{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Northwest Heights Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":69.2,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9174052,"projectId":9769871,"letterContent":"The \"Reaching RTI Goals with iPads\" project has made a strong impact by helping students receive targeted, individualized support in an engaging way. While many donors may think of technology as entertainment, these iPads are used as instructional tools that adapt to each student's needs. During RTI time, students practice reading and math skills at their own pace while receiving immediate feedback. This has made learning more accessible and less frustrating, especially for those who need extra support.\r\n\r\nStudents are most excited about the independence and interactivity the iPads provide. They enjoy using apps that feel like games while still helping them learn, and they love being able to track their progress. Several students who previously struggled have especially benefited—reluctant readers use audio supports to build confidence, and students who need extra practice can work without pressure. Overall, the iPad has increased engagement, confidence, and a positive attitude toward learning.","fullyFundedDate":1767844566159,"projectUrl":"project/reaching-rti-goals-with-ipads/9769871/","projectTitle":"Reaching RTI Goals with iPads","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Mussett","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9174052_orig.jpg?crop=1440,1440,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723080071784","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9174052"},{"teacherId":1897687,"projectId":10026591,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our classroom and our young scientists. Because of your kindness, our students now have the opportunity to experience science in a truly hands-on and meaningful way. The addition of the rock tumbler and mineral resources has transformed our classroom into an active geology lab where curiosity can come to life.\r\n\r\nOur students are already excited to observe how rough stones gradually change over time, and this long-term investigation is helping them build patience, perseverance, and a deeper understanding of Earth science concepts. Instead of simply reading about weathering and erosion, they are witnessing it firsthand. They are comparing, classifying, and using scientific vocabulary in authentic ways that make learning both engaging and memorable.\r\n\r\nYour generosity is giving our students the chance to think, explore, and discover like real scientists. You are helping spark a love of learning that will last far beyond this project. We are so grateful for your support and for the difference you are making in our classroom every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1769459414281,"projectUrl":"project/from-rough-to-radiant-exploring-earth-s/10026591/","projectTitle":"From Rough to Radiant: Exploring Earth Science with Rock Tumbling","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bennett","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1897687_orig.jpg?crop=1158,1158,x25,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1584026181797","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1897687"},{"teacherId":1897687,"projectId":9942921,"letterContent":"Your generosity has made an incredible impact on our STEM classroom, and we are truly grateful for your support of our students. Because of your donation, our young problem-solvers now have access to tools that allow them to turn their ideas into real, tangible creations. The ChompShop Maker Bundle has opened the door for hands-on learning in a way that simply wasn't possible before.\r\n\r\nWith these new tools, students are no longer limited by traditional materials or basic supplies. They are now able to safely and confidently cut, design, and build their own prototypes using cardboard as a versatile engineering material. Watching them collaborate, test ideas, revise their designs, and celebrate their successes has been incredibly rewarding. They are thinking like real engineers—asking questions, solving problems, and learning through creativity and perseverance.\r\n\r\nYour kindness is helping to foster innovation, confidence, and critical thinking in every student who walks into our classroom. These tools will continue to be used across multiple grade levels and projects, impacting students for years to come. Thank you for believing in our students and investing in their futures as creators, builders, and innovators.","fullyFundedDate":1767911836121,"projectUrl":"project/future-inventors-need-toolslets-build/9942921/","projectTitle":"Future Inventors Need Tools—Let’s Build Together!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bennett","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1897687_orig.jpg?crop=1158,1158,x25,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1584026181797","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1897687"},{"teacherId":1897687,"projectId":9945538,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our \"Cut, Connect, Create: Building with Cardboard\" project. Because of your generosity, my students now have access to tools that transform simple, everyday cardboard into something extraordinary. What was once limited by scissors and tape has become an open-ended world of engineering possibilities. Your support is giving students the opportunity to design and build bridges, towers, vehicles, and original inventions—turning their ideas into real, tangible creations.\r\n\r\nThese tools are doing more than helping students build—they are helping them think. My students are now planning, testing, revising, and collaborating like true engineers. They are developing confidence as problem-solvers and discovering that their ideas have value. Watching them engage in hands-on learning with excitement and purpose has been incredible, and it's all because of your kindness and belief in their potential.\r\n\r\nYour donation is making a lasting impact across multiple grade levels and throughout the entire school year. You are not just providing materials—you are helping grow creativity, resilience, and innovation in young learners. Thank you for investing in my students and for helping them build, create, and dream bigger than ever before.","fullyFundedDate":1766809032498,"projectUrl":"project/cut-connect-create-building-with-card/9945538/","projectTitle":"Cut, Connect, Create: Building With Cardboard Engineering Kits!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bennett","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1897687_orig.jpg?crop=1158,1158,x25,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1584026181797","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/1897687"},{"teacherId":1150063,"projectId":10035448,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your continued and amazing support of my students! We are always blown away by your continued support! \r\n\r\nOnce our boxes of books arrived, my students dove right in and started reading! During reading group each day, they ask if we are going to read from the new decodable books. If we don't have time during small group, then I let them choose a book or two to read to a friend. \r\n\r\nI've already seen their reading skills and enthusiasm for reading go up with these engaging sets of decodable books. As always, we all thank you from the bottom of our hearts! Happy Spring!","fullyFundedDate":1770254290641,"projectUrl":"project/building-strong-readers-with-science-of/10035448/","projectTitle":"Building Strong Readers with Science of Reading Decodable Books","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Fisher","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1150063_orig.jpg?crop=1232,1232,x0,y114&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723055488189","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/theresa-fisher"},{"teacherId":5656696,"projectId":9887353,"letterContent":"* Since receiving the bright, colorful acrylic paints, my students and I have woven them into many aspects of our classroom experience, especially within our STEM curriculum. We have used these paints for a variety of hands-on experiments, art projects, and even to illustrate scientific concepts visually. One specific project involved small groups working together to create their own color wheels, experimenting with primary and secondary colors. As they mixed paints, students recorded their observations like scientists, noting how certain colors combined to create new shades. This led to lively discussions about the science behind color perception and the properties of light. The excitement peaked when we used the paints to demonstrate chemical reactions and physical changes by mixing materials and observing the results. Not only did these activities spark creativity, but they also deepened students' understanding of science, reinforcing the connection between art and STEM. The paints have truly transformed our classroom into a collaborative, interdisciplinary learning environment.\r\n* When my students first saw the new paints arranged on our classroom table, there was an audible buzz of excitement. Several students gasped and immediately started chatting about what they wanted to create. For many, this was their first exposure to high-quality acrylic paints, and they were captivated by the intensity and variety of colors. Some students carefully examined the paint tubes and brushes, asking questions about which techniques we could use and how to blend different hues. Others began brainstorming ideas, sketching quickly on scrap paper as inspiration struck. The energy in the room was infectious, and students who are usually more reserved became eager to participate. The vibrant colors and quality materials made our classroom feel like a real art studio, inspiring creativity and anticipation for upcoming projects.\r\n* Thanks to your generosity, we are now able to embark on several exciting new projects that will continue to foster our students' growth. Our most ambitious upcoming project is a large-scale classroom mural inspired by the natural world. Students are working together to research different plants, animals, and ecosystems, gathering ideas through books and online resources. They are collaborating to sketch out the mural's design, ensuring every child's voice is represented in the planning process. Once painting begins, students will take turns leading different sections, learning how to organize a group effort and make creative decisions as a team. Beyond the mural, we have plans to create smaller collaborative artworks and individual projects that showcase each student's unique perspective. Finished pieces will be displayed throughout our school, including in the hallways and common areas, allowing students to share their achievements with their peers, families, and the broader community. These projects not only nurture creativity but also build essential life skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving that will serve our students well in the future.","fullyFundedDate":1762980722313,"projectUrl":"project/painting-with-a-smile/9887353/","projectTitle":"Painting With a Smile","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. R. White NWH","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5656696_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1644785812603","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/robyne-whiteroom8nwh"},{"teacherId":5656696,"projectId":10003412,"letterContent":"Since receiving the bright, colorful acrylic paints, my students and I have woven them into many aspects of our classroom experience, especially within our STEM curriculum. We have used these paints for a variety of hands-on experiments, art projects, and even to illustrate scientific concepts visually. One specific project involved small groups working together to create their own color wheels, experimenting with primary and secondary colors. As they mixed paints, students recorded their observations like scientists, noting how certain colors combined to create new shades. This led to lively discussions about the science behind color perception and the properties of light. The excitement peaked when we used the paints to demonstrate chemical reactions and physical changes by mixing materials and observing the results. Not only did these activities spark creativity, but they also deepened students' understanding of science, reinforcing the connection between art and STEM. The paints have truly transformed our classroom into a collaborative, interdisciplinary learning environment.\r\n When my students first saw the new paints arranged on our classroom table, there was an audible buzz of excitement. Several students gasped and immediately started chatting about what they wanted to create. For many, this was their first exposure to high-quality acrylic paints, and they were captivated by the intensity and variety of colors. Some students carefully examined the paint tubes and brushes, asking questions about which techniques we could use and how to blend different hues. Others began brainstorming ideas, sketching quickly on scrap paper as inspiration struck. The energy in the room was infectious, and students who are usually more reserved became eager to participate. The vibrant colors and quality materials made our classroom feel like a real art studio, inspiring creativity and anticipation for upcoming projects.\r\n Thanks to your generosity, we are now able to embark on several exciting new projects that will continue to foster our students' growth. Our most ambitious upcoming project is a large-scale classroom mural inspired by the natural world. Students are working together to research different plants, animals, and ecosystems, gathering ideas through books and online resources. They are collaborating to sketch out the mural's design, ensuring every child's voice is represented in the planning process. Once painting begins, students will take turns leading different sections, learning how to organize a group effort and make creative decisions as a team. Beyond the mural, we have plans to create smaller collaborative artworks and individual projects that showcase each student's unique perspective. Finished pieces will be displayed throughout our school, including in the hallways and common areas, allowing students to share their achievements with their peers, families, and the broader community. These projects not only nurture creativity but also build essential life skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving that will serve our students well in the future.","fullyFundedDate":1768511566669,"projectUrl":"project/painting-makes-us-happy/10003412/","projectTitle":"Painting Makes Us Happy","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. R. White NWH","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5656696_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1644785812603","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/robyne-whiteroom8nwh"},{"teacherId":1150063,"projectId":9957732,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your continued support of our classroom! My students are always so excited to hear of our projects being funded! \r\n\r\nThis project, Math on the Move - Organized Centers helped me complete a series of learning stations in math. Students are able to rotate through these centers, which include telling time, measurement, money skills, 3-D shapes, story problems and more. Each student completes a center, is checked by myself or my assistant, then moves onto the next assigned center, depending upon needed skill reinforcement. \r\n\r\nI have seen so much growth in my students with the use of these wonderful math centers! Thanks to you, this is possible! You are greatly appreciated!","fullyFundedDate":1768099386855,"projectUrl":"project/math-on-the-move-organized-centers-for/9957732/","projectTitle":"Math on the Move: Organized Centers for Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Fisher","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1150063_orig.jpg?crop=1232,1232,x0,y114&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723055488189","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/theresa-fisher"},{"teacherId":1150063,"projectId":9766284,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for contributing to our Work Stations project! Through your donation, I was able to create many new reading and math work stations for my special education students. \r\n\r\nSo often, my students get bored with paper and pencil tasks, and instead of engaging, will daydream or just quit working. With our work stations, the tasks are usually quick, very engaging for students with brightly colored and interactive materials. Students are receiving vital reinforcement of skills they are learning in small group, from categorizing parts of speech to completing math story problems. \r\n\r\nWithout your amazing support, none of this would be possible! Thank you from all of us!","fullyFundedDate":1768422889511,"projectUrl":"project/work-stations-make-learning-fun/9766284/","projectTitle":"Work Stations Make Learning Fun","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Fisher","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1150063_orig.jpg?crop=1232,1232,x0,y114&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723055488189","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/theresa-fisher"},{"teacherId":10342058,"projectId":9876141,"letterContent":"Thank you so very much for the gift of the classroom novel \"Esperanza Rising.\" This has been a favorite novel for our 4th graders to read for many years. It introduces elements of a different historical time period, as well as different economic circumstances which a family may find themselves. The main character, Esperanza, learns to view life through a totally different lens after her family suffers the loss of her wealthy father. Our students are mesmerized by the storyline and it opens up so many topics for discussion. \r\n\r\nAlthough we had purchased a classroom set several years ago, they were falling apart due to use. Students were having to piece together books to be able to follow along with the read aloud function of the lesson. \r\n\r\nThis gift will enable many more students, over many more years, to fall in love with this rich literary resource.","fullyFundedDate":1767643276823,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-novels-with-mrs-garner/9876141/","projectTitle":"Classroom Novels With Mrs. Garner","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Garner","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10342058"},{"teacherId":7054183,"projectId":9580102,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has been transformed in meaningful, tangible ways. We are already using the new resources every day, most recently during a hands-on project where students worked in small groups to explore concepts more deeply and independently. With these materials, students were able to collaborate, test ideas, and explain their thinking with confidence—something that was much harder to do before. One especially memorable moment was watching a student who is usually hesitant to participate take the lead and excitedly explain their work to classmates using the new tools.\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the excitement was immediate and contagious. Students gathered around as we unpacked everything, asking questions and eager to try them out. Their enthusiasm showed just how valued and motivated they felt knowing that people beyond our classroom cared enough to support their learning. Several students even said, \"These are for us?\"—a reminder of how powerful that sense of support can be.\r\nBecause of you, our next steps are even more exciting. Students are now building on what they've learned by applying these resources to a larger, ongoing lesson where they will create, reflect, and share their final projects. They're developing stronger skills, deeper understanding, and greater confidence along the way. Your donation didn't just provide materials—it opened doors to richer learning experiences, and we are so grateful for the impact you've made on our students' journey.","fullyFundedDate":1757991587047,"projectUrl":"project/mind-stack/9580102/","projectTitle":"Mind Stack","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Kaler","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrskaler1"},{"teacherId":9131709,"projectId":9379889,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for providing my students with magnetic tiles, marble runs, and engaging center toys that have already made a huge impact in our classroom. During center time, students are using the magnetic tiles to design towers, bridges, and patterns while explaining their thinking to classmates. With the marble runs, they experiment with angles, height, and cause-and-effect, eagerly adjusting pieces to see how changes affect the marble's path. These materials have turned our learning centers into rich opportunities for problem-solving, collaboration, and creativity.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials were first introduced, the excitement was immediate and contagious. Students gathered around the bins with wide eyes and huge smiles, carefully exploring each piece and excitedly asking when they could start building. Even my quieter learners jumped right in, working alongside peers and proudly showing off their creations. The room was filled with meaningful conversation, teamwork, and joy, which is exactly the kind of learning environment every teacher hopes to create.\r\n\r\nThanks to your generosity, these materials will continue to support our learning throughout the year. Next, students will use them during structured STEM challenges, math explorations, and open-ended play that builds fine motor skills, persistence, and early engineering concepts. You gave my students more than toys—you gave them tools that inspire curiosity and confidence every single day. Thank you for gifting our classroom with such a wonderful gift.","fullyFundedDate":1758855909911,"projectUrl":"project/play-learn-and-grow-together/9379889/","projectTitle":"Play, Learn, and Grow Together","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Manning","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9131709"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_86268","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":535,"numTeachers":34,"percentFrplEligible":72,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":45,"percentIndigenous":17,"percentLatinx":19,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 4","studentTeacherRatio":"15.7:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"RURAL","ncesMetroType":"TOWN_DISTANT"},"inStateSupporters":30.8,"schoolId":86268,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Northwest Heights Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Northwest Heights Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/oklahoma/durant-independent-school-district/northwest-heights-elementary-school/86268"}
Join the 214 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Northwest Heights Elementary School is
a town public school
in Durant, Oklahoma that is part of Durant Independent School District.
It serves 535 students
in grades K - 4 with a student/teacher ratio of 15.7:1.
Its teachers have had 145 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
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of students receive free or reduced price lunch
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
Source: the National Center for Education Statistics
36%
of students are Black, Latino, Native
American, or Asian
Data about school demographics comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. The numbers in this chart may not add up to 100% because of limitations in the available data.
Northwest Heights Elementary School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Apr 9, 2026
DonorsChoose makes it easy for anyone to help a teacher in need, moving us closer to a nation where students
in every community have the tools and experiences they need for a great education.
Northwest Heights Elementary School
$71,082
raised using DonorsChoose
145
projects
funded
37
teachers
funded
214
donors
13
projects
for
basic supplies
49
projects for
technology
25
projects for
books
6
projects
for
art supplies
Northwest Heights Elementary School has received support from
66 individuals from Oklahoma and
148 individuals out-of-state.