{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Blue Creek Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":40.6,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":5270383,"projectId":9352063,"letterContent":"The addition of donated drying racks has made a significant impact on our elementary art studio and the creative experiences of our students. With over [insert number] young artists working with paint, collage, and mixed media, having dedicated drying space has transformed how art is created, handled, and displayed.\r\n\r\nThese racks allow students to safely store their wet artwork without smudging, sticking, or damage—encouraging them to explore new materials with confidence. The improved organization helps maximize classroom space, allowing for smoother transitions between projects and more time focused on creativity and expression.\r\n\r\nBeyond functionality, the drying racks have elevated the quality and pride in student artwork. Every piece can now dry properly and be displayed beautifully, reinforcing students' sense of accomplishment and belonging in the art room.\r\n\r\nWe are deeply grateful for this donation, which directly supports hands-on learning, creativity, and joyful artistic discovery for all our students.","fullyFundedDate":1754164801126,"projectUrl":"project/flat-art/9352063/","projectTitle":"Flat Art","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Christina","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5270383_orig.jpg?crop=2400,2400,x0,y104&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1619781457905","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/christina-vance"},{"teacherId":9575999,"projectId":9173117,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donations to our project! Because of your support, we were able to provide personal hygiene items for our students — things like soap, toothpaste, deodorant, and other essentials that many of us may take for granted, but are incredibly meaningful for kids who might not always have consistent access to them. These supplies have made such a difference, not just in meeting students' basic needs, but in helping them feel more confident, comfortable, and ready to focus on learning.\r\n\r\nI wish you could have seen their faces when we handed out the items. One student hugged their bag of supplies and said, \"I really needed this.\" Another quietly told me that now they wouldn't have to skip school when they ran out of things at home. It was a powerful reminder of how much these small acts of kindness can truly change a child's day — and even their outlook.\r\n\r\nNow that our students are feeling more supported, we've been able to dive into a unit about health and wellness, where we're learning about self-care, hygiene, and taking care of our minds and bodies. These lessons feel more meaningful now, because students actually have the resources to put what they're learning into practice. Thank you again for helping create a classroom where our students feel cared for and seen. Your kindness made a real impact.","fullyFundedDate":1747033669347,"projectUrl":"project/no-more-kid-sweat/9173117/","projectTitle":"No More Kid Sweat","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Miller","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9575999"},{"teacherId":9477620,"projectId":8965076,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting our students. Our books were outdated and students never checked them out. Now, thanks to your support, students have high interest graphic novels to explore. These books cover everything from polar bears to space flight! Students have positively responded to the books and have been checking them out regularly. These graphic novels also help encourage reluctant readers with bright colorful images. \r\n\r\nThank you again for your donation to our Blue Creek Elementary Media Center","fullyFundedDate":1738766246742,"projectUrl":"project/nonfiction-graphic-novels/8965076/","projectTitle":"Nonfiction Graphic Novels","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hawthorne","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9477620_orig.jpg?crop=2048,2048,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1708696547088","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9477620"},{"teacherId":8493047,"projectId":9017305,"letterContent":"I would like to express my sincere appreciation for your generous donation of books to my classroom library. These literary resources have significantly enhanced our learning environment, enabling us to expand upon the units we were studying following their arrival, such as Early America and westward expansion. The \"Little Spot\" books have proven invaluable in assisting us with understanding the emotions we all encounter. Although I did not have the books in time to incorporate all of them into lessons this year, such as those that focused on specific heritage months and the roles each played in our history, I am eager to integrate them into the curriculum next year. I am enthusiastic about continuing to utilize these resources for many years to come, cultivating a passion for reading and learning among my students. Your support is deeply valued.","fullyFundedDate":1744210331312,"projectUrl":"project/learning-to-read-while-reading-to-learn/9017305/","projectTitle":"Learning to Read While Reading to Learn","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bartosz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8493047_orig.jpg?crop=2208,2208,x0,y368&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1656011795810","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8493047"},{"teacherId":8493047,"projectId":9021626,"letterContent":"Thanks to your support, our classroom got a major upgrade this year with new surf desks, wobble stools, and round cushions. These additions gave my students even more options to choose where and how they learn best. Alongside our existing soft chairs, scoop chairs, stools, and bean bags, this variety of flex seating helped students feel more comfortable, in control, and focused during the day. I've truly never seen a group grow the way this one has academically, emotionally, and socially. Your donation didn't just fund furniture; it helped create a learning space where kids could thrive. Thank you for being a part of their journey!","fullyFundedDate":1740061875205,"projectUrl":"project/flexible-seating-engages-learners/9021626/","projectTitle":"Flexible Seating Engages Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bartosz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8493047_orig.jpg?crop=2208,2208,x0,y368&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1656011795810","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8493047"},{"teacherId":5270383,"projectId":9340811,"letterContent":"Access to basic art supplies—such as crayons, markers, glue, scissors, paper, and paint—plays a vital role in the creative and cognitive development of elementary students. These materials are not just tools for creating artwork; they are essential resources that support fine motor skills, self-expression, problem-solving, and emotional well-being. When students have reliable access to quality supplies, they are empowered to explore their ideas freely, take creative risks, and build confidence in their abilities.\r\n\r\nYour support ensures that every child, regardless of background, has an equal opportunity to engage in meaningful art experiences. With these foundational materials, we can foster a learning environment where imagination is encouraged, every voice is valued, and students can fully participate in the joy and discovery of the artistic process. Your contribution directly impacts our ability to offer a rich, inclusive, and inspiring art education for all.","fullyFundedDate":1747033670196,"projectUrl":"project/back-to-basics/9340811/","projectTitle":"Back to Basics","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Christina","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5270383_orig.jpg?crop=2400,2400,x0,y104&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1619781457905","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/christina-vance"},{"teacherId":5270383,"projectId":9172693,"letterContent":"The addition of sensory tiles and gel doodle pads has had an incredibly positive impact on my elementary art classroom. These resources have provided my students with new ways to interact with art, engaging their senses and encouraging creativity in ways that traditional materials cannot. My students, especially those with sensory processing needs or fine motor challenges, have found these tools to be both calming and stimulating. For instance, during a recent texture exploration project, the sensory tiles allowed students to experiment with various tactile patterns, which helped them understand texture in their artwork. The gel doodle pads, with their smooth, responsive surface, gave students the freedom to experiment without worrying about mistakes, which helped boost their confidence in their abilities.\r\n\r\nWhen my students first saw the sensory tiles and gel doodle pads, their reactions were filled with excitement and curiosity. They immediately wanted to touch the tiles and explore the gel pads. One moment that stands out was when a group of students eagerly dove into creating textured drawings, feeling the different surfaces of the sensory tiles as they worked. They loved how the tiles made their art feel three-dimensional, and the gel doodle pads encouraged them to try abstract drawing techniques. For many, it was their first time using materials like these, and the novelty of the tools inspired them to push their creative boundaries. Some students who typically struggle with traditional art supplies, like pencils and crayons, flourished with these new resources, and it was amazing to watch their self-expression blossom.\r\n\r\nAs we continue to incorporate these materials into our lessons, students are currently working on a mixed-media project that combines the sensory tiles' textures with the free-flowing drawings they created on the gel pads. This project will allow them to blend tactile elements with their own artistic designs, making their work more dynamic and personal. The next steps for my students involve further exploration of how these materials can enhance their creative process—whether by experimenting with new textures, layering, or incorporating sensory elements into a larger collaborative art piece. This project is not only helping them develop their technical art skills but also fostering a deeper emotional connection to the art-making process. Thanks to the generous support of our donors, my students are able to access a more inclusive, hands-on approach to art that will inspire them long into the future.","fullyFundedDate":1742932462380,"projectUrl":"project/sensory-anytime/9172693/","projectTitle":"Sensory Anytime","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Christina","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5270383_orig.jpg?crop=2400,2400,x0,y104&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1619781457905","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/christina-vance"},{"teacherId":9504266,"projectId":8987843,"letterContent":"Your donation has enabled students to complete some fun stem activities with the vending machine that has helped with counting money and adding and subtracting. The bouncy balls not only were a wonderful rainy day activity but the kids got to experience the science behind making a bouncy ball and force of motion and how it affects the bouncy ball. And the books have help in so many ways students have enjoyed reading the books and the little spot of emotion book has helped students be able to identify their feelings and help them feel them and work through them. The poster is hanging in the classroom and students are using it often to identify their emotions. It has been so wonderful having these tools in our classroom such as the white boards which we use for whole group but also in small group instruction and students have been using them to practice writing numbers and letter.","fullyFundedDate":1735570613902,"projectUrl":"project/enhanced-learning/8987843/","projectTitle":"Enhanced Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Honaker","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9504266_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1711977113380","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9504266"},{"teacherId":5270383,"projectId":8512954,"letterContent":"The generous funding from the SONIC Foundation for art picture books has had a profound impact on our elementary students' learning by expanding their exposure to diverse artistic styles, cultural perspectives, and creative techniques. These books have served as an engaging visual resource, sparking curiosity and deeper discussions about art history, famous artists, and various forms of artistic expression. By incorporating these books into lessons, students have developed a greater appreciation for creativity, storytelling through art, and the connections between visual and written expression. The addition of these high-quality materials has not only supported literacy development but has also inspired students to experiment with their own artistic ideas.\r\n\r\nWith the support of the SONIC Foundation, I was able to enhance my teaching by integrating these picture books into a variety of art lessons, making complex artistic concepts more accessible and engaging for young learners. The books provided concrete examples of artistic techniques, allowing students to see how professionals use color, composition, and texture in their work. This, in turn, has led to more thoughtful and inspired student creations. The materials also helped foster cross-curricular connections, enriching students' understanding of history, culture, and storytelling through visual art. Thanks to the SONIC Foundation, my students have had a more immersive and meaningful learning experience, igniting a passion for art that will stay with them for years to come.","fullyFundedDate":1727997840000,"projectUrl":"project/art-through-their-eyes/8512954/","projectTitle":"Art Through Their Eyes","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Christina","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5270383_orig.jpg?crop=2400,2400,x0,y104&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1619781457905","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/christina-vance"},{"teacherId":5270383,"projectId":9101967,"letterContent":"The use of cleaning wipes, dry erase boards, dry erase markers, and erasers in the art studio provides convenience and efficiency in maintaining a clean and organized workspace. Cleaning wipes allow for quick removal of paint, ink, and other materials, helping to prevent contamination and ensure surfaces remain usable. Dry erase boards and markers offer a reusable, flexible way to brainstorm ideas, plan compositions, and demonstrate techniques without excessive paper waste. Erasers further support this process by allowing easy modifications, promoting a dynamic and adaptable creative environment.\r\n\r\nHowever, the frequent use of these materials also has environmental and health implications. Many cleaning wipes contain chemicals that can be harmful when disposed of improperly, and most are not biodegradable, contributing to landfill waste. Dry erase markers often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can affect air quality and are typically non-recyclable, adding to plastic pollution. To reduce the environmental impact, the studio can implement more sustainable practices, such as using biodegradable cleaning alternatives, refillable markers, and durable, washable erasers. By making conscious choices, the studio can maintain its functionality while minimizing its ecological footprint.","fullyFundedDate":1739568465003,"projectUrl":"project/erase-the-mess/9101967/","projectTitle":"Erase the Mess","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Christina","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5270383_orig.jpg?crop=2400,2400,x0,y104&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1619781457905","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/christina-vance"},{"teacherId":5270383,"projectId":8852102,"letterContent":"The use of wind chime and Earth Day project supplies, such as ribbon, yarn, beads, and hoops, fosters creativity and hands-on engagement in artistic and environmental activities. These materials allow for the exploration of design, sound, and movement while encouraging personal expression and sustainability awareness. Projects like wind chimes enhance sensory experiences and appreciation for nature, while Earth Day crafts promote environmental consciousness and the importance of repurposing materials. By incorporating these supplies, participants can develop their artistic skills while creating meaningful, nature-inspired works.\r\n\r\nHowever, the selection and disposal of these materials can have environmental implications. Many synthetic ribbons, yarns, and beads are made from plastics that contribute to pollution and waste if not disposed of responsibly. To minimize environmental impact, studios and classrooms can prioritize eco-friendly alternatives, such as biodegradable or recycled materials, and encourage repurposing supplies from previous projects. By making mindful choices, these creative activities can align with the principles of Earth Day, reinforcing sustainability while still providing an enriching artistic experience.\r\n\r\nWe can not wait to make so many beautiful things for our community.","fullyFundedDate":1728061404245,"projectUrl":"project/beautify-our-community/8852102/","projectTitle":"Beautify our Community","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Christina","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5270383_orig.jpg?crop=2400,2400,x0,y104&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1619781457905","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/christina-vance"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_1734","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":496,"numTeachers":32,"percentFrplEligible":71,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":18,"percentWhite":46,"percentIndigenous":1,"percentLatinx":24,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"15.5:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":59.4,"schoolId":1734,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Blue Creek Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Blue Creek Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/north-carolina/onslow-county-school-district/blue-creek-elementary-school/1734"}