{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Mesa Alta Junior High School","outOfStateSupporters":63.2,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9861446,"projectId":9974752,"letterContent":"These tools support the behind-the-scenes systems that keep classroom technology and learning running smoothly. The paper cutter helps prepare instructional materials efficiently, while cleaning tools maintain a safe and organized environment where students can focus and use materials responsibly.\r\n\r\nStudents appreciated seeing how organization and cleanliness contribute to a productive classroom. Some students even take pride in helping maintain the space.\r\nStudents who thrive in structured, orderly environments have especially benefited, as reduced clutter and distractions help them stay focused and engaged.","fullyFundedDate":1767234862153,"projectUrl":"project/keeping-our-classroom-organized-clean/9974752/","projectTitle":"Keeping Our Classroom Organized, Clean, and Ready to Learn","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Virginia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9861446_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733427781849","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9861446"},{"teacherId":9861446,"projectId":9973667,"letterContent":"Scientific calculators and math posters have strengthened student understanding and confidence in math. Calculators are used during lessons and practice to support problem-solving, while math posters serve as constant visual references for formulas, strategies, and vocabulary. One impactful moment was watching students independently refer to the posters to solve multi-step problems without prompting.\r\n\r\nStudents were excited to have tools that made math feel more accessible and less intimidating. They frequently reference the posters during instruction and group work.\r\nNext, students will continue applying these resources as we move into more complex math concepts, supporting independence and deeper mathematical reasoning.","fullyFundedDate":1767046506524,"projectUrl":"project/building-math-confidence-with-calculator/9973667/","projectTitle":"Building Math Confidence With Calculators and Visual Supports","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Virginia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9861446_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733427781849","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9861446"},{"teacherId":9861446,"projectId":9973654,"letterContent":"These classroom essentials are used daily and have significantly improved our learning environment. Cleaning supplies help us maintain a safe and healthy space, while colored pencils and assorted paper allow students to fully engage in writing, math, and creative projects. Board games have become a favorite during small-group instruction and indoor recess, reinforcing teamwork and problem-solving skills.\r\n\r\nStudents were excited to see new supplies and took pride in using shared materials responsibly. Board games, in particular, generated enthusiasm and positive collaboration among peers.\r\nNext, students will continue using these materials for hands-on projects, enrichment activities, and social skill development, supporting both academic and emotional growth.","fullyFundedDate":1767046506772,"projectUrl":"project/everyday-essentials-for-a-safe-creative/9973654/","projectTitle":"Everyday Essentials for a Safe, Creative, and Engaging Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Virginia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9861446_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733427781849","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9861446"},{"teacherId":9861446,"projectId":9973256,"letterContent":"Reading pens have had a powerful impact on student learning by providing immediate, technology-based reading support. These tools allow students to scan words and hear them read aloud, helping with decoding, pronunciation, and comprehension. This enables students to access grade-level text independently rather than relying on constant adult assistance.\r\n\r\nStudents were extremely excited to use the reading pens and quickly became confident in operating them. For many, it felt empowering to have a tool that supports them privately and instantly.\r\nStudents with reading difficulties, learning disabilities, and English language learners have especially embraced this technology. They now participate more actively in reading assignments and discussions because they feel capable and supported.","fullyFundedDate":1768335045290,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-readers-with-reading-pens/9973256/","projectTitle":"Empowering Readers With Reading Pens","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Virginia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9861446_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733427781849","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9861446"},{"teacherId":9861446,"projectId":9972775,"letterContent":"The laminating machine has become an essential instructional tool in our classroom. It allows me to create durable, reusable learning materials such as interactive task cards, visual supports, and dry-erase activities. Because materials can now be reused daily, students engage more frequently in hands-on practice without worrying about making mistakes.\r\n\r\nStudents were excited to see everyday worksheets transformed into interactive tools they could write on and erase. This immediately increased participation, especially among students who benefit from tactile and visual learning.\r\nSeveral students who struggle with traditional paper-and-pencil tasks have especially warmed to laminated materials because they feel less pressure and more freedom to try again, which has boosted their confidence and persistence.","fullyFundedDate":1767046506134,"projectUrl":"project/a-laminating-machine-for-durable-classro/9972775/","projectTitle":"A Laminating Machine for Durable Classroom Resources","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Virginia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9861446_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733427781849","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9861446"},{"teacherId":9861446,"projectId":9972796,"letterContent":"Although not instructional technology in the traditional sense, the air purifier plays an important role in supporting learning by improving the classroom environment. It helps reduce airborne allergens and odors, creating a space where students can focus without discomfort or distraction.\r\n\r\nStudents were curious and excited to learn how the air purifier works and enjoyed watching it operate quietly throughout the day. Some students with allergies or sensitivities have benefited the most, as they are more comfortable and better able to stay engaged during lessons.\r\nBy supporting student health and comfort, this technology indirectly enhances learning by increasing focus, attendance, and overall well-being.","fullyFundedDate":1766947750952,"projectUrl":"project/clean-air-for-healthy-focused-learning/9972796/","projectTitle":"Clean Air for Healthy, Focused Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Virginia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9861446_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733427781849","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9861446"},{"teacherId":9546646,"projectId":9955488,"letterContent":"One of the most meaningful impacts of the Ignite Your Imagination: The Kindle Reading Adventure project was its strong influence on middle school students, a group that often begins to lose interest in traditional reading. The use of Kindles transformed reading from a routine classroom task into an engaging, technology-driven experience that aligned with students' interests and learning styles. Because middle school students are highly drawn to digital tools, the Kindles immediately captured their attention and made reading feel relevant and exciting rather than mandatory.\r\n\r\nThe project helped motivate and encourage more middle school students to read consistently, including those who were previously reluctant readers. Features such as adjustable font size, easy navigation, and access to a wide variety of age-appropriate texts allowed students to read at their own pace and comfort level. This sense of choice and independence empowered students and boosted their confidence as readers. Overall, the Kindle-based approach fostered a more positive reading culture among middle school students, increased engagement, and helped strengthen literacy skills during a critical stage of their academic development.","fullyFundedDate":1767203367839,"projectUrl":"project/ignite-your-imagination-the-kindle-read/9955488/","projectTitle":"Ignite Your Imagination: The Kindle Reading Adventure","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ann","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9546646_orig.jpg?crop=480,480,x0,y54&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1715619607285","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9546646"},{"teacherId":9861446,"projectId":9975815,"letterContent":"These tools directly support instructional technology and classroom management. The digital clock helps students manage time and transitions, the projector remote allows lessons to flow without interruption, and the extension wire ensures technology is used safely. The phone box reduces distractions and promotes focused learning.\r\n\r\nStudents were excited by the structure these tools brought to the classroom. The phone box, in particular, helped students stay engaged, while the digital clock encouraged accountability.\r\nStudents who struggle with attention and time management have especially benefited, as these tools provide clear expectations and reduce unnecessary distractions.","fullyFundedDate":1767228330990,"projectUrl":"project/organized-on-time-and-ready-to-learn/9975815/","projectTitle":"Organized, On-Time, and Ready to Learn","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Virginia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9861446_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733427781849","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9861446"},{"teacherId":9861446,"projectId":9682272,"letterContent":"The printer has become a vital piece of classroom technology that directly supports daily instruction and student learning. It allows me to quickly print differentiated materials, practice activities, graphic organizers, and assessments that meet students at their individual learning levels. Having immediate access to printed resources ensures that lessons run smoothly and students always have the materials they need to participate fully.\r\n\r\nStudents were excited to see their work printed and ready to use, especially when receiving personalized materials or seeing their writing and projects brought to life on paper. For many students, having clear, printed resources helps them stay organized and focused during lessons.\r\n\r\nStudents who benefit most from the printer include those who need structured visual supports, extra practice, or modified assignments. The printer allows instruction to be flexible and responsive, ensuring all students—especially those who need additional support—can access learning in a meaningful way.","fullyFundedDate":1766811273497,"projectUrl":"project/printing-possibilities-giving-students/9682272/","projectTitle":"Printing Possibilities: Giving Students Access to Immediate Learning Materials","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Virginia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9861446_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733427781849","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9861446"},{"teacherId":9861446,"projectId":9438374,"letterContent":"The speaker, portable vacuum, and portable heater provided through this project have had a meaningful and immediate impact on my classroom environment and my students' ability to learn effectively. In a special education and academic intervention setting, learning is not only about instruction—it is also about creating a space where students feel comfortable, supported, and ready to engage. These resources have helped meet both academic and basic classroom needs that directly affect student focus and success.\r\n\r\nThe classroom speaker has greatly enhanced instruction and student engagement. While many donors may use speakers at home for entertainment, in the classroom it serves as an essential instructional tool. I use the speaker daily to ensure that all students can clearly hear directions, explanations, and instructional videos, regardless of where they are seated. Many of my students struggle with attention, processing information, or auditory comprehension. Clear and amplified sound helps reduce misunderstandings and allows students to stay focused during lessons. The speaker is especially helpful during guided instruction, math modeling, and small group activities, where consistent audio clarity supports comprehension and participation.\r\n\r\nStudents are most excited about the speaker because it makes lessons feel more interactive and accessible. Instructional videos, digital lessons, and verbal explanations are easier to follow, and students are more engaged when they can clearly hear what is being taught. Students who previously struggled to stay attentive during instruction are now more focused and responsive, as they no longer have to strain to hear or ask for repeated directions.\r\n\r\nThe portable vacuum has contributed to a cleaner and more organized classroom, which is especially important for students with sensory sensitivities or difficulty focusing. In a special education environment, clutter and debris can be distracting and overwhelming. Having a portable vacuum allows me to quickly clean up after activities, ensuring that the classroom remains a calm and structured learning space. Students benefit from a tidy environment that supports focus and reduces unnecessary distractions.\r\n\r\nThe portable heater has had the most immediate and significant impact on student comfort and learning. Our classroom heater is not working, and during colder days, the room becomes uncomfortable and difficult for students to concentrate. The portable heater has helped maintain a warm and safe learning environment, allowing students to focus on instruction rather than discomfort. When students are cold, they struggle to remain attentive and engaged. Providing warmth has directly supported students' ability to participate, stay seated, and complete tasks.\r\n\r\nSeveral students have especially benefited from the heater, particularly those with sensory needs or medical sensitivities who are more affected by temperature changes. Once the classroom temperature became more comfortable, these students showed improved focus, reduced frustration, and greater willingness to engage in learning activities.\r\n\r\nTogether, these resources have transformed my classroom into a more effective and supportive learning environment. The speaker enhances instruction, the vacuum maintains organization, and the heater ensures physical comfort—all of which are essential for student success. Because of our donors' generosity, my students are learning in a space that supports their academic, emotional, and physical needs. These tools may seem simple, but they have made a lasting difference in my students' daily learning experience, and I am deeply grateful for this support.","fullyFundedDate":1754546355771,"projectUrl":"project/comfort-and-focus-creating-the-best-spa/9438374/","projectTitle":"Comfort and Focus: Creating the Best Space to Learn","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Virginia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9861446_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733427781849","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9861446"},{"teacherId":9861446,"projectId":9438357,"letterContent":"The iPad funded through this project has made a significant and meaningful impact on instruction and learning in my 7th and 8th grade special education math and academic intervention classroom. Many of my students face challenges with attention, processing information, math anxiety, and confidence. The iPad, used daily with a projector, allows me to present instruction in a way that is clear, visual, structured, and responsive to their individual learning needs.\r\n\r\nUsing the iPad, I project lessons, model math strategies step by step, and guide students through problems in real time. This approach allows students to see exactly how to approach a task while listening to explanations and participating in guided practice. I am able to highlight important information, annotate problems, correct errors immediately, and adjust instruction based on student understanding. This has reduced confusion and helped students remain engaged throughout the lesson.\r\n\r\nWhile many donors may use technology at home, in the classroom the iPad serves as a powerful instructional tool rather than just a device. It helps bridge learning gaps by making abstract math concepts more concrete and accessible. Students benefit from repeated visual modeling and clear demonstrations, which are especially important for learners who struggle with memory, processing speed, or reading comprehension. The ability to slow down instruction, revisit steps, and reinforce concepts has led to stronger understanding and improved performance.\r\n\r\nStudents are most excited about seeing their work displayed on the screen and being actively involved in the lesson. They enjoy following along as problems are solved and feel encouraged when they recognize steps or contribute answers. This interactive approach has increased participation, particularly among students who were previously hesitant to engage in math instruction.\r\n\r\nSeveral students have responded especially positively to this technology, including those with learning disabilities, attention difficulties, or low confidence in math. Students who once avoided participating are now more willing to try, ask questions, and stay focused. Seeing the work modeled visually while receiving verbal guidance has helped them feel supported rather than overwhelmed. As a result, students are developing greater independence and a more positive attitude toward learning.\r\n\r\nOverall, the iPad has transformed how instruction is delivered in my classroom. It has strengthened engagement, supported diverse learning styles, and created a more inclusive and effective learning environment. My students are more confident, more motivated, and better equipped to understand challenging math concepts. This project has not only enhanced academic learning but has also helped students believe in their ability to succeed. I am deeply grateful to our donors for providing a resource that has made such a lasting difference in my students' educational experience.","fullyFundedDate":1754546355940,"projectUrl":"project/tech-for-teaching-an-ipad-for-better-le/9438357/","projectTitle":"Tech for Teaching: An iPad for Better Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Virginia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9861446_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733427781849","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9861446"},{"teacherId":9546646,"projectId":9260476,"letterContent":"The H.E.L.P. PEN – Helping Every Learner Progress resources have truly transformed our classroom! My students and I are using the new materials to support personalized learning across all subjects. Each student now has access to tools that help them write, edit, and express their ideas more confidently. The pens have been especially helpful for students who struggle with handwriting or organization—giving them a boost of independence and pride in their work.\r\n\r\nOne memorable moment was during our creative writing unit. A student who often hesitated to write because of fine motor challenges proudly shared a full-page story using the H.E.L.P. PEN. The excitement on their face—and the applause from their classmates—was priceless! Moments like that remind us why these resources matter so much.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, their reactions were priceless—wide eyes, big smiles, and lots of curiosity. They couldn't wait to try them out. Many immediately began brainstorming how they could use the pens for upcoming science projects, math problem-solving, and journal writing.\r\n\r\nNext Steps:\r\n\r\nOur next project involves using the H.E.L.P. PEN tools for a \"Learning Showcase,\" where students will present what they've discovered through self-directed projects. They'll research, write, and illustrate their findings, then present them to families and classmates. These new resources will continue to help every learner progress at their own pace—building confidence, creativity, and collaboration along the way.","fullyFundedDate":1754546352904,"projectUrl":"project/help-pen-helping-every-learner-pro/9260476/","projectTitle":"H.E.L.P. PEN – Helping Every Learner Progress","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ann","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9546646_orig.jpg?crop=480,480,x0,y54&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1715619607285","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9546646"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_82782","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":362,"numTeachers":27,"percentFrplEligible":91,"percentAsian":1,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":32,"percentIndigenous":41,"percentLatinx":22,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"7 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"13.4:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"UNCLASSIFIED","ncesMetroType":"TOWN_FRINGE"},"inStateSupporters":36.8,"schoolId":82782,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Mesa Alta Junior High School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Mesa Alta Junior High School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/new-mexico/bloomfield-school-district/mesa-alta-junior-high-school/82782"}