{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Edward Williams Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":32.1,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":2816217,"projectId":10130570,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding our LEGO STEM kits! Because of your generosity, my students now have access to hands-on, meaningful learning experiences that are already making a powerful difference in our classroom.\r\n\r\nI teach an incredible group of special needs scholars at a Title I school, where many students face both academic and social challenges. These materials are helping us grow in so many ways. Through building, designing, and experimenting, my students are strengthening their STEM skills while also developing communication and collaboration.\r\n\r\nYour donation is helping us practice the Five Cs every day: Critical Thinking, Creativity, Collaboration, Communication, and Citizenship. Students are working together, sharing ideas, solving problems, and learning how to support one another as a team. It's truly amazing to watch their confidence grow as their ideas come to life.\r\n\r\nThese LEGO STEM kits are more than just materials—they are tools that are opening doors for my students. They are becoming a permanent part of our classroom, allowing for continued exploration, independence, and joy in learning.\r\n\r\nThis project would not have been possible without your kindness and support. Thank you for believing in my students and investing in their future.","fullyFundedDate":1774461287282,"projectUrl":"project/lego-stem-kits-for-special-needs-scholar/10130570/","projectTitle":"LEGO STEM Kits for Special Needs Scholars!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ohannessian","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2816217_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1767056842805","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mshoros"},{"teacherId":3900083,"projectId":10042055,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, Positive Choices, Positive Rewards is now fully funded, and our students are beyond excited. They can't wait to log into our new virtual PBIS store and begin redeeming their earned points for prizes they have worked so hard to earn. Every click represents a positive choice, a moment of self-control, and a step toward becoming a responsible and respectful member of our school community.\r\n\r\nThis project has transformed how students see their behavior. Instead of focusing on mistakes, they are now motivated by growth, effort, and positive reinforcement. The PBIS store has created a culture where students cheer one another on, celebrate good decisions, and feel proud of their accomplishments.\r\n\r\nYour support did more than purchase prizes. It helped build confidence, encourage accountability, and create an environment where positivity is seen, felt, and rewarded every single day. Thank you for investing in our students and helping them believe that their choices truly matter.","fullyFundedDate":1769007978472,"projectUrl":"project/prizes-for-our-wildcats/10042055/","projectTitle":"Prizes for Our Wildcats","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. LeFever","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3900083_orig.png?crop=537,537,x211,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1589197212305","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/tlefever"},{"teacherId":3900083,"projectId":10041951,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our students now have access to take-home snacks and pantry items that provide comfort, stability, and nourishment beyond the classroom. For students experiencing food insecurity, knowing they have food to take home reduces anxiety and allows them to focus more fully on learning.\r\n\r\nWhen these items became available, students responded with gratitude and relief. Having access to non-perishable foods for evenings and weekends helps meet an essential need that often goes unseen. This support allows students to come to school more focused, energized, and ready to engage.\r\n\r\nOur students are resilient and hardworking, but hunger can make learning feel overwhelming. By addressing this basic need, we are removing a major barrier to academic success. Teachers have noticed improved concentration, attendance, and overall engagement when students feel secure about their needs being met.\r\n\r\nThis project does more than provide food. It sends a clear message to our students that they are seen, cared for, and supported as whole individuals. Your generosity helps create a school environment rooted in compassion, dignity, and equity, ensuring students have what they need to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1769018527971,"projectUrl":"project/snacks-pantry-support-for-our-students/10041951/","projectTitle":"Snacks & Pantry Support for Our Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. LeFever","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3900083_orig.png?crop=537,537,x211,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1589197212305","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/tlefever"},{"teacherId":3900083,"projectId":10038768,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our students are experiencing care in a very real and meaningful way. The items from this project, warm coats, sturdy sneakers, non-perishable food, and essential toiletries, have already begun to make a difference in our school community.\r\n\r\nMany of our students in the Mount Vernon City School District face challenges related to housing instability and limited access to basic necessities. Some arrive at school hungry, cold, or wearing shoes that are worn beyond use. Having these essential items available allows us to respond quickly and discreetly, ensuring students receive support with dignity and respect.\r\n\r\nThe impact goes beyond meeting physical needs. When students are warm, nourished, and comfortable, they are better able to focus in class, participate confidently, and engage with their peers. Attendance improves, distractions decrease, and students feel a stronger sense of belonging and care within their school.\r\n\r\nThis project also sends a powerful message to our students: they are seen, valued, and supported. Your support helps remove barriers that interfere with learning and creates an environment where students can show up each day ready to grow, succeed, and believe in their potential. Thank you for investing in our students and helping them move forward with confidence and hope.","fullyFundedDate":1768790879513,"projectUrl":"project/supporting-our-students-basic-needs/10038768/","projectTitle":"Supporting Our Students’ Basic Needs","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. LeFever","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3900083_orig.png?crop=537,537,x211,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1589197212305","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/tlefever"},{"teacherId":4376821,"projectId":9948759,"letterContent":"My students truly enjoy using the tactile materials provided through DonorsChoose. I use sand, playdough, and molding clay during phonics instruction to give students a hands-on way to practice letters, sounds, and building words. Since receiving these resources, I have seen greater engagement during phonics, and more students are excited and interested in participating in their learning. These materials make lessons more meaningful and accessible, especially for young learners who learn best through touch and movement. I have also noticed improvement in their phonics skills and confidence. This project has made a positive difference in both student motivation and academic growth.","fullyFundedDate":1765163434897,"projectUrl":"project/read-build-create-sensory-tools-for-s/9948759/","projectTitle":"Read, Build, Create! Sensory Tools for Super Readers","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":10073843,"letterContent":"We extend our sincere gratitude for your generous support in funding our digital portfolio project. Your investment in our classroom has already begun to make a meaningful and lasting impact on our students.\r\n\r\nAs soon as the document scanner arrived, we eagerly began putting it to use. Our students immediately started scanning their work, carefully selecting pieces they are proud of and organizing them into personalized digital portfolios. It has been incredible to watch their excitement as they see their efforts come to life in a new and meaningful way.\r\n\r\nIn our special education classroom within a Title I school district, opportunities like this are truly transformative. Many of our students benefit greatly from being able to visually track their growth and celebrate their accomplishments. By creating digital portfolios, students are not only preserving their hard work, but also building a sense of pride, ownership, and confidence in their learning.\r\n\r\nThese portfolios will be saved onto individual flash drives, allowing each student to carry a collection of their achievements with them throughout their academic journey. This will serve as a powerful tool for IEP meetings, parent conferences, and future planning, while also giving students a tangible way to showcase their progress and capabilities.\r\n\r\nYour generosity is an investment in our students' futures. You have provided them with the opportunity to see their growth, tell their stories, and recognize their own success. That is a gift that extends far beyond the classroom.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our students and for helping to create something so meaningful. Your support truly makes a difference, and we are incredibly grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1773428398234,"projectUrl":"project/digital-portfolios-preserving-and-celeb/10073843/","projectTitle":"Digital Portfolios: Preserving and Celebrating Student Work","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ohannessian","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2816217_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1767056842805","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mshoros"},{"teacherId":2816217,"projectId":10087241,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding our wellness drive project. Your generosity has made it possible for our students to step outside of themselves and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, our students are not only collecting and organizing essential hygiene and cleaning supplies, but they are also learning what it truly means to care for a community. In a Title I, special education setting, opportunities like this are incredibly powerful. This project allows students to build empathy, responsibility, and teamwork while recognizing their own ability to create positive change.\r\n\r\nAlthough the materials from this project are not staying within our classroom, the impact on our students is lasting. They are taking ownership, showing leadership, and developing a deeper understanding of kindness, dignity, and service. They are learning that even small acts can have a big impact on someone's physical and emotional well-being.\r\n\r\nYour support helps provide essential items to community members facing hardship while also empowering students to see themselves as helpers and advocates. That is a lesson they will carry with them far beyond this experience.\r\n\r\nWe are truly grateful for your kindness and for believing in our students. Thank you for helping us make a difference.","fullyFundedDate":1771624694733,"projectUrl":"project/wellness-drive-students-giving-back-to/10087241/","projectTitle":"Wellness Drive: Students Giving Back to Their Community","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ohannessian","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2816217_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1767056842805","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mshoros"},{"teacherId":2816217,"projectId":10003060,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding this incredible project for my Title I 6th grade special education scholars. Because of your generosity, my students now have walkie-talkies that are already transforming their school experience.\r\n\r\nThese devices have given my students a new sense of autonomy and confidence. They are so excited to use them each day! The walkie-talkies allow them to move more independently throughout the building, navigate transitions, participate in outdoor activities, and engage in group projects while still knowing they are supported and connected to me at all times.\r\n\r\nWhat may seem like a small tool has made a big impact. It provides them with a sense of freedom and independence, while also reinforcing safety, communication skills, and self-advocacy. Watching their confidence grow has been truly rewarding.\r\n\r\nWe are incredibly grateful for your kindness and belief in our classroom. We truly could not have done this without you. Thank you for making such a meaningful difference in the lives of my students.","fullyFundedDate":1770997326070,"projectUrl":"project/walkie-talkies-for-title-i-special-needs/10003060/","projectTitle":"Walkie Talkies for Title I Special Needs Scholars","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ohannessian","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2816217_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1767056842805","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mshoros"},{"teacherId":6810347,"projectId":8417462,"letterContent":"Thank you for giving my students the tool they need. It has allowed for ease in the classroom where students have forgotten their chromebooks. They also have been able to access apps with ease as well. It has made a difference in both math and ela. Students practice fluency during math and play learning games. I am able to add books and assess students during ELA. I was able to accomplish a lot with this new tool in my classroom. A special thank you to Young Sheldon NBC for helping me reach my funding goal! It is truly appreciated.","fullyFundedDate":1716559412445,"projectUrl":"project/ipad-in-stem/8417462/","projectTitle":"iPad in STEM!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. DiSapia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6810347"},{"teacherId":2816217,"projectId":10027351,"letterContent":"I would like to extend my deepest and most sincere gratitude for your extremely generous support in funding our project, Care First: Supporting Students Beyond the Classroom. Your kindness has made an immediate and profound difference in the daily lives of our students, and we are truly humbled by your compassion.\r\n\r\nAs temperatures in New York dropped to just 5 degrees, the items you provided became not only helpful, but absolutely essential. Our students were able to take what they needed right away, and their responses were filled with gratitude, relief, and happiness. It was incredibly moving to witness how quickly your donation brought comfort and reassurance during such harsh winter conditions.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, students had access to warm clothing, hygiene supplies, and snacks at the exact moment they needed them most. Many students were able to enjoy snacks during the school day when they were hungry, and others were able to take items home to support their families beyond the classroom. These resources offered dignity, care, and security—reminding students that they are valued and supported.\r\n\r\nFor our special needs students in particular, meeting basic needs is a critical foundation for learning. When students feel safe, comfortable, and cared for, they are better able to regulate emotions, reduce stress, and fully engage in their education. Your support has removed barriers that could otherwise prevent them from focusing and thriving academically.\r\n\r\nThank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for believing in our students and for helping us create a school environment where care comes first. Your donation truly means the world to us, and the impact of your generosity will be felt every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1768680670918,"projectUrl":"project/care-first-supporting-students-beyond-t/10027351/","projectTitle":"Care First: Supporting Students Beyond the Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ohannessian","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2816217_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1767056842805","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mshoros"},{"teacherId":3900083,"projectId":9758140,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, the Cool School Supplies project has made an incredible difference for our students. When the boxes arrived, students were amazed to see brand-new notebooks, colorful pens, art supplies, and tools they could truly call their own. For many of our kids, having fresh, high-quality supplies made them feel prepared, valued, and excited to learn.\r\n\r\nWe were also able to place some of the materials in our school store, allowing students to earn and redeem supplies through our PBIS program. This made the rewards even more meaningful because students could choose items they actually wanted and needed.\r\n\r\nWe saw an immediate shift in engagement. Students were more eager to write, draw, organize their work, and take pride in their assignments. Something as simple as having the right materials gave them confidence and a sense of ownership over their learning.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, our students are walking into class equipped, motivated, and ready to succeed. Your support did more than provide supplies. It helped create a positive learning environment where every child feels capable and supported. Thank you for investing in our students and helping them show up every day ready to do their best.","fullyFundedDate":1766963441776,"projectUrl":"project/cool-school-supplies/9758140/","projectTitle":"Cool School Supplies","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. LeFever","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3900083_orig.png?crop=537,537,x211,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1589197212305","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/tlefever"},{"teacherId":3900083,"projectId":9758845,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, the Building Future Innovators project has come to life in our school, and the impact on our students has been immediate and powerful. When the materials arrived, the excitement was contagious. Students gathered around the boxes, eager to explore the new STEM kits, building sets, and innovation tools that they had only seen in pictures before.\r\n\r\nAs they began opening and using the materials, their curiosity took over. We saw students collaborating, problem-solving, and experimenting in ways that don't always happen in a traditional classroom setting. Kids who are often quiet became leaders. Others who struggle academically lit up when they realized they could design, build, and create something of their own.\r\n\r\nThese resources are not just toys. They are tools that spark imagination, confidence, and critical thinking. Because of you, our students now have hands-on opportunities to see themselves as engineers, programmers, designers, and future innovators. Thank you for believing in our kids and investing in their potential.","fullyFundedDate":1767212762973,"projectUrl":"project/building-future-innovators/9758845/","projectTitle":"Building Future Innovators","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. LeFever","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3900083_orig.png?crop=537,537,x211,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1589197212305","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/tlefever"}],"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"}