{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Merrimack Valley Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":23.7,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10357685,"projectId":10010210,"letterContent":"I just wanted to send a heartfelt thank you for your support in providing diamond art materials for our exploratory class. Because of you, our students have had the chance to try something new, creative, and really engaging.\r\n\r\nThe excitement when the materials arrived was incredible! Students who don't always see themselves as \"artists\" have been fully immersed—focused, patient, and proud of what they're creating. Diamond art has given them a chance to slow down, express themselves, and experience success in a hands-on way.\r\n\r\nThis opportunity truly wouldn't have been possible without your generosity. You've made a meaningful difference in our classroom, and we're so grateful for your support.\r\n\r\nThank you again for helping bring creativity and joy to our students!","fullyFundedDate":1768923479097,"projectUrl":"project/get-creative-with-crafts/10010210/","projectTitle":"Get Creative with Crafts","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Dunn","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10357685"},{"teacherId":9680508,"projectId":10017585,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity in supporting our 6th grade classroom. Your contribution has truly made a difference as we head into the final stretch of the school year.\r\n\r\nBecause of your kindness, our students have the supplies they need to stay engaged, organized, and excited about learning. It has been wonderful to see their enthusiasm and confidence grow as they use these materials in their daily work. Having access to these resources allows us to continue hands-on activities and meaningful lessons that keep students motivated and connected.\r\n\r\nAs we finish the year strong, your support is helping create a positive and productive learning environment where every student can succeed. We are incredibly grateful for your investment in our classroom and our students' futures.","fullyFundedDate":1768924304721,"projectUrl":"project/helping-6th-graders-finish-the-year-stro/10017585/","projectTitle":"Helping 6th Graders Finish the Year Strong","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Martinez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9680508"},{"teacherId":10397980,"projectId":9986514,"letterContent":"Our students were absolutely thrilled when they first opened the new LEGO materials. The excitement in the room was immediate—there were smiles, energy, and a genuine eagerness to get started. Each class was presented with a different LEGO design challenge, encouraging them to think creatively and work collaboratively. From building sturdy bridges to designing imaginative spaceships, students were fully engaged in hands-on learning that pushed them to problem-solve, test ideas, and revise their designs.\r\n\r\nOne of the most rewarding moments was watching students take ownership of their projects. They eagerly shared ideas with teammates, experimented with different structures, and celebrated both successes and failures as part of the process. The LEGO challenges not only sparked creativity but also helped strengthen critical thinking, perseverance, and teamwork skills. It was incredible to see students who might not always shine in traditional settings find confidence and pride in their creations.","fullyFundedDate":1768924180513,"projectUrl":"project/lego-challenges-building-better-thinker/9986514/","projectTitle":"Lego Challenges: Building Better Thinkers One Brick at a Time!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Newton","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10397980"},{"teacherId":9680508,"projectId":10003045,"letterContent":"Your generosity has made an immediate and meaningful impact in our classroom. With these new resources, my students have been able to engage in hands-on, real-world learning experiences that bring our curriculum to life. One standout moment was during a recent project where students used the materials to design and create their own recipes. They worked collaboratively, tested their ideas, and made thoughtful adjustments—just like real chefs and food scientists. The level of engagement, problem-solving, and pride in their work was incredible to witness.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the excitement in the room was contagious. Students were eager to explore, ask questions, and jump right into learning. Many of them expressed how special it felt to have access to tools that made them feel like professionals. For some students, this was their first time working with high-quality equipment, and it truly boosted their confidence and enthusiasm for the subject.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, students will continue building on these skills through more advanced projects, including collaborative challenges and creative recipe development tied to nutrition and wellness goals. Your support has not only enhanced our current lessons but has opened the door for deeper learning, creativity, and student ownership. Thank you for investing in our classroom and helping make these meaningful experiences possible—we are so grateful!","fullyFundedDate":1768573066648,"projectUrl":"project/building-life-skills-one-recipe-at-a-ti/10003045/","projectTitle":"Building Life Skills, One Recipe at a Time","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Martinez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9680508"},{"teacherId":9641845,"projectId":10012846,"letterContent":"Because these supplies reached so many different classrooms, the impact has been felt in every corner of our building. From the art rooms to the science labs, these materials have eliminated the \"start-of-class stress\" that often happens when students realize they've misplaced a folder or run out of paper.\r\n\r\nIn our 8th-grade social science class, we recently used the new supplies for a Cell modeling project. In the past, students had to scavenge for scraps. This time, because of the abundance of markers, poster board, and adhesives, the focus shifted from searching for tools to collaborating on ideas. When students have the supplies needed to succeed, that success is reached with much more efficiency! \r\n\r\nThe supplies not immediately needed have been stored in our supply closet waiting for the day they are needed. Knowing that the supply closet is full for the first time in years, is a feeling of relief.","fullyFundedDate":1768573572819,"projectUrl":"project/ready-set-learn-classroom-supplies/10012846/","projectTitle":"Ready, Set, Learn: Classroom Supplies","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Searah","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9641845_orig.jpg?crop=2048,2048,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1732207475814","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/k-searah"},{"teacherId":10357685,"projectId":9910203,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our 8th graders were able to take part in a hands-on crafts class this year. This class truly would not have happened without your funding, and we are so grateful for your support.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, students had the chance to work with each other and create projects they were excited about. For many of them, it was a rare opportunity to slow down, use their creativity, and make something with their own hands.\r\n\r\nThe class quickly became something students looked forward to. Along the way, they also built skills like patience and attention to detail.\r\n\r\nYour support made it possible to offer an experience that many of our students might not otherwise have had. Thank you for helping bring creativity, confidence, and a lot of excitement into our classroom.\r\n\r\nWe truly appreciate your generosity and your belief in our students.","fullyFundedDate":1766108141303,"projectUrl":"project/summer-camp-fun-during-the-school-year/9910203/","projectTitle":"Summer Camp Fun During the School Year!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Dunn","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10357685"},{"teacherId":10403978,"projectId":10019127,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your contributions to my classroom! Some of the items have enhanced my classroom aesthetic which I believe is calm and inviting! The other items have allowed my students to continue to be creative. They are able to be independent thinkers and create their own projects and also have readily available resources to make the projects I assign beautiful! \r\n\r\nStudents love the lights in my classroom! I also have never had a nice turn in work area and now I do. In middle school half the battle is creating a calm and serene space for students to learn and follow directions.\r\n\r\nMiddle schoolers have been able to work on our mini research projects about the circulatory system along with creating beautiful skeletons when we studied the skeletal system. MVMS appreciates you tremendously!","fullyFundedDate":1768924548400,"projectUrl":"project/small-supplies-big-health-impact/10019127/","projectTitle":"Small Supplies, Big Health Impact!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Tilton","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10403978"},{"teacherId":4862405,"projectId":9985695,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom with the new sticker-making resources! Our students are now able to design and create customized stickers featuring positive quotes, and it has been incredible to see their excitement.\r\n\r\nWhat's most thrilling for them is seeing their designs come to life. My seventh-grade students, in particular, have embraced this technology—they love seeing their work transformed into a final product that they can hold, share, and be proud of.\r\n\r\nYour generosity is making a tangible impact, giving students not just the tools to create, but the joy of seeing their creativity realized in a meaningful way. We are deeply grateful for your support!","fullyFundedDate":1768923615711,"projectUrl":"project/from-pixels-to-products/9985695/","projectTitle":"From Pixels to Products","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Cyr","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4862405_orig.jpg?crop=1391,1391,x806,y836&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1725546361086","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4862405"},{"teacherId":4862405,"projectId":9873073,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our classroom project. Because of you, my students have access to high-quality materials that are already making a meaningful impact on their creativity and engagement.\r\n\r\nWe recently used the new supplies to design and create personalized sketchbook covers. This project is an important part of building ownership in our art room—students see their sketchbooks as creative spaces that belong to them. With the new materials, especially the Posca markers, they were able to experiment with bold color, layering, and fine detail in ways that were not previously possible. One standout moment was watching a student who is typically hesitant about their artwork confidently add intricate line work and vibrant highlights to their design. The pride on their face when they finished was incredible.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the excitement was immediate. The Posca markers were an instant favorite. Students were amazed by how smooth and opaque the paint pens are, and they immediately began brainstorming how they could incorporate them into their ideas. They now ask to use them on nearly every project, which speaks to how motivating and inspiring these tools have been.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, I hope to continue this sketchbook cover project in the future and expand how we incorporate the Posca markers into upcoming lessons. We are currently exploring mixed-media techniques, and these markers will allow students to combine drawing, painting, and design in more sophisticated ways. My goal is to build on their enthusiasm while strengthening their technical skills and creative confidence.\r\n\r\nYour contribution gave you a small glimpse into our classroom, but please know that your impact extends far beyond a single project. You have helped create an environment where students feel excited to experiment, take creative risks, and express themselves.\r\n\r\nThank you again for investing in my students and their artistic growth.","fullyFundedDate":1768241387531,"projectUrl":"project/beyond-the-blank-page-designing-for-dai/9873073/","projectTitle":"Beyond the Blank Page: Designing for Daily Practice and Creativity","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Cyr","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4862405_orig.jpg?crop=1391,1391,x806,y836&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1725546361086","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4862405"},{"teacherId":10345391,"projectId":9881827,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for allowing my students the opportunity to unplug and just create. Students have been letting their imaginations run wild. They have been working independently on designs and also collaborating with peers not just building structures and creatures but connections with each other. Students have been free building using their imagination and they have been creating from prompts, for example they had to create a unique hybrid creature that was a combination of two other animals, either real or fantasy. They then showed of their new creation and explained its special features. \r\n\r\nIt has been amazing to watch them become excited about projects that do not include using computers.","fullyFundedDate":1762775605049,"projectUrl":"project/building-to-free-the-imagination/9881827/","projectTitle":"Building to Free the Imagination","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. John","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10345391"},{"teacherId":9641845,"projectId":10012340,"letterContent":"Thank you for helping fund our project, \"Building Character through PRIDE.\"\r\n\r\nIn our school, we believe that building character is just as important as building academic skills. We use the PRIDE acronym to guide our daily interactions: Positive, Responsible, Intelligent, Determined, and Encouraging. To keep morale high and excitement bubbling, we hold a weekly PRIDE raffle that has become the heartbeat of our school culture.\r\n\r\nHow We Are Using the New Resources\r\nThese resources serve as the physical evidence of our students' growth. Throughout the week, staff members carry \"PRIDE Tickets.\" When a student is caught being Encouraging—perhaps by helping a peer who is struggling with a difficult task—they receive a ticket to enter into our Friday raffle. One specific moment that stands out involved a student who usually struggles with staying Determined during independent reading. When he realized he could earn a ticket for his persistence, his focus shifted entirely. Seeing him proudly drop his signed ticket into the raffle bin was a win for his confidence that far outweighed the prize itself.\r\n\r\nWhen the new prizes arrived and we \"unveiled\" the new stock of Squishmallows, stickers, and treats, the lunchroom was excited. Students were especially thrilled to see items they had suggested themselves. It immediately turned the abstract idea of \"good character\" into a tangible, exciting goal. They weren't just looking at toys; they were looking at the rewards for the best versions of themselves.\r\n\r\nBy funding these incentives, you aren't just buying small rewards; you are helping us prove to our students that who they are as people matters just as much as their grades. Thank you for helping us make our school a place where character shines.","fullyFundedDate":1768923582206,"projectUrl":"project/incentivizing-excellence-with-pride-priz/10012340/","projectTitle":"Incentivizing Excellence with PRIDE Prizes","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Searah","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9641845_orig.jpg?crop=2048,2048,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1732207475814","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/k-searah"},{"teacherId":9641845,"projectId":10011865,"letterContent":"I am so incredibly grateful for your support. In our school, we know that if a student's basic needs aren't met, learning often has to take a backseat. Because of you, our new library-housed Take Care Station—fully stocked with essential hygiene items—has become a game-changer for my students' confidence and comfort.\r\n\r\nThe Take Care Station has quickly become a vital resource. It's designed to be a discreet, \"no-questions-asked\" spot where students can grab what they need to feel their best.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the organized drawers of chapstick, deodorant, dental kits, and other personal care items, there was a collective sense of \"You got this all for US?!\" One student pulled me aside and whispered, \"I actually really needed this today.\" It wasn't just about the items themselves; it was the realization that their physical well-being matters just as much as their grades. \r\n\r\nImpactful Moments\r\nI've seen students bring their friends in to show them where the Take Care Station is so that if they have a future need- they know where to go! It's been so cute watching them explore what's available and then take only what they need.\r\n\r\nJust today, a student came to me and admitted that her family had run out of basic feminine hygiene products at home. Instead of spending the day distracted and anxious, she was able to head to the Take Care Station, grab what she needed, and return to her class within minutes, completely focused and ready to participate.\r\n\r\nThis is just an early reflection on the impact that this project is having on my students, but if this is any indication...it is a success!","fullyFundedDate":1768573383113,"projectUrl":"project/shelf-care-personal-care-for-middle-sch/10011865/","projectTitle":"Shelf Care: Personal Care for Middle Schoolers","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Searah","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9641845_orig.jpg?crop=2048,2048,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1732207475814","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/k-searah"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_54124","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":466,"numTeachers":46,"percentFrplEligible":22,"percentAsian":1,"percentBlack":2,"percentWhite":89,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":2,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"10.1:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":false,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"TOWN","ncesMetroType":"TOWN_FRINGE"},"inStateSupporters":76.3,"schoolId":54124,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Merrimack Valley Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Merrimack Valley Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/new-hampshire/merrimack-valley-school-district-sau-46/merrimack-valley-middle-school/54124"}