{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Rahway Seventh and Eighth Grade Academy","outOfStateSupporters":28.2,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10040964,"projectId":9372080,"letterContent":"When the new organizational resources arrived, my students were immediately drawn to them—especially the large HOOBRO literature organizer and the rolling storage cart. We quickly put them to use during our weekly math centers. Students now have dedicated mailboxes for turning in assignments, picking up practice packets, and accessing materials independently. One standout moment was during our problem-solving rotation: students used the new math posters, pastel highlighters, and sticky notes to annotate their thinking before placing their work neatly into their labeled magazine file holders. The new order and accessibility have made transitions smoother and helped students take ownership of their learning space.\r\n\r\nThe reaction when students first saw the materials was priceless. They were amazed at how professional and colorful the classroom suddenly felt. The hanging lanterns, motivational bulletin board decorations, and Better Than Paper backdrop gave the room a warm, inviting feel that immediately lifted everyone's mood. Students were especially excited about the new games—UNO, chess, and 4-in-a-row—which we now use for strategic-thinking breaks and reward time. Seeing their faces light up as they explored each new item made it clear how much these resources meant to them.\r\n\r\nAs for our next steps, we are beginning a collaborative project on math fluency and logical reasoning. Students will use the new posters, organizers, and highlighters as they rotate through stations focused on skip counting, multiplication, and real-world problem solving. The games will be used to build strategy, patience, and turn-taking skills, all of which support their academic growth. With your generous support, our classroom is more structured, joyful, and student-centered—and my students are eager and ready to tackle their next learning challenges.","fullyFundedDate":1759265980667,"projectUrl":"project/solving-for-success-a-classroom-of-math/9372080/","projectTitle":"Solving for Success: A Classroom of Math, Fun, and Function","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Kissoon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10040964_orig.png?crop=220,220,x8,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1747839638281","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10040964"},{"teacherId":10034900,"projectId":9491881,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has been completely transformed. The students walked in the day the items arrived and immediately noticed how clean, organized, and inviting everything felt. Several students said, \"It looks like a real learning space now!\" and one even joked, \"Mrs. Luniewski, this is like a makeover episode.\" Their excitement set the tone for the rest of the day.\r\n\r\nOne of the best moments was when the students saw the bulk pack of tennis ball chair covers. They were so excited that they didn't even wait for instructions—they jumped right in and helped put all the tennis balls on the chair legs themselves. They were laughing, racing to finish columns of desks, and proudly showing off how quiet the room became with every chair they \"transformed.\" It instantly created a sense of ownership and pride in our new space.\r\n\r\nWe are already putting everything else to use. The curtains and book stands have helped create a peaceful, structured atmosphere that students genuinely appreciate. My seventh graders now grab pencils and materials without asking, thanks to the pencil organizers, mechanical pencils, and lead refills. The Dirt Devil vacuum and Lysol wipes are keeping the classroom clean in a way that wasn't possible before, which is so important for 80+ middle schoolers coming through every day. And without fail, the calming jellyfish lamp has become the most popular item in the room—students use it as a visual reset when they're overwhelmed or overstimulated.\r\n\r\nYour support has changed the everyday experience of my students. They now walk into a space that feels cared for, stocked, and intentionally designed for them. Our next steps include using the new supplies for writing projects, independent reading, small-group work, and our upcoming research unit. Having a clean, organized environment makes it easier for students to focus, take responsibility for their materials, and take pride in their learning.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in us. These items will support my students all year long—and for many years to come.","fullyFundedDate":1759265984394,"projectUrl":"project/tools-for-a-clean-organized-and-inspir/9491881/","projectTitle":"Tools for a Clean, Organized, and Inspiring Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Luniewski","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10034900_orig.jpg?crop=855,855,x382,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757195252082","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10034900"},{"teacherId":3452237,"projectId":9761174,"letterContent":"Thanks to your incredible contribution, our classroom has been transformed with a class set of Bluetooth headphones! This change has fundamentally shifted how my students approach individualized learning and concentration.\r\n\r\nThe primary goal of this project was to minimize auditory distractions, allowing every student to create their own focused learning environment. Since introducing the headphones, I have seen a remarkable increase in student concentration and their ability to engage deeply with independent activities, such as online learning programs, audiobooks, and specialized listening centers.\r\n\r\nThe impact of these headphones is immediate and profound. Students who were previously easily distracted now have a tool to block out common classroom noise, giving them the sustained focus necessary to tackle complex tasks. They love the freedom of not being tethered by cords and the ability to customize their learning experience. Crucially, these headphones provide my special education students, and those needing accommodations, with seamless, private access to essential assistive technology like text-to-speech (TTS). This makes their learning environment more accessible and equitable. They love the freedom of not being tethered by cords and the ability to customize their learning experience.\r\n\r\nThank you, once again, for investing in my students and our classroom. Your generosity ensures that every student has the tools necessary for focused, individualized, and uninterrupted learning every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1759265982834,"projectUrl":"project/access-to-sound/9761174/","projectTitle":"Access to Sound","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Petti","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3452237_orig.jpg?crop=2400,2400,x0,y120&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1738476498759","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-petti"},{"teacherId":3452237,"projectId":9760954,"letterContent":"Thanks to your incredible contribution, our classroom has been completely transformed with new, flexible seating options! This change has fundamentally shifted how my students approach learning and independent work.\r\n\r\nThe primary goal of this project was to provide students with choice, allowing them to select a workspace that best supports their focus and learning style. Since introducing the new seating, I have seen a remarkable increase in student engagement and ownership over their work. Giving them agency over their physical learning environment has led to greater focus and productivity during independent tasks.\r\n\r\nThe highlight of the entire project, according to the students, is definitely the new couches! They are indeed as comfy as advertised, and they have quickly become the most sought-after spot for quiet reading and focused, individual projects. The students know that when they choose a cozy spot like the couch, they are committing to high-quality, comfortable work.\r\n\r\nThank you, once again, for investing in my students and our classroom. Your generosity ensures that they have a comfortable, engaging, and dynamic space to learn every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1759265983932,"projectUrl":"project/comfortable-seating-for-reading/9760954/","projectTitle":"Comfortable Seating for Reading","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Petti","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3452237_orig.jpg?crop=2400,2400,x0,y120&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1738476498759","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-petti"},{"teacherId":10268073,"projectId":9724377,"letterContent":"I would like to take this time to thank you for your donation to my classroom and our school!\r\nWe are so grateful for the 3d printing filament and extruders that help to keep our 3d printers functioning in the art class.\r\nOur students have been observing how fun items and items for everyday use around the classroom can be made through the use of the 3d printers. They really are excited about exploring both premade and self made items that can be produced with these machines. Many of my students have never seen a 3d printer in action, so it is a wonderful sight to see the amazement on their faces as the printers \"grow\" an item out of thin air!\r\nWe will be using the printer throughout the year to conitnue to foster a sense of accomplishment through the use of this technology that is at the forefront of both art and computer science.\r\nI am humbled that donors such as you would help to provide such a valueable experience to our students!","fullyFundedDate":1759265979662,"projectUrl":"project/help-my-students-explore-3d-printing/9724377/","projectTitle":"Help My Students Explore 3d Printing!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Swiss","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10268073_orig.jpg?crop=2556,2556,x0,y426&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1758199873514","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10268073"},{"teacherId":10035004,"projectId":9369957,"letterContent":"Our 7th graders and I are forever thankful for your incredible generosity in funding our project, Fill Their Bellies and Their Minds. Because of your support, our classroom has become not only a place of learning but also a space of comfort, motivation, and joy. The snacks, prizes, and sensory toys you provided have made a tremendous difference in the way students focus, participate, and connect with one another each day.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, students' faces lit up with excitement. The simple joy of having snacks available during long learning periods helped them stay energized and engaged, while the sensory tools have given students healthy ways to manage focus and anxiety—especially during challenging lessons or testing days. The prizes have added a positive boost to our classroom culture, transforming our incentive system into one that celebrates effort, perseverance, and kindness.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, I've been able to teach with greater flexibility and joy, knowing students' basic needs are met and their emotional well-being is supported. Lessons run more smoothly, discussions are livelier, and students are learning the value of balance between hard work and self-care. Our next step is to continue fostering that growth mindset—encouraging students to take pride in their learning while nurturing their confidence and emotional health.\r\n\r\nThank you, Tepper Foundation, for believing in our students and for filling both their bellies and their minds. Your kindness has had a lasting impact, and we are so deeply grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1749215590320,"projectUrl":"project/fill-their-bellies-and-their-minds/9369957/","projectTitle":"Fill Their Bellies and Their Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. DiMarco","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10035004"},{"teacherId":10035004,"projectId":9401130,"letterContent":"Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for supporting our project, Let Them Have Books! Your generosity has brought inclusive, engaging literature into our classroom—stories that reflect the diverse voices, cultures, and experiences of our students. These new books have opened the door to conversations about identity, empathy, and perspective, helping each student see both themselves and others in the pages they read.\r\n\r\nReading in our classroom has taken on a new kind of energy. Every day, students eagerly reach for these books during independent reading time, sharing discoveries, questions, and insights with one another. These texts have allowed us to explore key literacy skills such as identifying theme, analyzing character motivation, and citing evidence to support interpretation—all while diving into stories that matter deeply to them. The room often hums with excitement as students turn to one another to say, \"You have to read this next!\"\r\n\r\nSeveral students who once hesitated to pick up a book are now engaged readers, drawn in by characters who look like them, share their struggles, or introduce them to entirely new worlds. One student said, \"This book feels like it's talking to me,\"—a reminder of why representation in literature is so powerful. Because of your generosity, reading has become more than just a skill we practice; it's become a shared experience that builds community and belonging.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing that every student deserves to see themselves reflected in the stories they read. Your donation has truly helped us build a classroom where all voices are valued, and every story matters.","fullyFundedDate":1750865800565,"projectUrl":"project/let-them-have-books/9401130/","projectTitle":"Let Them Have Books!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. DiMarco","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10035004"},{"teacherId":10035004,"projectId":9353724,"letterContent":"We are forever grateful for your generosity and support toward our project, Help Me Foster a Love for Learning. Because of you, our classroom has transformed into a space that truly inspires curiosity, comfort, and growth.\r\n\r\nSince the new resources arrived, my students have been eager to explore, collaborate, and engage more deeply in their learning. The flexible seating, organizational materials, and calming décor have turned our classroom into a welcoming environment where students feel safe to take risks and express themselves. One parent recently shared that our room has a \"tranquil vibe\"—a reflection of how much calmer and more focused students have become throughout the day.\r\n\r\nThe impact has been remarkable. During the reading workshop, students now choose cozy spots to dive into books, discuss ideas, and connect text to their own experiences. In writing, they're more confident sharing drafts and feedback because the space feels collaborative rather than intimidating. These moments, filled with laughter, reflection, and learning, are exactly what your kindness made possible.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, we're continuing to build on this sense of community and curiosity. Our next goal is to nurture independent thinking through student-led projects and discussions that make learning meaningful and joyful. Your donation didn't just enhance our classroom—it strengthened the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.\r\n\r\nFrom the bottom of my heart, thank you for believing in our students and for helping create a space where learning truly feels like home.","fullyFundedDate":1747761156697,"projectUrl":"project/help-me-foster-a-love-for-learning/9353724/","projectTitle":"Help Me Foster a Love for Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. DiMarco","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10035004"},{"teacherId":10267379,"projectId":9729705,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for making our classroom so much more enjoyable. The new lights will make for a cozy, comfortable classroom. In addition, now my students all will have pencils, erasers and rulers to use both in the classroom and at home so they can practice their skills and complete homework. So many times, students have told me they don't have what they need at home to do the assigned work and now they will not have to worry. I am happy to send extra pencils and erasers home to make sure they have what they need. Your support makes such a difference in the education of my students.","fullyFundedDate":1759265982294,"projectUrl":"project/math-matters/9729705/","projectTitle":"Math Matters","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Svec","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10267379"},{"teacherId":10034900,"projectId":9353580,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom is now more organized, energized, and ready for learning than ever before. When the materials from Supplied for Success: Fueling Learning with Tools and Treats arrived, my students' faces lit up. They couldn't wait to explore the new supplies. Their excitement reminded me how even small changes—like fresh pencils or a working sharpener—can transform the way students approach their work.\r\n\r\nWe've already put these resources into action. Students are using highlighters to annotate reading passages, stacking bins and labeled drawers to keep projects organized, and the electric sharpener has quickly become one of the most popular spots in the room! During our last writing workshop, students proudly used the new materials to prepare polished final drafts, and the treats—Oreos, Pringles, and animal crackers—gave them the motivation to keep pushing through revisions. Most meaningfully, the Teachers Pay Teachers gift card allowed me to purchase special resources for Hispanic Heritage Month, giving my students the chance to feel seen, celebrated, and connected to their cultures and communities.\r\n\r\nThe next steps for my students include diving into a writing project, where they'll be using these supplies to stay organized, highlight key information, and create work that they'll be proud of. With a more efficient and joyful learning space, students are better equipped to focus, collaborate, and succeed.\r\n\r\nYour support has given us more than supplies—it has created a classroom community fueled by possibility, pride, and joy. Thank you for helping my students thrive!","fullyFundedDate":1749215597974,"projectUrl":"project/supplied-for-success-fueling-learning-w/9353580/","projectTitle":"Supplied for Success: Fueling Learning with Tools and Treats","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Luniewski","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10034900_orig.jpg?crop=855,855,x382,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757195252082","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10034900"},{"teacherId":10034900,"projectId":9353237,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, Turning Pages, Turning Possibilities has brought a whole new level of excitement and focus to our classroom. These books are not only fueling curiosity but also helping students build important reading skills like analyzing themes, making inferences, and supporting ideas with text evidence. With a wider variety of genres and voices available, I've been able to introduce lessons on comparing perspectives, exploring author's purpose, and connecting literature to real-world issues in ways that really resonate with my students.\r\n\r\nReading in our classroom now feels more alive. Students have independent reading time where they eagerly grab titles from our new collection, small group discussions where they share their thoughts, and writing activities that push them to reflect more deeply on what they've read. The books are often passed from hand to hand, and I hear students recommending them to each other with enthusiasm. One student who had never finished a book before is now halfway through her second novel, proudly sharing details about the characters and urging her classmates to read it too. Another has discovered a new love for nonfiction, making connections between what he's reading and the current events we discuss in class.\r\n\r\nYour support has done more than just fill our shelves — it has ignited a culture of reading, curiosity, and confidence. Thank you for believing in my students and giving them the chance to see that every page they turn is a step toward new possibilities.","fullyFundedDate":1747767841685,"projectUrl":"project/turning-pages-turning-possibilities/9353237/","projectTitle":"Turning Pages, Turning Possibilities","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Luniewski","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10034900_orig.jpg?crop=855,855,x382,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757195252082","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10034900"},{"teacherId":10013308,"projectId":9318240,"letterContent":"I want to sincerely thank you for your generous support in providing classroom supplies such as flexible seating, bean bags, organizers, and décor. These resources have transformed our classroom into a welcoming and engaging space where students feel comfortable and motivated to learn. The addition of flexible seating options, especially the bean bags, has given students the freedom to choose learning spots where they can focus best, whether during independent reading or small group discussions.\r\n\r\nThe impact of these changes has been evident in the way students interact with both the material and one another. The classroom décor and organized learning environment have created a calm, structured space that promotes focus and reduces distractions. Having designated spaces with hanging folders and organizers has also taught my students responsibility and independence, as they now take ownership in keeping materials accessible and neat.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, these resources have elevated the overall learning atmosphere. Students look forward to being in a classroom that feels safe, vibrant, and student-centered. They are more willing to collaborate, share ideas, and engage in critical thinking activities because the environment fosters creativity and comfort. Your support has not only enhanced the physical space but also positively influenced the mindset and confidence of my students, and for that I am deeply grateful.\r\n\r\nWhat excites my students most about the new additions is the flexibility and sense of choice they bring to learning. Many of my more reserved students have especially embraced the bean bag seating, finding it easier to participate in discussions and group activities when they feel physically at ease. Others are drawn to the organization tools, which have helped them stay on top of their assignments with more confidence. It has been inspiring to watch certain students who once struggled to stay engaged now show pride and enthusiasm because the environment supports their learning styles.","fullyFundedDate":1746786362353,"projectUrl":"project/lets-make-learning-a-vibe/9318240/","projectTitle":"Lets Make Learning a Vibe!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Villa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10013308_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1746424522910","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10013308"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_82306","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":700,"numTeachers":53,"percentFrplEligible":59,"percentAsian":2,"percentBlack":35,"percentWhite":12,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":46,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"7 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"13.2:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":71.8,"schoolId":82306,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Rahway Seventh and Eighth Grade Academy on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Rahway Seventh and Eighth Grade Academy","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/new-jersey/rahway-public-schools/rahway-middle-school/82306"}