{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Leap Academy Charter School - Upper Elementary","outOfStateSupporters":42.2,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":7080206,"projectId":9960096,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of our new reading comprehension booklets. Your support has made an immediate impact on our classroom, and my students were thrilled when the materials arrived. Having access to these high-quality resources has given students new opportunities to strengthen their literacy skills while building confidence and enthusiasm for reading.\r\n\r\nWhen I first introduced the booklets, students were eager to look through the pages and see what kinds of passages and activities they would be working on. Many students immediately began discussing topics that interested them and comparing different stories and informational texts they found inside. The excitement in the room was wonderful to see. Several students asked when they would get to start using the booklets, and they were excited to have resources that felt new, engaging, and designed just for them. Their positive reaction reminded me how meaningful it can be for students to receive fresh learning materials that support their growth.\r\n\r\nSince receiving the booklets, we have incorporated them into our daily literacy instruction. One memorable classroom activity involved students working as \"Reading Detectives.\" In small groups, students selected a passage from the booklet and carefully read through the text to identify important details, determine the main idea, and make inferences based on evidence from the reading. They highlighted key information, discussed their thinking with classmates, and answered comprehension questions together. After completing their analysis, each group shared its findings with the class. Students enjoyed explaining how they arrived at their answers and listening to different perspectives from their peers. This activity encouraged collaboration, critical thinking, and meaningful discussions while strengthening important reading comprehension skills.\r\n\r\nThe booklets have also provided opportunities for independent practice. Students have been using them during literacy centers and small-group instruction to reinforce skills we are learning in class. I have noticed that many students are becoming more confident when answering questions about a text and are increasingly willing to support their responses with evidence from what they have read. Watching students take pride in their progress has been one of the most rewarding outcomes of using these resources.\r\n\r\nAs we continue through the school year, the reading comprehension booklets will remain an important part of our literacy program. Our next step is to connect reading and writing by having students respond to passages through written reflections, summaries, and evidence-based responses. Students will practice organizing their ideas, citing information from the text, and explaining their thinking in complete and thoughtful responses.\r\n\r\nWe will also use the passages to support small-group discussions where students can ask questions, make connections, and share insights with their classmates. These activities will help students deepen their understanding of what they read while developing communication and critical-thinking skills.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has provided resources that will benefit students throughout the year. The reading comprehension booklets are helping students become stronger readers, more confident learners, and more engaged participants in our classroom community. Thank you for investing in our students and supporting their educational journey. Your kindness is helping create meaningful learning experiences that will have a lasting impact on their growth and success.","fullyFundedDate":1770686600949,"projectUrl":"project/reading-comprehension/9960096/","projectTitle":"Reading Comprehension","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Mckeown","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7080206"},{"teacherId":6838066,"projectId":10133002,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our fourth grade classroom project. Your generosity is helping create a learning environment where students can stay focused, organized, comfortable, and ready to learn each day.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, my students will have access to noise-reducing headphones that will help them concentrate during independent reading, writing, and online learning activities. For many students, reducing distractions can make a huge difference in their ability to stay engaged and confident while learning.\r\n\r\nYour donation also helps provide essential classroom basics like pencils and copy paper, ensuring students always have the tools they need for writing assignments, note-taking, reading responses, and daily classroom activities without interruption.\r\n\r\nIn addition, the bean bag storage covers and chair covers will help create a more organized and welcoming classroom environment. Comfortable, flexible seating and organized spaces help students feel calm, prepared, and excited to learn each day.\r\n\r\nMy students work incredibly hard, and your kindness is helping create a classroom where they can truly do their best work. Thank you for investing in their education, growth, and success. Your support means more than words can express, and we are so grateful for your generosity.","fullyFundedDate":1778019980623,"projectUrl":"project/focus-organization-and-comfort-for-our/10133002/","projectTitle":"Focus, Organization, and Comfort for Our Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. DeFrance","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6838066_orig.jpg?crop=1920,1920,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1770999675877","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/v-defrance"},{"teacherId":8541427,"projectId":9632327,"letterContent":"Students have truly enjoyed using the materials that we have received for center time and independent work. Students are able to use the clear sleeves to work on different pieces and headphones to have some peace and quiet while reading or listening. \r\n\r\nStudents are able to maximize their work time and complete tasks without being distracted and also by keeping things organized for educational games. The headphones have helped tremendously with listening and comprehension. \r\n\r\nThank you so much for helping make our classroom a more enriched environment for the students. \r\n\r\nBest,\r\nMS. ORIO AND 5th GRADERS","fullyFundedDate":1766094787474,"projectUrl":"project/center-time-/9632327/","projectTitle":"Center Time !","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Orio","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8541427"},{"teacherId":6838066,"projectId":10022588,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, my students now have access to classroom headphones that are making a huge difference in how they learn every day. In today's classroom, technology plays an important role in helping students build reading, writing, and math skills. Many of the programs we use include audio directions, reading support, and interactive lessons. With their own headphones, students can focus on listening to stories, practicing reading fluency, completing learning apps, and working at their own pace without distractions. This allows them to stay engaged and feel more confident as independent learners.\r\n\r\nThe most exciting part for my students is being able to fully participate in the digital activities we use throughout the day. When students use programs that read text aloud, play educational videos, or give step-by-step instructions, the headphones help them hear clearly and concentrate on the lesson. It has also made our classroom feel calmer and more organized because multiple students can work on different activities at the same time without interrupting each other.\r\n\r\nSeveral of my students who sometimes struggle with reading directions or staying focused have especially benefited from having headphones. Being able to hear instructions or stories read aloud helps them better understand the material and feel successful during independent work. Your kindness has truly helped create a more supportive learning environment where every student has the tools they need to succeed. Thank you for investing in my classroom and in my students' learning!","fullyFundedDate":1771002617560,"projectUrl":"project/durable-headphones-for-daily-learning/10022588/","projectTitle":"Durable Headphones for Daily Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. DeFrance","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6838066_orig.jpg?crop=1920,1920,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1770999675877","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/v-defrance"},{"teacherId":6838066,"projectId":10022456,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your incredible generosity in helping us build an entirely new classroom library. Because of your support, our students now have access to a wide variety of books that match their interests, reading levels, and learning needs. Having a rich and inviting library in our classroom has already made a powerful impact. Students are excited to choose books, explore new genres, and spend more time reading each day. This library supports independent reading, small-group instruction, and meaningful conversations about books, helping students grow as confident and motivated readers. Most importantly, your kindness shows our students that their learning matters and that others believe in their potential. We are deeply grateful for your support and the lasting impact you have made on our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1768614699685,"projectUrl":"project/building-a-library-that-sparks-a-love-of/10022456/","projectTitle":"Building a Library That Sparks a Love of Reading","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. DeFrance","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6838066_orig.jpg?crop=1920,1920,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1770999675877","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/v-defrance"},{"teacherId":6838066,"projectId":9960258,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation to our classroom. Because of your support, every student now has their own copy of the book, which has made a meaningful difference in our daily learning. Having individual books allows students to follow along, reread when needed, and fully participate in discussions and activities. Students feel more confident, engaged, and excited about reading because they are no longer sharing materials. Your kindness has helped create an inclusive classroom where all students have equal access to learning. We are truly grateful for your support and belief in our students.","fullyFundedDate":1766348085724,"projectUrl":"project/digging-into-reading-how-to-eat-fried-w/9960258/","projectTitle":"Digging Into Reading: How to Eat Fried Worms","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. DeFrance","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6838066_orig.jpg?crop=1920,1920,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1770999675877","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/v-defrance"},{"teacherId":5132741,"projectId":9319340,"letterContent":"Thank you so very much for your donation towards our snack project. As you know food scarcity is high often for children in urban areas due to various reasons. It warms my heart to know that there are people that care about my students and their well being. \r\nThe kids love knowing that they have comfort awaiting them at snack time or any other time they feel hungry thanks to your generosity. They especially love the variety of items we were able to secure. \r\nThank you for brightening up those dark days of hunger for my students.","fullyFundedDate":1749215585406,"projectUrl":"project/snacks-for-everyone/9319340/","projectTitle":"Snacks For Everyone!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. V.","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5132741_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1522237534391","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-vasilakis"},{"teacherId":6838066,"projectId":9752050,"letterContent":"This project has had a meaningful impact on my classroom. The supplies provided have helped create a space where students feel comfortable, organized, and excited to learn. The recess balls have encouraged active play, teamwork, and positive social interactions during recess. The markers have supported creativity and engagement during lessons and projects. The binders have helped students stay organized, take ownership of their work, and build responsibility. Finally, the string lights have transformed our classroom into a warm, welcoming environment where students feel safe and motivated.\r\n\r\nThese simple but essential items have made a big difference in our daily routines and classroom culture. Because of this project, my students are more engaged, confident, and proud of their learning space. Thank you for helping make our classroom a place where students can learn, grow, and thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1758795429959,"projectUrl":"project/bright-minds-bright-spaces-supplies-fo/9752050/","projectTitle":"Bright Minds, Bright Spaces: Supplies for Learning and Play","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. DeFrance","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6838066_orig.jpg?crop=1920,1920,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1770999675877","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/v-defrance"},{"teacherId":7982765,"projectId":9367778,"letterContent":"The donated items have truly brought a positive change to our new classroom this school year. The tennis ball chair caps have helped create a calmer, quieter space where students can focus more easily and feel comfortable as they work. This small addition has made our room feel more peaceful, which has been wonderful for both teaching and learning.\r\n\r\nThe organizational tools have also made an impact. The over-the-door hanging file folder has given a place for students' homework, tests, and classwork. The shoe organizer has been a perfect home for students' headphones, keeping them tidy and easy to access. These changes have reduced clutter and helped our classroom run more smoothly.\r\n\r\nThe different types of wipe boards have added an element of flexibility and creativity to our math lessons. Students can try out strategies for adding and subtracting in ways that feel natural to them, giving them more freedom to explore and understand their work. Altogether, these donations have made our classroom feel more organized, welcoming, and supportive—a space where students can thrive and I can teach with ease and joy.","fullyFundedDate":1754958584488,"projectUrl":"project/new-year-new-classroom/9367778/","projectTitle":"New Year, New Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Soltys","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7982765_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1721101108824","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-soltys"},{"teacherId":9407786,"projectId":9092635,"letterContent":"My class simply cannot thank you enough! We are very grateful to know there are kind people in this world who care. A special thanks to the Tepper Foundation. You helped teach the importance of passing along kindness!\r\n\r\nI am sincerely touched you have decided to help me solve my mission to get nutritious food and water to my students! We know no child can focus 100% of their effort on learning when they are thinking about how hungry they are. You have helped make such a difference in their ability to learn and retain information!","fullyFundedDate":1742823851148,"projectUrl":"project/keep-the-focus-on-learning-not-on-hunge/9092635/","projectTitle":"Keep the Focus on Learning, Not on Hunger","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Pickus","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9407786"},{"teacherId":7582688,"projectId":9310709,"letterContent":"Thanks to our generous donors, our ESL classroom has come alive with excitement and learning! The addition of small speech machines—featuring pictures, sounds, and voice-enabled technology—has opened new doors for our students to expand their English vocabulary in fun and meaningful ways. From the moment the devices arrived, students' faces lit up with joy and curiosity. They eagerly explored the buttons, laughed as they repeated new words, and celebrated when the machines recognized their voices.\r\n\r\nThese tools have been especially powerful for our shy and hesitant learners. Students who once whispered or stayed quiet are now confidently repeating words, naming pictures, and proudly using English to communicate with their classmates. The interactive technology creates a playful, low-pressure environment that encourages participation and builds language confidence every day.\r\n\r\nWe are deeply thankful to our donors for making this project possible. Your support has not only provided engaging, hands-on tools for language growth but has also fostered a sense of excitement and belonging in our classroom. Because of your generosity, our students are finding their voices—literally—and developing a lifelong love for learning English.","fullyFundedDate":1747315626391,"projectUrl":"project/see-it-hear-it-say-it/9310709/","projectTitle":"See It, Hear It, Say It!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Pierce","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7582688_orig.jpg?crop=960,960,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1601500619741","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7582688"},{"teacherId":7582688,"projectId":9325796,"letterContent":"Thanks to our generous donors, our ESL classroom has been completely transformed! The new visual aids, multicultural books, art materials, and interactive games have brought new life to our lessons and created a more engaging, hands-on learning environment. When the materials were first introduced, students' faces lit up with excitement—they clapped, smiled, and eagerly explored each new item. The classroom has become a colorful, welcoming space where even the shyest learners feel comfortable participating and expressing themselves in English.\r\n\r\nOne of the most memorable moments came when students used our new interactive map of the United States. As they touched different states, the map shared fun facts—like which states have deserts, which are known for snow, or where famous landmarks are located. Students took turns locating where family members live, comparing climates, and repeating new vocabulary aloud. This activity sparked natural conversations, laughter, and curiosity while reinforcing listening and speaking skills in an authentic, meaningful way.\r\n\r\nThese donations have made a lasting impact. The classroom now buzzes with energy and confidence as students engage more deeply in every lesson. With access to visual, tactile, and cultural learning tools, our ESL learners are developing not only stronger language skills but also a greater sense of belonging and pride in their accomplishments.","fullyFundedDate":1746787099571,"projectUrl":"project/english-day-by-day/9325796/","projectTitle":"English Day-By-Day!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Pierce","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7582688_orig.jpg?crop=960,960,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1601500619741","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7582688"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_66490","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":480,"numTeachers":null,"percentFrplEligible":41,"percentAsian":6,"percentBlack":40,"percentWhite":8,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":42,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":1,"gradesServed":"K - 3","studentTeacherRatio":null,"demographicsDataSource":"MDR District Weighted Average","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":null},"inStateSupporters":57.8,"schoolId":66490,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Leap Academy Charter School - Upper Elementary on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Leap Academy Charter School - Upper Elementary","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/new-jersey/new-jersey-department-of-education/leap-academy-charter-school/66490"}