"Many kids go hungry everyday.. the snack help kids have something to eat and that helps them to succeed. The kids always have a big smile on there face when they get that food to eat.. lots of parents send nothing with the kids to eat for lunch everyday.. before they sit down many kids come up to me and ask if I have any snacks and with your donations it helps kids have something in there stomach.. they always gives hugs and thanks me when I'm able to give them the snacks. The kids hope you can find this project to put a smile on there face. Thank you again","fullyFundedDate":1710006668825,"projectUrl":"project/inviting-kitchen-space/8261520/","projectTitle":"Inviting Kitchen Space","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Traber","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9350017"},{"teacherId":9447574,"projectId":9999570,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project, \"Where Letters, Numbers, and Art Come Alive.\" Because of your generosity, our classroom has been filled with new energy, creativity, and excitement for learning. The students were absolutely thrilled when they first saw the new materials — their eyes lit up, and they couldn't wait to explore everything. We have been using the resources daily during literacy centers, math exploration, and creative art time. One special moment that stood out was when students used the new materials to create letter-inspired artwork while counting and sorting shapes. They were proudly showing their work to one another, making connections between letters, numbers, and creativity in ways that felt meaningful and fun.\r\nThese resources have made learning more hands-on and engaging, allowing students to experiment, explore, and express themselves with confidence. They are more eager to participate, ask questions, and try new ideas. The materials have helped turn everyday lessons into interactive experiences where students are building foundational skills while also developing imagination and problem-solving abilities.\r\nAs we move forward, our next steps include deeper project-based learning where students will create themed learning stations that combine early literacy, math concepts, and artistic expression. We are excited to continue watching their curiosity grow as they explore new ways to communicate ideas through letters, numbers, and art. Your kindness has truly made a lasting impact in our classroom, and we are so grateful for your support in helping our students learn, create, and thrive","fullyFundedDate":1768164368546,"projectUrl":"project/where-letters-numbers-and-art-come-ali/9999570/","projectTitle":"Where Letters, Numbers, and Art Come Alive","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. G","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9447574_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1709317030808","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9447574"},{"teacherId":7558650,"projectId":10004978,"letterContent":"Thank you once again for your generous donations. Because of your kindness, my Pre-K class has received the materials and is excited to begin using them. These support hands-on learning and help build important early skills through play and exploration. Your generosity has created meaningful learning opportunities and enriched our classroom experience. We are grateful for your support and belief in our students.\r\nOnce again we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your continued support! thanks","fullyFundedDate":1768182144728,"projectUrl":"project/tools-for-learning/10004978/","projectTitle":"Tools for Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Santana","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7558650"},{"teacherId":7196835,"projectId":10009855,"letterContent":"Thank you for providing our students here at Mater Bonanza the opportunity to learn how to DJ their own events. With your contribution to our student council program, our students will be able to learn how to use the DJ controller and the stand to stand in front of our students and boost their confidence. \r\n\r\nYour support is greatly appreciated. The students here at Mater Bonanza are a title one school, so giving them all the opportunities to be the best them is my goal. My students were interested during one of our first events, so it is a blessing to make it come to life.","fullyFundedDate":1768265836794,"projectUrl":"project/in-house-school-spirit/10009855/","projectTitle":"In House School Spirit","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Sorenson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7196835_orig.jpg?crop=1126,1126,x0,y60&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1588380498222","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7196835"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_121100","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":1113,"numTeachers":null,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":5,"percentWhite":2,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":89,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":null,"demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":45.0,"schoolId":121100,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Mater Academy Bonanza on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Mater Academy Bonanza","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/nevada/nevada-department-of-education/mater-academy-bonanza/121100"}
Join the 413 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Mater Academy Bonanza is
an urban public school
in Las Vegas, Nevada that is part of Nevada Department of Education.
It serves 1,113 students
in grades Pre-K - 8.
Its teachers have had 359 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Boost support for this school! Share this page with friends, family, alumni, and fellow supporters. Every connection helps teachers get the supplies they need and shows how much your community cares about its students.
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Every donation funds real needs — pencils, books, lab equipment, art supplies, and more — helping students learn and thrive. We ship supplies directly to the school, and you'll see exactly where each dollar goes.
of students receive free or reduced price lunch
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
Source: the National Center for Education Statistics
94%
of students are Black, Latino, Native
American, or Asian
Data about school demographics comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. The numbers in this chart may not add up to 100% because of limitations in the available data.
Mater Academy Bonanza Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Apr 7, 2026
DonorsChoose makes it easy for anyone to help a teacher in need, moving us closer to a nation where students
in every community have the tools and experiences they need for a great education.
Mater Academy Bonanza
$252,220
raised using DonorsChoose
359
projects
funded
142
teachers
funded
413
donors
26
projects
for
basic supplies
61
projects for
technology
33
projects for
books
27
projects
for
art supplies
Mater Academy Bonanza has received support from
186 individuals from Nevada and
227 individuals out-of-state.