{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Academy of the City Charter - Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":21.8,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":6619792,"projectId":9719353,"letterContent":"Thank you again for your generous support in helping our athletic program acquire a new scoreboard. This project has had a meaningful and immediate impact on our students, our teams, and the overall learning environment within our basketball program. Your contribution has gone far beyond equipment—it has enhanced instruction, student engagement, and school pride.\r\n\r\nSince receiving the new scoreboard, our basketball teams have been actively using it during practices, scrimmages, and games. Coaches now incorporate the scoreboard into daily instruction by teaching athletes how to manage game situations in real time. Students are learning to understand the flow of the game by tracking score, time remaining, fouls, and possession—skills that are critical to basketball IQ and decision-making. During practices, we regularly simulate end-of-game scenarios, using the scoreboard clock to teach strategy, composure, and teamwork. For example, students practice executing plays with limited time on the clock or adjusting defensive intensity based on score and time. These moments have transformed practices into more authentic learning experiences that mirror real competition.\r\n\r\nWhen our students first saw the new scoreboard installed, the reaction was immediate excitement and pride. Many students gathered in the gym to watch it power on for the first time, cheering as the lights illuminated the score and timer. For several of our student-athletes, this was the first time they had ever played in a gym with a full scoreboard. It made them feel valued, motivated, and proud to represent their school. The scoreboard elevated the atmosphere of our games and practices, helping students feel like true athletes competing in a professional, organized environment.\r\n\r\nBeyond gameplay, the scoreboard has created new leadership opportunities for students. We now involve students in operating the scoreboard during games, teaching responsibility, attention to detail, and teamwork off the court. These students work closely with coaches and staff, learning how their role supports the success of the entire team. This has been especially powerful for students who may not always be on the court but still want to contribute meaningfully to the program.\r\n\r\nYour support has also strengthened our school community. Parents, staff, and visiting teams have all commented on how the new scoreboard enhances the game-day experience. Our students feel a stronger sense of school spirit and accountability when competing in front of a visible score and clock. It reinforces sportsmanship, focus, and respect for the game.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, the next steps for our students include continuing to integrate the scoreboard into instruction and competition. Coaches will expand lessons around game management, leadership, and situational awareness. Students will continue learning how to analyze performance based on score and time, helping them grow not only as athletes but as critical thinkers. We also plan to involve students in additional roles such as announcing, scorekeeping, and event operations, further extending learning beyond the court.\r\n\r\nBy contributing to this project, you gave our donors a window into our gym and into the daily experiences of our students. More importantly, you helped create an environment where students feel supported, challenged, and proud. We are deeply grateful for your investment in our students and for helping us provide resources that make a lasting difference.","fullyFundedDate":1758281319246,"projectUrl":"project/new-scoreboard-needed-for-sports-teams/9719353/","projectTitle":"New Scoreboard Needed for Sports Teams!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Faulkner","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6619792"},{"teacherId":9997948,"projectId":9254311,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation! Because of your support, we were able to stock our classroom with a vibrant array of paints that immediately brought new energy and possibilities to our creative space. These paints are more than just supplies—they're tools for self-expression, exploration, and learning, and they've already made a noticeable impact on our students' artistic experiences.\r\n\r\nHaving access to high-quality paint has allowed students to dive deeper into their projects, try new techniques, and bring their creative visions to life with greater confidence. The excitement and pride they feel when working with these materials are inspiring to see. Your generosity has shown our students that their creativity matters and that there is a community of supporters who believe in the power of the arts. \r\n\r\nYour support has not only provided much-needed materials but has also reminded our students that there is a caring community behind them that values their growth and expression. On behalf of all of our amazing AoC Artists, thank you again for making this possible!","fullyFundedDate":1746126462580,"projectUrl":"project/painting-is-self-discovery-jackson-poll/9254311/","projectTitle":"Painting is Self-Discovery- Jackson Pollock","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Grace","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9997948_orig.jpg?crop=724,725,x12,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1744391646109","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msgracelovesart"},{"teacherId":9997948,"projectId":9253693,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous contribution! Our art classroom is now stocked with brand-new paint brushes, and we couldn't be more excited. These tools are essential for helping our artists bring their ideas to life, and your kindness has truly made a difference in their creative journeys.\r\n\r\nWith the addition of these new brushes, students now have the opportunity to explore a wider range of painting techniques and express themselves more freely. The variety in brush sizes and shapes has allowed them to experiment with detail, texture, and style in ways they couldn't before. Already, I've seen a noticeable boost in their confidence and enthusiasm during class—students are more engaged, more willing to take creative risks, and proud of the work they're producing.\r\n\r\nYour support has not only provided much-needed materials but has also reminded our students that there is a caring community behind them that values their growth and expression. It's incredibly meaningful for them to know that there's a whole world outside of AoC of kind individuals who believe in the importance of their education and creativity. On behalf of all of our amazing AoC Artists, thank you again for making this possible!","fullyFundedDate":1745631721130,"projectUrl":"project/brushes-beauty-and-boundless-creativit/9253693/","projectTitle":"Brushes, Beauty, and Boundless Creativity, Oh My!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Grace","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9997948_orig.jpg?crop=724,725,x12,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1744391646109","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msgracelovesart"},{"teacherId":9909675,"projectId":9083188,"letterContent":"Our new classroom library has opened up exciting opportunities for my students, many of whom come from diverse backgrounds in our Title I school. The mystery books and stories featuring Latin protagonists have been especially popular, giving students both engaging plots to follow and characters they can see themselves in. Through these new texts, we've been able to explore important skills like identifying themes, analyzing plots, and discussing how characters' choices shape the story. Students are not only building comprehension and critical thinking skills but also finding joy and connection in literature that feels relevant to them.\r\n\r\nIn our classroom, reading is woven into the daily routine in meaningful ways. Students read independently for 20 minutes as homework and complete book logs to reflect on their progress, and many choose to continue reading when they finish classwork early. These moments spark spontaneous conversations about their books, leading to thoughtful discussions about themes, conflicts, and connections to their own lives. Several students who were once reluctant readers now eagerly ask to borrow the mystery books, while others are especially drawn to stories with Latin protagonists that affirm their cultural identity. The library has truly transformed reading from an assignment into an activity that excites and inspires them.","fullyFundedDate":1740144634633,"projectUrl":"project/building-a-stronger-library-inspiring-i/9083188/","projectTitle":"Building a Stronger Library: Inspiring Independent Readers","teacherDisplayName":"Dr. Skaris","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9909675"},{"teacherId":6619792,"projectId":9146294,"letterContent":"Thank-you so much for your generous donations to our school. We are a middle school based in Astoria Queens, NY where about 90% of our students qualify for free or reduced lunch. But that does not stop our students from being amazing at what they do!\r\nWe started a brand new esports team this year, where we have passionate students competing in competitive video games. Some of our student/athletes showed promise on the team but couldn't afford the necessary gaming consoles required to participate. Thanks to your kind donations, their financial situation did not stop them from being active members on the team. I am even proud to announce that our esports team won the regional championship this year!\r\nEsports offers a range of benefits for middle school students by combining teamwork, strategy, and digital literacy in a highly engaging format. Through organized gameplay, students develop important skills such as communication, problem-solving, leadership, and resilience—many of the same qualities nurtured in traditional sports. Esports also provides an inclusive environment where students who may not gravitate toward physical athletics can thrive, often boosting self-esteem and peer connections. Additionally, exposure to esports can spark interest in related career fields such as game design, coding, broadcasting, and IT, giving students a modern pathway to explore future academic and professional opportunities.\r\nOnce again thank-you for your generosity!","fullyFundedDate":1746444599262,"projectUrl":"project/equity-for-esports/9146294/","projectTitle":"Equity for Esports!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Faulkner","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6619792"},{"teacherId":9735517,"projectId":8748076,"letterContent":"When you think about entertaining kids these days, the reality that you are competing with technology is intimidating. But what is more fun than winning a game of chess, slapping your winning cards on the table, rolling the dice for your next move, or yelling, \"Rematch?\" That is what I envisioned for my students during game time, and it didn't disappoint! \r\n It would be an understatement to say that the students were excited to see all the games. Most had never played any of the purchased games, and learning \"this something new\" was highly welcome. The friendships made and the patience exhibited when playing have exceeded my expectations. I witness peers explaining rules, modeling moves, and suggesting strategies daily. Although boisterous, the students' occasional disagreements and debates have developed communication and advocating skills. Knowing fun awaits has also resulted in less procrastination on the top priority: homework!\r\n There is power in togetherness. Simple games have formed bonds and cultivated a community. I am sincerely grateful that each of you found this project donate-worthy.","fullyFundedDate":1735162580442,"projectUrl":"project/games-for-brains/8748076/","projectTitle":"Games For Brains","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Beaubian","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9735517"},{"teacherId":9325288,"projectId":8717245,"letterContent":"I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for your generous donation to our PE class. Your support in providing new cricket gear, flags, and tennis balls will have an immediate and lasting impact on our curriculum. These additions allow us to freshen up our activities and bring more variety and excitement to the physical education experience. It's thanks to donors like you that we are able to offer a dynamic and engaging learning environment for our students.\r\n\r\nWith the new equipment, our students will be able to explore new sports and develop important physical skills while also having fun. Your contribution not only enhances the quality of our PE program but also inspires a love for physical activity that can last a lifetime. Once again, thank you for your thoughtful and impactful donation — we truly appreciate your support in helping us create an enriching educational experience for our students.","fullyFundedDate":1733438206672,"projectUrl":"project/you-give-we-go/8717245/","projectTitle":"You Give We Go!!!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Witte","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9325288"},{"teacherId":9325288,"projectId":9016793,"letterContent":"I wanted to take a moment to extend my deepest gratitude for your generous donation of boxing gear to my physical education class. Your support has made an incredible impact on the students' experience, allowing them to engage in a unique and exciting way to stay active and healthy. The quality of the equipment you provided has not only enhanced the lessons but has also sparked a renewed sense of enthusiasm and motivation among the students. They are thrilled to have the opportunity to learn and practice boxing with such top-notch gear, and it has created a sense of pride and accomplishment in their efforts.\r\n\r\nThanks to your generosity, my students now have the tools they need to build their skills, improve their fitness, and develop discipline and confidence. Your contribution is more than just providing equipment; it is an investment in their growth, both physically and mentally. We are incredibly grateful for your kindness and for the positive impact you've had on our class. Your support is truly appreciated, and we look forward to continuing to build a strong and healthy community together.","fullyFundedDate":1739547260935,"projectUrl":"project/boxing-unit-project/9016793/","projectTitle":"Boxing Unit Project","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Witte","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9325288"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_127989","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":null,"numTeachers":null,"percentFrplEligible":64,"percentAsian":3,"percentBlack":48,"percentWhite":6,"percentIndigenous":1,"percentLatinx":38,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Not specified","studentTeacherRatio":null,"demographicsDataSource":"MDR District Weighted Average","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"UNCLASSIFIED","ncesMetroType":null},"inStateSupporters":78.2,"schoolId":127989,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Academy of the City Charter - Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Academy of the City Charter - Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/new-york/new-york-state-department-education/academy-of-the-city-charter-middle-school/127989"}