{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Charles P Murray Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":14.4,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9591521,"projectId":8732028,"letterContent":"This project was a fantastic way to introduce and explore elements and their properties in a hands-on, engaging format. Thanks to the Carolina Elements Set provided through our Donors Choose grant, my students were able to investigate the physical properties of various elements while making meaningful scientific connections.\r\n\r\nWe extended the learning even further by incorporating tools we already had in our lab—such as multimeters—to test each element for electrical conductivity and magnetism. The students were especially excited during the conductivity tests. Each time the multimeter made a sound, signaling a successful connection, it sparked curiosity and enthusiasm. It was such a simple thing, but it made a big impact and brought the lesson to life in a memorable way.\r\n\r\nAnother highlight was the \"Mind Over Matter\" game, which gave students the chance to review different types of matter in a fun and interactive way. I always appreciate when we can incorporate games into our lessons, and this one was a clear favorite. Students were not only engaged, but also actively applying what they had learned in a new and creative format.\r\n\r\nThank you so much for supporting our classroom and giving my students the tools to learn through both exploration and play!","fullyFundedDate":1731547015432,"projectUrl":"project/periodic-puzzlers-cracking-the-element/8732028/","projectTitle":"Periodic Puzzlers: Cracking the Element Code","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Roth","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9591521_orig.jpg?crop=1408,1408,x97,y92&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1724417637493","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9591521"},{"teacherId":9591521,"projectId":8731944,"letterContent":"This project was such a meaningful and engaging experience for our students. With the help of the new resources from this Donors Choose grant, we designed an activity that challenged students to step outside of their comfort zones—and they rose to the occasion in incredible ways.\r\n\r\nStudents were randomly paired with classmates they might not normally work with, which encouraged collaboration and new social connections. Each student became an expert on a specific type of symbiosis, and their role was to work with their new partner and teach the other students about what they had learned. It was wonderful to watch students take ownership of their learning and feel confident in sharing their knowledge with others.\r\n\r\nWhat I loved most about this project was how it gave every student the opportunity to shine. Not every student always feels like they have something important to contribute, but in this case, each one had a chance to be the expert and to teach someone else something new. It created a positive, supportive learning environment and really boosted their confidence.\r\n\r\nThank you for supporting this project and helping our students grow both academically and personally!","fullyFundedDate":1731539482393,"projectUrl":"project/pairing-up-symbiotic-sleuths-unite/8731944/","projectTitle":"Pairing Up: Symbiotic Sleuths Unite!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Roth","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9591521_orig.jpg?crop=1408,1408,x97,y92&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1724417637493","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9591521"},{"teacherId":9591521,"projectId":8731709,"letterContent":"This project was such a fun and engaging experience for our students! Using the new resources provided through this Donors Choose grant, we explored the concept of chemical changes in a hands-on and creative way. The activity served as a powerful visual representation of chemical reactions, allowing students to analyze and determine whether what they were observing was a physical or chemical change. Through careful observation and discussion, they concluded that the changes were, in fact, chemical—deepening their understanding of the topic.\r\n\r\nWhat made this project even more special was the unexpected blend of science and art. Students had the chance to express their artistic side while learning about complex scientific concepts—two areas that don't always come together naturally in the classroom. It was inspiring to see students so excited about a lesson that allowed them to think critically and creatively at the same time.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the materials, they were immediately intrigued. They couldn't wait to dive in and start experimenting. The visual results sparked excitement and curiosity, and the process gave them a deeper appreciation for the beauty and complexity of science.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, we plan to use the remaining materials to continue creating sun prints and refine our technique. Our goal is to not only improve our understanding of chemical reactions but also to bring this beautiful intersection of science and art to life in even more meaningful ways.\r\n\r\nThank you for making this experience possible and for helping us create a classroom where curiosity, creativity, and scientific discovery go hand in hand!","fullyFundedDate":1732067024317,"projectUrl":"project/sun-prints-shedding-light-on-chemical-r/8731709/","projectTitle":"Sun Prints: Shedding Light on Chemical Reactions","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Roth","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9591521_orig.jpg?crop=1408,1408,x97,y92&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1724417637493","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9591521"},{"teacherId":9591521,"projectId":8732087,"letterContent":"This experience was beyond cool—literally and figuratively! Thanks to the donation of an infrared camera through this Donors Choose grant, my students were able to dive into real-world science in a way that was both engaging and meaningful.\r\n\r\nWe began by studying the importance of green spaces and how they affect temperatures in urban areas. Students learned about the deadly heatwave that struck France nearly 20 years ago and how the lack of green spaces contributed to the loss of thousands of lives. This sparked a deep conversation about environmental design and public health. To bring the lesson to life, I was even able to take the infrared camera to France and capture thermal images from the top of the Eiffel Tower—something that truly made the topic come alive for our class.\r\n\r\nBack at school, we used the camera to explore areas around campus, collecting data on surface temperatures in different locations. Students analyzed the data and created presentations suggesting ways to improve green spaces in and around our school. These projects have real potential to shape future improvements, especially as we prepare to celebrate our school's 25th anniversary next year. What better way to plan upgrades than to include student-led, data-informed ideas?\r\n\r\nStudent reactions to the camera were full of excitement and curiosity. They were amazed to see the \"invisible\" world of heat and temperature through a new lens—literally. The technology sparked thoughtful discussion, critical thinking, and collaboration.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we plan to continue using the infrared camera to monitor seasonal changes and explore how temperature variations affect our local environment. This tool will remain an invaluable part of our science curriculum and a spark for student-led environmental action.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping turn science into something our students can see, feel, and use to make a real impact!","fullyFundedDate":1731550757859,"projectUrl":"project/chill-in-the-park-greenspace-temperatur/8732087/","projectTitle":"Chill in the Park: Greenspace Temperature Insights","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Roth","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9591521_orig.jpg?crop=1408,1408,x97,y92&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1724417637493","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9591521"},{"teacherId":9591521,"projectId":8731775,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our students had the incredible opportunity to become real-world scientists—right in their own community. Using the water testing kits funded by this grant, we collected samples from various local water sources, including spots they know and love, like rivers and waterways where many of them spend time with their families.\r\n\r\nThis project had a powerful connection to their everyday lives. Students were immediately engaged and excited to test the water quality of places they visit regularly. They carefully collected and analyzed samples, then uploaded their findings to an international water quality study. Seeing their data contribute to a global project gave students a true sense of purpose and showed them that their work mattered beyond the classroom.\r\n\r\nAfter testing, students reviewed the results and evaluated the overall water quality in our area. The experience sparked meaningful conversations about environmental responsibility and how we can protect our local ecosystems. This wasn't just a science lesson—it was a moment of real connection, empowerment, and awareness.\r\n\r\nThis project also came at a perfect time. Unfortunately, a planned field trip had to be canceled, and this hands-on experience helped fill that gap in an impactful way. It brought science into our own backyard and made learning come alive for our students.\r\n\r\nWe are deeply grateful for this opportunity. Your support made it possible for our students to engage in meaningful, community-centered science and take pride in the work they contributed. Thank you for helping us turn curiosity into action and for investing in the next generation of scientists and environmental stewards!","fullyFundedDate":1729048521309,"projectUrl":"project/testing-the-waters-quality-control-with/8731775/","projectTitle":"Testing the Waters: Quality Control With a Twist","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Roth","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9591521_orig.jpg?crop=1408,1408,x97,y92&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1724417637493","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9591521"},{"teacherId":9591521,"projectId":8732006,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our students were able to dive deep into the invisible world of germs and disease through hands-on science and engaging classroom activities! The bacterial pathogen microscope slide set and germ sleuthing kits made this unit one of the most exciting—and eye-opening—we've ever had.\r\n\r\nWhen students first explored the microscope slides, they were fascinated to see real (but safe and preserved) samples of bacteria that cause diseases like tetanus and anthrax. At first, some were a bit nervous, but once they learned the slides weren't dangerous, their curiosity took over. They were eager to learn how these pathogens spread and just how powerful and deadly some of them can be. The best part? They honed their microscope skills, which will be incredibly valuable as they will be moving into high school science courses.\r\n\r\nAnother favorite moment was the germ sleuthing activity. During a normal class day, I told students that a \"germ\" had been passed around the room without their knowledge. Earlier, I had secretly placed a harmless glow powder (included in the kit) on a stuffed animal, which students passed around to feel. Then came the surprise—we turned off the lights and used a UV flashlight to reveal how far the \"germs\" had spread! Students were amazed to see glowing traces on their hands, desks, and even clothes. It sparked an enthusiastic discussion about hygiene, handwashing, and how quickly germs can travel in our daily lives.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, students are continuing their inquiry into pathogens by researching how different diseases spread, how outbreaks are tracked, and what we can do to stay healthy. This grant helped create meaningful, lasting lessons—not only in science, but in real-world awareness.","fullyFundedDate":1731550758075,"projectUrl":"project/pathogen-pioneers-a-glow-in-the-dark-in/8732006/","projectTitle":"Pathogen Pioneers: A Glow-in-the-Dark Investigation","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Roth","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9591521_orig.jpg?crop=1408,1408,x97,y92&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1724417637493","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9591521"},{"teacherId":9591521,"projectId":8731868,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom gained some new—and unexpected—members! The beetles that arrived through our Donors Choose grant have become both classroom pets and valuable science tools, helping us explore ecosystems, decomposers, and responsibility in a truly hands-on way.\r\n\r\nStudents were immediately curious when they first met the beetles. Their reactions ranged from nervous laughter to wide-eyed fascination, depending on their comfort level. Everyone had a chance to get up close and personal with these amazing insects—some students even chose to gently hold or pet them, discovering that they weren't slimy at all but felt more like fingernails! One of the biggest surprises was learning that these beetles have wings that are now fused and no longer in use, a fascinating clue about their evolutionary history.\r\n\r\nEach student created an infographic to explain the beetles' role as decomposers and how they fit into a larger ecosystem. Through observation and research, we developed a deeper understanding of nutrient cycles and the importance of even the smallest organisms in maintaining balance in nature.\r\n\r\nCaring for the beetles has also become a daily responsibility for a few dedicated students, teaching them consistency and care while deepening their scientific curiosity. Moving forward, we'll continue to observe their behaviors, track their development, and connect their role in decomposition to larger environmental concepts.\r\n\r\nThis project gave our students an unforgettable learning experience—and for many, a chance to step outside their comfort zone and see the natural world in a new way. Thank you for making this possible!","fullyFundedDate":1731528316912,"projectUrl":"project/beetlemania-unraveling-decomposition-se/8731868/","projectTitle":"Beetlemania: Unraveling Decomposition Secrets","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Roth","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9591521_orig.jpg?crop=1408,1408,x97,y92&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1724417637493","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9591521"},{"teacherId":9591521,"projectId":8980448,"letterContent":"This project was an incredible experience for our students, sparking both curiosity and excitement in the classroom. Thanks to the generous support of Donors Choose, we were able to bring daphnia and planaria into our lab—two tiny but fascinating organisms that made a big impact on student learning.\r\n\r\nFrom the moment the students saw our new classroom visitors, they were thrilled. Using magnifying lenses and digital microscopes, they observed the intricate features and behaviors of these living creatures up close. It was a unique opportunity to explore ecological relationships in a way that textbooks simply can't provide.\r\n\r\nOur students were especially fascinated by the planaria, learning that although they appear to have eyes, they actually use photosensitive eye spots to sense light. They were amazed to discover that planaria also have regenerative abilities—if injured, they can regrow parts of their bodies! We also studied how both daphnia and planaria fit into their ecosystems, which helped make abstract ecological concepts much more tangible and easier to understand.\r\n\r\nEcological relationships are notoriously difficult to demonstrate in a classroom setting, but this project brought them to life. It allowed students to observe real organisms and explore real interactions, making science feel more relevant, engaging, and alive.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, we plan to continuing to study food webs, energy transfer, and environmental changes—and now our students have a deeper foundation and stronger interest in the topic thanks to this hands-on opportunity.","fullyFundedDate":1739975629827,"projectUrl":"project/small-wonders-daphnia-and-planarias-ec/8980448/","projectTitle":"Small Wonders: Daphnia and Planaria's Ecological Role","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Roth","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9591521_orig.jpg?crop=1408,1408,x97,y92&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1724417637493","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9591521"},{"teacherId":5663838,"projectId":8876691,"letterContent":"Words cannot encompass the enormous gratitude that I share on behalf of myself and the readers at Murray Middle School! Thanks to your generous donations, students who were previously discouraged by our selection are excited and engaged in reading and those who who visited often but were looking for new and updated texts are overjoyed! \r\nGenres such as; basketball, famous athletes, romance, humor, sports fiction and historical fiction are bringing in students who have not frequented the library prior. \r\n\r\nAt Murray Middle School, we strive for excellence in reading; however, such a standard can be challenging with so many varying personalities, backgrounds and interests. As a result of this project, our students are able to visit the media center, any time of day, and find books that are relatable and personal to them! The great Dr. Bishop said, \"Books are windows, mirrors and sliding glass doors.\" Books can show us new perspectives, reflect our own experiences, or let us step into different lives and worlds. It is crucial that the texts in our media center prove to be all; windows, mirrors and sliding glass doors. \r\n\r\nAs a result of this project, Chapter by Chapter: Growing Our Library Together\", our curious learners can discover new ideas, perspectives, and knowledge. Our avid readers can naturally enjoy reading and get excited about fresh, new materials. Our creative thinkers will see books as a way to spark imagination and creativity. Our adventurous explorers can enjoy books that transport them to new worlds, cultures, or experiences. Our knowledge seekers can loose themselves in our nonfiction, history, science, or philosophy sections and fuel their crave for learning and our emotional connectors will see themselves in characters, situations and environments to better understand and connect to their own emotions through the almost nearly 500 newly added titles. \r\n\r\nThank you for being a champion of literacy, a believer in education, and a gift-giver of knowledge. Your support makes a lasting difference, and we are truly grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1731516634356,"projectUrl":"project/chapter-by-chapter-growing-our-library/8876691/","projectTitle":"Chapter by Chapter: Growing Our Library Together","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bazemore","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5663838_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1533993130912","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5663838"},{"teacherId":9591521,"projectId":8694492,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom has been buzzing with excitement and discovery! The fossil kits we received through our DonorsChoose grant have become a centerpiece for learning, sparking curiosity and deepening students' understanding of Earth's history.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the fossils—some over half a billion years old—they were amazed. Many had never held anything so ancient before. Their faces lit up with excitement as they carefully examined each piece, wondering what kind of environment the organisms once lived in and what role they played in ancient ecosystems.\r\n\r\nWe used the fossils in our hands-on lab, where students practiced making detailed observations and identifying different types of fossils. We used what what we learned for a project in collaboration with the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. Students used their observation skills to help identify microfossils discovered at a dig site out west. They then worked together to piece together what the ecosystem might have looked like millions of years ago.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we're continuing to build on these skills as students explore how fossils give us clues about climate change and biodiversity over time. Your donation didn't just provide materials—it opened the door to real scientific exploration, critical thinking, and connection to Earth's natural history. Thank you for making this experience possible!","fullyFundedDate":1731522879193,"projectUrl":"project/rock-solid-learning-fossil-fun-for-futu/8694492/","projectTitle":"Rock Solid Learning: Fossil Fun for Future Paleontologists","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Roth","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9591521_orig.jpg?crop=1408,1408,x97,y92&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1724417637493","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9591521"},{"teacherId":9591521,"projectId":8731820,"letterContent":"Even though we didn't receive the materials we had originally hoped for, we were incredibly fortunate to receive a replacement pack of six evolution-themed lab investigations—and we couldn't have been happier with the results! This unexpected surprise turned into a powerful learning opportunity that brought our unit on evolution and ecosystems to life in new and exciting ways.\r\n\r\nTwo of the standout labs focused on genetic variation and microfossils. In the genetic variation lab, students examined differences in red beans, observing how even subtle traits could lead to a selective advantage under certain conditions. By cataloging the variations, students began to understand how natural selection works and were able to make predictions about how traits might become more common over time if specific selective pressures were present. It was a great way to visualize evolutionary processes in action.\r\n\r\nThe microfossil lab was another highlight. Using diatomaceous earth, students uncovered fossilized remains of microscopic organisms and observed them firsthand under the microscope. This experience was both challenging and thrilling for students. They not only explored ancient ecosystems, but also sharpened their microscope skills—a key step in preparing them for high school science. It was incredibly rewarding to see their confidence grow as they used all the features of the microscope independently and accurately.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, our students will continue using these skills as we expand our study of ecosystems, evolution, and scientific inquiry. These labs laid a strong foundation for future learning and opened the door to deeper thinking and hands-on exploration.\r\n\r\nWe are so grateful for this opportunity. Your support made it possible for our students to engage in high-level scientific investigation and experience the excitement of discovery. Thank you for investing in our classroom and our students' futures!","fullyFundedDate":1726000021367,"projectUrl":"project/fossil-forensics-unraveling-evolutions/8731820/","projectTitle":"Fossil Forensics: Unraveling Evolution’s Clues","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Roth","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9591521_orig.jpg?crop=1408,1408,x97,y92&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1724417637493","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9591521"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_3133","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":905,"numTeachers":56,"percentFrplEligible":33,"percentAsian":2,"percentBlack":4,"percentWhite":80,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":7,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"16.2:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":false,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":85.6,"schoolId":3133,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Charles P Murray Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Charles P Murray Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/north-carolina/new-hanover-county-school-district/charles-p-murray-middle-school/3133"}