{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Eakin Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":57.5,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8083996,"projectId":9688786,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous support of Points for Progress: Building Financial Futures!. Because of your contributions, this project has made a meaningful and lasting impact on my students.\r\n\r\nThrough the school store and points-based system, students have gained hands-on experience with financial decision-making in a way that feels real and relevant. They've learned how to set goals, save for rewards, and make thoughtful choices about how to spend what they've earned. What started as an incentive program quickly became an opportunity to build responsibility, patience, and pride in their accomplishments.\r\n\r\nI have seen students become more motivated, more engaged, and more confident in their ability to manage their choices. They are making connections between effort and reward, understanding the value of delayed gratification, and celebrating their progress in positive ways. These are skills that extend far beyond the classroom and will support them in their future financial journeys.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has helped create a culture where growth is recognized, effort is rewarded, and students feel empowered to succeed. Thank you for investing in their futures and for making such a powerful difference in their lives.","fullyFundedDate":1757630599243,"projectUrl":"project/points-for-progress-building-financial/9688786/","projectTitle":"Points for Progress: Building Financial Futures!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Cullen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8083996_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1688574384257","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8083996"},{"teacherId":8083996,"projectId":9900324,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous support of Spark, Stick, and Shine: Rewards to Ignite STEAM Magic!. Your contribution is helping us create an exciting and engaging environment where curiosity, creativity, and innovation can truly flourish.\r\n\r\nBecause of your kindness, students will have access to meaningful rewards that celebrate their efforts and achievements in STEAM learning. These incentives do more than recognize success—they spark motivation, encourage persistence, and inspire students to explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics with confidence and enthusiasm.\r\n\r\nYour support is helping to build a classroom culture where trying new ideas, solving problems, and thinking creatively are celebrated. As students earn rewards, they are also developing important skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, and resilience—skills that will serve them well far into the future.\r\n\r\nThe impact of your generosity will shine through every experiment, project, and breakthrough moment. You are helping ignite a lasting passion for learning and empowering students to see themselves as capable innovators and problem-solvers.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping us spark curiosity, reward effort, and shine a light on every student's potential.","fullyFundedDate":1771008180603,"projectUrl":"project/spark-stick-and-shine-rewards-to-igni/9900324/","projectTitle":"Spark, Stick, and Shine: Rewards to Ignite STEAM Magic!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Cullen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8083996_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1688574384257","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8083996"},{"teacherId":8083996,"projectId":9688874,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous contributions to Points for Progress: Building Financial Futures! Part 3. Your support is helping us bring our school store to life and expand opportunities for students to learn, grow, and succeed.\r\n\r\nBecause of your kindness, we are able to provide meaningful incentives that encourage positive behavior, goal-setting, and financial responsibility. The items in our school store are more than just rewards—they are tools that help students understand the value of earning, saving, and making thoughtful choices. Through this experience, students are gaining real-world skills that will serve them far beyond the classroom.\r\n\r\nYour generosity is creating a system where effort is recognized, progress is celebrated, and students feel motivated to take ownership of their growth. As they earn points and make decisions about how to spend them, they are building confidence, practicing responsibility, and developing a foundation for strong financial habits.\r\n\r\nThe impact of your support will be felt every day as students engage with the school store, set goals, and see the direct connection between their actions and their achievements. You are helping to shape a positive school culture while preparing students for brighter financial futures.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in our students and for making this project possible.","fullyFundedDate":1757630941823,"projectUrl":"project/points-for-progress-building-financial/9688874/","projectTitle":"Points for Progress: Building Financial Futures! Part 3","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Cullen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8083996_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1688574384257","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8083996"},{"teacherId":9268017,"projectId":10121357,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous support of Color Our Team: Tie-Dye for Teamwork and Leadership. Your contribution is more than a donation—it's an investment in meaningful experiences that help build stronger, more connected individuals.\r\n\r\nBecause of your kindness, our participants will engage in a hands-on, creative activity that goes far beyond art. Through the tie-dye process, they will practice collaboration, communication, and leadership skills in a fun and memorable way. Each swirl of color will represent not only creativity, but also the importance of teamwork, unity, and self-expression.\r\n\r\nYour support makes it possible to create an environment where individuals feel empowered to lead, encouraged to work together, and inspired to grow. The impact of this experience will last well beyond the activity itself, shaping confidence, strengthening relationships, and fostering a sense of belonging.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping us bring color, connection, and leadership to life.","fullyFundedDate":1773393162198,"projectUrl":"project/color-our-team-tie-dye-for-teamwork-and/10121357/","projectTitle":"Color Our Team: Tie-Dye for Teamwork and Leadership","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Peaks-Richardson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9268017"},{"teacherId":8722033,"projectId":10158865,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous donation to Everyone is Unique and Welcome Here! Your support made it possible to bring meaningful learning experiences into our classroom that celebrate individuality and inclusion.\r\n\r\nThrough the books you helped provide, students explored powerful messages about embracing differences, building empathy, and understanding that everyone has something special to offer. These stories opened important conversations and helped students see that being unique is not only okay—it's something to be proud of.\r\n\r\nThe hands-on tie-dye activity brought this message to life in a creative and memorable way. As students designed their own one-of-a-kind shirts, they experienced firsthand how no two creations are the same—just like no two people are the same. This tangible connection reinforced the idea that our differences make our community more vibrant and beautiful.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, our classroom continues to grow into a space where every child feels valued, accepted, and confident in who they are. Your support has made a lasting impact on how our students see themselves and others.","fullyFundedDate":1773870774245,"projectUrl":"project/everyone-is-unique-and-welcome-here/10158865/","projectTitle":"Everyone is Unique and Welcome Here!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Schlein","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8722033_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1665149599103","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/eakinpbis"},{"teacherId":8722033,"projectId":10150701,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous donation to Celebrating Every Child—Building Self-Love Through Books. Because of your support, our students now have access to stories that reflect their identities, celebrate their uniqueness, and encourage them to see their own worth.\r\n\r\nThese books are more than just stories—they are mirrors and windows. They help children recognize themselves in the pages while also building empathy and understanding for others. Through these experiences, students are developing confidence, embracing who they are, and learning the importance of self-love and acceptance. Your contribution is helping to create a classroom environment where every child feels seen, valued, and empowered.\r\n\r\nWe are also incredibly grateful to the DonorsChoose Community, whose generosity and matching support doubled every donation to our project. This extraordinary collective effort allowed us to expand our classroom library even further, reaching more students with powerful, affirming stories. Knowing that a wider community believes in them and their potential made this experience even more meaningful for our students.\r\n\r\nYour kindness is making a lasting impact—one book, one child, and one story at a time.","fullyFundedDate":1773859526539,"projectUrl":"project/celebrating-every-childbuilding-self-lo/10150701/","projectTitle":"Celebrating Every Child—Building Self-Love Through Books","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Schlein","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8722033_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1665149599103","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/eakinpbis"},{"teacherId":8722033,"projectId":10136825,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generosity and for believing in the power of literacy. Your support of Take a Book Home: Growing Readers Beyond the Classroom! will have a lasting and meaningful impact on my students, far beyond what happens during the school day.\r\n\r\nFor many of my students, access to books at home is limited. This project changes that. By putting high-quality, engaging books directly into their hands, you are opening doors to imagination, curiosity, and confidence. Students will not only practice reading more frequently, but they will begin to see themselves as readers—an identity that can shape their academic success for years to come.\r\n\r\nThe ability to take books home empowers families as well. It creates opportunities for shared reading experiences, strengthens connections between school and home, and fosters a culture where learning is valued and celebrated. A simple book can spark conversations, build vocabulary, and create meaningful moments that extend well beyond the classroom walls.\r\n\r\nYour kindness is helping to remove barriers and ensure that every child has the opportunity to grow, explore, and thrive through reading. Because of you, my students will have the tools they need to develop stronger literacy skills, greater independence, and a lifelong love of books.\r\n\r\nThank you for making a difference in their lives.","fullyFundedDate":1773848847019,"projectUrl":"project/take-a-book-home-growing-readers-beyond/10136825/","projectTitle":"Take a Book Home: Growing Readers Beyond the Classroom!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Schlein","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8722033_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1665149599103","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/eakinpbis"},{"teacherId":8722033,"projectId":10098251,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation to Caught Being Kind! A Sweet Celebration of Compassion. Your support made it possible for our Kindness Club members to spread joy in a simple but meaningful way—by recognizing acts of kindness throughout our school and celebrating them with Hershey Kisses.\r\n\r\nBecause of your contribution, students were encouraged to notice and appreciate the positive actions happening all around them. Each \"caught being kind\" moment helped build a more supportive, inclusive, and uplifting environment. What may seem like a small gesture—a piece of chocolate paired with recognition—created powerful ripple effects, inspiring more students to act with empathy, respect, and compassion.\r\n\r\nThis project not only rewarded kindness but also helped shape a culture where kindness is seen, valued, and shared. Your generosity played a direct role in strengthening our school community and empowering students to make a difference in each other's lives.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping us turn simple moments into lasting impact.","fullyFundedDate":1772217528353,"projectUrl":"project/caught-being-kind-a-sweet-celebration-o/10098251/","projectTitle":"Caught Being Kind! A Sweet Celebration of Compassion","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Schlein","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8722033_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1665149599103","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/eakinpbis"},{"teacherId":9331020,"projectId":10112609,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation to our project, \"Colorful Friendship Field Day! Part 4.\" Because of your support, our students were able to enjoy a fun, creative, and meaningful Field Day experience.\r\n\r\nWith the tie-dye supplies you helped provide, students created their own colorful designs while building friendships, sharing materials, and encouraging one another. It was more than just an activity—it was a celebration of teamwork, kindness, and connection.\r\n\r\nYour generosity helped create a day filled with laughter, creativity, and lasting memories for our students. We are truly grateful for your support in making this experience possible.","fullyFundedDate":1773393161799,"projectUrl":"project/colorful-friendship-field-day-part-4/10112609/","projectTitle":"Colorful Friendship Field Day! Part 4","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hancock","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9331020"},{"teacherId":8722033,"projectId":10128162,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous donation to our project, \"Ending the Year in Full Color.\" Because of your support, our Field Day was filled with joy, creativity, and meaningful connection for our students at Eakin Elementary School.\r\n\r\nWith the tie-dye supplies you helped provide, every student had the opportunity to create their own unique design. This activity became more than just a fun experience—it was a powerful lesson. Students saw firsthand that just like their tie-dye creations, no two people are the same, and those differences are what make our community so special.\r\n\r\nThroughout the day, we watched students encourage one another, share materials, and celebrate each other's creativity. Many students who often struggle to connect with peers found moments of belonging and pride. Laughter, teamwork, and kindness were present in every group.\r\n\r\nThe impact of your donation extended beyond Field Day. Students practiced empathy, learned to appreciate different perspectives, and experienced what it means to be part of a supportive and inclusive community. These are lessons that will stay with them long after the school year ends.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping us create such a memorable and meaningful experience. Your generosity brought color, happiness, and connection to our students' lives, and we are truly grateful for your support.","fullyFundedDate":1773612616175,"projectUrl":"project/ending-the-year-in-full-color/10128162/","projectTitle":"Ending the Year in Full Color!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Schlein","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8722033_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1665149599103","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/eakinpbis"},{"teacherId":5013617,"projectId":9899328,"letterContent":"Subject: The Lifelong Impact of STEM Activities in the First Grade\r\nResearch consistently shows that exposing children to S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) between the ages of five and eight—specifically during the first grade—provides a critical foundation for their future academic and professional success. Rather than just teaching isolated subjects, 1st-grade STEM activities use an integrated, hands-on approach that transforms how children perceive and interact with the world.\r\nHere is how these activities impact 1st-grade development:\r\n1. Developing the \"Four Cs\" of 21st-Century Learning\r\nSTEM projects are the primary vehicle for developing four essential life skills:\r\nCritical Thinking: Children move beyond rote memorization to analyze problems objectively, observe details, and evaluate evidence.\r\nCommunication: Students learn to articulate their thought processes, describe observations, and explain \"why\" things happen in clear, descriptive language.\r\nCollaboration: Many challenges require teamwork, teaching 1st graders how to listen to others, negotiate, and work toward a shared goal.\r\nCreativity: Open-ended engineering challenges—like building a bridge from paper—encourage children to think \"outside the box\" and invent unique solutions.\r\n2. Building Resilience Through Productive Failure\r\nIn STEM, failure is not a final grade but a necessary step in the \"design thinking\" process. When a 1st grader's block tower falls, they learn to analyze what went wrong and try a different approach. This builds a growth mindset, teaching them that persistence and trial-and-error lead to mastery—a mindset that carries over into reading, writing, and social challenges.\r\n3. Strengthening Physical and Executive Functions\r\nBeyond the \"big ideas,\" hands-on STEM activities provide practical developmental benefits:\r\nFine Motor Skills: Manipulating small objects, pouring liquids, and building with kits refines dexterity and hand-eye coordination.\r\nExecutive Function: Project-based learning strengthens a child's ability to manage time, organize materials, and maintain focus.\r\n4. Connecting School to the Real World\r\nFor a six-year-old, abstract concepts can be difficult to grasp. STEM makes learning tangible. They discover that math is used for measuring baking ingredients and science explains why plants grow in their backyard. This relevance ignites a natural curiosity that can lead to a lifelong love of learning.\r\nSummary of Long-Term Benefits\r\nImpact Area\tBenefit for 1st Graders\r\nAcademic Readiness\tHigher confidence and content knowledge in science and math.\r\nFuture Careers\tEarly exposure captured imagination; 53% of adults with early STEM tracks work in STEM-heavy roles.\r\nSocial-Emotional\tIncreases self-esteem through the satisfaction of solving \"hard\" problems.\r\nBy supporting STEM in the 1st grade, we aren't just training future scientists; we are nurturing confident, curious, and resilient problem-solvers ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.","fullyFundedDate":1764385389654,"projectUrl":"project/stem-think/9899328/","projectTitle":"STEM & Think","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Brown","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5013617_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1512073738898","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5013617"},{"teacherId":8083996,"projectId":9688829,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, my 3rd-grade classroom is now filled with exciting supplies and games that are already making a difference in my students' learning and engagement! The new materials have sparked creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills as students explore and play together. I've seen even my most hesitant learners eagerly participate and collaborate, building confidence and joy in learning every day. Your generosity has not only provided resources but also inspired my students to take pride in their work and have fun while learning. We are deeply grateful for your investment in their education—it truly makes our classroom a brighter, more engaging place.","fullyFundedDate":1757630209588,"projectUrl":"project/points-for-progress-building-financial/9688829/","projectTitle":"Points for Progress: Building Financial Futures! Part 2","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Cullen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8083996_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1688574384257","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8083996"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_45403","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":244,"numTeachers":17,"percentFrplEligible":90,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":55,"percentWhite":17,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":17,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"14.4:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":42.5,"schoolId":45403,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Eakin Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Eakin Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/ohio/columbus-city-school-district/eakin-elementary-school/45403"}