{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Desert Trail Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":88.0,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":6727502,"projectId":10035186,"letterContent":"Because of you, our classroom feels different. Calmer. More settled. My students walk in and know exactly where things are, and that small sense of order makes a bigger difference than I can fully put into words.\r\n\r\nOne moment has stayed with me: a student who usually struggles with transitions quietly checked how much time was left, gathered his things, and got to work — no frustration, no help needed. It was a small thing, but I felt it.\r\n\r\nFor my students with ADHD and Autism, feeling overwhelmed is a daily reality. These materials have quietly changed that — giving them the structure to feel capable and independent in ways that matter deeply.\r\n\r\nThank you for seeing my students and choosing to invest in them. That means everything to us. 💙","fullyFundedDate":1772044603856,"projectUrl":"project/helping-neurodiverse-learners-thrive-th/10035186/","projectTitle":"Helping Neurodiverse Learners Thrive Through Organization","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Arroyo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6727502_orig.jpg?crop=303,303,x0,y14&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1633485705292","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6727502"},{"teacherId":5284987,"projectId":10062236,"letterContent":"I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks for your thoughtful contribution to our classroom. Because of your generosity, we are now able to use the vacuum you provided to maintain a clean and healthy learning environment for our students.\r\n\r\nHaving a clean classroom is essential for student well-being. The vacuum allows us to regularly remove dust, dirt, and allergens from our space, which helps reduce the spread of germs and keeps the air cleaner. This is especially important in a busy classroom where students are constantly moving, learning, and collaborating together.\r\n\r\nYour support is making a real difference in our daily routines. Not only does it help create a healthier environment, but it also teaches students the importance of cleanliness and responsibility in shared spaces.\r\n\r\nWe truly appreciate your kindness and commitment to supporting our classroom. Thank you for helping us provide a safe and welcoming place for our students to learn and grow.","fullyFundedDate":1770320337947,"projectUrl":"project/keeping-our-classroom-clean/10062236/","projectTitle":"Keeping Our Classroom Clean","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Marquez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5284987_orig.jpg?crop=436,436,x0,y110&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1760857075548","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ymarquez"},{"teacherId":5284987,"projectId":10041635,"letterContent":"I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for your kindness and support in providing my students with holiday decorations from around the world, as well as much-needed cleaning supplies for our classroom.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, our classroom has been transformed into a vibrant space that celebrates cultures and traditions from across the globe. Learning about holidays around the world is so important for students, as it helps them build understanding, respect, and appreciation for different cultures. Your contributions have made these lessons come alive in a meaningful and engaging way, allowing students to connect with traditions beyond their own experiences.\r\n\r\nIn addition, the cleaning supplies you provided play a vital role in maintaining a safe and healthy learning environment. A clean classroom helps students stay focused, comfortable, and ready to learn each day, and we are incredibly thankful for your support in making that possible.\r\n\r\nYour generosity is making a lasting impact on my students, both academically and personally. Thank you for helping create a classroom where learning is joyful, inclusive, and inspiring.","fullyFundedDate":1771094176965,"projectUrl":"project/making-our-classroom-inviting-while-maki/10041635/","projectTitle":"Making our Classroom Inviting while Making Memories","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Marquez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5284987_orig.jpg?crop=436,436,x0,y110&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1760857075548","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ymarquez"},{"teacherId":6727502,"projectId":9998898,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom is bursting with excitement and positivity! When I revealed the prizes, my students' faces lit up—there were gasps, cheers, and huge smiles. One student exclaimed, \"These are so cool!\" and another said, \"I'm going to work so hard to earn one!\" Right away, everyone wanted to know how they could start earning rewards for kindness, effort, and making good choices.\r\n\r\nEvery day, the rewards help us celebrate effort, kindness, and growth. Students cheer each other on—\"You can do it! You'll earn a ticket!\"—and even those who struggle are trying harder. One student told me proudly, \"I didn't give up, and I earned one!\" These moments are building confidence and joy in our classroom.\r\n\r\nThe prizes are more than just fun—they remind my students that their effort matters. Because of you, our classroom is filled with pride, encouragement, and smiles every day. Thank you for making such a joyful difference!","fullyFundedDate":1768499729909,"projectUrl":"project/motivation-that-makes-learning-shine/9998898/","projectTitle":"Motivation That Makes Learning Shine","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Arroyo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6727502_orig.jpg?crop=303,303,x0,y14&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1633485705292","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6727502"},{"teacherId":6727502,"projectId":9998614,"letterContent":"Thanks to you, our supply closet is a reality. Now, my students rely on it every day.\r\n\r\nOne child whispered, \"Are all of these for us?\" Another smiled and said, \"Now I don't have to share a gluestick anymore!\" One of my quietest students looked up at me and said, \"I feel ready now.\"\r\n\r\nYour generosity transformed our classroom. Students grab new notebooks and pick colored folders for their trackers. In a writing lesson, every child had supplies. Instead of worrying, they focused on their stories. I will always remember their pride.\r\n\r\nYour generosity means they feel prepared and proud. You didn't just give supplies; you gave confidence and joy. Thank you for showing them they matter.","fullyFundedDate":1768499174583,"projectUrl":"project/helping-little-learners-feel-ready-to-le/9998614/","projectTitle":"Helping Little Learners Feel Ready to Learn!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Arroyo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6727502_orig.jpg?crop=303,303,x0,y14&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1633485705292","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6727502"},{"teacherId":6727502,"projectId":9973399,"letterContent":"Your generosity has transformed our classroom. When the supplies arrived, my students lit up with excitement. For many, having new pencils, crayons, notebooks, and folders was a proud moment. Even choosing a pencil or opening a notebook made them feel prepared and valued.\r\n\r\nWe used the materials right away during math and writing. I watched my students open their notebooks and write with confidence. Having their own supplies stopped daily worries and let them focus on learning.\r\n\r\nWith the supplies, daily barriers vanished. Instead of worrying about having a pencil or paper, we can focus on instruction, creativity, and growth. Our classroom feels more organized and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nThank you for giving our students more than supplies. You have given them dignity, excitement, and tools to succeed. Your generosity is felt every day in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1767928981323,"projectUrl":"project/little-hands-big-dreams-supplies-to-fi/9973399/","projectTitle":"Little Hands, Big Dreams: Supplies to Finish Strong","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Arroyo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6727502_orig.jpg?crop=303,303,x0,y14&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1633485705292","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6727502"},{"teacherId":6727502,"projectId":9973392,"letterContent":"I can't begin to express how much your generosity has meant to our classroom. Because of you, my students now have sensory tools like noise-canceling headphones, textured fidgets, and a weighted vest—and the change has been nothing short of amazing.\r\n\r\nFor students who struggle with sensory processing or focus, everyday classroom sounds can feel overwhelming. The headphones you provided help block out the chaos, letting them find calm and enjoy being part of our activities—sometimes for the first time.\r\n\r\nIt moves me to see students choose a fidget on their own, or quietly ask for headphones when it gets too loud. That kind of self-awareness and bravery is truly powerful. Instead of feeling lost or frustrated, they now have ways to stay engaged and proud of themselves.\r\n\r\nThe most beautiful part is seeing their confidence bloom. One second grader told me, \"When I wear the headphones, my brain feels quiet, and I can think.\" Another said the weighted vest \"feels safe, like a hug.\" Moments like these remind me of what a difference you make.\r\n\r\nBecause of your kindness, my students are learning not just academics, but also how to understand and speak up for what they need. You are helping them feel capable, valued, and seen. I am endlessly grateful for you.\r\n\r\nThank you, from all of us, for making this possible. Your generosity is truly changing lives.","fullyFundedDate":1767633029559,"projectUrl":"project/creating-calm-spaces-for-incredible-mind/9973392/","projectTitle":"Creating Calm Spaces for Incredible Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Arroyo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6727502_orig.jpg?crop=303,303,x0,y14&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1633485705292","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6727502"},{"teacherId":9994351,"projectId":10101314,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting our project, \"Powering STEM Learning: Headphones, Chargers, & Clean Classroom Supplies.\" Because of your generosity, my fourth graders now have the tools they need to fully engage in daily technology-based learning. The headphones allow students to focus during I-Ready lessons, STEM research, and small-group rotations without distractions. Chargers ensure our devices stay powered throughout the day, preventing interruptions during important instructional time. These tools help maximize every minute of learning.\r\n\r\nThe cleaning supplies, including Clorox wipes and Kleenex, have also made a tremendous difference in maintaining a healthy classroom environment. With students sharing devices and working collaboratively, keeping materials clean is essential. A clean space helps reduce the spread of germs and keeps students in school, ready to learn. My students take pride in helping wipe down their work areas and devices, building responsibility and care for shared materials.\r\n\r\nWhat has been most exciting is seeing students feel empowered when they can independently log in, complete their digital lessons, and fully participate in STEM activities without technical issues. Students who benefit from audio support, especially in reading and math, are now more confident and engaged. Your generosity has helped create a focused, healthy, and technology-ready classroom where all students can succeed. Thank you for investing in our learning community!","fullyFundedDate":1771690065215,"projectUrl":"project/powering-stem-learning-headphones-char/10101314/","projectTitle":"Powering STEM Learning: Headphones, Chargers, & Clean Classroom Supplies","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Gutierrez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9994351_orig.jpg?crop=1242,1242,x0,y74&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1758660220446","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9994351"},{"teacherId":9994351,"projectId":10070767,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting our classroom through this hygiene project. Because of your generosity, every student in my class received essential hygiene items such as deodorant, toothbrushes, and toothpaste. These may seem like small supplies, but they have already made a big difference in our daily routine and in my students' confidence.\r\n\r\nFor many of my fourth graders, having their own personal hygiene items helps them start the day feeling prepared, comfortable, and ready to learn. Students are more confident participating in group work, reading aloud, and engaging with classmates when they feel clean and cared for. It has also helped us build important conversations around responsibility, self-care, and healthy habits that support both physical and emotional well-being.\r\n\r\nYour donation has helped create a more positive and supportive classroom environment where students can focus on learning instead of worrying about basic needs. My students were truly grateful and excited to receive these supplies, and they felt proud to have items they could call their own.\r\n\r\nOn behalf of my entire class, thank you for investing in our students and showing them that their community cares about them. Your kindness has had a meaningful impact on our classroom each and every day.","fullyFundedDate":1770051258773,"projectUrl":"project/caring-for-students-beyond-the-classroom/10070767/","projectTitle":"Caring for Students Beyond the Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Gutierrez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9994351_orig.jpg?crop=1242,1242,x0,y74&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1758660220446","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9994351"},{"teacherId":5284987,"projectId":9860522,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for providing our students with the inflatable basketball hoop and Wilson basketball for sport time. Your generosity has brought excitement, energy, and meaningful learning opportunities into our classroom.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, students are able to stay physically active while developing important basketball skills such as dribbling, shooting, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Physical activity plays a vital role in helping students stay healthy, focused, and ready to learn, and this new equipment makes exercise both fun and engaging.\r\n\r\nOur students are especially excited about the opportunity to compete against other classes. Having the proper materials gives them the confidence and advantage they need to practice, improve, and be successful. Beyond the games themselves, they are learning perseverance, cooperation, and leadership—skills that will benefit them both on and off the court.\r\n\r\nYour kindness has made a direct and positive impact on our students. We are truly grateful for your continued support and for helping create opportunities that inspire growth, health, and teamwork.","fullyFundedDate":1763505186432,"projectUrl":"project/lets-practice-sport-time/9860522/","projectTitle":"Let's Practice Sport Time!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Marquez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5284987_orig.jpg?crop=436,436,x0,y110&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1760857075548","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ymarquez"},{"teacherId":5284987,"projectId":9844147,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support in providing fun and engaging resources for our students. Because of your kindness, math and science lessons have become exciting, hands-on experiences that truly bring STEM learning to life.\r\n\r\nThe items you provided have allowed students to explore concepts through play, problem-solving, and creativity. They are not only learning important math and science skills, but they are also discovering that learning can be fun and enjoyable. Students are more engaged, eager to participate, and excited to challenge themselves during STEM activities.","fullyFundedDate":1763573166907,"projectUrl":"project/learning-and-excitement-without-limits/9844147/","projectTitle":"Learning and Excitement Without Limits","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Marquez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5284987_orig.jpg?crop=436,436,x0,y110&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1760857075548","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ymarquez"},{"teacherId":5284987,"projectId":10011985,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support and for helping provide resources that made our Friendship Day (also known as Valentine's Day) such a meaningful and memorable experience for our students.\r\n\r\nBecause of your kindness, our students were able to enjoy hands-on activities that focused on learning about friendship, kindness, and building positive relationships with one another. The props you helped provide were a huge hit at our photo booth, giving students a fun way to express themselves while creating lasting memories with their friends. The smiles, laughter, and excitement throughout the day truly showed how special the experience was for them.\r\n\r\nIn addition, the other items you donated allowed students to engage in activities that encouraged teamwork, communication, and connection—important skills that support both their social and academic growth. These moments helped strengthen friendships and created a positive, inclusive environment where students felt supported and valued.\r\n\r\nWe are incredibly grateful for your generosity and commitment to our students. Your support made a lasting impact, and the joy it brought to our classroom will be remembered for a long time.","fullyFundedDate":1768446814238,"projectUrl":"project/friendship-day/10011985/","projectTitle":"Friendship Day","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Marquez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5284987_orig.jpg?crop=436,436,x0,y110&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1760857075548","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ymarquez"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_62589","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":471,"numTeachers":47,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":2,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":95,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 6","studentTeacherRatio":"10.0:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"RURAL","ncesMetroType":"RURAL_DISTANT"},"inStateSupporters":12.0,"schoolId":62589,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Desert Trail Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Desert Trail Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/new-mexico/gadsden-independent-school-district/desert-trail-elementary/62589"}
Join the 1,213 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Desert Trail Elementary School is
a rural public school
in Chaparral, New Mexico that is part of Gadsden Independent School District.
It serves 471 students
in grades K - 6 with a student/teacher ratio of 10.0:1.
Its teachers have had 591 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Share and help support Desert Trail Elementary School
Boost support for this school! Share this page with friends, family, alumni, and fellow supporters. Every connection helps teachers get the supplies they need and shows how much your community cares about its students.
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Every donation funds real needs — pencils, books, lab equipment, art supplies, and more — helping students learn and thrive. We ship supplies directly to the school, and you'll see exactly where each dollar goes.
of students receive free or reduced price lunch
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
Source: the National Center for Education Statistics
95%
of students are Black, Latino, Native
American, or Asian
Data about school demographics comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. The numbers in this chart may not add up to 100% because of limitations in the available data.
Desert Trail Elementary School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Apr 9, 2026
DonorsChoose makes it easy for anyone to help a teacher in need, moving us closer to a nation where students
in every community have the tools and experiences they need for a great education.
Desert Trail Elementary School
$264,422
raised using DonorsChoose
591
projects
funded
28
teachers
funded
1,213
donors
78
projects
for
basic supplies
147
projects for
technology
27
projects for
books
52
projects
for
art supplies
Desert Trail Elementary School has received support from
145 individuals from New Mexico and
1,068 individuals out-of-state.