{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"PS 161 Juan Ponce De Leon","outOfStateSupporters":30.5,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":7182467,"projectId":9274739,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students received play dough, fidget tools, and calming sensory materials to support their social-emotional learning. These resources have quickly become a part of our daily routine. During independent work or when emotions feel overwhelming, students are now able to use these tools to help them calm down and refocus. One student told me, \"When I use the play dough, I don't feel so mad anymore.\" Another shared, \"The fidgets help me listen without getting distracted.\" These moments show just how much your gift is making a difference.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the excitement in the classroom was unforgettable. Students were eager to explore everything, and many couldn't believe these items were truly meant for them to use in class. They immediately began sharing, taking turns, and talking about how the tools made them feel. That sense of joy and wonder has not faded—these items continue to spark positivity and calm each day.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, my students will keep using these resources while practicing lessons on self-regulation, teamwork, and problem-solving. They are learning how to recognize their emotions, choose a strategy that helps, and then return to learning with a clear mind. Your generosity has helped create a calmer, kinder classroom where students feel supported not only academically but also emotionally. We are truly grateful for the difference you have made.","fullyFundedDate":1746795655763,"projectUrl":"project/social-emotional-learning/9274739/","projectTitle":"~Social Emotional Learning~","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Begum","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7182467_orig.jpg?crop=2499,2499,x1370,y524&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1746548579097","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7182467"},{"teacherId":6874964,"projectId":8493357,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation to our 3K classroom. Because of your kindness, we are able to continue building compassionate practices that help our little to feel safe, calm and understood.\r\n\r\nThe sensory fidget toys, therapy toys, stress toys and \"Breathe bulletin board poster set\" resources are already making a difference. These tools give children healthy ways to express their emotions, manage big feelings, and learn how to regulate themselves throughout the day. With your support, our students are gaining lifelong skills in empathy, compassion and resilience. \r\n\r\nYour generosity is more than a gift of materials-it is a gift of comfort, care and love to our young learners. We are deeply grateful that you have chosen to invest in their social and emotional growth.","fullyFundedDate":1725412565573,"projectUrl":"project/establishing-compassionate-practices-in/8493357/","projectTitle":"Establishing Compassionate Practices in 3K","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lisa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6874964_orig.jpg?crop=284,284,x0,y2&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1589465206095","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6874964"},{"teacherId":6874964,"projectId":7373429,"letterContent":"On behalf of our busy Pre-K learners, I want to send a heartfelt thank you for your generous support in helping us get ready to restock for the new school year. Because of your kindness, our classroom will be filled with fresh paintbrushes, glue, people figures, learning materials and so much more that will spark creativity and imagination in young minds. \r\n\r\nThese supplies are more than just tools-they are building blocks for play, exploration, and growth. With your help, our little learners will be able to create colorful art, build strong friendships, and develop the skills they need to thrive. Your generosity makes a lasting impact, and we are so grateful to have you as part of our classroom community.","fullyFundedDate":1693919682962,"projectUrl":"project/getting-ready-to-restock-for-next-year/7373429/","projectTitle":"Getting Ready to Restock for Next Year!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lisa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6874964_orig.jpg?crop=284,284,x0,y2&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1589465206095","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6874964"},{"teacherId":6874964,"projectId":8782017,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project, \"Let's Help Keep Our Classroom Clean and Free of Germs.\" Your generosity means so much to our little learners and me. With your help, we now have the cleaning supplies we need to make sure our classroom stays a safe, healthy and welcoming space where children can play, learn and grow together. \r\n\r\nBecause of you, our 3K children can enjoy their activities in a fresh clean classroom instead of worrying about germs. You've helped us create a classroom environment that truly cares for every child's well-being. \r\n\r\nWe are so grateful for your kindness and being a part of our classroom community. Thank you for investing in our children's health and happiness!","fullyFundedDate":1736767154092,"projectUrl":"project/lets-help-keep-our-classroom-clean-and/8782017/","projectTitle":"Let's Help Keep Our Classroom Clean and Free of Germs!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lisa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6874964_orig.jpg?crop=284,284,x0,y2&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1589465206095","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6874964"},{"teacherId":6874964,"projectId":8137724,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation toward cleaning supplies for our 3K Busy Bees! Because of your kindness, we can keep our classroom sparkling clean and healthy, making sure our little learners can stay focused on exploring, playing, and growing together. \r\n\r\nYour support helps us create a safe and happy space where Busy Bees can thrive. We are so grateful for your care and generosity-you've truly made a difference for our little ones! Our little ones can safely play and relax on our fresh, clean carpet to build towers, read stories, and share games with their friends. Your support makes sure their imaginations can soar in a safe happy environment. \r\n\r\nWe are so grateful for your care and generosity.","fullyFundedDate":1715109301694,"projectUrl":"project/cleaning-supplies-needed-to-keep-3k-busy/8137724/","projectTitle":"Cleaning Supplies Needed to Keep 3K Busy Bee's Healthy","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lisa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6874964_orig.jpg?crop=284,284,x0,y2&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1589465206095","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6874964"},{"teacherId":6874964,"projectId":7688646,"letterContent":"I want to sincerely thank you for your generous support in helping our classroom receive a laminating machine and laminating paper. Because of your kindness, I can now create durable and long-lasting learning materials for my students.\r\n\r\nWith these resources, our classroom pictures, activities, and hands-on-learning tools can be preserved and used over and over again. This not only saves time and resources but also gives my students engaging materials that will help strengthen their learning in fun and meaningful ways.\r\n\r\nYour generosity makes a lasting difference, and my students and I are truly grateful for your support in helping us build a brighter, more creative classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1699029693075,"projectUrl":"project/ready-set-lets-laminate/7688646/","projectTitle":"Ready, Set, Let's Laminate!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lisa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6874964_orig.jpg?crop=284,284,x0,y2&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1589465206095","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6874964"},{"teacherId":6874964,"projectId":7851676,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of my school project, \"Fueling Little Minds with Classroom Snacks.\" Because of you, my students will have the nourishment they need to stay focused, energized, and ready to learn each day.\r\n\r\nYour kindness not only fills their bellies but also their hearts showing them that people truly care about their growth and success. The impact of your donation reaches far beyond snacks-it builds confidence, joy and a stronger foundation for learning. \r\n\r\nWe are deeply grateful for your support and for helping us create a classroom where every child feels cared for and ready to shine\r\n\r\nWith appreciation,\r\n\r\nLisa Schwarte","fullyFundedDate":1695314457261,"projectUrl":"project/fueling-little-minds-with-classroom-snac/7851676/","projectTitle":"Fueling Little Minds With Classroom Snacks","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lisa","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6874964_orig.jpg?crop=284,284,x0,y2&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1589465206095","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6874964"},{"teacherId":3848461,"projectId":8140701,"letterContent":"I want to share my deepest gratitude for your incredible generosity in funding our Empowering Minds: Equipping Our Classroom for Success project. Your support has truly transformed our Pre-K classroom into a space that nurtures curiosity, engagement, and confidence. Because of your kindness, my students now have access to essential tools and materials that are helping them grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Every day, I see the difference these resources are making, and I cannot thank you enough for investing in their education and in their future.\r\n\r\nFrom the moment we introduced the new materials into our classroom, my students' excitement was undeniable. Their eyes lit up as they explored the tools, and I immediately noticed an increase in focus, independence, and pride in their work. These resources have allowed me to create more meaningful learning experiences that encourage children to take risks, try new things, and celebrate their successes along the way. Whether they are working with manipulatives to strengthen early math skills, using hands-on literacy tools to build language and communication, or engaging in activities that foster problem-solving and creativity, my students are empowered to see themselves as capable learners.\r\n\r\nOne of the most powerful changes I've seen is how these materials have supported collaboration and relationship-building. Pre-K is such an important time for children to learn how to work together, share, and support one another. With the resources you helped provide, I have been able to design small-group and partner activities that encourage teamwork and cooperative problem-solving. My students are learning that when they collaborate, they can accomplish even more than they can on their own. These experiences are building their social-emotional skills while also laying a strong foundation for future academic success.\r\n\r\nAs a teacher, this project has also empowered me. Having access to high-quality materials has given me the ability to plan lessons that are more engaging, differentiated, and developmentally appropriate. I can better meet the needs of all my students, from those who need extra support to those who are ready for new challenges. The materials allow me to create flexible learning opportunities that inspire children to explore, inquire, and take ownership of their learning. Most importantly, I now have the tools to foster a classroom environment where every child feels included, supported, and celebrated.\r\n\r\nI want to take a moment to recognize The DonorsChoose Community and all the generous individuals who made this project possible. Your belief in the power of early education and your willingness to invest in young learners has had a profound impact on my classroom. You have not only equipped us with materials but have also sent a powerful message to my students—that there are people who care about them, who believe in their potential, and who want to see them succeed. That message of hope and encouragement will stay with them for years to come.\r\n\r\nThank you again for making our Empowering Minds: Equipping Our Classroom for Success project a reality. Because of your kindness, my students are growing into confident learners who are curious, resilient, and ready to take on new challenges. You have helped me create a classroom where every child has the opportunity to thrive, and for that, we are forever grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1705549211620,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-minds-equipping-our-classroo/8140701/","projectTitle":"Empowering Minds: Equipping Our Classroom for Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Doran","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3848461_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1565613862318","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3848461"},{"teacherId":3848461,"projectId":8074691,"letterContent":"I am so thankful for your generosity in funding our Classic Games project! Because of your kindness, my Pre-K students now have access to a collection of timeless games that are building important social, emotional, and academic skills every single day. These classic games—familiar favorites that many of us remember from our own childhoods—are not just a source of fun; they have become powerful tools for teaching cooperation, patience, and problem-solving in our classroom. The laughter, excitement, and teamwork that fill the room when we bring out these games are direct results of your generosity through DonorsChoose.\r\n\r\nFrom the very first time we opened the games, I noticed how engaged and invested my students became. Children who were shy or hesitant at the start of the school year now eagerly join their peers to take turns, follow rules, and work together toward a shared goal. Through playing games like Candy Land, Chutes and Ladders, and Connect Four, my students are learning to wait patiently, cheer for others, and celebrate both winning and losing with grace. These social-emotional lessons are some of the most important skills we can teach in Pre-K, and thanks to your support, my students are getting daily practice in a way that feels joyful and natural.\r\n\r\nThe impact goes far beyond social growth. Classic games have helped strengthen early academic skills too. While rolling dice, children practice one-to-one counting and number recognition. While moving pieces across a game board, they are developing spatial awareness and sequencing skills. When they strategize about which move to make, they are engaging in critical thinking and problem-solving. Even something as simple as matching cards in Memory has improved their focus, recall, and attention span. These opportunities for learning are woven seamlessly into the fun, making the games an invaluable addition to our classroom.\r\n\r\nIn my teaching, these materials have given me the ability to build structured opportunities for collaboration. I now incorporate game time into both small-group lessons and choice time centers, allowing children to rotate, play with different partners, and apply the social and academic skills we've been practicing in other settings. Having durable, high-quality versions of these games means I can count on them lasting throughout the year and being available for future classes as well. This project has given me not just teaching tools, but experiences that my students will carry with them as they grow into more confident learners and friends.\r\n\r\nI want to take a moment to thank The DonorsChoose Community and the Anonymous Partner who supported this project. You have helped us create an environment where collaboration, kindness, and persistence are at the center of learning. These games have opened the door for children to build friendships, discover the joy of teamwork, and experience the pride that comes from working together. Your generosity has given my students memories they will treasure and skills that will guide them far beyond our Pre-K classroom.\r\n\r\nThank you again for funding our Classic Games project. Every time I see a child smile as they roll the dice, hear them encourage a classmate, or watch them problem-solve during a game, I am reminded of the powerful difference you have made. Your support has helped us build not only a classroom full of joyful learners, but also a community where collaboration and care for one another are at the heart of everything we do.","fullyFundedDate":1704838329778,"projectUrl":"project/classic-games/8074691/","projectTitle":"Classic Games","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Doran","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3848461_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1565613862318","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3848461"},{"teacherId":3848461,"projectId":7625579,"letterContent":"I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude for your generous support in funding our Preserving Learning Adventures project. Because of your kindness, my Pre-K classroom now has the resources we need to protect and preserve the learning materials that are so vital to my students' growth. The laminating sheets you provided have been transformative for our classroom. They have allowed me to create durable resources that will last throughout the school year—and beyond. In particular, I was able to design and laminate puzzles that my students absolutely love! These puzzles are not only fun, but they also give my students the chance to strengthen problem-solving skills, hand-eye coordination, and perseverance as they piece them together. Without your support, these valuable resources would not have been possible.\r\n\r\nHaving the ability to laminate materials has opened so many doors for both teaching and learning. Instead of worrying about paper tearing or materials wearing out after only a few uses, I can now confidently provide my students with reusable charts, matching games, and literacy cards that withstand daily handling. My students are excited to interact with these resources because they are bright, sturdy, and inviting. They take pride in using them carefully, knowing that they will be available for their classmates and even future classes to enjoy. The laminated puzzles have quickly become a favorite activity during our choice centers, where children practice persistence and teamwork as they work side by side to complete them.\r\n\r\nThis project has also had a meaningful impact on my teaching. With the support of the laminating sheets, I have been able to create differentiated learning tools that meet the needs of every child in my classroom. For example, I laminated alphabet and number cards that can be used with dry-erase markers, allowing students to practice tracing and writing again and again. I've also been able to create visual schedules, classroom jobs charts, and behavior supports that remain in great condition throughout the school year. These tools help keep our classroom organized, consistent, and engaging, which in turn creates an environment where children feel secure and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nThe DonorsChoose Community has made this all possible, and I want to especially thank you for recognizing how small classroom tools can make such a big difference. Your generosity has not only preserved materials, but it has also preserved moments of joy, learning, and discovery for my students. Each time a child completes a puzzle, proudly shows off their writing on a laminated card, or uses a learning game with a friend, they are engaging in an adventure that builds confidence and a love for learning. The Anonymous Partner who supported this project has also played a key role in bringing these opportunities to life, and I am deeply appreciative of their kindness and belief in the power of early education.\r\n\r\nThank you again for funding our Preserving Learning Adventures project. Your support has given my Pre-K students hands-on opportunities that will leave lasting impressions far beyond this school year. The puzzles we made, along with all the other preserved resources, have become a treasured part of our classroom routine. I am so grateful for your generosity and for the way you have helped us nurture curiosity, resilience, and a love of learning in our youngest scholars.","fullyFundedDate":1701205527348,"projectUrl":"project/preserving-learning-adventures-laminati/7625579/","projectTitle":"Preserving Learning Adventures: Laminating Sheets for Pre-K","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Doran","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3848461_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1565613862318","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3848461"},{"teacherId":3848461,"projectId":7579992,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our Little Creators project! Your generosity has given my Pre-K students the tools and opportunities to foster their imagination and express themselves in meaningful ways. With these materials, my young learners are exploring, creating, and sharing their ideas with confidence and joy. I am so grateful to The DonorsChoose Community for helping us build a classroom where creativity and expression are celebrated every day! These resources have sparked new excitement during center time and encouraged children to work together, problem-solve, and proudly share their masterpieces. Your kindness has truly made our classroom a more inspiring and joyful place to learn and grow.","fullyFundedDate":1697058978914,"projectUrl":"project/little-creators-fostering-imagination-a/7579992/","projectTitle":"Little Creators: Fostering Imagination and Expression in Pre-K","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Doran","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3848461_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1565613862318","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3848461"},{"teacherId":3848461,"projectId":7562140,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding our Fueling Learning with Classroom Snacks project! Having healthy snacks available each day has made such a difference for my Pre-K students. With full tummies, they are able to stay focused, energized, and ready to learn throughout the day. These snacks not only support their growing bodies but also create a sense of comfort and care in our classroom community. Your generosity through DonorsChoose has truly helped set my little learners up for success, and we are so grateful for your kindness!","fullyFundedDate":1697047230327,"projectUrl":"project/fueling-learning-with-classroom-snacks/7562140/","projectTitle":"Fueling Learning with Classroom Snacks","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Doran","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3848461_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1565613862318","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3848461"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_276","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":302,"numTeachers":40,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":1,"percentBlack":19,"percentWhite":0,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":76,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"7.6:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":69.5,"schoolId":276,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about PS 161 Juan Ponce De Leon on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"PS 161 Juan Ponce De Leon","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/new-york/new-york-city-dept-of-ed/ps-161-ponce-de-leon/276"}