{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Academy for Excellence Through the Arts","outOfStateSupporters":9.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":5632495,"projectId":9559968,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous support of our project, \"Helping Students Hear, Learn, and Succeed!\" Your kindness and commitment are making a real and meaningful impact on our students.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, students now have improved access to the tools they need to hear instruction clearly, stay engaged, and fully participate in their learning. These resources help create an inclusive classroom environment where all students can focus, learn with confidence, and achieve their best.\r\n\r\nYour generosity directly supports student success and helps remove barriers to learning, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive academically and socially. We are incredibly grateful for your investment in our school and in the futures of our students.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our students and for helping them hear, learn, and succeed every day.","fullyFundedDate":1764723892719,"projectUrl":"project/helping-students-hear-learn-and-succee/9559968/","projectTitle":"Helping Students Hear, Learn, and Succeed!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bates","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5632495_orig.jpg?crop=578,578,x501,y682&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1557070688085","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5632495"},{"teacherId":5632495,"projectId":9805363,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our project, \"Art Materials and Storage to Spark Creativity in the Library.\" Your contribution has made a meaningful difference in our school library!\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, our library is now better equipped with art materials and organized storage that invites creativity, exploration, and hands-on learning. Students are able to access materials easily, work collaboratively, and express themselves in new and exciting ways within a welcoming library space.\r\n\r\nThe library is more than just a place for book. It is a creative hub where imagination and learning come together. Your support helps ensure that all students have the opportunity to create, experiment, and feel inspired during the school day.\r\n\r\nWe are truly grateful for your investment in our students and for helping us foster a vibrant, creative learning environment. Thank you for believing in the power of art, libraries, and student creativity.","fullyFundedDate":1760727200048,"projectUrl":"project/art-materials-and-storage-to-spark-creat/9805363/","projectTitle":"Art Materials and Storage to Spark Creativity in the Library","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bates","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5632495_orig.jpg?crop=578,578,x501,y682&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1557070688085","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5632495"},{"teacherId":9797225,"projectId":9844555,"letterContent":"On behalf of Pre-K 205 (students and Mrs. Rocio) I would like to express our sincere gratitude for helping fund our project. \r\n\r\nTo our surprise, the light table arrived just in time for our new study (the study in which it relates to) - Light! We immediately put it together and placed it in our Discovery area. \r\n\r\nAs students were at recess, I took the time to set up the table and surprised them when they returned. As students walked into our classroom, their reactions said it all! The facial expressions and along with their words was one that should have been recorded! Students were shocked, confused yet excited to learn about this new table. They're uncontrollable self bursted out with comments and questions, \"what is light?\", \"I see light!\", \"we can play there?!\", \"look ... that's so cool.\" \r\n\r\nWith the excitement visible, a class discussion was immediately conducted to discuss/introduce the light table. During the discussion students had the opportunity to ask questions related to the light table, along with learning what the light table is and what it's rules are. Students were provided with the opportunity to engage with the light table as they reinforced our new math topic - patterns! Students were invited to create an AB pattern using available translucent manipulatives. Each student eagerly awaited their turn to create their AB pattern on the table. \r\n\r\nGoing forward, students will use the light table for \"free play\" along with reinforcing \r\nmath topics in a fun way! These new materials (the light table and translucent manipulatives) will allow students to engage in play with working on various skill developments including problem solving (math), critical thinking, fine motor, eye-hand coordination along with their creativity (at times without realizing). \r\n\r\nHands-on learning is now available and has become very popular in our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1762267513788,"projectUrl":"project/light-exploration/9844555/","projectTitle":"Light Exploration","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. McFadden","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9797225_orig.jpg?crop=860,860,x168,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1767917905699","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/prek205"},{"teacherId":6608422,"projectId":9805062,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has been sprinkled with a little Disney magic! 🪄✨ Our students are over the moon with their Pixie Dust stickers, excited to dive into new Disney reading books, and can't wait to unleash their creativity on beautiful canvases for our upcoming art project.\r\n\r\nYour support has made our classroom a place where imagination soars, stories come alive, and creativity shines brighter than Cinderella's castle at night! 🏰💫\r\n\r\nFrom the bottom of our hearts, thank you for helping us make learning magical.","fullyFundedDate":1760741390706,"projectUrl":"project/our-magical-classroom/9805062/","projectTitle":"Our Magical Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Garger","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6608422_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y221&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1599869914073","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-garger303"},{"teacherId":10305383,"projectId":9805259,"letterContent":"Thank you everyone for your generous donations. Having the carpet has allowed students to learn comfortably during our mini lessons. It truly warms our classroom and makes it cozier.\r\nThe mobile white board has been a big hit with our students. Many enjoy practicing their multiplication facts and showing other students their thinking.\r\nAn extra shout out goes to Kamau's Big Student Surprise for matching all of our donations! \r\nOnce again, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your generosity.","fullyFundedDate":1761148294866,"projectUrl":"project/making-our-classroom-feel-like-home/9805259/","projectTitle":"Making Our Classroom Feel Like Home!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Van Laarhoven","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10305383"},{"teacherId":9908201,"projectId":9080896,"letterContent":"I hope this message finds you well. On behalf of my students and myself, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks for your incredibly generous donation of flexible seating and seat sacks. Your contribution is more than just a thoughtful gift; it is an investment in the comfort, engagement, and success of every child in our classroom.\r\n\r\nAs you know, creating a dynamic and comfortable learning environment is crucial to the growth and development of young learners. Flexible seating allows students to take ownership of their learning by giving them the freedom to choose how and where they sit throughout the day. This type of choice fosters a sense of independence and helps them stay focused and motivated as they engage with the material. The seat sacks will also be a huge asset, providing much-needed storage and organizational space, making it easier for students to keep their materials neat and accessible.\r\n\r\nBefore this generous donation, our classroom furniture was limited, and students often had to make do with seats that didn't support their individual learning needs. Now, thanks to your kindness, we can offer a more diverse and adaptable classroom environment. I've already seen the impact on my students—whether they're gathered around in a small group or working independently at their seats, there's a noticeable increase in their enthusiasm and participation.\r\n\r\nIt's not just the physical comfort that makes a difference. Flexible seating encourages collaboration and teamwork, allowing students to work together in new ways. It gives them opportunities to engage with each other more easily, which fosters stronger relationships and a positive classroom culture. I've also noticed a boost in their confidence as they feel more at ease in their space.\r\n\r\nThis donation is a true testament to your generosity and commitment to education. You've provided my students with more than just new seating—you've given them a space where they can thrive. The impact of your kindness will extend far beyond just the immediate classroom; it will shape their learning experience for years to come.\r\n\r\nWe are incredibly fortunate to have supporters like you who believe in the value of a well-equipped and engaging classroom. Your thoughtful gift has made a real difference, and we are so grateful for your support. It's wonderful to know that there are people like you who care so deeply about enhancing educational experiences and ensuring that students have the tools they need to succeed.\r\n\r\nThank you once again for your generous donation. Your kindness and thoughtfulness have made a lasting impact on our classroom community, and I cannot express enough how much we appreciate it. Please know that your support means the world to us, and we will continue to use these new resources to create a positive and inspiring learning environment.","fullyFundedDate":1740404946573,"projectUrl":"project/flexible-seating-and-ownership/9080896/","projectTitle":"Flexible Seating and Ownership","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Russo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9908201_orig.png?crop=759,759,x10,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1737831871108","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9908201"},{"teacherId":9908201,"projectId":9584966,"letterContent":"I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for your incredibly generous donation of school supplies and books. Your thoughtful contribution is an invaluable gift to our classroom, and it will undoubtedly have a profound impact on the education and growth of our students.\r\n\r\nAs an educator, one of my greatest joys is seeing my students develop a love for learning. However, this process often requires more than just lesson plans and teaching materials—it requires the tools and resources that allow each student to succeed. Thanks to your generosity, we now have an abundance of school supplies and books that will empower my students to do just that. These materials will not only help them with their day-to-day academic needs but will also provide them with opportunities to expand their imaginations and deepen their knowledge.\r\n\r\nThe school supplies you donated—such as pencils, notebooks, glue sticks, crayons, and other essentials—are already making a noticeable difference in our classroom. Having access to quality materials allows students to focus on their work without distraction or frustration. I can see the joy and sense of accomplishment on their faces as they use the new supplies, knowing they have everything they need to complete their assignments and projects. In many cases, these supplies will also allow them to explore their creativity in new ways, whether through drawing, journaling, or collaborative activities.\r\n\r\nPerhaps even more exciting are the books you donated. The gift of a good book is something truly special, as it opens doors to new worlds, ideas, and possibilities. The books in our classroom library will be cherished by my students, who will now have access to a greater variety of reading materials, tailored to their interests and reading levels. Reading is a skill that forms the foundation of all academic achievement, and by providing my students with high-quality books, you are directly supporting their literacy development. Whether it's a picture book for our younger readers or a chapter book for those ready for more complex stories, your donation ensures that every student has the resources to grow as a reader and a thinker.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has not only equipped my students with the tools they need for success, but it has also shown them the power of community and giving. Your support sends a strong message that they are cared for and that their education is important. This sense of encouragement and empowerment will stay with them, motivating them to approach their studies with confidence and determination.\r\n\r\nIt's easy to forget the significant impact that something as simple as a book or a pencil can have on a child's learning experience, but your donation has reminded us all of how essential these resources are. I am deeply moved by your kindness and am so grateful for your support of our classroom. The positive effect of your generosity will be felt every day as my students continue their educational journey.\r\n\r\nThank you once again for your incredible generosity. Your donation has made a meaningful difference in the lives of my students, and we are so lucky to have supporters like you. With your help, we are able to build a stronger, more successful learning environment, and for that, we are truly thankful.","fullyFundedDate":1758899273047,"projectUrl":"project/kindergarten-ict/9584966/","projectTitle":"Kindergarten ICT","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Russo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9908201_orig.png?crop=759,759,x10,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1737831871108","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9908201"},{"teacherId":1506681,"projectId":9252751,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for the thoughtful donations. My students love entering the room each day and seeing the colorful calendar. They enjoy earning prizes when they get a correct answer and simply go above and beyond when participating. I am glad that my students have sharpened pencils to use day to day. They are excited for our fraction unit where they will play fraction games.\r\n\r\nWe use the multiplication flash cards, especially when building fact fluency. We play a game called Math Around the World. \r\n\r\nThank you once again for your kindness.","fullyFundedDate":1746786910939,"projectUrl":"project/engaging-young-minds-with-resources/9252751/","projectTitle":"Engaging Young Minds With Resources","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Poulios","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1506681_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1471821332861","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1506681"},{"teacherId":5632495,"projectId":9242113,"letterContent":"I would like to extend my gratitude for your generous donations towards the purchase of graphic novels for our school library!\r\n\r\nYour support plays a crucial role in enriching our students' reading experiences and fostering a love for literature. The addition of graphic novels not only enhances our collection but also engages students in unique ways, promoting creativity and critical thinking.\r\n\r\nThank you once again for your kindness and commitment to AEA. I truly appreciate your generosity and look forward to seeing the students benefit from your contributions!","fullyFundedDate":1746787153559,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-young-minds-through-graphic-n/9242113/","projectTitle":"Empowering Young Minds Through Graphic Novels","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bates","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5632495_orig.jpg?crop=578,578,x501,y682&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1557070688085","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5632495"},{"teacherId":9874017,"projectId":9009312,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our classroom through DonorsChoose!\r\n\r\nBecause of your kindness, we have received Song Book Bundles and Chromanote Piano Sticker Packs, and we are also eagerly preparing for the setup of our Wenger flipFORMS—an addition that will truly elevate our music program.\r\n\r\nThe Song Book Bundles have brought an exciting new energy to our music lessons. My students are diving into songs that are both fun and educational, helping them build essential musical skills while enjoying every moment of it. The books offer a wide variety of music that encourages singing, movement, and a deeper connection to musical expression.\r\n\r\nThe Chromanote Piano Stickers have already become a favorite in the classroom! These bright, colorful guides are helping students learn notes, build scales, and understand musical patterns in a clear and engaging way. For many of my students, this visual aid has made music theory click for the first time.\r\n\r\nAs for the Wenger flipFORMS, we haven't set them up just yet—we're holding off until next school year to get everything ready for a fresh start. I can't wait for the transformation they will bring to our space! These risers will create a professional, organized environment that supports group performance, improves posture, and builds a stronger sense of unity among students. I'm already looking forward to how they'll elevate both our rehearsals and performances in the year ahead.","fullyFundedDate":1740404946635,"projectUrl":"project/musical-prodigies-accessories-in-class/9009312/","projectTitle":"Musical Prodigies Accessories, In-Class Musical Chorus Risers","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. MCCULLAGH","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9874017_orig.png?crop=487,488,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1734931169337","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsmccullaghmusicroom"},{"teacherId":9874017,"projectId":9006502,"letterContent":"I just wanted to say a huge thank you for supporting our classroom.\r\nWhen the students first saw the Boomwhackers, parachutes, and colorful bean bags, they were so excited.\r\n\r\nIt's been an amazing way to build listening skills and teamwork—and honestly, we're all having so much fun we forget we're learning. The stretchy bands have also become a classroom favorite. They're perfect for circle-time activities that get everyone moving and connected.\r\n\r\nThe Manhasset music stand cart is already making a difference. Before, it was a bit chaotic getting stands out and putting them away. Now it's organized, fast, and smooth—which means more time for music. The cable organizers and floor cord cover have helped make the space safer too, especially during movement-heavy lessons.\r\n\r\nI am very excited to use My First Songbooks in the upcoming years. We've already started using them alongside the other resources, and they are exceptional. The students are learning to read simple notation and are gaining confidence performing in front of their classmates.\r\n\r\nThese materials have truly transformed our music lessons. The kids are more engaged, more focused, and they're learning through movement, creativity, and collaboration. Thank you for making this possible. Your support is helping my students grow—not just as musicians, but as learners and teammates.","fullyFundedDate":1736655956316,"projectUrl":"project/making-music-come-alive-tools-for-creat/9006502/","projectTitle":"Making Music Come Alive: Tools for Creative Learning!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. MCCULLAGH","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9874017_orig.png?crop=487,488,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1734931169337","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsmccullaghmusicroom"},{"teacherId":9893479,"projectId":9054865,"letterContent":"I wanted to extend my deepest thanks to everyone who contributed to this project. Your generosity and kindness helped bring our vision to life in the most magical way. \r\n\r\nThe materials and items funded through this project were essential in creating an unforgettable Under the Sea experience for our Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 4th grade performers. From the vibrant colors to the glowing blue light effects, every element helped transform our performance space into a cohesive underwater ecosystem. The students were thrilled to be part of something so special, and the audience was equally captivated by the imaginative set and atmosphere.\r\n\r\nWe used each item creatively and thoughtfully to build a setting that truly enhanced both the storytelling and the performance itself. As you can see in the photos, your support made a real difference---not just in how the show looked, but in how it made our students feel. Thank you again for believing in our young artists and for helping to make this show such a memorable success!","fullyFundedDate":1740404946588,"projectUrl":"project/dive-into-supporting-our-under-the-sea/9054865/","projectTitle":"Dive Into Supporting Our \"Under the Sea\" Performances!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bonthuys","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9893479"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_96303","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":572,"numTeachers":14,"percentFrplEligible":25,"percentAsian":38,"percentBlack":3,"percentWhite":30,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":16,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 3","studentTeacherRatio":"40.9:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":false,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":90.7,"schoolId":96303,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Academy for Excellence Through the Arts on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Academy for Excellence Through the Arts","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/new-york/new-york-city-dept-of-ed/acad-for-excellence-thru-arts/96303"}