{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Octavius V Catto Family School","outOfStateSupporters":57.4,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":2985909,"projectId":10024048,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donations! We are incredibly grateful for the wide range of items you provided, which will greatly enhance our activities and programs. The cotton candy machine will be a delightful addition to our events, creating sweet moments for everyone. The headphones are perfect for our audio projects and will help students focus on their work without distractions. The lights will brighten up our spaces, making them more inviting and conducive to learning. The magic ink pens will add a touch of fun to our writing exercises, sparking creativity. Our text readers will be instrumental in assisting those with reading difficulties, ensuring accessibility for all. Each of these contributions plays a vital role in enriching our environment and supporting our mission. Thank you once again for your thoughtful generosity!","fullyFundedDate":1768676302407,"projectUrl":"project/we-care/10024048/","projectTitle":"We Care!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Norcross","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp2985909_272x272.png?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1490812392295","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/m-mcglone"},{"teacherId":2223837,"projectId":9595929,"letterContent":"The headphones have been quiet game-changer for my English Language Learners because they add support in ways whole-class instruction sometimes can't. For example, the headphones block out classroom noise so students can clearly hear pronunciation, tone, and pacing. \r\n\r\nWhat is most exciting to my students is they can pause, rewind, and replay lessons or directions as many times as they need without disturbing others. They benefit from extra processing time without feeling rushed or embarrassed. \r\n\r\nI have two new ELL students who are new to the U.S. I prepare and post lesson within Google Classroom and the students have the autonomy to change the lessons to the language of their choice.","fullyFundedDate":1756777064065,"projectUrl":"project/ell-focus-zone/9595929/","projectTitle":"ELL Focus Zone","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. T. Brown","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2223837_orig.png?crop=640,640,x0,y247&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1687786049600","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2223837"},{"teacherId":2228061,"projectId":10044544,"letterContent":"My students are using the new resources through our classroom store, where they earn and spend fake money to practice real-world math skills such as budgeting, adding, subtracting, and making change. One of my favorite moments was watching students carefully count their money, decide whether to save or spend, and explain their choices using math vocabulary. The snacks have also made a noticeable difference—students are more focused, engaged, and ready to learn when their basic needs are met.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, their excitement was immediate. They felt proud and valued knowing that people cared enough to support their classroom. Several students shared that having access to snacks helped them feel more comfortable and able to concentrate during lessons.\r\n\r\nThe next steps for my students include expanding the classroom store to include savings goals and reflection activities tied to our current math lessons. Students will continue using the store as part of ongoing financial literacy practice while reinforcing responsibility, decision-making, and perseverance. Thanks to your support, our classroom is a place where learning, care, and opportunity go hand in hand.","fullyFundedDate":1769180655012,"projectUrl":"project/a-classroom-store-that-feeds-cares-and/10044544/","projectTitle":"A Classroom Store That Feeds, Cares, and Teaches","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Tiffany Johnson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2228061_orig.png?crop=1125,1125,x0,y48&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755735878877","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2228061"},{"teacherId":2228061,"projectId":9632266,"letterContent":"Thanks to this project, my students now have access to simple, familiar snacks like Goldfish and Cheez-Its that make a meaningful difference in our classroom each day. These snacks are used during extended learning blocks, small-group instruction, testing days, and after-school support, helping students stay focused and engaged when their energy starts to dip.\r\n\r\nWhen my students first saw the snacks, their faces lit up. Many immediately said \"Thank you\" and shared how having a snack helped them feel less distracted and more ready to learn. For some students, this was more than just a treat—it was a source of comfort and reassurance, knowing their classroom is a place where their needs are seen and supported.\r\n\r\nNow that students have consistent access to snacks, they are better able to participate in lessons, collaborate with peers, and persist through challenging tasks. As we continue working on academic goals and building responsibility through classroom routines, these snacks help create a positive, supportive learning environment where students feel cared for and motivated to do their best. Your generosity has helped remove a barrier to learning and replaced it with focus, confidence, and joy. 💛","fullyFundedDate":1756174876532,"projectUrl":"project/fueling-young-minds-for-success/9632266/","projectTitle":"Fueling Young Minds for Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Tiffany Johnson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2228061_orig.png?crop=1125,1125,x0,y48&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755735878877","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2228061"},{"teacherId":2228061,"projectId":9210674,"letterContent":"This printer has made a meaningful difference in my classroom by allowing students to immediately see their learning come to life. Instead of waiting days for materials or sharing limited copies, students can now print their work right away—whether it's math practice, graphic organizers, science investigations, or reflection sheets. Having timely access to printed resources helps students stay engaged, organized, and focused on learning rather than on delays or shortages.\r\n\r\nWhat excites students most is the independence and ownership this technology provides. They love being able to hold their finished work, review feedback, and use printed materials to track their progress. Printing student-created projects, anchor charts, and goal trackers has made learning feel more real and personal, which increases motivation and pride in their work.\r\n\r\nThis printer has been especially impactful for students who need extra support or structure. Students who benefit from repeated practice, visual references, or small-group instruction can now receive customized materials quickly. English language learners and students with learning needs have shown increased confidence because lessons can be adjusted and reprinted to meet their individual needs. Overall, this printer has helped create a more responsive, student-centered classroom where every learner has access to the tools they need to succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1746892236269,"projectUrl":"project/warmth-hunger-awareness-infographics-p/9210674/","projectTitle":"Warmth & Hunger Awareness Infographics Project","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Tiffany Johnson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2228061_orig.png?crop=1125,1125,x0,y48&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755735878877","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2228061"},{"teacherId":2228061,"projectId":9607613,"letterContent":"Since receiving the room dividers, my classroom has transformed into a calmer, more focused learning environment. We use the dividers daily during small-group instruction, independent work time, testing, and social-emotional learning activities. One powerful moment was during math workshop—students who typically struggled to stay on task were able to work independently without distractions, showing increased confidence and stamina as they completed multi-step problems on their own.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the dividers, they were excited and curious. They immediately noticed how the space felt more organized and peaceful. Several students shared that the dividers helped them \"think better\" and \"block out noise,\" which was especially meaningful for students who need extra structure or a quiet area to succeed.\r\n\r\nBecause of this project, students now have access to learning spaces that meet their individual needs. Our next steps include using the dividers during upcoming math and reading intervention groups, assessment days, and reflective writing activities. These spaces will continue to support focus, independence, and emotional comfort—helping students feel safe, valued, and ready to learn every day.","fullyFundedDate":1758202928130,"projectUrl":"project/creating-space-and-focus-room-dividers/9607613/","projectTitle":"Creating Space and Focus: Room Dividers for Learning (P.1)","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Tiffany Johnson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2228061_orig.png?crop=1125,1125,x0,y48&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755735878877","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2228061"},{"teacherId":2228061,"projectId":9496512,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students now have their own math journals and pencils—essential tools that have transformed how they engage with math each day. We use our math journals daily to model strategies, explain thinking, and reflect on problem-solving. During a recent lesson on multi-step word problems, students used their journals to break down problems, draw models, and justify their answers using math vocabulary. Having a dedicated space for their thinking has helped them slow down, stay focused, and build confidence in their work.\r\n\r\nWhen students first received their journals and pencils, their excitement was immediate. They proudly labeled their journals, carefully wrote their names on the first page, and were eager to begin using them. Something as simple as having their own materials made them feel prepared, responsible, and valued as mathematicians.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, students are now better equipped to take ownership of their learning. The next step is using these journals for deeper math discussions, peer feedback, and ongoing reflection as we continue building problem-solving and reasoning skills. Your contribution didn't just provide supplies—it helped create a focused, organized, and encouraging learning environment where students feel ready to learn every day.","fullyFundedDate":1755737854670,"projectUrl":"project/essential-tools-for-focused-math-learnin/9496512/","projectTitle":"Essential Tools for Focused Math Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Tiffany Johnson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2228061_orig.png?crop=1125,1125,x0,y48&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755735878877","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2228061"},{"teacherId":2228061,"projectId":9559851,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my 5th graders are using black-and-white paper and colored pencils every day to bring their learning to life. These materials have become an essential part of our classroom as students sketch models, create diagrams, design visual notes, and add thoughtful illustrations to written responses across math, science, and reading.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the supplies, their excitement was immediate. They carefully chose colors, shared ideas with classmates, and couldn't wait to get started. Even students who are usually hesitant to write or participate felt more confident when they could express their thinking through drawing and color.\r\n\r\nOne powerful moment was during a recent lesson where students created visual representations to explain their thinking. The colored pencils helped them organize ideas, highlight key details, and take pride in their work. Engagement increased, focus improved, and students were eager to share and explain their creations.\r\n\r\nNext, students will continue using these materials to support upcoming projects that combine creativity and academic skills, including visual math models, science illustrations, and reflective journal work. Because of you, my students feel inspired, capable, and excited to learn. Your support has truly fueled their creativity and strengthened their confidence as learners.","fullyFundedDate":1755098383480,"projectUrl":"project/materials-to-fuel-5th-grade-creative-exp/9559851/","projectTitle":"Materials to Fuel 5th-Grade Creative Expression","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Tiffany Johnson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2228061_orig.png?crop=1125,1125,x0,y48&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755735878877","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2228061"},{"teacherId":2228061,"projectId":9207284,"letterContent":"The iPad mini has become a powerful learning tool in our classroom, giving students a meaningful way to use technology to share their voices and tell real stories. Many of our donors use technology at home, but in school the iPad mini is much more than a screen—it is a creative workspace where students research, plan, record, edit, and reflect.\r\n\r\nUsing the iPad mini, my 5th-grade students created short videos focused on the themes of warmth and hunger. They learned how to collaborate, write thoughtful scripts, and use video tools to communicate ideas clearly and compassionately. The technology helped students strengthen their reading, writing, speaking, and critical-thinking skills while also building empathy and social awareness.\r\n\r\nThe most exciting part for students was being able to see their ideas come to life. Recording their own voices, adding images, and editing their videos made learning feel authentic and purposeful. Students were especially proud knowing their work could educate others and inspire kindness within our school community.\r\n\r\nSome students who are usually quiet in class truly shined during this project. The iPad mini gave them a comfortable way to express their thoughts without the pressure of speaking in front of the whole class. Other students who struggle with writing found confidence by explaining their ideas verbally through video. Every student felt valued, heard, and empowered.\r\n\r\nBecause of this project, students didn't just learn how to use technology—they learned how to use it with purpose, compassion, and care. Thank you for helping my students find their voices and turn learning into meaningful action.","fullyFundedDate":1742936731786,"projectUrl":"project/voices-of-care-a-5th-grade-video-projec/9207284/","projectTitle":"Voices of Care: A 5th-Grade Video Project on Warmth /Hunger","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Tiffany Johnson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2228061_orig.png?crop=1125,1125,x0,y48&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755735878877","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2228061"},{"teacherId":2212759,"projectId":9215285,"letterContent":"The cameras help my students learn by encouraging exploration, observation, and communication through hands-on experiences. Students feel proud being trusted with real technology and are excited to see their photos displayed. Using the cameras strengthens language, storytelling, and social skills as children explain their images. Quieter students and those developing verbal skills especially benefit, gaining confidence and a new way to share ideas. The cameras also increase engagement, focus, and curiosity during daily activities. Overall, this technology transforms ordinary classroom moments into meaningful learning opportunities and helps young learners see themselves as capable, creative thinkers in early childhood education settings.","fullyFundedDate":1744214518378,"projectUrl":"project/little-lenses-big-hearts-capturing-kin/9215285/","projectTitle":"Little Lenses, Big Hearts: Capturing Kindness in Preschool","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Perez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp2212759_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1511839709657","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/missperez105"},{"teacherId":3110906,"projectId":9872905,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous donations to our winter gym uniform project. Your kindness has made it possible for students in an underserved community to receive warm, appropriate uniforms, ensuring they can participate fully and comfortably in physical education during the colder months. This support goes far beyond clothing, it shows students that their well-being matters.\r\n\r\nWe are deeply grateful for your commitment to equity and opportunity. Your generosity has created a lasting impact, and the students and families we serve truly feel your support. Thank you for investing in their comfort, dignity, and success.","fullyFundedDate":1762812440807,"projectUrl":"project/winter-gym-uniforms/9872905/","projectTitle":"Winter Gym Uniforms","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Masciantonio","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3110906"},{"teacherId":10241593,"projectId":9682691,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for the new earbuds and pencils.\r\n\r\nThe earbuds have helped students concentrate during online lessons, reading programs, and assessments without being distracted by surrounding noise.\r\nStudents can work at their own pace—listening to instructions, videos, and read-alouds without disturbing others. My struggling readers especially benefit because they can quietly replay instructions or listen to text without feeling embarrassed. We now have a calmer classroom with less noise and fewer interruptions. The overall classroom environment feels more peaceful and productive.\r\n\r\nWhen students received their own earbuds, they were thrilled. Many said, \"Do we really get to keep these?\" and immediately plugged them in to test them out. Students will continue using them during reading programs, language learning, and multimedia lessons.\r\n\r\nIt is a huge help to have enough pencils in our room. This means students can start assignments right away instead of losing time searching for supplies.\r\nMy students will no longer feel the stress of not having the basic tools they need in order to be successful. This simple support boosts their confidence.\r\n\r\nMy students and I appreciate all of your help with this project!","fullyFundedDate":1759265816093,"projectUrl":"project/tools-for-focused-learning-pencils-and/9682691/","projectTitle":"Tools for Focused Learning: Pencils and Earbuds for Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Kardos","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10241593"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_42078","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":601,"numTeachers":null,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":1,"percentBlack":22,"percentWhite":0,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":74,"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_SMALL"},"inStateSupporters":42.6,"schoolId":42078,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Octavius V Catto Family School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Octavius V Catto Family School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/new-jersey/camden-city-school-district/catto-community-school/42078"}