{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Choctaw Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":26.7,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":6442086,"projectId":10087542,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project, \"Beads of Kindness: Students Spreading Joy Beyond the Classroom.\" Your generosity brought so much excitement to our classroom. When the bead supplies arrived, my students could hardly wait to open everything and start creating. They immediately began talking about color combinations, patterns, and who they wanted to make bracelets and keychains for. It was such a joyful moment to watch them realize they could use their creativity to brighten someone else's day.\r\n\r\nThese materials have already made a big impact in our classroom. Students have been creating kindness bracelets and small gifts for classmates, teachers, family members, and other people in our school community. One of my favorite moments was watching students carefully choose colors and words they thought would encourage someone else. They were so proud to deliver their creations and see the smiles they brought to others. The bead activities have also given students opportunities to work together, practice patience, and build positive relationships with one another.\r\n\r\nWe are excited to continue using these supplies in future kindness projects and classroom activities. My students are already coming up with new ideas, including making welcome gifts for new students and appreciation gifts for school staff. Thank you for helping create meaningful experiences that allow my students to express themselves, connect with others, and spread kindness beyond our classroom walls. Your support truly means so much to us!","fullyFundedDate":1770823069081,"projectUrl":"project/beads-of-kindness-students-spreading-jo/10087542/","projectTitle":"Beads of Kindness: Students Spreading Joy Beyond the Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Tran","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6442086"},{"teacherId":8314999,"projectId":9928191,"letterContent":"This has allowed for my students to thrive in a clean and safe environment. They love using the cleaning supplies to keep our room spotless and healthy!! They are so thankful for what you all have provided, as am I. We have used the vacuum almost daily to clean our classroom rug. They love taking turns using the vacuum and are constantly asking if they can clean now. \r\nWe used to have issues with ants and other bugs but now that we are able to clean daily, those issues have become much more manageable.","fullyFundedDate":1764189063264,"projectUrl":"project/clean-classroom/9928191/","projectTitle":"Clean Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Welton (Bledsoe)","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8314999_orig.jpg?crop=1199,1199,x552,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1683736055237","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8314999"},{"teacherId":5166198,"projectId":10181552,"letterContent":"Adding four weight storage racks has made a noticeable difference in the organization and efficiency of a middle school weightlifting class. With designated spaces for plates and equipment, students can quickly find and return weights without confusion or clutter. This improved layout reduces time spent searching for equipment and allows more time for actual lifting and instruction. A well-organized weight room also helps establish clear routines and expectations, making transitions between exercises smoother and more productive.\r\n\r\nThe addition of storage racks has also significantly improved safety. Weights that are left on the floor can create tripping hazards and increase the risk of injury, especially in a busy class setting. By keeping equipment properly stored when not in use, the space remains clear and accessible for movement. Students are also more likely to take responsibility for cleaning up and respecting the equipment when there is a clear and easy system in place.\r\n\r\nOverall, these racks have helped create a more structured, efficient, and safe learning environment. Students can stay engaged in their workouts with fewer interruptions, and the class can run more smoothly from start to finish. This improvement not only supports better performance but also reinforces good habits that students can carry with them as they continue to develop their fitness skills.","fullyFundedDate":1776189785340,"projectUrl":"project/4-new-weight-storage-racks/10181552/","projectTitle":"4 New Weight Storage Racks","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Mangrum","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5166198_orig.jpg?crop=1158,1158,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1692058461014","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/james-mangrum"},{"teacherId":10231506,"projectId":10092152,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has been transformed into a hub of creativity, collaboration, and purpose. When the button maker and supplies arrived, students were immediately energized—eager to start designing and producing their own messages of kindness. One of our first projects involved small teams brainstorming themes like encouragement, inclusion, and gratitude. They sketched ideas, gave each other feedback, and then brought their designs to life using the button maker. Watching their excitement as their ideas turned into real, wearable messages was a powerful moment—many students proudly wore their first creations home that very day.\r\nWe are now using these resources as part of an ongoing \"Kindness Campaign.\" Students have taken full ownership of the process, from design to distribution. They've been sharing their buttons throughout the school, offering them to peers, teachers, and staff as random acts of kindness. Recently, a group of students visited a local farmers market, where they handed out buttons to community members and had meaningful conversations about spreading positivity. Their confidence and communication skills have grown tremendously as they see the impact of even small gestures.\r\nLooking ahead, students are planning new button collections tied to monthly themes like empathy, perseverance, and community pride. They are also discussing ways to expand their outreach by partnering with local events and organizations. This project has not only helped them develop practical skills like teamwork and problem-solving, but it has also deepened their understanding of how kindness can create connection and change. Your support has made all of this possible, and the ripple effect of your generosity continues to grow each day.","fullyFundedDate":1771364672241,"projectUrl":"project/buttons-of-kindness-empowering-positive/10092152/","projectTitle":"Buttons of Kindness: Empowering Positive Messages in Our Community","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. McClure","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10231506_orig.jpg?crop=1242,1242,x0,y500&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1756480237248","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10231506"},{"teacherId":5166198,"projectId":9835681,"letterContent":"Adding a new set of smaller dumbbells has made a noticeable difference in our middle school weightlifting class by making strength training more accessible to every student. Many beginners struggle to use standard weights safely and with proper form, but lighter dumbbells allow students to start at an appropriate level. This helps build confidence early on, as students can successfully complete exercises without feeling overwhelmed or discouraged.\r\n\r\nThe smaller weight increments have also improved overall technique and injury prevention. Students are able to focus on learning correct movement patterns—such as proper posture, controlled lifts, and full range of motion—without sacrificing form to lift heavier weights. This foundation is critical at the middle school level, where developing safe habits is more important than lifting heavy.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, the expanded range of weights has allowed for better differentiation within the class. Students of varying strength levels can now work at their own pace and progress gradually, creating a more inclusive and supportive environment. As a result, participation has increased, and students are more engaged, motivated, and willing to challenge themselves as they see their own improvement over time.","fullyFundedDate":1771026633853,"projectUrl":"project/smaller-dumbbells-to-create-better-inclu/9835681/","projectTitle":"Smaller Dumbbells to Create Better Inclusion","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Mangrum","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5166198_orig.jpg?crop=1158,1158,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1692058461014","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/james-mangrum"},{"teacherId":5166198,"projectId":9828636,"letterContent":"Adding a training bar to a middle school weightlifting class has made a significant positive impact on both learning and safety. Unlike a standard Olympic bar, a training bar is lighter and easier to handle, allowing students to focus on proper form and technique before progressing to heavier weights. This builds confidence, especially for beginners who may feel intimidated by heavier equipment.\r\n\r\nWith the training bar, students can safely practice fundamental movements like squats, deadlifts, and presses without risking injury from too much weight. It also allows more students to participate at the same time, keeping the class active and engaged. Overall, the addition of a training bar helps create a more inclusive, supportive environment where students can develop skills, strength, and confidence at an appropriate pace.","fullyFundedDate":1769458215382,"projectUrl":"project/a-new-training-bar/9828636/","projectTitle":"A New Training Bar","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Mangrum","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5166198_orig.jpg?crop=1158,1158,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1692058461014","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/james-mangrum"},{"teacherId":3112177,"projectId":10080318,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our library makerspace quickly turned into a space filled with creativity, laughter, and purpose. When the students first saw the Perler beads, pegboards, and supplies, their eyes lit up. They immediately began sorting colors, sketching ideas, and asking who they could make something for. It was incredible to watch them slow down and really focus as they carefully placed each bead, often talking with friends about the person who might receive their kindness gift. There was a genuine sense of pride as their designs came to life.\r\n\r\nStudents used the materials to create handmade kindness items like keychains and magnets, each one thoughtfully designed to brighten someone's day. They loved transforming simple beads into colorful designs and positive messages. The organizers and tools helped students manage the space independently while collaborating with one another, and the key rings, magnets, and stickers helped turn their creations into meaningful gifts ready to share. What stood out most was how seriously students took the idea of making something for someone else—it made the project feel truly special.\r\n\r\nThis project has already inspired even more ideas for how our students can use creativity to serve others. After seeing the impact of these kindness gifts, students have started brainstorming additional projects they can lead in the library makerspace to spread encouragement throughout our school and community. We are continuing to share these creations with teachers, staff, and younger students, and hope to expand these efforts with future kindness and service projects. Your support didn't just provide materials—it sparked a movement of creativity, empathy, and student leadership that we hope to continue for years to come.","fullyFundedDate":1770397919777,"projectUrl":"project/designing-kindness-student-made-gifts-t/10080318/","projectTitle":"Designing Kindness: Student-Made Gifts That Give Back","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Armstrong","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3112177_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1536952318295","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jess-armstrong"},{"teacherId":403299,"projectId":9809779,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for our stem bins! My students love them and they have been great motivators for completing work and showing their work on regular assignments! Students who show their work the first time are a math teacher's dream so thank you for that! :) I have had other teachers stop by to ask what my students are doing since they seem so engaged to onlookers. Some of my students ask to eat lunch in my room so they can build after they eat!\r\nThank you so much for your support! Without donors like you teachers like me could not do all we do.","fullyFundedDate":1762291845403,"projectUrl":"project/hands-on-stem-for-middle-school-minds/9809779/","projectTitle":"Hands-on STEM for Middle School Minds!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Archer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp403299_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1748115647047","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/403299"},{"teacherId":3112177,"projectId":9942736,"letterContent":"From the moment the materials arrived, my students were eager to dive in. Their excitement was immediate, with eyes wide, questions flying, and hands ready to explore. As we unpacked the specimen centers together, students carefully examined insects, birds, reptiles, mammals, and sea life, noticing details they had never seen before. One student pointed out patterns on an insect's wings, while another compared beak shapes and began wondering how birds' diets might differ. These observations naturally led to rich conversations and meaningful note-taking.\r\n\r\nWe are using these resources during library observation stations that blend science and information literacy. As students rotate through the specimen centers, they sketch what they see, label features, and record questions they want to investigate further. The plastic art trays help keep materials organized and give students a dedicated space to sort specimens and create visual models inspired by their observations. Students practice core library skills such as close observation, research questioning, and documenting learning, all while engaging in hands-on exploration.\r\n\r\nNext, students will use their observation notes to guide research using library books and digital resources. They will select a specimen that sparked their curiosity, gather information about its habitat and adaptations, and create a visual or written product to share their learning with others. Thanks to our donors, the library has become an active space for inquiry and discovery, where students are building curiosity, confidence, and a lasting love of learning.","fullyFundedDate":1768438466271,"projectUrl":"project/science-in-action-observation-stations/9942736/","projectTitle":"Science in Action: Observation Stations for Young Explorers","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Armstrong","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3112177_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1536952318295","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jess-armstrong"},{"teacherId":3112177,"projectId":9787009,"letterContent":"Because of your support, our library makerspace has quickly become a favorite place for students to slow down, create, and try something new. The new fiber arts materials are being used every day during lunch, before and after school, and during makerspace time. Every loom is in constant use, with students weaving everything from bookmarks and bracelets to small wall hangings and gifts for friends and family. It's been amazing to see how naturally students gravitate toward these hands-on projects.\r\n\r\nThe weaving kit has easily become the most popular item in the space. Students are often lined up waiting for a turn, excited to choose colors and start their next project. When the materials first arrived, students' faces lit up as they explored the yarn, looms, and tools. Many jumped right in, even if they had never woven or crocheted before. Others who were more hesitant at first found themselves coming back day after day, proud to show off their progress and eager to learn a new technique.\r\n\r\nNext, we're excited to expand this work even further by partnering with a local community member who will be coming into the library to teach a crochet class for students. This will give students the opportunity to learn directly from an experienced crocheter, ask questions, and build new skills in a supportive, hands-on environment. Students will continue creating more detailed projects, experimenting with patterns and textures, and even stepping into leadership roles as they help peers learn and troubleshoot. Thanks to you, our students now have not just materials, but a calm, creative space with meaningful community connections where they can build confidence, creativity, and pride in what they make.","fullyFundedDate":1769300912952,"projectUrl":"project/creating-calm-and-creativity-through-cro/9787009/","projectTitle":"Creating Calm and Creativity Through Crochet","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Armstrong","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3112177_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1536952318295","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jess-armstrong"},{"teacherId":3112177,"projectId":9964187,"letterContent":"When my students first saw the materials from this project, the reaction was instant excitement. They couldn't wait to dig into the paints, and look through the feeders, already talking about where they should be placed and what designs might attract birds and pollinators. \r\n\r\nWhile waiting on supplies to be delivered, students began this semester with researching local birds, bees, and pollinators, asking thoughtful questions about habitats, food sources, and how humans can better support wildlife in our own community.\r\n\r\nThis project has grown into a true hands-on research experience. Students are looking forward to collecting observations using the window bird feeders and were surprised by a family of cardinals who appeared on a camera of one of our bird feeders. The also have enjoyed learning about pollinators through the mason bee tubes and many didn't know about bee tubes. At the same time, they've started gathering materials to build birdhouses of their own. Watching them plan, problem-solve, and collaborate as they prepare to decorate and hang these birdhouses has been incredibly rewarding. They take pride in knowing their designs aren't just creative, but purposeful.\r\n\r\nNext, students will continue building and decorating birdhouses, install habitats around our school, and monitor how wildlife responds over time. They're already talking about sharing their findings and reflecting on what worked and what they would change next. Thanks to your generosity, my students feel empowered to lead a project that blends creativity, research, and service. You've given them an opportunity to make a real difference, and they are proud of the impact they're having on our school and community.","fullyFundedDate":1766088556856,"projectUrl":"project/students-in-action-building-habitats-fo/9964187/","projectTitle":"Students in Action: Building Habitats for Local Wildlife","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Armstrong","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3112177_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1536952318295","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jess-armstrong"},{"teacherId":5166198,"projectId":9896031,"letterContent":"Adding two new weight benches has really helped improve our middle school weightlifting class. With more benches available, students no longer have to wait as long for a turn, which keeps everyone more active and engaged during class time. This allows the teacher to run workouts more smoothly and helps students stay focused instead of getting distracted while waiting.\r\n\r\nThe new benches have also made it easier to teach and practice proper lifting techniques. Because more students can work at the same time, the teacher can give better feedback and supervision, which improves safety. Overall, the additional weight benches have created a more efficient, safe, and positive learning environment for our weightlifting class.","fullyFundedDate":1764716592392,"projectUrl":"project/new-weight-benches-to-complete-our-weigh/9896031/","projectTitle":"New Weight Benches To Complete our Weight Room","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Mangrum","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5166198_orig.jpg?crop=1158,1158,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1692058461014","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/james-mangrum"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_86931","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":729,"numTeachers":41,"percentFrplEligible":41,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":4,"percentWhite":68,"percentIndigenous":5,"percentLatinx":8,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":12,"gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"17.8:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":false,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":73.3,"schoolId":86931,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Choctaw Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Choctaw Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/oklahoma/choctaw-nicoma-park-schools/choctaw-junior-high-school/86931"}