{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Patrick Francis Healy Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":42.9,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10034654,"projectId":9769461,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project, \"Leveling Up Learning: Building Our Esports Space with Posters.\" Your generosity helped transform our classroom into a space where students feel excited, motivated, and connected.\r\n\r\nWhen the posters arrived and students first saw the new esports-themed environment, their reactions were priceless. Many immediately began pointing out their favorite games, characters, and motivational designs, and the classroom instantly became a space they were proud to be part of. Students who are sometimes quiet or hesitant to participate became more engaged simply because the room felt welcoming and connected to their interests.\r\n\r\nWe are using the new resources to create a positive learning atmosphere that encourages teamwork, communication, and focus. During independent reading, writing workshops, and collaborative group activities, students often reference the esports space as a place that feels \"fun,\" \"calm,\" and \"different from other classrooms.\" One of the best moments was hearing students say that the classroom now feels like a real community where they want to learn and succeed together.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, students will continue building collaboration and problem-solving skills through team-based classroom challenges, literacy activities, and future enrichment opportunities connected to digital media and esports culture. The space you helped create is already increasing student excitement and classroom pride, and we are so grateful.\r\n\r\nThank you again for investing in our students and helping us create a classroom environment where learning truly comes alive.","fullyFundedDate":1761917257377,"projectUrl":"project/leveling-up-learning-building-our-espor/9769461/","projectTitle":"Leveling Up Learning: Building Our Esports Space with Posters","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hairston","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10034654_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1759084494099","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10034654"},{"teacherId":10034654,"projectId":9443763,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, my students now have access to meaningful, engaging resources that are already transforming our classroom experience. We've been using these materials during our daily ELA blocks to strengthen reading comprehension, writing, and critical thinking skills. One powerful moment that stood out was during a recent writing activity—students used the new resources to draft and revise their responses, and for the first time, many of them were confidently citing evidence and fully explaining their thinking. It was incredible to watch their confidence grow right in front of me.\r\n\r\nWhen my students first saw the materials, their reactions were priceless. There was genuine excitement, curiosity, and a sense of pride in having access to tools that made learning feel more interactive and meaningful. For many of my students, especially those who face challenges outside of the classroom, these resources made them feel seen, supported, and motivated to try their best. It created an immediate shift in engagement—students were eager to participate, collaborate, and push themselves academically.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we will continue to build on this momentum as we dive deeper into our current units, including preparing for state assessments and developing stronger writing skills. These resources will play a key role in helping students analyze texts, organize their ideas, and communicate their thinking clearly. Your support is not just providing materials—it is opening doors for growth, confidence, and long-term success. Thank you for being such an important part of our classroom journey.","fullyFundedDate":1758202865373,"projectUrl":"project/framing-success-showcasing-student-work/9443763/","projectTitle":"Framing Success: Showcasing Student Work with Pride","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hairston","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10034654_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1759084494099","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10034654"},{"teacherId":10034654,"projectId":10124535,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom has created something truly special—an 8th grade legacy that will live on beyond this school year.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, my students were filled with excitement and pride. They immediately understood that this wasn't just another classroom project—this was something they were building for others. Seeing their faces light up as they realized they would be creating a Little Free Library for their school community was a moment I will never forget.\r\n\r\nWe are using these resources in a hands-on, meaningful way. Students worked together to plan, design, and begin building the library, applying teamwork, problem-solving, and creativity every step of the way. One of the most powerful moments was watching students carefully select and organize books, discussing what types of stories would inspire younger students and encourage a love of reading.\r\n\r\nThis project has sparked a deeper sense of responsibility and ownership. Students are not just completing an assignment—they are contributing something lasting to their school. They are thinking beyond themselves and recognizing the impact they can have on others.","fullyFundedDate":1772416630884,"projectUrl":"project/an-8th-grade-legacy-building-our-little/10124535/","projectTitle":"An 8th Grade Legacy: Building Our Little Free Library","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hairston","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10034654_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1759084494099","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10034654"},{"teacherId":10034654,"projectId":10047102,"letterContent":"Because of your kindness, my classroom has become a place where students' basic needs are supported so they can fully focus on learning. The snacks and care items you provided have made an immediate and meaningful difference in my students' daily experience.\r\n\r\nOne moment that truly stood out was during a recent writing lesson. A student who was struggling to focus quietly grabbed a snack, returned to their seat, and was able to complete their work with confidence. Moments like this happen more often now—students are no longer distracted by hunger and can stay engaged in reading, writing, and discussions.\r\n\r\nWhen I first introduced the supplies, my students were incredibly grateful. Their reactions were genuine—smiles, quiet thank-yous, and even a sense of relief. For many, these items represent more than just food or supplies—they represent care, comfort, and support.\r\n\r\nWe now use these resources as part of our daily routine. Students know they can access what they need in a respectful and independent way, which has created a more focused and positive learning environment. I've seen increased participation, stronger engagement, and a noticeable boost in students' confidence.","fullyFundedDate":1769446071508,"projectUrl":"project/meeting-students-hunger-and-care-needs/10047102/","projectTitle":"Meeting Students’ Hunger and Care Needs for Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hairston","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10034654_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1759084494099","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10034654"},{"teacherId":10034654,"projectId":9443720,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom has truly transformed into a warm, inviting, and inspiring space where students feel excited to learn. The cozy lighting and creative environment you helped create have made a powerful difference in both the atmosphere and my students' engagement.\r\n\r\nThe first day students walked in and noticed the changes, their reactions said it all—smiles, excitement, and comments like, \"This feels so calm,\" and \"I actually want to be in here.\" One moment that stood out was during a recent writing lesson. With the softer lighting and comfortable setup, students were more focused than ever, fully engaged in drafting their essays and sharing ideas with one another.\r\n\r\nWe now use this environment every day to support our learning. The calming atmosphere helps students stay relaxed, focused, and open to participating in discussions, reading independently, and working through challenging writing tasks. I've seen students who typically struggle with focus become more productive and confident simply because they feel comfortable and supported in the space.\r\n\r\nAs we continue working on strengthening our reading comprehension and essay writing skills, this environment will play an essential role. Students are currently developing their writing by using evidence, explaining their thinking, and engaging in meaningful discussions—all of which are enhanced by a space that promotes creativity and focus.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, our classroom is no longer just a place to learn—it's a space where students feel safe, inspired, and motivated to grow.","fullyFundedDate":1758202837357,"projectUrl":"project/lighting-up-learning-a-cozy-and-creativ/9443720/","projectTitle":"Lighting Up Learning: A Cozy and Creative Classroom Environment","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hairston","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10034654_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1759084494099","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10034654"},{"teacherId":1007766,"projectId":10124554,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our Classroom Wellness Lounge has become one of the most meaningful spaces in our classroom. It is more than just a cozy corner—it is a safe, calming environment where students can reset, reflect, and return to learning with a clear mind.\r\n\r\nFrom the very first day I introduced the space, my students were in awe. Their reactions were immediate—smiles, excitement, and even a sense of relief. Many of them shared that they had never experienced anything like this in a classroom before. One moment that stood out was when a student who was feeling overwhelmed quietly asked to use the space, spent a few minutes there, and returned ready to fully participate in our lesson. That moment alone showed the true impact of what you made possible.\r\n\r\nWe now use the Wellness Lounge as part of our daily routine. Students are able to take short, structured breaks when needed, allowing them to regulate their emotions and refocus. I've seen a noticeable difference in their ability to engage in discussions, stay on task during writing, and collaborate respectfully with their peers.\r\n\r\nAs we continue our work in reading and writing—especially our current focus on essay writing and critical thinking—this space will remain essential. It supports students in building not only academic skills, but also self-awareness, resilience, and emotional control—skills they will carry far beyond the classroom.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, my students feel supported, valued, and empowered every single day","fullyFundedDate":1772390003704,"projectUrl":"project/supporting-sel-through-a-classroom-welln/10124554/","projectTitle":"Supporting SEL Through a Classroom Wellness Lounge","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Thomas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1007766_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1469618044988","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1007766"},{"teacherId":1007766,"projectId":10021452,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, my classroom has been transformed into a space where students feel cared for, supported, and ready to learn. The snacks and comfort items you provided are making a meaningful difference every single day.\r\n\r\nOne moment that truly stood out was when I introduced the snack station to my students. Their faces lit up with excitement and relief. For many of them, this is more than just a snack—it's reassurance that they are seen and cared for. During our ELA block, I've noticed students are more focused, engaged, and willing to participate because their basic needs are being met.\r\n\r\nWe now incorporate these resources into our daily routine. Students know they can quietly grab a snack if they need one, which has reduced distractions and allowed us to maintain a strong learning environment. I've seen students who once struggled to stay on task now actively contributing to discussions, especially during our writing lessons and group activities.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we are continuing our work on building strong reading and writing skills, including our current focus on essay writing and critical thinking. With your support, my students are better equipped to stay engaged, think deeply, and express themselves confidently.\r\n\r\nYour kindness has created more than just a classroom resource—it has created comfort, dignity, and a sense of community.","fullyFundedDate":1768681863922,"projectUrl":"project/warmth-care-snacks-for-my-students/10021452/","projectTitle":"Warmth, Care & Snacks for My Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Thomas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1007766_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1469618044988","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1007766"},{"teacherId":1007766,"projectId":9764401,"letterContent":"Dear Donors,\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, my students now have access to engaging financial literacy books that are already making a meaningful difference in our classroom.\r\n\r\nThese texts are helping students build real-world skills that go far beyond traditional reading. Through these books, students are learning how to budget, understand saving versus spending, recognize needs versus wants, and think critically about financial decision-making. At the same time, they are strengthening key literacy skills such as identifying central ideas, analyzing informational texts, and supporting their thinking with evidence.\r\n\r\nReading in our classroom is active and purposeful. Students aren't just turning pages—they're discussing ideas, making connections to their own lives, and reflecting on how financial choices impact their future. You'll often see students reading independently, then coming together to share insights, ask questions, and even debate different perspectives on money and responsibility.","fullyFundedDate":1766536969146,"projectUrl":"project/building-brighter-futures-through-financ/9764401/","projectTitle":"Building Brighter Futures Through Financial Literacy Books","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Thomas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1007766_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1469618044988","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1007766"},{"teacherId":10034654,"projectId":9359517,"letterContent":"Dear Donors,\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, our classroom has truly swung into STEM—and the impact has been incredible.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, my students were immediately excited. There were smiles, curiosity, and so many questions. For many of them, this was their first time engaging with hands-on engineering tools in such a meaningful way, and they couldn't wait to get started.\r\n\r\nWe are already putting these resources to powerful use. One of our first projects involved students working in teams to design and build their own structures, applying engineering concepts like stability, balance, and problem-solving. I watched students who don't always speak up in class become leaders—testing ideas, revising their designs, and encouraging their peers. It was one of those moments every teacher hopes for: full engagement, collaboration, and real learning happening right in front of you.\r\n\r\nYour support has also helped us create a classroom environment where students feel confident taking risks and thinking like engineers. They're learning that it's okay if something doesn't work the first time—what matters is trying again, improving, and growing.","fullyFundedDate":1758202985012,"projectUrl":"project/swinging-into-stem-exploring-engineerin/9359517/","projectTitle":"Swinging into STEM: Exploring Engineering Through Design","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hairston","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10034654_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1759084494099","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10034654"},{"teacherId":9846003,"projectId":9336533,"letterContent":"Thank you for generously funding my DonorsChoose project and helping provide essential supplies like cleaning products, wipes, tissues, and snacks for my classroom. Your support has created a cleaner, healthier, and more comfortable environment where my students can focus on learning and feel cared for each day. Having these everyday essentials readily available makes a big difference in maintaining our classroom and supporting students' well-being. I truly appreciate your generosity and commitment to helping classrooms like mine thrive—your contribution has had an immediate and meaningful impact.","fullyFundedDate":1749215582472,"projectUrl":"project/comfort-and-care-supporting-students-wi/9336533/","projectTitle":"Comfort and Care: Supporting Students with Daily Essentials","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lauver","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9846003_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1732555521395","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9846003"},{"teacherId":10034654,"projectId":9359393,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support in helping bring bookshelves into our classroom. Because of your kindness, our learning space has been transformed into a more organized, welcoming, and student-centered environment.\r\n\r\nBefore receiving these shelves, our classroom library lacked structure, making it difficult for students to easily find and return books. Now, with clearly organized and accessible bookshelves, students are excited to browse, select, and engage with books that interest them. This simple but powerful change has already increased student independence and enthusiasm for reading.\r\n\r\nMy students, many of whom come from underserved communities, now have access to a classroom library that feels inviting and empowering. They are taking more ownership of their reading choices and spending more time exploring different genres and authors. The bookshelves have not only improved organization, but they have also helped create a sense of pride in our classroom.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, our classroom is more than just a place to learn—it is a space where students feel inspired, valued, and motivated to grow as readers.\r\n\r\nThank you again for making a lasting impact on my students' educational journey.","fullyFundedDate":1750256196532,"projectUrl":"project/bright-minds-and-bookshelves-creating-a/9359393/","projectTitle":"Bright Minds and Bookshelves: Creating a Cozy Reading Corner","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hairston","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10034654_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1759084494099","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10034654"},{"teacherId":1007766,"projectId":9113863,"letterContent":"Dear Donors,\r\n\r\nThank you so much for supporting our classroom and helping provide healthy snacks for my students. Your generosity has made a meaningful difference in our daily learning environment.\r\n\r\nMany of my students come to school hungry or without access to consistent meals throughout the day. Because of your kindness, we now have a supply of nutritious snacks that students can access when they need them. This simple support has helped students stay focused, energized, and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nIt has been incredibly powerful to see how something as simple as a healthy snack can make such a big difference. Students feel cared for, supported, and more comfortable in our classroom knowing their basic needs are being considered.\r\n\r\nYour generosity did more than provide food — it helped create a classroom environment where students feel safe, valued, and ready to succeed. Thank you for showing my students that there are people who care about their well-being and their education.\r\n\r\nWe are truly grateful for your support.","fullyFundedDate":1749215547601,"projectUrl":"project/fueling-fitness-and-team-spirit-with-our/9113863/","projectTitle":"Fueling Fitness and Team Spirit With Our Middle-Schoolers","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Thomas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1007766_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1469618044988","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1007766"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_81072","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":400,"numTeachers":32,"percentFrplEligible":70,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":79,"percentWhite":0,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":18,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":1,"gradesServed":"7 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"12.5:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":57.1,"schoolId":81072,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Patrick Francis Healy Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Patrick Francis Healy Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/new-jersey/east-orange-school-district/patrick-francis-healy-mid-school/81072"}
Join the 35 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Patrick Francis Healy Middle School is
a suburban public school
in East Orange, New Jersey that is part of East Orange School District.
It serves 400 students
in grades 7 - 8 with a student/teacher ratio of 12.5:1.
Its teachers have had 39 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Supporting this school will directly impact historically underfunded classrooms.
Public School
Title 1
Data about Title 1 status comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education.
Grades 7 - 8
400 Students
32 Teachers
116 Hamilton St Bldg CContact info is sourced from our partners at MDR Education, and DonorsChoose updates our site ahead of each school year.
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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
97%
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.
Patrick Francis Healy Middle School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated May 21, 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.
Patrick Francis Healy Middle School
$19,804
raised using DonorsChoose
39
projects
funded
7
teachers
funded
35
donors
4
projects
for
basic supplies
9
projects for
technology
3
projects for
books
2
projects
for
art supplies
Patrick Francis Healy Middle School has received support from
20 individuals from New Jersey and
15 individuals out-of-state.