{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"N.B. Mills Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":38.2,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":4473650,"projectId":9757059,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has gained so much more than a rug—we've gained a true community space. This new rug has transformed the way my students learn each day. They now have a comfortable, organized place to gather for lessons, read together, collaborate in groups, and share their ideas with confidence.\r\n\r\nYour support has helped create a warm, inviting environment where students can focus better, feel more connected, and engage more deeply in their learning. Because of you, our classroom feels like a place where every child belongs and is excited to grow. Thank you for making such a meaningful and lasting difference for my students.","fullyFundedDate":1758839517615,"projectUrl":"project/gather-round-our-new-classroom-rug/9757059/","projectTitle":"Gather ‘Round Our New Classroom Rug","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Derby","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4473650_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1701179552990","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4473650"},{"teacherId":4473650,"projectId":9284786,"letterContent":"Your support will directly transform our classroom library into a welcoming, well-organized space where every young reader can discover books that inspire and excite them. With durable book bins, students will be able to easily browse by genre, author, or reading level—empowering them to make independent reading choices and fostering confidence as lifelong learners.\r\n\r\nThese bins will not only keep our shelves tidy, but they will also create a smoother, more enjoyable experience for all readers. A well-organized library invites curiosity, encourages exploration, and helps students build a genuine love for reading.\r\n\r\nBy contributing to this project, you're giving our students access to a library that meets their enthusiasm—and fuels it. Thank you for helping us create a space where imagination grows and every reader can thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1746492765887,"projectUrl":"project/bins-that-build-readers-organizing-our/9284786/","projectTitle":"Bins That Build Readers: Organizing Our Classroom Library","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Derby","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4473650_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1701179552990","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4473650"},{"teacherId":10262260,"projectId":9715501,"letterContent":"Thanks again for funding my project. The materials helped my kinders grow in math and literacy. The materials also has helped to keep them engaged. They can't wait for small group to begin..We absolutely love the materials and you for making this all possible. The kinders were able to grow in number recognition, letter recognition, blending and segments. My kinders are know 75% engaged and is excited about learning. My non verbal student loves the shape patterns sorter, I'm so happy and thankful for this item because I see growth in him with sorting 2D and 3D shapes..The Little Language Learners sends a heartfelt Thank you to DonorsCoose. THANK YOU","fullyFundedDate":1762559231749,"projectUrl":"project/little-language-learners/9715501/","projectTitle":"Little Language Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Williams","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10262260"},{"teacherId":4473650,"projectId":8754975,"letterContent":"Creating a supportive, engaging, and nurturing classroom environment goes far beyond the lessons taught during academic blocks—it also includes providing students with meaningful opportunities to learn, connect, and grow during the quieter moments of their day. Indoor recess is often overlooked, yet it plays a powerful role in shaping the social, emotional, and behavioral well-being of young learners. For many of my students, indoor recess is not just \"free time\"—it is a much-needed break from the demands of learning, a moment to decompress, express themselves, build friendships, and practice essential life skills. Unfortunately, without developmentally appropriate materials, indoor recess can quickly become unstructured and stressful rather than restorative and joyful. This project, \"Building a Well-Equipped Classroom for Every Need,\" aims to change that by equipping our classroom with kinetic sand and an Uno game—two simple but incredibly impactful tools that bring calm, creativity, joy, and connection into our daily routine.\r\n\r\nKinetic sand provides students with a soothing sensory experience that is especially beneficial for those who struggle with anxiety, overstimulation, or difficulty transitioning between activities. The tactile nature of kinetic sand helps students regulate their emotions, ground their energy, and experience a sense of control and peace during an otherwise noisy part of the day. It also encourages creativity and imaginative play, allowing students to build, shape, and explore in ways that support fine-motor development and problem-solving skills. For many students, this type of sensory outlet is not available at home, making it an even more meaningful resource within our classroom. Having access to kinetic sand ensures that children who need sensory input can find comfort and calm in a safe, structured way that promotes emotional well-being.\r\n\r\nThe Uno game fulfills another essential component of student growth: social interaction. Card games like Uno teach cooperation, turn-taking, patience, resilience, and strategic thinking. They encourage students to communicate, support one another, handle winning and losing gracefully, and work through challenges—all skills that extend far beyond the classroom. Many students struggle with navigating social dynamics, and games like Uno provide a structured and positive way to practice these skills. By offering a game that students can learn quickly, enjoy together, and return to again and again, we are strengthening peer relationships and building a sense of community in our classroom.\r\n\r\nYour support for this project will make a meaningful difference in students' everyday experiences. These materials will transform indoor recess from an unstructured pause into a valuable opportunity for learning, healing, and connection. Students will have the chance to reset their minds, manage their emotions, and engage in play that supports their cognitive and social development. Donors like you help create classrooms where students' needs—academic, emotional, and social—are honored and respected. Your generosity ensures that every child, no matter their circumstances, has access to tools that nurture them holistically.\r\n\r\nBy funding this project, you are giving my students more than just sand and a card game—you are giving them comfort, community, and the chance to grow in ways that will support them far beyond this school year. Your contribution truly matters, and it will be felt every single day by the students who step into our classroom ready to learn, play, and become the best versions of themselves.","fullyFundedDate":1734098750641,"projectUrl":"project/building-a-well-equipped-classroom-for-e/8754975/","projectTitle":"Building a Well-Equipped Classroom for Every Need","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Derby","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4473650_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1701179552990","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4473650"},{"teacherId":4473650,"projectId":8672677,"letterContent":"Our new resources have already made a huge difference in our classroom. The screen has helped transform our lessons—students are now more engaged during reading mini-lessons, small-group instruction, and interactive activities. During free recess time, students eagerly rotate through the game bins, cooperative board games, and the kinetic sand station. These materials have become a calming and creative outlet, especially for students who need sensory breaks. On rainy days, the indoor recess equipment has saved us! Students stay active, play together, and use their energy in positive ways even when we can't go outside.\r\n\r\nWhen my students first saw everything set up, their reactions were priceless. They gasped, cheered, and immediately started asking if it was \"really for us.\" Several students couldn't wait to try the kinetic sand, and groups quickly gathered around the board games, working together and laughing. It created an instant sense of joy and community.\r\n\r\nNow that we have these resources, we're able to move forward with more hands-on learning and collaborative activities. Students are using the screen to share their writing pieces, model math strategies, and review content together. The free-recess stations are helping them practice communication and teamwork—skills that carry over into academic group work. Next, we are beginning a new set of literacy and STEM rotations, and these materials will play a big role in giving students choice, movement, and meaningful engagement. Thank you for giving my students the tools and experiences that make our classroom a better place to learn every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1734098750558,"projectUrl":"project/screen-free-recess-entertainment/8672677/","projectTitle":"Screen-Free Recess Entertainment","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Derby","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4473650_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1701179552990","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4473650"},{"teacherId":9928101,"projectId":9468362,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for making this incredible donation to my classroom and students. Students have enjoyed being able to use and utilize many of the items that were purchased. When my students came to school on the first day, the smile on their face was unforgettable to see a nice, clean, neat and organized room. The laminating sheets allowed me to create colorful name tags for each students desk as well as informational sheets around the ELA room. The organizing bins have been so helpful for students. All the materials are easily organized and found within the classroom. I feel it is teaching them some responsibility in knowing how to put things back in their correct spot. The inspirational quote pencils brought a smile to all the students as they sat at their desk and was able to look down and see a positive message in their hand. Lastly the carpet rug. They LOVE it. When we have morning meeting and read aloud they can not wait to get on the cozzy, fluffy carpet. I really appreciate your kindness in making such an impact in my classroom and provided these resources and supplies for my students. We could not make it happen if their were not people like you!","fullyFundedDate":1752941581843,"projectUrl":"project/smiles-and-supplies/9468362/","projectTitle":"Smiles and Supplies!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Hamlett","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9928101"},{"teacherId":9928101,"projectId":9123067,"letterContent":"I want to thank you so much for your donation for my \"Hear It, Sing It, And Learn It\" project. Being able to have this subscription has allowed me to share a video with each new standard I teach my students. Each lesson has a wonderful video that the students are engaged with and also are able to sing along. I have caught many of my students singing the songs while working. \r\nFlocabulary has also provided me with engaging lesson activities and vocabulary for my students. Each lesson gives me the opportunity to pre assess my students on what they know about the standard. We are able to complete quizzes together and then retest after students have had some time working on the standard. \r\nThe students love the passages and activities that are provided with this program. My students ask me daily if they can listen to the flocabulary song. Not only is this great for their academics this also gives my students the flexibility of getting up and moving while learning. \r\nMany of the students love how the songs and beats of the music relates to modern music that they enjoy. My classroom is filled with enjoyment, laughter, smiles and a lot of movement because of your donation. \r\nThank you again so much for providing this for my students.","fullyFundedDate":1742583016321,"projectUrl":"project/hear-it-sing-it-and-learn-it/9123067/","projectTitle":"Hear It, Sing It, And Learn It!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Hamlett","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9928101"},{"teacherId":5792653,"projectId":4140918,"letterContent":"Adding new books to our classroom library has had a powerful impact on student learning and engagement. With a wider variety of titles, genres, and reading levels now available, students are more motivated to read independently and explore topics that genuinely interest them. The excitement of discovering new books has fostered a stronger reading culture in the classroom, where students are eager to share recommendations and discuss stories with one another. This renewed enthusiasm for reading has directly contributed to improved literacy skills, including vocabulary development, comprehension, and fluency.\r\n\r\nBeyond academic gains, the expanded library has helped create a more inclusive and welcoming learning environment. Students are now able to see themselves reflected in the stories they read and are also exposed to different perspectives and experiences, promoting empathy and understanding. Having access to high-interest, diverse books has empowered reluctant readers to find joy in reading and boosted the confidence of all students as they grow into more capable, curious, and independent learners. The impact of a well-stocked classroom library extends far beyond reading time. It supports lifelong learning and a love of literature.","fullyFundedDate":1564692721509,"projectUrl":"project/mountains-of-book-adventures/4140918/","projectTitle":"Mountains of Book Adventures","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. McCord","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5792653_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755648520679","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5792653"},{"teacherId":5792653,"projectId":4273034,"letterContent":"Wobble seats have had a significant positive impact on student learning by providing a flexible seating option that supports movement while maintaining focus. In our classroom, students who previously struggled with sitting still for extended periods have shown noticeable improvements in concentration and engagement. The gentle movement allowed by wobble seats helps students self-regulate their energy levels, which leads to fewer disruptions and a more productive learning environment. For students with attention difficulties or sensory needs, these seats have been particularly beneficial, offering a healthy outlet for excess energy without requiring them to leave their workspaces.\r\n\r\nBeyond improving focus, wobble seats have also contributed to better posture and core strength, which are essential for overall physical well-being. As students become more comfortable and in control of their bodies, their confidence in participating during lessons has increased. Teachers have observed more on-task behavior, improved task completion, and a greater sense of ownership over learning. By meeting students' physical needs in the classroom, wobble seats have created a more inclusive and supportive environment where all learners can succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1565028424203,"projectUrl":"project/wiggles-and-wobbles-for-4th-graders/4273034/","projectTitle":"Wiggles and Wobbles for 4th Graders","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. McCord","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5792653_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755648520679","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5792653"},{"teacherId":4473650,"projectId":8762145,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation that helped bring the Warriors series and Dork Diaries to our classroom library! Because of you, my students now have exciting new series to dive into—and they are loving every page.\r\n\r\nThe Warriors books have captured the imagination of students who enjoy adventure, loyalty, and fantasy. I've seen them reading during any free moment, sharing plot twists with each other, and forming connections through these powerful stories. Meanwhile, Dork Diaries has brought joy, laughter, and relatability to readers who love diary-style storytelling and middle school drama. These books have helped students see themselves in the characters and feel understood.\r\n\r\nYour support has not only filled our shelves—it has lit a spark in readers of all kinds. Thank you for giving my students the chance to fall in love with reading through stories they truly enjoy.","fullyFundedDate":1727994293233,"projectUrl":"project/more-high-interest-chapter-book-series/8762145/","projectTitle":"More High-Interest Chapter Book Series","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Derby","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4473650_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1701179552990","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4473650"},{"teacherId":4473650,"projectId":8759414,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous gift of a classroom rug! Because of you, our fifth-grade classroom now has a warm, welcoming space where students can gather, connect, and grow.\r\n\r\nThe rug has quickly become the heart of our classroom. It's where we start our mornings together, share read-alouds, dive into group discussions, and take brain breaks when we need a moment to reset. It has transformed our learning environment into a place that feels more like a home—cozy, organized, and built for community.\r\n\r\nYour support has done more than add comfort—it's helped create a space where students feel safe, seen, and ready to learn. Thank you for making such a meaningful difference in our daily lives.","fullyFundedDate":1726768941569,"projectUrl":"project/home-sweet-classroom/8759414/","projectTitle":"Home Sweet Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Derby","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4473650_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1701179552990","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4473650"},{"teacherId":4473650,"projectId":8672592,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your thoughtful donation of book series to our fifth-grade classroom library at NB Mills Elementary! Your generosity has opened up so many new reading adventures for my students.\r\n\r\nHaving a wider variety of series has been a game-changer. With more genres, characters, and topics to explore, students are discovering stories that truly speak to them. Whether they're laughing through a graphic novel, getting lost in a fantasy world, or following a favorite character from book to book, they now have more chances to fall in love with reading.\r\n\r\nOne of the most exciting things to see is the way students recommend books to each other, start their own \"book clubs,\" and actually race to finish one book so they can start the next. You've helped turn our classroom into a community of readers, and that is something incredibly special.\r\n\r\nThank you again for helping us grow our library—and our love for reading.","fullyFundedDate":1725476522103,"projectUrl":"project/creating-lifelong-lovers-of-reading/8672592/","projectTitle":"Creating Lifelong Lovers of Reading","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Derby","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4473650_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1701179552990","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4473650"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_2961","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":346,"numTeachers":30,"percentFrplEligible":83,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":49,"percentWhite":12,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":28,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"11.5:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"TOWN","ncesMetroType":"TOWN_FRINGE"},"inStateSupporters":61.8,"schoolId":2961,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about N.B. Mills Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"N.B. Mills Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/north-carolina/iredell-statesville-sch-dist/n-b-mills-elementary-school/2961"}