{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Somerset Academy - Stephanie","outOfStateSupporters":23.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9083634,"projectId":10005603,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity and support of \"Bound for Success: Interactive Notebooks for 8th Grade ELA,\" my students now have hands-on learning tools that have completely transformed the way they engage with reading, writing, and critical thinking in our classroom. These interactive notebooks have given students a consistent place to organize notes, annotate texts, practice vocabulary, respond to literature, and track their own growth throughout the year. In a world where so much learning has become digital and disconnected, these notebooks have helped students slow down, think deeply, and truly interact with the material in meaningful ways.\r\n\r\nWhat has been most exciting is watching students take ownership of their notebooks. They are proud of their work in a way that feels increasingly rare in middle school classrooms. Students decorate pages, add thoughtful annotations, revisit old entries before discussions, and genuinely use the notebooks as tools instead of just assignments to complete. Even some of my more reluctant learners have become invested in maintaining their notebooks because they can physically see their progress and creativity on every page. The structure and consistency have especially helped students who struggle with organization or focus, giving them a reliable system that builds confidence and independence.\r\n\r\nYour support has done far more than provide supplies. It has helped create a classroom environment where students feel engaged, capable, and connected to their learning. Thank you for believing in my students and investing in their success. Your kindness has made a lasting impact on our classroom, and we are incredibly grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1768184152985,"projectUrl":"project/bound-for-success-interactive-notebooks/10005603/","projectTitle":"Bound for Success: Interactive Notebooks for 8th Grade ELA","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Guffey","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9083634_orig.jpg?crop=1516,1516,x0,y5&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1700285973966","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9083634"},{"teacherId":10403091,"projectId":10014593,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our pig dissection project for my middle school forensic science classes. Because of your generosity, my 6th–8th grade students have been able to experience science in a way that goes far beyond a textbook.\r\n\r\nWe are using the dissection materials as part of our forensic pathology unit, where students learn how investigators examine the human body to understand cause of death and injury. Through this project, students carefully studied pig anatomy—making connections between organ systems, identifying structures, and discussing how trauma or disease might appear in real forensic cases. For many of them, this was their first time engaging in a real, hands-on scientific investigation.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials were first introduced, the room was filled with a mix of excitement, curiosity, and a little nervousness. What stood out most was how quickly that initial hesitation turned into focused engagement. Students who are often quiet or hesitant in class stepped into leadership roles, asking questions, guiding their peers, and making detailed observations.\r\n\r\nThis project has also strengthened their skills in observation, critical thinking, and collaboration. Students documented their findings in lab journals, sketched anatomical structures, and connected what they saw to real-world forensic applications, just like professionals in the field.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, students will be using what they learned from the dissection to analyze mock forensic case studies. They will apply their understanding of anatomy to determine possible causes of injury, interpret evidence, and present their conclusions using scientific reasoning. This hands-on experience has given them the confidence and foundation to think like investigators.\r\n\r\nYour support has created an unforgettable learning experience and sparked genuine curiosity in science. Thank you for making this possible for my students.","fullyFundedDate":1768704396015,"projectUrl":"project/hands-on-forensic-science-learning-by-d/10014593/","projectTitle":"Hands-On Forensic Science: Learning by Doing","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Passman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10403091_orig.jpg?crop=935,935,x110,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1768497706129","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10403091"},{"teacherId":8164873,"projectId":10037451,"letterContent":"I am writing to express my gratitude for your generous support of our classroom through DonorsChoose. Because of your kindness, our students now have access to materials that are already making a meaningful difference in their daily learning and school experience.\r\n\r\nOur math time has been transformed with the addition of new whiteboards, markers, and erasers. Students are more engaged and confident as they work through problems, easily sharing their thinking and trying new strategies. It has truly brought a new level of energy and collaboration into our lessons.\r\n\r\nRecess has also become more organized and enjoyable thanks to the pinnies and ball bag you provided. Students are able to participate in games more easily and stay active.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, the saucer chairs have made independent learning time far more comfortable and inviting. Students now have a cozy space where they can focus, read, and complete their work. This has helped create a calmer and more productive classroom environment.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has touched every part of our day. Thank you for investing in our students and helping create a classroom where they feel supported, comfortable, and excited to learn.","fullyFundedDate":1769201849491,"projectUrl":"project/ms-stinnetts-classroom/10037451/","projectTitle":"Ms. Stinnett's Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Stinnett","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8164873"},{"teacherId":9359896,"projectId":9992441,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our students are learning to lead through real experiences, not just lessons. These resources support healthy choices, goal setting, and personal responsibility, helping students take ownership of their actions and growth.\r\n\r\nThe prizes play a key role by motivating students to earn leadership cards through positive behavior and strong decision-making. This system builds excitement, increases engagement, and encourages students to consistently demonstrate leadership habits.\r\n\r\nAs a result, students are more confident, focused, and proud of their progress. Thank you for helping create a positive environment where leadership is recognized, celebrated, and practiced every day.","fullyFundedDate":1768085206749,"projectUrl":"project/inspiring-student-leadership-through-mot/9992441/","projectTitle":"Inspiring Student Leadership Through Motivation and Rewards","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Niemeier","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9359896_orig.png?crop=1138,1138,x0,y53&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754610468330","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9359896"},{"teacherId":8112591,"projectId":9989145,"letterContent":"Thank you for your donation to my Big feelings Bright Futures with sensory supports. Your donation have allowed my children to have access to sensory materials and social emotional stories. These items may seem small and inconsequential, however they have helped my students meet their individual social emotional needs and their need to explore and learn through all their senses. \r\nTheir faces lit up when they saw each new package come with new goodies for their classroom. Your contribution has made my job as their teacher easier. Having access to learning materials resources and and other sensory items has made it possible to help meet the different needs and learning styles are all of my students. Thank you for helping to provide them with these things.","fullyFundedDate":1768071962669,"projectUrl":"project/big-feelings-bright-futures-with-sensor/9989145/","projectTitle":"Big Feelings, Bright Futures with Sensory Supports for K-2nd SPED","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Kristine","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8112591_orig.jpg?crop=180,180,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1767826487071","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/kristine-lynn"},{"teacherId":8152721,"projectId":10008873,"letterContent":"Thank you for helping make this a reality for our Nevada students. Children prefer learning when they have choice and a fun activity to apply their learning. This is what kids really need. They interact too much with others online or through their phones. that we need to give them opportunities to engage in person again. Since receiving your donation, we've used it as a way to review for upcoming standardized testing. On days that we've been testing all day, students are so grateful that they can relax and use these activities.","fullyFundedDate":1768193445159,"projectUrl":"project/engaging-minds-one-math-game-at-a-time/10008873/","projectTitle":"Engaging Minds One Math Game at a Time","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ramirez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8152721_orig.png?crop=404,404,x19,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1768123802520","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8152721"},{"teacherId":8114370,"projectId":9990209,"letterContent":"I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to each of you for your generosity in supporting our classroom. Your donations of books and resources have made a meaningful difference in the daily experiences of my students.\r\n\r\nThe books you provided are already becoming a central part of our classroom routine. During our \"First Chapter Fridays,\" students eagerly dive into reading, and it's been incredible to watch their engagement grow. One example is our new collection of books on the American Revolution, which was a big hit with many of my students. We averaged reading 1 book a week, and students came prepared and excited to discuss what they read, from sharing opinions on characters and plot to making thoughtful predictions about what might happen next. The books also opened the door to important conversations about American history. \r\n\r\nIn addition to the books, the new resources—like the basketball hoop—have become powerful tools in our classroom. We use them as part of an incentive system to motivate students to stay engaged and participate actively in their learning. It has created a fun, positive environment where students feel encouraged to do their best.\r\n\r\nYour kindness and support are helping to foster a love of reading, meaningful discussions, and a more engaging classroom environment. Thank you for investing in my students and their growth—it truly makes a lasting impact.","fullyFundedDate":1768080757937,"projectUrl":"project/fueling-curious-minds-through-books-and/9990209/","projectTitle":"Fueling Curious Minds Through Books and Resources","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gaytan-Mahan","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8114370"},{"teacherId":9366829,"projectId":9991145,"letterContent":"We sincerely appreciate your generous donations in support of our classroom. Your contributions have helped us maintain a clean, organized, and well-stocked learning environment. Many of the supplies have already been put to great use—students are using the notebooks to create interactive math journals, the pencil pouches are keeping materials neatly organized, and the snacks have helped sustain energy during extended lessons. We are especially grateful for the markers, which allow us to engage in interactive whiteboard activities that enhance student participation and learning.\r\n\r\nThank you again for your thoughtful support of our class.","fullyFundedDate":1768155029739,"projectUrl":"project/materials-needed/9991145/","projectTitle":"Materials Needed","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Villanueva","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9366829_orig.jpg?crop=1890,1890,x70,y160&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1767922311280","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9366829"},{"teacherId":9355159,"projectId":9992940,"letterContent":"I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all of the generous donors who contributed funds to support my art room. Students were beyond excited when we opened the supply packages together. Because of your support, we have been able to bring in valuable supplies such as texture stencils, aprons, ribbons, a Cricut machine, and a cardboard cutting hand saw—tools that will inspire imagination and hands-on learning every day.\r\n\r\nThese new materials have already begun to transform the classroom into a more dynamic and engaging environment. Students have started designing art and design projects with the Cricut to display around the school. Students have taken this opportunity to explore new artistic techniques, work more confidently with a variety of mediums, and express themselves in ways that were not previously possible. They are using technology to enhance their art projects. The aprons help them create freely without worry, the stencils and ribbons have already been used for a schoolwide project for our Leadership Day where parents and community came to tour our school. These supplies have added depth and creativity to their projects, and the Cricut machine and cutting tools open the door to innovative design work.\r\n\r\nYour generosity goes far beyond providing supplies—you are helping to nurture creativity, build confidence, and foster a love of art in every student who walks into the room. Thank you for believing in the importance of the arts and for making such a lasting difference in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1768101109917,"projectUrl":"project/art-and-engineering-combine-to-create-ne/9992940/","projectTitle":"Art and Engineering Combine to Create Next Level Art","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Polatis","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9355159_orig.jpg?crop=826,826,x1270,y1663&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1767898852425","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9355159"},{"teacherId":6306243,"projectId":10000564,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our music classroom! The arrival of the 13 ukuleles made a huge impact on my 4th and 5th grade students. When they first saw the instruments, the room filled with excitement and curiosity. Many students had never held or played a string instrument before, so simply getting to strum their first chord was a special moment. There were big smiles, lots of \"Listen to this!\" moments, and an immediate sense of pride as students realized they were making real music.\r\n\r\nWe have been using the ukuleles during class to learn basic chords, practice steady strumming patterns, and play simple songs together. One of my favorite classroom moments was hearing the entire group play their first chord progression in sync. Students were helping each other remember finger placements and cheering each other on when a chord finally sounded just right. The ukuleles have given my students a hands-on way to experience music, and they are far more engaged when they can actively play instead of just talk about musical concepts.\r\n\r\nNext, my 4th and 5th graders will continue building their ukulele skills by learning new chords and practicing short songs as a class. They are excited to keep improving and challenging themselves with new strumming patterns and chord changes. Because of your generosity, my students now have the opportunity to explore music in a meaningful and memorable way. Thank you for helping bring these experiences to life in our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1768166372362,"projectUrl":"project/big-learning-in-little-strings-classroo/10000564/","projectTitle":"Big Learning in Little Strings: Classroom Ukuleles","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Woody","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6306243_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y816&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1591051374452","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jessicawoody"},{"teacherId":10398543,"projectId":9988958,"letterContent":"Your generous donation of learning toys has truly transformed our Pre-K classroom into a place of curiosity, creativity, and joyful learning. Because of you, my students now have hands-on materials that allow them to explore, build, and discover in meaningful ways. These toys have sparked imagination during play, strengthened problem-solving skills, and encouraged collaboration as students work together to create and learn. What may seem like simple toys have become powerful tools that support early math, literacy, and social-emotional development every single day.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nI have already seen a noticeable difference in how my students engage with learning. They are more confident, more focused, and more excited to participate in activities. Whether they are building structures, sorting and counting, or acting out stories, they are developing critical thinking and communication skills that will support them throughout their educational journey. Your support has helped create an environment where learning feels like play—and that is exactly how young children learn best.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in my students and believing in the importance of early childhood education. Your kindness has made a lasting impact, not only on their academic growth but also on their love for learning. These experiences will stay with them far beyond our classroom, and we are so grateful for your generosityT","fullyFundedDate":1768063816340,"projectUrl":"project/play-is-the-heart-of-our-preschool/9988958/","projectTitle":"Play Is the Heart of Our Preschool","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Liss","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10398543"},{"teacherId":9359025,"projectId":10047823,"letterContent":"My students have really enjoyed the resources provided through this grant. The students ask every day if they can use the basketballs out on the playground as there are not many when they play outside. They are very good about asking and returning the balls which makes me more likely to allow them to use them. When we take tests the students really enjoy being able to have the mints as well as the privacy folders. Both allow them to focus more on what they need to do.\r\nI look forward to being able to support my students more with these resources this year and beyond. I truly think that the privacy folders with the positive sayings on them, encourage the students to do their very best as well help them believe in themselves. We all need a little positivity in our lives.","fullyFundedDate":1769204160193,"projectUrl":"project/essentials-for-a-smooth-class/10047823/","projectTitle":"Essentials for a Smooth Class","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Arizmendi","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9359025_orig.png?crop=380,380,x59,y16&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1699461835211","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9359025"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_102024","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":971,"numTeachers":null,"percentFrplEligible":37,"percentAsian":6,"percentBlack":11,"percentWhite":33,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":35,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":0,"gradesServed":"K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":null,"demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":76.7,"schoolId":102024,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Somerset Academy - Stephanie on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Somerset Academy - Stephanie","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/nevada/nevada-department-of-education/somerset-academy-emerson/102024"}