{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"PS 18 Winchester","outOfStateSupporters":55.9,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":771544,"projectId":9767138,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our second‑grade classroom with new reading supplies, including sight‑word games and Elkonin boxes. These tools are exactly what our young readers need to build confidence and strengthen their foundational literacy skills.\r\n\r\nWhen the boxes arrived, the kids could hardly contain their excitement. They crowded around with big smiles, asking, \"Is it for us?\" and \"Can we try them today?\" Watching their faces light up as they explored the new materials was a reminder of how powerful your generosity truly is. They felt special, supported, and eager to learn.\r\n\r\nYour kindness has made our classroom a more joyful and engaging place to grow as readers. We are deeply grateful for your support.","fullyFundedDate":1760664980569,"projectUrl":"project/students-supporting-reading/9767138/","projectTitle":"Students Supporting Reading","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Scala","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp771544_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1566611038760","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/771544"},{"teacherId":5414359,"projectId":9911193,"letterContent":"A snow cone machine can be a very useful and fun fundraiser for a production of *Frozen Jr.* because it connects perfectly with the icy theme of the show while also helping raise money for important stage needs. Since *Frozen Jr.* takes place in the snowy kingdom of Arendelle, snow cones naturally fit the atmosphere of the musical. Selling them during rehearsals, intermission, or after the show gives audiences a themed treat while also supporting the production.\r\n\r\nFirst, a snow cone machine helps create an immersive experience for the audience. When families come to see *Frozen Jr.*, they are excited to step into a magical winter world with Elsa, Anna, and Olaf. Offering icy treats like snow cones enhances that experience. It makes the event feel more festive and memorable for students, families, and community members. Children especially love colorful snow cones, and pairing them with flavors like \"Elsa's Ice Blue Raspberry,\" \"Anna's Strawberry Snow,\" or \"Olaf's Lemon Chill\" makes the treat even more exciting. These small creative touches help turn a simple snack sale into part of the themed event.\r\n\r\nSecond, snow cones are inexpensive to make but can bring in a strong profit. The ingredients needed—ice, flavored syrup, and cups—are relatively low cost. Once the snow cone machine is purchased or donated, it can be reused for many events in the future. A single cup of ice and syrup costs only a small amount to produce, yet it can easily be sold for a few dollars. Because the cost to make each snow cone is low, most of the money earned becomes profit that can go directly toward supporting the play.\r\n\r\nThe funds raised can help cover many production expenses. School musicals often require money for costumes, props, sets, microphones, lighting, and special effects. In a show like *Frozen Jr.*, there are many magical moments that can be enhanced with stage effects, snow machines, winter scenery, and creative costumes. Fundraisers like snow cone sales help make these visions possible. The money can also help purchase materials to build stage props such as castle doors, winter backdrops, or other scenic elements that bring the story to life.\r\n\r\nAnother benefit of a snow cone fundraiser is that it encourages student involvement and teamwork. Students can help run the stand, scoop ice, pour syrup, sell tickets, and advertise the treats. This allows them to feel more connected to the production beyond just performing on stage. They learn responsibility, cooperation, and how working together can support a shared goal. For a school musical, building this sense of community is just as valuable as raising money.\r\n\r\nSnow cone sales also work well during multiple parts of the event. They can be sold before the show, during intermission, after the performance, or even during rehearsal days or school events leading up to the musical. Because they are quick to prepare and easy to serve, the line moves fast and many people can buy them. This makes them a practical fundraiser that doesn't require complicated preparation.\r\n\r\nFinally, a snow cone machine is a long-term investment. Once the school has the machine, it can be used for future productions, school fairs, outdoor events, and other fundraisers. This means that one purchase can continue helping the school raise money for years to come.\r\n\r\nOverall, a snow cone machine is a creative, affordable, and fun fundraising idea for *Frozen Jr.*. It fits perfectly with the winter theme of the show, helps create a magical experience for the audience, encourages student participation, and raises important funds that help bring the production to life. By combining creativity with community support, something as simple as a snow cone can make a big difference in helping the show sparkle. ❄️🍧","fullyFundedDate":1764862392839,"projectUrl":"project/community-winter-carnival/9911193/","projectTitle":"Community Winter Carnival","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. James","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5414359_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1716219333486","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5414359"},{"teacherId":10067965,"projectId":9768136,"letterContent":"We are deeply grateful to your organization for funding our classroom project and making these new learning resources possible. Because of your generosity, my students have had access to materials that have truly transformed the way we learn together each day. Your support has made a meaningful and lasting difference in our classroom.\r\nWith the new resources, my students and I have been able to take a more hands-on and collaborative approach to learning. One specific project that stands out was our recent science investigation unit. Using the new materials, students worked in small groups to design and conduct their own experiments. Rather than simply reading about scientific concepts in a textbook, they were able to test hypotheses, collect data, and analyze results using real tools. For example, during our lesson on ecosystems, students created miniature habitats and observed how changes in light and water affected plant growth. The new supplies allowed every group to actively participate, which significantly increased engagement and understanding. I watched students who are typically hesitant to speak up confidently explain their findings to the class, proudly using academic vocabulary and referencing their data.\r\nWhen my students first saw the materials, their reactions were unforgettable. There were gasps, wide eyes, and so many excited whispers of \"Are these really for us?\" They immediately began asking questions and brainstorming ways we could use the resources. That excitement carried into our lessons. Students handled the materials with care and responsibility because they understood that someone believed in them enough to invest in their education. It created a powerful sense of ownership and pride. Many of them expressed that they felt \"like real scientists\" or \"like engineers,\" which boosted both their confidence and motivation.\r\nBecause your donors contributed to our project, they have truly become partners in our classroom. The next steps for our students build directly on the foundation these resources have helped us create. Currently, we are beginning a cross-curricular project that integrates research, writing, and presentation skills. Students are selecting real-world problems related to our science unit and developing solution proposals. They will use the materials to prototype their ideas, gather additional data, and present their findings through multimedia presentations. This process encourages critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration.\r\nIn the coming weeks, students will refine their experiments, reflect on their results, and revise their designs. They will also engage in peer feedback sessions, learning how to give and receive constructive criticism. Our ultimate goal is to host a classroom showcase where students can present their projects to families and school staff, demonstrating both their academic growth and their problem-solving skills.\r\nYour generosity has not only provided supplies—it has sparked curiosity, built confidence, and strengthened our classroom community. Thank you for believing in our students and investing in their future. Your support continues to inspire meaningful learning experiences every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1764798812796,"projectUrl":"project/kindness-club/9768136/","projectTitle":"Kindness Club","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Tubridy","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10067965"},{"teacherId":771544,"projectId":8839055,"letterContent":"These growth mindset books allow us to teach far beyond the story itself. Through these texts, students learn key literacy skills such as identifying character traits, analyzing problems and solutions, making text-to-self connections, and understanding theme. At the same time, we introduce important life lessons about perseverance, embracing challenges, learning from mistakes, and using positive self-talk. Students practice close reading, partner discussions, and reflective writing, all while building emotional awareness and resilience.\r\n\r\nReading in our classroom is active and engaging. You might see students gathered on the rug during an interactive read-aloud, turning and talking with a partner about how a character handled a challenge, or jotting down reflections in their reading journals. We pause to discuss big ideas, celebrate \"aha\" moments, and connect the stories to real-life experiences in school. The books often spark meaningful conversations about trying again, asking for help, and believing in ourselves.\r\n\r\nSeveral students in particular have been especially drawn to these books. Some who previously felt discouraged by challenging work now reference the stories when tasks feel difficult. We've heard students say, \"I'm going to keep trying,\" or \"That character didn't give up, so I won't either.\" Watching them internalize these messages and apply them to their own learning has been incredibly powerful. These books are helping shape not just stronger readers, but more confident and resilient learners.","fullyFundedDate":1728014231557,"projectUrl":"project/growth-mindset-books/8839055/","projectTitle":"Growth Mindset Books","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Scala","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp771544_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1566611038760","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/771544"},{"teacherId":771544,"projectId":10041170,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting our DonorsChoose project and helping us fill our classrooms with books that reflect us all. Because of your generosity, our students will see themselves, their families, and their cultures represented on the pages they read. They will also have the opportunity to learn about experiences different from their own, building empathy and understanding. Your kindness is helping every child feel seen, valued, and proud of who they are.\r\nWhen the boxes arrived, the excitement in the room was unforgettable! Students gathered around with wide eyes and huge smiles, eagerly waiting to see what was inside. As each book was lifted out, cheers and gasps filled the classroom. Many students immediately recognized characters who looked like them or shared their culture, and they couldn't wait to start reading. It was pure joy watching them feel seen and represented.","fullyFundedDate":1769643185145,"projectUrl":"project/books-that-reflect-us-all/10041170/","projectTitle":"Books that Reflect Us All","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Scala","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp771544_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1566611038760","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/771544"},{"teacherId":5412798,"projectId":9947222,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation to our \"Kindness Rock Garden\" project on DonorsChoose. Because of your support, our students were able to gather supplies and spend joyful afternoons painting beautiful rocks that carry positive messages for everyone in our community. Watching their faces light up as they mixed colors, chose words, and carefully decorated each stone was a reminder of how powerful creativity and kindness can be when given the chance to grow.\r\n\r\nYour gift did more than provide paint and brushes — it gave our students a meaningful way to think about empathy and the impact of small acts. They brainstormed messages that lift spirits, remind people they matter, and encourage kindness in everyday moments. Those conversations sparked thoughtful reflections, teamwork, and pride in their work. The finished rocks now brighten our garden and will continue to spread hope to neighbors, visitors, and anyone who needs a little encouragement.\r\n\r\nWe are deeply grateful for your belief in our students and in the power of community projects. Your kindness has helped nurture a lasting reminder that small, creative efforts can make a big difference. Thank you for helping us build a space where children learn to give, to care, and to share light with others.","fullyFundedDate":1765393952235,"projectUrl":"project/community-kindness-rock-garden/9947222/","projectTitle":"Community Kindness Rock Garden","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Chun","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5412798_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1567196866467","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrslchun"},{"teacherId":10052663,"projectId":9767473,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your kind and generous donation. With your help, we were able to create heartfelt and beautiful cards to honor and thank our Veterans. The students were in awe of all of the amazing art supplies that we have added to our classroom. They enjoyed using each and every one and look forward to using them again. We are currently planning to use our new art supplies to create cards for local NYPD members to also thank them for everything they do for our community. Your donation helps my students to see the kindness in others who help them, and in turn allows them to pay it forward with hand made cards of appreciation to show their kindness for others as well!","fullyFundedDate":1759773396220,"projectUrl":"project/valuable-veterans/9767473/","projectTitle":"Valuable Veterans","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Spaliaras","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10052663"},{"teacherId":771544,"projectId":9926526,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our special seating project. Because of your generosity, our classroom will have flexible seating options that help students feel comfortable, supported, and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nThis special seating will give students the opportunity to choose spaces that meet their individual needs—whether that means helping them focus, feel calm, or engage more confidently in learning. Students who benefit from movement, sensory input, or a quieter space will be better able to participate, collaborate, and stay focused throughout the day.","fullyFundedDate":1767224556097,"projectUrl":"project/special-seating/9926526/","projectTitle":"Special Seating","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Scala","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp771544_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1566611038760","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/771544"},{"teacherId":771544,"projectId":9643534,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for the LEGO Prime kits! Our students were absolutely thrilled when they arrived. Their excitement was immediate—eyes wide, questions flying, and so many eager hands ready to start building.\r\n\r\nThese kits sparked curiosity, creativity, and collaboration right away. Students couldn't wait to explore how the pieces worked together, test ideas, and challenge themselves through hands-on problem solving. It was wonderful to see their confidence grow as they realized they could design, code, and bring their ideas to life.\r\n\r\nWe are incredibly grateful for your generosity and for giving our students such an engaging and empowering learning experience.","fullyFundedDate":1758128139927,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-computer-science/9643534/","projectTitle":"Classroom Computer Science","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Scala","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp771544_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1566611038760","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/771544"},{"teacherId":5406124,"projectId":9777287,"letterContent":"Our students are so thankful for the fun games and toys that we are able to use in our Kindness Club. The students planned stations with games at each station. The students and community members alternate games. Our older students tooks initiative to make signs and organize the event. They said the first event was a lot of work but worth it.\r\nWhen the kids got to play the new games, there was pure excitement and joy. They exclaimed that they didn't know that there were such cool games. Students with learning and behavior needs were fully supported by the older students \r\nThe students loved the event and were upset when it ended. They can't wait to play games with their new friends again!","fullyFundedDate":1760992019041,"projectUrl":"project/community-service-fun/9777287/","projectTitle":"Community Service Fun","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Kalman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5406124_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1761273033328","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5406124"},{"teacherId":8448900,"projectId":9797508,"letterContent":"Thank you to all the generous donors that have helped contribute to this special cause. \r\nYour gift Is building a safer, more supportive space for students and a place to keep student records and facilitate private family communication. Your contribution directly funds:\r\n\r\n•\tA locked, central location for confidential student records, intervention materials, and parent resource binders — keeping private information safe and accessible to authorized staff.\r\n•\tA reliable, portable phone to ensure private, professional conversations with parents and outside agencies.\r\n•\tA flexible system for tracking appointments, displaying non confidential resources, and managing student check ins.\r\n•\tTools and materials to create quick, customizable visual aids that help students access learning and behavior supports immediately.\r\n\r\nI will keep you updated on the project's rollout and share stories about the positive impact your donation makes.","fullyFundedDate":1760533319794,"projectUrl":"project/office-upgrade/9797508/","projectTitle":"Office Upgrade","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Scarola","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8448900"},{"teacherId":3206939,"projectId":9810473,"letterContent":"We are beyond grateful for your generous support of our classroom and for making it possible for my students to receive these math manipulatives. Your donation has already made a meaningful difference in how my students engage with mathematics each day.\r\n\r\nBecause of your kindness, my students are now able to explore mathematical concepts through hands-on learning experiences. Using manipulatives allows them to visualize abstract ideas, experiment with problem-solving strategies, and build a deeper understanding of math in a way that is both engaging and accessible. These tools help students gain confidence, ask thoughtful questions, and truly make sense of the math they are learning.\r\n\r\nYour support goes beyond supplies—it helps create an environment where students can actively learn, collaborate with their peers, and develop a stronger foundation in mathematics. I am incredibly grateful for your investment in my students' education and their future success.\r\n\r\nThank you again for believing in my students and for helping make our classroom a place where learning comes to life every day.","fullyFundedDate":1763605202166,"projectUrl":"project/exploring-math/9810473/","projectTitle":"Exploring Math","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ritter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3206939_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1501705966451","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsdritter"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_942","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":428,"numTeachers":42,"percentFrplEligible":100,"percentAsian":56,"percentBlack":11,"percentWhite":8,"percentIndigenous":1,"percentLatinx":20,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"10.2:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":44.1,"schoolId":942,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about PS 18 Winchester on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"PS 18 Winchester","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/new-york/new-york-city-dept-of-ed/ps-18-winchester/942"}