{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Edward Williams Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":32.1,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":2816217,"projectId":9860498,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding this project. I teach an incredible group of special needs scholars in a Title I school, where many of my students face challenges both in and out of the classroom. Your generosity ensures they have the tools they need to learn, grow, and thrive.\r\n\r\nFrom the moment these materials arrived, my students were eager to use them. We have already begun creating visuals, task cards, and classroom supports, and I can see a noticeable difference in their engagement and confidence. The laminator, laminating sheets, and paper cutter have allowed us to build durable, hands-on resources that my students can use again and again—without fear of them being damaged.\r\n\r\nThanks to you, I can now preserve essential visuals like behavior charts, communication boards, and vocabulary cards, as well as create reusable learning materials that promote independence and support fine motor and sensory needs. My students love seeing their work displayed around the classroom, and now their creations can be showcased proudly all year long.\r\n\r\nYour kindness is making a lasting impact—literally and figuratively. You are helping shape a more accessible, organized, and empowering learning environment for every child in our class. We are deeply grateful for your support and for believing in our students' potential. Your generosity means the world to us.","fullyFundedDate":1762267561030,"projectUrl":"project/protecting-our-work-a-classroom-laminat/9860498/","projectTitle":"Protecting Our Work: A Classroom Laminating Station for Special Learners!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ohannessian","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2816217_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1748911481047","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mshoros"},{"teacherId":2816217,"projectId":9814428,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding this project and supporting my special needs students. Your generosity has made an immediate and meaningful impact in our classroom. From the moment the materials arrived, my students were excited and eager to use them. We have been using everything every day since, and I am already seeing a positive difference in their engagement, independence, and confidence.\r\n\r\nThe laser pointer has especially transformed our lessons. It provides clear visual support and makes teaching so much easier. My students love coming up to the board to use it — it makes them feel confident, proud, and even like the teacher for a moment. Seeing their faces light up has been incredible.\r\n\r\nYour support means more than you know. These tools help my students access technology in ways that truly match their learning needs. They are typing more comfortably, navigating devices more independently, presenting with confidence, and staying organized with their materials. You have opened doors that would not have been possible without your generosity.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students, for investing in their success, and for making a real difference in our classroom. You are amazing, and we are beyond grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1761674256557,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-students-through-technology/9814428/","projectTitle":"Empowering Students Through Technology: Tools for Presentation and Creation","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ohannessian","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2816217_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1748911481047","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mshoros"},{"teacherId":2816217,"projectId":9225218,"letterContent":"I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for your generous support of our classroom writing center.\r\n\r\nThanks to your kindness, we were able to transform a corner of our classroom into a calm, comfortable, and engaging space for writing. We received the dry erase boards, whiteboards, Expo markers with storage, and the cozy floor pillows that we had hoped for.\r\n\r\nThese resources made a tremendous difference for my students. The whiteboards provided a visual and hands-on way for them to brainstorm, draft, and revise their writing, which especially benefited our students with special needs. The pillows created a welcoming and supportive environment where students felt comfortable sitting and focusing on their work.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, our students grew as writers and communicators. They felt proud of their progress and more confident in sharing their ideas. Your generosity truly helped them shine.\r\n\r\nThank you again for investing in their learning and in their future.","fullyFundedDate":1755716880954,"projectUrl":"project/writing-supplies-for-low-income-special/9225218/","projectTitle":"Writing Supplies for Low-Income Special Needs Scholars","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ohannessian","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2816217_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1748911481047","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mshoros"},{"teacherId":2816217,"projectId":9366440,"letterContent":"I am writing to extend my heartfelt thanks for your generous support of our educational project aimed at enriching the learning experiences of my special needs students.\r\n\r\nBecause of your contribution, our class was able to delve into the fascinating world of volcanoes through a hands-on, collaborative approach that catered to diverse learning styles.\r\n\r\nOur students worked in small groups to build model volcanoes, which allowed them to actively explore geological concepts. This interactive method not only enhanced their understanding of volcanic activity but also fostered teamwork, critical thinking, and fine motor skills.\r\n\r\nYour generosity provided the essential kits, books, and other educational resources that made this project both tangible and exciting for our students. The experiences they gained sparked curiosity and a genuine passion for science and exploration.\r\n\r\nWe are truly grateful for your support in creating an inclusive and engaging learning environment. The positive impact of your generosity will continue to resonate in our classroom for years to come.\r\n\r\nThank you again for making this incredible experience possible.","fullyFundedDate":1750255563441,"projectUrl":"project/erupting-curiosity-hands-on-volcano-ex/9366440/","projectTitle":"“Erupting Curiosity: Hands-On Volcano Exploration for Special Learners”","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ohannessian","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2816217_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1748911481047","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mshoros"},{"teacherId":10235775,"projectId":9671009,"letterContent":"You have helped me create a wonderful and welcoming environment for students to actively learn in. I truly appreciate all the donations and thank you from the bottom of my heart. When my students saw what had been donated, the smiles that were on their faces were so big. \r\n\r\nWe are going to be working on projects for Social Studies and Science to get them interested in the world around us. Students engagement with the donated materials will help them get a real world feel and help them navigate to become productive community members. \r\n\r\nTo contribute to such a wonderful community as Mt Vernon is to help future generations of students become the best learners they can be. We want to inspire future engineers and politicians who can help the world become a better place.","fullyFundedDate":1758468665151,"projectUrl":"project/basics-for-a-low-income-classroom/9671009/","projectTitle":"Basics for a Low Income Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Terchila","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10235775"},{"teacherId":2816217,"projectId":9348959,"letterContent":"Thank you sincerely for your generous support of our DonorsChoose project. In our Title I school, many students face challenges that impact their ability to communicate effectively. Your contribution allows us to provide essential resources that foster communication, confidence, and inclusion for all learners.\r\n\r\nWith your support, we are acquiring conversation starter kits that include visual cards, prompts, and interactive activities designed for students with diverse needs. These tools are now being used during group discussions, one-on-one sessions, and social skills workshops. Students are engaging in role-playing, collaborative storytelling, and expressive games that help them strengthen their language abilities, build social connections, and develop self-expression.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, our classroom is becoming a space where every voice is valued and celebrated. Students are gaining the skills and confidence to express their thoughts, feelings, and ideas in meaningful ways. These resources are not only improving communication, but also creating a more inclusive and supportive learning environment.\r\n\r\nYour gift is making a lasting impact in the lives of our students, and we are deeply grateful for your belief in their potential. Together, we are empowering them to connect with the world around them and to be heard.","fullyFundedDate":1754252027526,"projectUrl":"project/inclusive-conversation-starters-for-dive/9348959/","projectTitle":"Inclusive Conversation Starters for Diverse Learners in Title I School","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ohannessian","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2816217_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1748911481047","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mshoros"},{"teacherId":9283974,"projectId":8834067,"letterContent":"Thank you!!!!!\r\nThe materials purchased in our \"Communication and Executive Functioning for Our Youngest Special Education Students\" project accomplished SO much!!!!!\r\nFrom classroom management to communication boards, the resources provided had a World of impact for our students! \r\nSo many aspects supported! \r\nA- taping the floor for colorful separation of classroom spaces, adhesive velcro to label classroom items\r\nB- clear tape over visual schedules atop each students desk, label cubbies for student belongings\r\nC-printing & laminating communication boards to learn core vocabulary\r\nD-Clear bins for storage \r\nE- hanging display for completed work \r\nF- bulletin boards/sharing student achievements \r\nG- dry erase markers & clear page protector for practicing writing \r\nH- rainbow color film over fluorescent/harsh lighting\r\nI- sight words printed, laminated, onto ring for practice \r\nThank You!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!\r\nK-","fullyFundedDate":1734906995816,"projectUrl":"project/communication-and-executive-functioning/8834067/","projectTitle":"Communication and Executive Functioning for Our Youngest Special Education Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Speech & Language","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9283974_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1695056022184","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/speechlanguagehollandews"},{"teacherId":2816217,"projectId":9332697,"letterContent":"We are sincerely grateful for your incredible generosity in supporting our DonorsChoose project! Thanks to your kindness, our special‑needs students in a Title I school now have the opportunity to experience the butterfly life cycle through hands-on, sensory-rich learning.\r\n\r\nYour gift includes:\r\n\r\nA butterfly observation house\r\n\r\nLive caterpillars to nurture\r\n\r\nButterfly-attracting plants for our school garden\r\n\r\nYour kindness means the world to us 💛. It brings joy, curiosity, and wonder to our students—fostering a deeper understanding of science, life cycles, and environmental responsibility \r\n\r\nAlready, our students are buzzing with excitement:\r\n\r\n\"I helped feed the caterpillar—then I saw it fly away. I feel like I helped it!\" — 6th grader\r\n\r\nThis project goes far beyond science—it nurtures sensory engagement, environmental stewardship, patience, and connection to nature. These experiences are particularly meaningful for our diverse learners, offering visual, experiential, and emotional growth in every butterfly encounter.\r\n\r\nFrom all of us—teacher and students alike—your kindness truly means the world to us. Thank you for making this magical, educational journey possible. We are so grateful for the memories and growth you've planted here and in our garden.","fullyFundedDate":1747484261159,"projectUrl":"project/observing-the-butterfly-life-cycle-and-p/9332697/","projectTitle":"Observing the Butterfly Life Cycle and Protecting Our Environment","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ohannessian","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2816217_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1748911481047","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mshoros"},{"teacherId":4376821,"projectId":9088861,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, my students are thriving with their new iPad pens and headphones! These tools have truly transformed our learning environment. The students are so excited to use their iPad pens during lessons—it's boosted their creativity and helped them stay more focused and engaged. The headphone sets have been especially helpful during independent work time, allowing each child to stay on task without distracting others.\r\n\r\nThe iPad pen organizer has also made a big difference. Before, it was easy for pens to get misplaced, but now everything has a home, and students are learning to take responsibility for their materials.\r\n\r\nOverall, this project has made learning more fun, more organized, and more peaceful in our classroom. Thank you for making this possible! My students and I are beyond grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1739574733292,"projectUrl":"project/enhancing-learning-through-organization/9088861/","projectTitle":"\"Enhancing Learning Through Organization & Technology!\"","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Lowe","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4376821_orig.png?crop=611,611,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1630001873227","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4376821"},{"teacherId":2816217,"projectId":9233982,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous support in funding our class project and providing essential supplies. Your kindness has made a significant difference in our classroom.\r\n\r\nWith the new materials, my students have become more engaged and confident in their learning. The Expo markers have been particularly helpful; students use them on their individual whiteboards during math lessons, allowing for interactive problem-solving and immediate feedback. This hands-on approach not only makes learning more enjoyable but also enhances their understanding of mathematical concepts. \r\n\r\nHaving a functioning pencil sharpener has streamlined our classroom routines. Students can now quickly sharpen their pencils without disruptions, keeping them focused and minimizing downtime.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, replenishing our previously lacking supplies has completed our classroom, ensuring that every student has the necessary tools to participate fully in their education. This comprehensive support has not only met practical needs but has also inspired and motivated our young learners.\r\n\r\nWe are deeply grateful for your generosity and belief in the importance of education. Your support has created a more enriching learning environment and has positively impacted each student's educational journey.","fullyFundedDate":1746214754386,"projectUrl":"project/school-supplies-for-low-income-special-n/9233982/","projectTitle":"School Supplies for Low Income Special Needs Scholars","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ohannessian","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2816217_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1748911481047","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mshoros"},{"teacherId":2816217,"projectId":9222945,"letterContent":"I am deeply grateful for your generous support in fully funding our classroom project aimed at enhancing executive functioning skills and fostering independence among our special needs students. Your contribution will provide essential resources such as labeled storage solutions, visual schedules, and task management tools, creating a structured environment that promotes self-regulation and autonomy.\r\n\r\nIn our Title I school, many students face unique challenges that impact their ability to manage tasks, follow schedules, and maintain focus. The resources you've helped provide will make a significant difference in their daily learning experiences, enabling them to develop critical skills for academic success and everyday life.\r\n\r\nYour kindness and commitment to education have a lasting impact on our students' lives. We are excited to integrate these tools into our classroom and witness the positive changes they will bring.\r\n\r\nThank you once again for your support and for believing in our mission.","fullyFundedDate":1745362883651,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-organization-and-autonomy-for/9222945/","projectTitle":"Classroom Organization and Autonomy for Special Needs Scholars!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ohannessian","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2816217_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1748911481047","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mshoros"},{"teacherId":2816217,"projectId":9134903,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project, Plants and Responsibility for Title One Special Needs Scholars! Your generosity brings more than just greenery into our classroom—it brings life, learning, and a sense of calm that our students truly benefit from.\r\n\r\nThese plants not only beautify our space, but they also provide incredible opportunities for hands-on learning. Our students are planting, nurturing, and studying them, gaining valuable lessons in responsibility, biology, and environmental science along the way. The act of caring for something living is helping build their confidence and sense of ownership in the classroom.\r\n\r\nBeyond academics, the presence of plants contributes to a more peaceful, positive atmosphere—something especially important for our special needs learners. They help purify the air and create a calming environment that supports focus, emotional regulation, and overall well-being.\r\n\r\nThanks to your donation, we are creating a more enriching, supportive learning space that meets both the academic and emotional needs of our scholars. Your kindness is planting the seeds for growth in every sense of the word.","fullyFundedDate":1744033076785,"projectUrl":"project/plants-and-responsibility-for-title-one/9134903/","projectTitle":"Plants and Responsibility for Title One Special Needs Scholars","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ohannessian","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2816217_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1748911481047","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mshoros"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_23283","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":400,"numTeachers":30,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":74,"percentWhite":2,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":20,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"13.3:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":67.9,"schoolId":23283,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Edward Williams Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Edward Williams Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/new-york/mount-vernon-city-school-district/edward-williams-elementary-school/23283"}