{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Lakeforest Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":49.7,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9277062,"projectId":9532465,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom will be more organized, engaging, and supportive of student learning every single day. The materials you funded will make a huge difference in creating a safe, comfortable, and motivating learning environment for my first graders.\r\n\r\nThe precut tennis balls for chair legs will help reduce noise, protect our floors, and create a calmer classroom where students can focus without constant distractions. The pencil dispenser will support student independence by giving children an easy, organized way to access pencils whenever they need them—no more interruptions or lost learning time.\r\n\r\nWith the orange pocket folders with prongs, my students will now have sturdy places to store their writing, reading passages, and important papers, helping them stay organized and responsible. The Clorox wipes will help us maintain a clean and healthy classroom, keeping our learning space safe throughout the school year.\r\n\r\nThe beautiful classroom rules posters and motivational banners will brighten our room and remind students of kindness, respect, and perseverance. The double-sided adhesive tape will help display student work and classroom visuals that support daily instruction and celebrate their achievements.\r\n\r\nYour support has brought structure, safety, and excitement to our learning environment. These essentials will be used every single day, helping my students stay focused, organized, and motivated to learn. Thank you for investing in our classroom and for believing in my students. Your generosity truly makes an impact!","fullyFundedDate":1755868034724,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-materialsessentials/9532465/","projectTitle":"Classroom Materials/Essentials","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Cabillan","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9277062_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1694653910496","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9277062"},{"teacherId":9345323,"projectId":9546658,"letterContent":"Our new calming-corner materials have already made such a meaningful difference in our classroom. The students are using the cozy seating, sensory tools, and soothing visuals throughout the day to help regulate their bodies and emotions. One of my favorite moments so far was watching a student who typically has difficulty transitioning after recess independently choose the calming corner, take deep breaths while holding a sensory cushion, and then return to learning with a smile. It was such a small moment-but such a big victory.\r\n\r\nThanks to you, our donors, our classroom has a more supportive environment where students feel safe, comfortable, and empowered to manage their emotions. Your generosity helped create a space that invites peace, comfort, and confidence-one that will continue making an impact every single day. Thank you for giving my students a place where they can reset, recharge, and be ready to learn.","fullyFundedDate":1755700482982,"projectUrl":"project/comfort-in-motion-cozying-up-the-calmin/9546658/","projectTitle":"Comfort in Motion: Cozying Up the Calming Corner","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Larotin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9345323"},{"teacherId":4654372,"projectId":9296092,"letterContent":"In our 1st-grade classrooms, hydroponics has become a transformative tool for learning, engaging students in hands-on exploration of science, math, and literacy. By integrating hydroponic systems into our curriculum, students are not only learning about plant growth but also developing critical thinking, observation, and problem-solving skills that extend across subjects.\r\n\r\nFrom the start, students were introduced to the basic principles of hydroponics—growing plants without soil, using nutrient-rich water instead. This simple yet powerful concept captured their curiosity immediately. They were fascinated by the idea that plants could grow in water and observed the roots, stems, and leaves in ways that traditional soil-based gardening does not allow. Students asked questions, made predictions, and hypothesized about which plants would grow fastest or develop the healthiest leaves, supporting the Next Generation Science Standards for asking questions and carrying out investigations.\r\n\r\nMath skills were strengthened through daily monitoring of the hydroponic system. Students measured water levels, recorded plant growth, and graphed their observations. These tasks provided authentic practice with units of measurement, counting, and comparing data. For example, students would measure their lettuce plants each week, calculate differences in height, and represent their findings in simple charts. This allowed them to see patterns over time and make data-driven predictions, connecting abstract math concepts to real-world applications.\r\n\r\nHydroponics also supported literacy and communication skills. Students kept journals documenting their observations, reflections, and questions. They described plant growth, recorded changes in root structure, and explained their predictions. Teachers encouraged them to use descriptive language, make comparisons, and even write short explanations of how nutrients, light, and water contributed to plant health. These activities strengthened vocabulary, writing fluency, and comprehension in a meaningful context.\r\n\r\nBeyond academics, hydroponics fostered collaboration, responsibility, and engagement. Students worked in small groups to care for their plants, rotate watering duties, and monitor system function. They developed teamwork skills, negotiated responsibilities, and learned to respect the needs of living organisms. The sense of ownership over their plants motivated students to be consistent in their observations and care, which directly supported growth in executive functioning and social-emotional skills.\r\n\r\nAs a Title I school, these hands-on experiences are especially impactful because they provide opportunities that may not be accessible to all students at home. Hydroponics levels the playing field, allowing every student to engage meaningfully with STEM concepts, make predictions, solve problems, and see immediate results from their actions. It cultivates confidence in their abilities to influence outcomes through effort and observation.\r\n\r\nIn summary, hydroponics in 1st grade is more than a gardening activity; it is a dynamic, cross-curricular learning tool. It supports science understanding, reinforces math skills, enhances literacy, and builds collaboration and responsibility. Students learn that their actions have direct consequences, that careful observation and recording matter, and that curiosity leads to discovery. Hydroponics transforms our classrooms into living laboratories where learning is active, engaging, and tangible. By providing students with this hands-on experience, we are equipping them with foundational skills and a love for science that will support their growth for years to come.","fullyFundedDate":1747269643958,"projectUrl":"project/growing-minds-with-hydroponics-and-finan/9296092/","projectTitle":"Growing Minds with Hydroponics and Financial Literacy!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Scuron","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4654372_orig.jpg?crop=1576,1576,x0,y157&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1745945441273","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4654372"},{"teacherId":9344581,"projectId":8889352,"letterContent":"In every classroom, the smallest tools can have the biggest impact. Pencils, folders, crayons, sticky notes, and scissors may seem like simple items—but in a 1st grade classroom, they are essential building blocks for success. These materials help young learners stay organized, express their creativity, and fully participate in daily activities. With your support, our classroom will be stocked with the tools my students need to learn, grow, and thrive.\r\n\r\nAt this early stage of learning, many of my students are just beginning to build foundational skills in reading, writing, math, and social-emotional development. Having access to the right materials not only supports academic achievement but also boosts confidence and independence. When a student has a sharp pencil, a clean folder for their work, or a set of crayons to color-code their learning, they feel more prepared and more invested in their success.\r\n\r\nIn our class, we use folders to keep important papers neat and organized—teaching responsibility and care for one's work. Pencils, sharpeners, and erasers are used daily for everything from writing sentences to solving math problems. Highlighters and sticky notes help students track their thinking while reading and provide opportunities for interactive and reflective learning. Crayons and markers allow students to bring their ideas to life, whether it's illustrating a story or designing a project. Scissors and colored paper support fine motor development while making learning hands-on and fun.\r\n\r\nThese items also help create a sense of equity in the classroom. Not all families are able to provide school supplies, and when students don't have the materials they need, it can lead to frustration, distraction, and feelings of embarrassment. By fully equipping our classroom, I can ensure that every student starts the day with what they need—no one left behind, no one left out. Every child deserves that feeling of being prepared and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nYour generosity will directly support daily instruction, help streamline routines, and enhance student engagement across subjects. Instead of worrying about broken crayons or lost supplies, we can spend more time focused on meaningful learning experiences. More importantly, your support sends a message to my students that their education matters and that there are people beyond our classroom who believe in their potential.\r\n\r\nThese essential tools may be small, but the impact they will have on our learning environment is huge. With your help, our classroom will be more organized, creative, inclusive, and joyful. Each pencil sharpened, folder filled, or sticky note posted will be a reminder of the kindness and care that helped make our classroom a place where young learners can shine.\r\n\r\nThank you for being a part of our journey—and for giving my students the essentials they need to build a strong start to a lifetime of learning.","fullyFundedDate":1739279685018,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-essentials/8889352/","projectTitle":"Classroom Essentials","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Macapanas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9344581_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1704760590310","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9344581"},{"teacherId":9344581,"projectId":8686178,"letterContent":"A classroom carpet is so much more than a soft place to sit—it's a central hub for connection, collaboration, and meaningful learning. For my 1st grade students, this carpet will serve as a bridge between structure and creativity, comfort and curiosity, and individual growth and classroom community.\r\n\r\nIn a first grade classroom, movement, flexibility, and shared space are key elements of an effective learning environment. The carpet will provide a welcoming, defined area where we can begin each day as a class—whether it's through morning meetings, read-alouds, mini-lessons, or social-emotional check-ins. This simple addition allows students to transition from independent desk work to group learning, supporting a variety of instructional styles and needs.\r\n\r\nMany of my students come from diverse backgrounds, and some face challenges outside of school that make the classroom feel like a second home. The carpet becomes a place where they can feel safe, seen, and part of something bigger than themselves. It's where friendships grow, routines are built, and voices are heard. Sitting in a circle fosters community and a sense of belonging, which is so important at this age. It's the foundation for both academic success and emotional well-being.\r\n\r\nThis project will also support stronger classroom management and structure. When students know where to sit, and the area is clearly defined and comfortable, transitions become smoother and expectations clearer. This leads to less time spent managing behaviors and more time focused on meaningful instruction.\r\n\r\nAcademically, the carpet supports interactive lessons, especially in early literacy and math. During shared reading or number talks, students can gather together to see the teacher's materials up close, participate in discussions, and interact with manipulatives or anchor charts. This proximity helps maintain attention and makes learning feel more personal and engaging.\r\n\r\nThe benefits extend beyond just academics. Social skills are practiced daily during carpet time—taking turns speaking, listening respectfully, and engaging with peers in a structured setting. For many students, especially in the early grades, this is where they learn how to be part of a learning community.\r\n\r\nWith your support, this carpet will become a foundational piece of our classroom—used every day in countless ways. It will help us build routines, celebrate small wins, explore new ideas, and support one another as we grow.\r\n\r\nYour donation brings more than a carpet to our classroom—it brings comfort, connection, and confidence. Thank you for helping create a space where 1st graders can feel proud, included, and excited to learn.\r\n\r\nThis carpet truly is a bridge—linking each student to their learning journey and to one another.","fullyFundedDate":1727971332051,"projectUrl":"project/carpet-as-a-bridge-for-learning/8686178/","projectTitle":"Carpet as a Bridge for Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Macapanas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9344581_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1704760590310","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9344581"},{"teacherId":9277062,"projectId":8648298,"letterContent":"I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for your generous donation to the \"Snacks for My First Grade Class\" initiative. Your support means the world to both me and my students. Thanks to your kindness, our class now has the nourishment and energy needed to learn and grow in a positive, engaging environment.\r\n\r\nThe impact of your contribution extends beyond just snacks; it creates an atmosphere where my students feel cared for and valued, helping them to focus on their education and thrive in the classroom. Your generosity has made a lasting difference, and I'm truly grateful for your support.\r\n\r\nThank you again for making a difference in the lives of my first graders.","fullyFundedDate":1729626946181,"projectUrl":"project/snacks-for-my-first-grade-class/8648298/","projectTitle":"Snacks for My First Grade Class","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Cabillan","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9277062_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1694653910496","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9277062"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_101841","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":800,"numTeachers":52,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":1,"percentBlack":81,"percentWhite":6,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":6,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"15.4:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_SMALL"},"inStateSupporters":50.3,"schoolId":101841,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Lakeforest Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Lakeforest Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/north-carolina/pitt-county-schools/lakeforest-elementary/101841"}