{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Desert Skies Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":51.6,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9418309,"projectId":10023757,"letterContent":"Thank you for your donation, my students were super excited to walk-into my classroom and see all the books around the room. They did a walk-though and were able to check-out books to take home and others chose to read when done with their class assignments. The variety of books was on point, some chose to read a story while others enjoyed to learn about their favorite animals. \r\n\r\nThe materials were also very much needed like the pencils to write on a daily basis. I surprised my students with snacks donated after a hard working week and on special occasions to celebrate their learning. My students were amazed by the large bottles of hand sanitizer and were thankful, many times they do not have time to wash their hands before eating lunch. Thank you!","fullyFundedDate":1768663752619,"projectUrl":"project/reading-with-my-buddies/10023757/","projectTitle":"Reading with My Buddies","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Valdez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9418309"},{"teacherId":6203752,"projectId":9853149,"letterContent":"These materials are central to our classroom coffee cart project, where students serve teachers and staff. Students practice pouring beverages from the carafe, handling cups safely, and using stirrers—all while developing fine motor skills and confidence.\r\n\r\nStudents practice handling payment and managing a simple transaction.\r\n\r\nServing coffee creates natural opportunities for students to greet peers and staff, engage in conversation, and practice polite communication in a real-world context.\r\n\r\nWe are so grateful for your donation to our classroom and our ecstatic that our coffee cart can continue to serve our school community!","fullyFundedDate":1769638193126,"projectUrl":"project/coffee-cart-essentials/9853149/","projectTitle":"Coffee Cart Essentials","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Johnson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp6203752_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1547667154557","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ta"},{"teacherId":6203752,"projectId":10005118,"letterContent":"Initial Reactions: When the new materials arrived, our students were excited and curious! Many immediately gravitated toward the colorful alphabet learning locks and number puzzles. We could see their eyes light up as they explored each item. The countertop dishwasher was particularly engaging—students were fascinated by the \"real\" appliance and eager to interact with it.\r\n\r\nClassroom Projects and Moments:\r\n\r\nOur students are using these materials in meaningful ways:\r\n\r\nFunctional Life Skills: We've incorporated the countertop dishwasher, toothpaste, and hair brush into our daily living skills curriculum. Students practice tooth brushing, hair care, and dishwashing—essential skills for independence and self-care.\r\n\r\nAcademic Learning: The alphabet learning locks and puzzle cards support literacy development. Students manipulate the locks to practice letter recognition and sequencing, while the number puzzles reinforce counting and number concepts in a hands-on, engaging way.","fullyFundedDate":1768622566315,"projectUrl":"project/learning-life-skills/10005118/","projectTitle":"Learning Life Skills","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Johnson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp6203752_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1547667154557","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ta"},{"teacherId":10402748,"projectId":10012389,"letterContent":"My students and I offer immense gratitude for the fantastic materials that you have given us. My leadership students have made beautiful posters to create more school spirit, and my science students were able to make infographics on topics like the solar system and Newton's Laws. Students in my science classes have used the materials in recent labs to better support their learning and made class so much fun! \r\n\r\nStudents have been so excited to hear that they are able to do more labs and projects, and they have loved the results of their hands on labs and infographics. Students are moving into our genetics and evolution unit. We will use supplies like the DNA model to demonstrate difficult concepts and develop a deeper understanding. I am so happy that my students will have the ability to truly grasp the interesting concepts ahead. Thank you for making their in depth learning possible.","fullyFundedDate":1768416649536,"projectUrl":"project/stem-classroom-basics/10012389/","projectTitle":"STEM Classroom Basics","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Vallejo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10402748"},{"teacherId":10159562,"projectId":9998039,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, my students now have access to colored pencils, pens, and student reward items that have already made a meaningful impact in our classroom. The colored pencils and pens have elevated the quality of student work across subjects. In science, students recently completed a detailed diagram project where they labeled and color-coded parts of a cell. The ability to use colored pencils helped them organize information clearly and take pride in their work. I noticed students slowing down, adding detail, and truly focusing on accuracy. Having reliable pens has also helped students take ownership of their writing and editing during daily lessons.\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the excitement was immediate. Students were especially thrilled about the reward items. It created a renewed sense of motivation and positive energy in our classroom. Students began encouraging one another, reminding each other of expectations, and working hard to earn recognition. Even small rewards have made a big difference in reinforcing positive behavior and effort. The classroom atmosphere has felt more focused and encouraging as a result.\r\nOur next steps include continuing to use these supplies to support creativity and accountability. Students will be working on a science interactive notebook project where they will design diagrams, annotate readings, and use color to organize complex ideas. The reward system will continue to support goal-setting and positive behavior as we move into new units. Your support has helped create a classroom environment where students feel prepared, motivated, and proud of their work. Thank you for investing in both their academic growth and their confidence.","fullyFundedDate":1768154738601,"projectUrl":"project/student-success/9998039/","projectTitle":"Student Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Wester","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10159562"},{"teacherId":10159562,"projectId":9814596,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, my students now have paper, dry erase sleeves, and whiteboard markers that we are using every single day. The dry erase sleeves have been a game changer in our classroom. Instead of completing one worksheet and being done, students are now practicing, revising, and trying again without the pressure of making a mistake. During a recent science lesson, students used the sleeves to model cell organelles and label their functions. I watched them erase, fix spelling, add details, and confidently explain their thinking to partners. The simple ability to \"try again\" has already increased participation and academic risk-taking.\r\nWhen my students first saw the materials, they were genuinely excited. Something as simple as having their own whiteboard marker made them feel responsible and important. Several students immediately asked, \"Do we get to use these today?\" The engagement level instantly rose. Even students who are usually hesitant to share answers were eager to write on their sleeves and hold them up. The materials created a more interactive and inclusive environment where every student had a voice.\r\nOur next steps are to continue using these tools to support collaborative problem-solving and deeper thinking. In math, students will use the sleeves to show multiple strategies for solving equations before transferring their final answers to paper. In science, we will use them for modeling, vocabulary practice, and quick formative assessments so I can give immediate feedback. Your donation is not just paper and markers—it is confidence, engagement, and opportunity. Thank you for giving my students tools that help them grow every day.","fullyFundedDate":1765562880434,"projectUrl":"project/writing-our-way-to-success/9814596/","projectTitle":"Writing Our Way to Success!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Wester","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10159562"},{"teacherId":8378297,"projectId":8140710,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping make my classroom a community of learners. The supplies have helped the students succeed and grow tremendously. Thank you so much! The students loved all of the fidget prizes, and window crayons were a huge hit. They also allowed us to have another surface for problem solving and discussions. The laminator has been instrumental in the creation of an interactive word wall, where the students can puzzle together definitions, examples, and vocabulary words. The kneedable erasers are always fun for students to win as prizes and for other reasons.","fullyFundedDate":1705897878882,"projectUrl":"project/building-the-neighborhood/8140710/","projectTitle":"Building the Neighborhood","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Rogers","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8378297"},{"teacherId":8129326,"projectId":10000841,"letterContent":"These supplies have made a positive impact on our Title I school by supporting student accountability and responsibility through our ongoing school beautification efforts. Students currently use the scrapers, brooms, dustpans, and supply carts during after-school and weekend clean-up assignments to maintain classrooms, hallways, and outdoor areas across campus. Having the proper tools has made the work more efficient and meaningful, allowing students to take pride in their contributions while learning the importance of caring for shared spaces. In our rural setting with limited resources, these supplies have been essential in helping us keep our school clean, functional, and welcoming.\r\n\r\nThe donated instructional and reflection materials have also strengthened our current behavioral support practices. The rug, markers, pencils, and other supplies are actively being used as students' complete reflection activities and projects that encourage thoughtful conversations about their actions and choices. The rug has created a warm, inviting space where students feel comfortable engaging in these discussions, and they are responsible for keeping the area clean and tidy during beautification assignments. Additionally, the book has provided helpful strategies that are currently guiding students toward improved behavior and self-reflection. Together, these supplies have enhanced our learning environment, promoted student pride, and supported the overall well-being of our students.","fullyFundedDate":1769011135277,"projectUrl":"project/supplies-for-success/10000841/","projectTitle":"Supplies for Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Wright","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8129326_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1634152638465","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8129326"},{"teacherId":9353195,"projectId":9342347,"letterContent":"On behalf of my speech and language students, I want to express our heartfelt gratitude for your generous donation. Your support means more than words can convey—it is truly an investment in the future of children who are working hard to overcome communication challenges and reach their full potential.\r\nSpeech and language development is a cornerstone of learning, social interaction, and confidence. For many of our students, progress requires specialized tools, resources, and individualized attention. Your contribution allows us to provide these essential supports, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive. Whether it's through interactive learning materials, assistive technology, or engaging activities that make therapy fun and effective, your generosity is making a tangible difference in their lives.\r\nEvery day, I witness the incredible determination of our students. Some are learning to articulate their first words, while others are mastering complex language skills that will help them succeed academically and socially. These milestones may seem small to some, but for our students and their families, they represent life-changing achievements. Your donation helps create these moments of triumph.\r\nBeyond the practical impact, your gift sends a powerful message of hope and encouragement. It tells our students that their community believes in them and values their growth. This sense of support fosters confidence and motivation, which are just as critical as the tools we use in therapy. Knowing that people like you care deeply about their success inspires them to keep pushing forward, even when the journey feels challenging.\r\nWe are committed to using your donation wisely and effectively to enhance our programs and provide the highest quality services. From purchasing new therapy materials to organizing engaging group activities, every dollar will be directed toward initiatives that empower our students to communicate, connect, and flourish.\r\nThank you once again for your kindness and generosity. Your support is not just a gift—it is a catalyst for progress and a source of joy for countless families. We are honored to have you as a partner in this important work, and we look forward to sharing updates on the incredible strides our students are making thanks to your contribution.","fullyFundedDate":1757100064613,"projectUrl":"project/additional-materials-for-middle-school-s/9342347/","projectTitle":"Additional Materials for Middle School Students","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Miller","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9353195"},{"teacherId":9991388,"projectId":9535573,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our 7th graders are already putting their new spiral notebooks to meaningful use in both science and math. These notebooks have quickly become their go-to space for problem-solving, exploring ideas, and documenting hands-on learning. Having a dedicated, organized space to work in has made their learning more intentional and helped them see growth over time.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, our next steps involve using these notebooks to deepen students' ability to explain their reasoning. In upcoming lessons, students will create multi-step solutions, reflect on their learning, and build a personal reference guide they can use all year long. These notebooks will follow them through major units in both subjects, helping them stay organized and engaged as they tackle increasingly challenging concepts.\r\n\r\nYour contribution has made a tangible difference every single day in our classroom. Thank you for investing in our students' learning and helping them feel capable, confident, and excited about math and science.","fullyFundedDate":1758300182090,"projectUrl":"project/help-7th-graders-explore-science-and-mat/9535573/","projectTitle":"Help 7th Graders Explore Science and Math with Spiral Notebooks!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Mayer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9991388"},{"teacherId":9991388,"projectId":9381611,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our 7th graders are already putting their new spiral notebooks to meaningful use in both science and math. These notebooks have quickly become their go-to space for problem-solving, exploring ideas, and documenting hands-on learning.\r\n\r\nHaving a dedicated, organized space to work in has made their learning more intentional and helped them see growth over time. Your contribution has made a tangible difference every single day in our classroom. Thank you for investing in our students' learning and helping them feel capable, confident, and excited about math and science.","fullyFundedDate":1750773746457,"projectUrl":"project/help-7th-graders-explore-science-and-mat/9381611/","projectTitle":"Help 7th Graders Explore Science and Math with Spiral Notebooks!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Mayer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9991388"},{"teacherId":6203752,"projectId":9350577,"letterContent":"On behalf of our self-contained classroom for students with intellectual disabilities, I want to extend our heartfelt thanks for your generous donation of the laminator. This valuable tool will greatly enhance our ability to create durable, engaging learning materials tailored to our students' unique needs.\r\n\r\nYour support helps us provide a more interactive and accessible learning environment, and we truly appreciate your commitment to enriching our classroom. Thank you for making a positive difference in the lives of our students.","fullyFundedDate":1758299902211,"projectUrl":"project/accessible-learning/9350577/","projectTitle":"Accessible Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Johnson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp6203752_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1547667154557","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ta"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_125262","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":875,"numTeachers":null,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":1,"percentWhite":19,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":72,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":null,"demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"RURAL_FRINGE"},"inStateSupporters":48.4,"schoolId":125262,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Desert Skies Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Desert Skies Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/nevada/washoe-county-school-district/desert-skies-middle-school/125262"}