{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Veterans Memorial Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":36.6,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10341268,"projectId":10211854,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting our project and helping provide exciting opportunities for our PreK-6 students to learn through movement, teamwork, and play. The new outdoor resources have quickly become a favorite among our students. From tug-of-war competitions and sack races to three-legged relay challenges and BasketPong games, these activities have encouraged students to stay active while developing important skills such as cooperation, communication, perseverance, and sportsmanship.\r\n\r\nThe excitement on our students' faces when they first saw the materials was unforgettable. They eagerly gathered around the equipment, asking when they could start playing and challenging their classmates to friendly competitions. One of our favorite moments was watching students work together during the tug-of-war activities. They learned that success comes from teamwork and encouragement rather than individual effort alone. Students who are often shy or hesitant to participate gained confidence as they cheered on teammates, celebrated successes, and discovered new strengths.\r\n\r\nThese resources have become an important part of our wellness activities, field days, and outdoor learning experiences. Moving forward, we will continue using them to reinforce teamwork, problem-solving, and positive social interactions while promoting healthy lifestyles. Our students are learning that physical activity can be fun, inclusive, and rewarding. Thanks to your generosity, we are able to create meaningful experiences that help children build confidence, form friendships, and develop skills that will benefit them both inside and outside the classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1778262643098,"projectUrl":"project/building-teamwork-and-school-spirit-thro/10211854/","projectTitle":"Building Teamwork and School Spirit Through Outdoor Games","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Lauren","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10341268_orig.jpg?crop=902,902,x0,y15&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1771438672274","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrslauren"},{"teacherId":9589086,"projectId":10219453,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting our \"Outdoor Fun\" project and helping provide exciting new opportunities for our students to learn, move, and grow together. Thanks to your generosity, our students now have access to engaging outdoor resources including a giant inflatable kick darts game, a parachute, agility ladders, training equipment, and double dutch jump ropes. These materials have transformed recesses, field days, and school celebrations into meaningful experiences that promote teamwork, physical activity, and positive social interaction.\r\n\r\nThe excitement was immediate when students first saw the new equipment. The giant kick darts game quickly became a favorite, encouraging friendly competition while helping students practice coordination and teamwork. The parachute activities brought entire groups of students together, teaching cooperation, communication, and problem-solving as they worked toward common goals. The agility ladders and training equipment challenged students to improve their speed, balance, and confidence, while the jump ropes encouraged students to stay active and support one another as they learned new skills.\r\n\r\nThese resources continue to be used during physical education activities, school-wide events, field days, and reward celebrations. More importantly, they have helped create an environment where students can build friendships, develop leadership skills, and experience the joy of being active. As we move forward, we plan to incorporate these materials into additional wellness initiatives, team-building activities, and outdoor learning experiences that support both physical and social-emotional growth. Thank you for helping us create memorable experiences that keep our students engaged, healthy, and excited to come to school each day.","fullyFundedDate":1779296992984,"projectUrl":"project/jump-play-and-grow-together/10219453/","projectTitle":"Jump, Play, and Grow Together!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Perez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9589086"},{"teacherId":6543299,"projectId":10211728,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our \"Outdoor Fun\" project! Your generosity has brought excitement, movement, and meaningful opportunities for our students to learn and grow together. The new outdoor resources have quickly become some of the most popular items in our school, giving students a chance to be active, collaborate with peers, and build important social-emotional skills while having fun.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, their excitement was contagious. They immediately began asking questions, organizing games, and encouraging classmates to join in. One of the most memorable moments was watching students from different grade levels work together during outdoor activities, cheering each other on and demonstrating teamwork and sportsmanship. The resources have been used during recess, reward celebrations, field day activities, and classroom brain breaks, helping students stay engaged and connected throughout the school day.\r\n\r\nBeyond the fun, these materials are helping students develop confidence, communication skills, and positive relationships with their peers. As we move forward, we plan to continue incorporating these resources into school-wide events, wellness activities, and collaborative learning experiences that encourage problem-solving and teamwork. Your donation has provided opportunities for students to create lasting memories while supporting their physical, social, and emotional growth.\r\n\r\nThank you again for investing in our students and helping us create joyful experiences that make school a place where every child feels included, valued, and excited to participate. Your kindness has made a lasting impact on our school community.","fullyFundedDate":1778262370448,"projectUrl":"project/outdoor-fun/10211728/","projectTitle":"Outdoor fun","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Campodonico","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6543299_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1702384535355","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6543299"},{"teacherId":6543299,"projectId":10158299,"letterContent":"Thanks to your incredible generosity, our students were able to enjoy an unforgettable experience through \"The Ultimate 6th Grade Send-Off Carnival!\" The new resources transformed our celebration into a day filled with excitement, teamwork, laughter, and memories that our students will carry with them long after they leave elementary school.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the carnival games and activities, their faces immediately lit up with excitement. They could not wait to participate, compete with their friends, and celebrate all they had accomplished throughout the school year. One of the most rewarding moments was watching students who do not always participate in traditional classroom activities fully engage, encourage one another, and build lasting memories together.\r\n\r\nThese resources were used throughout our end-of-year celebration to create stations where students worked together, practiced sportsmanship, and celebrated their achievements as they prepared for middle school. The carnival provided opportunities for students to strengthen friendships, develop confidence, and enjoy a well-deserved reward for their hard work and perseverance.\r\n\r\nThe impact of your donation extends beyond a single event. These resources will continue to be used during future school celebrations, field days, family engagement nights, and student reward activities. As our students move on to the next chapter of their educational journey, they leave with positive memories, stronger connections with their peers, and a sense of pride in all they have accomplished.\r\n\r\nFrom the bottom of our hearts, thank you for helping make this special milestone meaningful and memorable for our students. Your support created smiles, joy, and experiences that our students will never forget.","fullyFundedDate":1778225488102,"projectUrl":"project/the-ultimate-6th-grade-send-off-carnival/10158299/","projectTitle":"The Ultimate 6th Grade Send-Off Carnival!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Campodonico","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6543299_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1702384535355","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6543299"},{"teacherId":10341268,"projectId":10153003,"letterContent":"There was a moment during one of our recent games where everything just clicked. Music was playing during warmups, announcements were coming through clearly, and the entire gym was locked in. Students were clapping, cheering, and fully engaged. That energy wasn't there before in the same way. The JBL speaker didn't just make things louder, it made the experience feel real, organized, and exciting for everyone involved.\r\n\r\nWhat's been especially powerful is how students have stepped into new roles because of this. Instead of just sitting in the stands, they are now asking to run the music, make announcements, and be part of the production of the game. A few students who usually stay quiet in class have completely come alive in this setting. They take pride in being \"in charge\" of the sound, making sure the right song plays at the right time, and helping keep the crowd engaged. It has given them a space to shine in a way academics alone sometimes doesn't.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, we are building on this by creating a small student sound team that will run audio for games and school events. They are beginning to understand timing, audience engagement, and even the basics of live event production. What started as a speaker has turned into an opportunity for students to lead, collaborate, and take ownership of school spirit. Thank you for helping us create moments our students genuinely look forward to.","fullyFundedDate":1773579402761,"projectUrl":"project/amplifying-school-spirit-at-basketball-g/10153003/","projectTitle":"Amplifying School Spirit at Basketball Games","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Lauren","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10341268_orig.jpg?crop=902,902,x0,y15&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1771438672274","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrslauren"},{"teacherId":6543299,"projectId":10170109,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our students are now experiencing school events in a completely new way. The first time we used the wireless microphones during a student recognition ceremony, the reaction was immediate. Students were excited, cheering louder, and most importantly, those speaking felt confident knowing their voices were clear and heard. One of my quieter students, who usually avoids the spotlight, volunteered to speak and delivered an announcement with pride. Moments like that show just how powerful these resources have been.\r\n\r\nWe are now using the microphones not just for ceremonies, but during classroom presentations, assemblies, and student-led activities. Students are also helping set up and manage the equipment, learning how to handle sound, adjust levels, and take responsibility for making events run smoothly. The perpetual plaque has quickly become a source of motivation, with students already talking about earning their spot and leaving a legacy for future classes.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we plan to integrate these tools into more student-led events, including our 6th grade send-off carnival and academic showcases. Students will take on roles in hosting, announcing, and managing sound, giving them real-world experience in communication and event production. Thanks to your support, we are not just celebrating achievement, we are building confidence, leadership, and a lasting sense of pride in our school community.","fullyFundedDate":1774986034934,"projectUrl":"project/turning-up-the-volume-on-student-achieve/10170109/","projectTitle":"Turning Up the Volume on Student Achievement","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Campodonico","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6543299_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1702384535355","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6543299"},{"teacherId":6543299,"projectId":10152676,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our students now have access to a professional Mackie audio mixer that has completely transformed our school events. What used to be inconsistent sound is now clear, balanced, and exciting. Announcements are heard, performances feel professional, and our students take even greater pride in every event.\r\n\r\nWhat's been most exciting is seeing students step into real roles behind the scenes. They are learning how to adjust audio levels, manage microphones, and control sound like true technicians. For many, this is their first exposure to sports broadcasting and live event production, and they are loving it.\r\n\r\nWe have students who now volunteer for every game and assembly just to work the sound board. They are building confidence, teamwork, and responsibility while developing real-world technical skills.\r\n\r\nYour support didn't just provide equipment, it created opportunity, ownership, and unforgettable experiences for our students. Thank you for believing in them!","fullyFundedDate":1774277912841,"projectUrl":"project/mixing-up-the-sound-for-game-day/10152676/","projectTitle":"Mixing Up the Sound for Game Day!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Campodonico","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6543299_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1702384535355","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6543299"},{"teacherId":8397124,"projectId":10044047,"letterContent":"The ski clothing funded through DonorsChoose truly changed the experience for my Special Olympics athletes in a very personal way. Many of my students would not have been able to participate without this gear, and seeing them arrive at practice fully dressed, warm, and confident was incredibly meaningful. Instead of worrying about being cold or uncomfortable, they were able to focus on learning, supporting one another, and enjoying every moment on the slopes.\r\n\r\nWhat stood out most was the confidence it gave them. My athletes felt prepared and included, just like any other team, and that sense of belonging made a huge difference. They pushed themselves, cheered each other on, and took pride in representing our school. Because of this opportunity, they didn't just participate—they competed, succeeded, and even earned medals. These are experiences they will carry with them for the rest of their lives, and I am so grateful that this support made it all possible.","fullyFundedDate":1768962961500,"projectUrl":"project/warmth-confidence-ski-gear-for-our-sp/10044047/","projectTitle":"Warmth = Confidence: Ski Gear for Our Special Olympics Team","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Martinez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8397124_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x53,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1648658326307","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ems-av"},{"teacherId":10075947,"projectId":10087920,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our girls basketball team is stepping onto the court with a new level of confidence and pride. The new sneakers are not just equipment, they represent opportunity, equity, and belief in our students. From the moment the girls received them, the excitement was undeniable. Many of our players had never had a brand-new pair of basketball sneakers before, and seeing their reactions, smiles, and immediate boost in energy was something I will never forget. It was more than just gear. It made them feel seen and valued.\r\n\r\nWe are using these resources every day during practices and games, and the difference is clear. The girls are moving with more confidence, feeling more supported physically, and taking greater pride in being part of the team. One moment that stood out was during practice when a few players who are usually more reserved began stepping up, calling for the ball, and encouraging their teammates. Having proper equipment gave them that extra push to believe in themselves and fully engage. It has strengthened not only their performance but also their teamwork and overall morale.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we are continuing to build on this momentum by focusing on skill development, teamwork, and leadership both on and off the court. The girls are setting goals for the rest of the season, supporting one another, and taking ownership of their growth as student-athletes. Your support has helped lay the foundation for something bigger than basketball. It has created confidence, unity, and a sense of belonging that will carry with them far beyond this season.","fullyFundedDate":1770569998301,"projectUrl":"project/lacing-up-confidence-for-our-girls-baske/10087920/","projectTitle":"Lacing Up Confidence for Our Girls Basketball Team","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Nunez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10075947"},{"teacherId":10437238,"projectId":10152825,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our students now get to experience game day in a completely new way. The upgraded sound system has brought a new level of energy and excitement to our school events, especially during basketball games and esports competitions. What many may see as just \"sound equipment\" has actually become a powerful tool for engagement, school spirit, and student involvement. Clear announcements, music, and game commentary have made events feel more professional and inclusive, allowing every student to feel like they are part of something special.\r\n\r\nWhat has been most exciting is seeing how students respond to the atmosphere this has created. Students who were once just spectators are now eager to participate, whether it's helping run the audio, announcing games, or simply showing up and cheering louder than ever before. For many of our students, especially in a Title I school like ours, these experiences are opportunities they may not otherwise have. The sound system has helped turn ordinary school events into memorable experiences that build confidence, teamwork, and a sense of belonging.\r\n\r\nI have also seen specific students truly thrive with this addition. Some of my quieter students have taken an interest in working behind the scenes, learning how to manage the equipment and take on leadership roles during events. Others have stepped out of their comfort zones to speak on the microphone or help organize activities. These moments matter, and they would not have been possible without your support.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our students and helping us create an environment where they can feel proud, engaged, and inspired every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1773579402576,"projectUrl":"project/turn-up-the-sound-for-game-day/10152825/","projectTitle":"Turn Up the Sound for Game Day!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Taylor","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10437238"},{"teacherId":6543299,"projectId":10152678,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project, \"Turn Up the Volume for Our Basketball Games!\" Your generosity has made a real difference for our students and school community.\r\n\r\nThe new sound equipment has helped transform our basketball games into exciting school events where students feel proud to participate and be part of something bigger than themselves. Technology like this allows us to create a more organized and engaging environment during games. We are able to clearly announce players, play music during warm-ups and timeouts, and communicate important information to the crowd. This helps students learn about teamwork, sportsmanship, and school spirit while also giving them opportunities to take on leadership roles such as running music, making announcements, and helping with event setup.\r\n\r\nWhat has been most exciting for the students is hearing their names announced as they enter the court and feeling like they are part of a real game-day experience. The music and clear sound system bring a professional atmosphere to our gym that energizes both players and spectators. Many students who usually sit quietly during events have become more involved, volunteering to help manage the equipment or assist with announcements.\r\n\r\nSome of our students who are interested in technology and media have especially enjoyed learning how the sound system works. They have been eager to help set up the equipment, control the music, and assist during games. It has given them a chance to build confidence and develop new skills while supporting their peers.\r\n\r\nYour support has helped create memorable experiences for our students and has strengthened the sense of community in our school. Thank you again for believing in our students and helping bring more energy and excitement to our basketball games.","fullyFundedDate":1773579402155,"projectUrl":"project/turn-up-the-volume-for-our-basketball-ga/10152678/","projectTitle":"Turn Up the Volume for Our Basketball Games!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Campodonico","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6543299_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1702384535355","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6543299"},{"teacherId":6543299,"projectId":10073431,"letterContent":"Thanks to the generous support of our donors, our students were able to bring the story of Willy Wonka to life in a way that felt truly magical. The costumes, props, and stage supplies allowed students to fully step into their roles and experience what it is like to be part of a real production. This project helped students build confidence as they practiced speaking, acting, and working together as a team to prepare for the performance.\r\n\r\nWhat excited students the most was seeing the set, costumes, and props come together during rehearsals. Many students who were initially shy quickly became more comfortable performing once they had the tools that made the play feel real and engaging. Others found their passion working behind the scenes, helping with stage setup, props, and organization.\r\n\r\nThis experience went far beyond a performance. Students developed teamwork, creativity, and responsibility while learning how a production comes together from start to finish. The pride they felt performing for their families and school community made the entire experience unforgettable.","fullyFundedDate":1772250985380,"projectUrl":"project/pure-imagination-a-willy-wonka-school-p/10073431/","projectTitle":"Pure Imagination: A Willy Wonka School Play","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Campodonico","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6543299_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1702384535355","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6543299"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_73980","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":531,"numTeachers":37,"percentFrplEligible":88,"percentAsian":1,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":1,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":96,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":0,"gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"14.4:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":63.4,"schoolId":73980,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Veterans Memorial Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Veterans Memorial Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/new-jersey/union-city-public-schools/veterans-memorial-elementary-school/73980"}