{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Chester Upland School of Arts","outOfStateSupporters":32.0,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":5240806,"projectId":9771766,"letterContent":"Thank you, my students now have access to creative tools that allow them to work together, express themselves, and see their ideas come to life. Using the Cricut machine, heat press, vinyl, and t-shirt materials, students are learning how to collaborate, plan designs, and engage in hands-on learning. One of our first projects was a t-shirt design that said \"Cool Kids.\" We intentionally chose a simple, quick design so students could focus on the process while ensuring the message reflected each and every one of them. As a group, they shared their thoughts, listened to one another, and collectively chose a design that represented who they are together.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the materials, their excitement was immediate. Many had never used a Cricut or heat press before, and they were eager to learn how the tools worked. Watching their group-designed shirts come together was a powerful moment—students were proud not only of the final product, but of the teamwork and problem-solving that went into it. Students who may not always feel confident in traditional academic settings were especially engaged, showing creativity, patience, and ownership throughout the process.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, we are intentionally teaching students the basics before transitioning to larger projects and the bigger machines we were gifted. I can't wait to use the larger heat press and explore bigger, more detailed designs with them as their skills continue to grow. These resources will support future projects connected to creativity, student voice, and classroom community. Because of our donors' generosity, students are gaining confidence, collaboration skills, and the joy of seeing their ideas come to life.","fullyFundedDate":1761084323831,"projectUrl":"project/unlocking-creativity-cricut-crafting-fo/9771766/","projectTitle":"Unlocking Creativity: Cricut Crafting for Curious Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ellis","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5240806_orig.jpg?crop=480,480,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1674064463008","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5240806"},{"teacherId":8311551,"projectId":9861009,"letterContent":"On behalf of our entire school community, we would like to extend our deepest and most sincere gratitude for your generous provision of snacks for our students. Your kindness and commitment to supporting our children have made a meaningful and lasting impact, and we are truly thankful for your generosity.\r\nThe snacks you provided have helped support over 500 students, many of whom rely on these resources to stay energized and focused throughout the school day. For some of our students, these snacks are more than just a treat—they are an essential source of nourishment that helps bridge the gap between meals. By meeting this basic need, you have played a direct role in supporting their overall well-being, academic success, and emotional health.\r\nWe see the effects of your generosity every day in our classrooms and hallways. Students who have access to nutritious snacks are better able to concentrate, participate in lessons, and engage positively with their peers. Hunger can be a significant barrier to learning, and your support has helped remove that barrier for hundreds of children. Because of you, our students are better equipped to focus on their education rather than worrying about an empty stomach.\r\nBeyond the physical benefits, your donation has also had a powerful emotional impact. Acts of kindness like yours remind our students that they are cared for and valued by their community. Knowing that someone took the time to think about their needs fosters a sense of belonging, security, and encouragement. These feelings are especially important for young people as they grow and develop confidence in themselves and their futures.\r\nYour support has also eased the burden on families and staff alike. For families facing financial challenges, your generosity provides reassurance and relief, knowing their children have access to nourishment during the school day. For our teachers and staff, it allows them to focus more fully on instruction and student support, confident that students' basic needs are being met.\r\nWe are deeply grateful not only for the snacks themselves, but for the compassion and thoughtfulness behind your gift. Your willingness to invest in the lives of our students demonstrates a strong belief in education, community, and the potential of every child. Contributions like yours strengthen the bond between schools and the communities they serve, and we are honored to have your support.\r\nThank you once again for making such a positive difference in the lives of our students. Your generosity has touched many lives and will be remembered with appreciation and respect. We look forward to continuing this meaningful partnership and hope you know how deeply your support is valued.\r\nWith sincere thanks and appreciation,\r\nSincerely,","fullyFundedDate":1761611230198,"projectUrl":"project/helping-hungry-learners-thrive/9861009/","projectTitle":"Helping Hungry Learners Thrive","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Cannon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8311551"},{"teacherId":8065263,"projectId":9866365,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, these new resources have already become a meaningful part of our daily classroom routine. Students are using them during small-group instruction and independent practice, where they can really slow down, focus, and apply new skills with confidence. One standout moment was during a writing lesson when a student who often hesitates raised their hand and said, \"I can do this by myself now.\" That sense of independence is exactly what these materials make possible.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, their excitement was immediate. They were eager to explore, asked thoughtful questions, and couldn't wait to try them out. Several students commented on how \"fun\" and \"special\" the resources felt, which instantly boosted their engagement and motivation to learn.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, our next steps include building these materials into a longer-term project tied to our current lesson goals. Students will continue using them to practice and strengthen key skills, track their own progress, and reflect on their growth. Your donation didn't just provide supplies—it created new opportunities for confidence, curiosity, and success in our classroom. We are so grateful for the role you've played in our students' learning journey. 💛","fullyFundedDate":1762040475952,"projectUrl":"project/sensory-supports-for-student-success/9866365/","projectTitle":"Sensory Supports for Student Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hessler","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8065263"},{"teacherId":10293717,"projectId":9852060,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous donation, our classroom has become a more supportive, comfortable, and healthy learning environment for my students. The donated snacks have made an immediate difference, students now know they have access to food when they are still hungry after lunch or need a quick snack break to refocus. Instead of worrying about hunger, they can concentrate on learning, and it has noticeably improved their engagement and behavior throughout the day.\r\nWhen the students first saw the snack cabinet, they were genuinely excited and relieved. Several students shared how happy they felt knowing they wouldn't have to sit through lessons feeling hungry. It has also helped build independence, as they know when and how to appropriately get what they need.\r\nThe hand sanitizer has been especially valuable during flu season. Students use it regularly throughout the day, helping us keep germs at bay and maintain a healthier classroom overall. This simple resource has given both students and families peace of mind.\r\nThe teacher mobile chart has transformed the way I teach. I am now able to move freely around the classroom while keeping my computer accessible and connected to the smart board. This allows me to interact more closely with students, provide immediate support, and model lessons more effectively, all while having a safe, designated place for my computer.\r\nMoving forward, these resources will continue to support our daily lessons by keeping students focused, healthy, and ready to learn. Your generosity has truly given you a peek into our classroom, and your support is felt every single day. Thank you for making such a meaningful impact on my students and our learning community.","fullyFundedDate":1761406134363,"projectUrl":"project/heartfelt-supportive/9852060/","projectTitle":"Heartfelt & Supportive","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hamilton","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10293717_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1761951841459","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10293717"},{"teacherId":9871125,"projectId":9745621,"letterContent":"Thanks to this project, my students now have access to books that truly meet them where they are as readers and learners. These new texts introduce and strengthen essential literacy skills such as vocabulary development, reading comprehension, fluency, and making text-to-self and text-to-world connections. Many of the books also support social-emotional learning, helping students recognize emotions, build empathy, and see themselves reflected in stories—something that is especially important for students who have experienced challenges or trauma.\r\n\r\nReading in our classroom is an active and engaging experience. Students read independently, in small groups, and during whole-class read-alouds. You'll often see students discussing characters, predicting what might happen next, or excitedly sharing a favorite part of a story with a classmate. The availability of high-interest books has helped create a calm, welcoming reading environment where students feel safe to take risks and grow as readers.","fullyFundedDate":1761843078580,"projectUrl":"project/building-brilliance-1-book-1-prize-at/9745621/","projectTitle":"Building Brilliance: 1 Book & 1 Prize at a Time","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Heidin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9871125_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1735774704213","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9871125"},{"teacherId":9981180,"projectId":9575188,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity our new health and physical education equipment has completely transformed how my students learn and move in class. We are actively using the Sportime Inclusive PE Equipment Activity Pack, the adapted steeplecourse set scooter boards and sliding boards to create lessons that focus on fitness teamwork and inclusion. One powerful moment was during a fitness circuit lesson where students rotated through stations using the adapted steeplecourse sitting scooter boards and sliding boards with safety handles. These activities allowed all students regardless of ability level to participate fully while building strength balance and coordination.\r\nWhen the students first saw the equipment their reactions were pure excitement. Many students immediately asked when they could try everything and several commented that it felt like a real gym experience. The colorful scooter boards and inclusive design sparked curiosity and confidence especially for students who sometimes feel hesitant during physical activities. Seeing equipment that was clearly designed for safety and accessibility helped students feel supported and eager to participate.\r\nBecause of your support the next steps in our health and PE lessons involve applying these tools to skill building and cooperative challenges. Students are currently working on goal setting related to physical fitness and healthy movement using the scooter boards and adapted equipment to track progress practice teamwork and reflect on personal growth. Your contribution has helped create an engaging inclusive environment where every student feels capable active and motivated to develop lifelong healthy habits.","fullyFundedDate":1758304058583,"projectUrl":"project/from-classroom-to-champions-empowering/9575188/","projectTitle":"From Classroom to Champions: Empowering Students Through Fitness","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Granberry","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9981180"},{"teacherId":9981180,"projectId":9585527,"letterContent":"We are using the new resources to bring movement music and creativity together in meaningful ways during our dance and performance lessons. Students have been exploring rhythm and coordination using the Toca Freestyle II rope tuned djembe which has been especially powerful during warm ups and group activities where students create movement patterns to live drumming. A standout classroom moment was a collaborative dance project where students used tap shoes to practice timing footwork and body control while incorporating props such as reversible dance skirts bandanas pom poms and hats to express different styles and cultures. The LED black lights gloves and visual accessories helped transform our space into an engaging performance environment allowing students to connect movement with creativity and confidence.\r\nWhen students first saw the materials their excitement was immediate and contagious. They were amazed by the instruments costumes and lighting and could not wait to try everything. Many students felt empowered seeing professional style dance shoes and performance props which made them take pride in their learning and view themselves as real performers. Students who are usually more reserved became more willing to participate take risks and express themselves through movement.\r\nBecause of your support the next steps for students include developing a short performance piece that combines rhythm movement and visual design. Students will work in small groups to choreograph routines select costumes or props design masks and reflect on how music and movement support physical health coordination and self expression. This project will conclude with a small in class showcase where students demonstrate what they have learned and celebrate creativity teamwork and growth made possible through your generosity.","fullyFundedDate":1758232564643,"projectUrl":"project/the-movement-box/9585527/","projectTitle":"The Movement Box","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Granberry","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9981180"},{"teacherId":9782161,"projectId":9533116,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has been transformed into a warm, welcoming, and highly engaging learning space! The materials you provided are already making a tremendous difference in our students' daily experience, and I want to share how much your support truly means to us.\r\n\r\nThe new classroom rug has quickly become the heart of our room. Students gather there for morning meeting, read-alouds, partner work, and independent reading. It has created a comfortable, calming corner where students feel safe to share their ideas and connect with one another.\r\n\r\nOur student reward trunk—filled with stuffed animals, stuffed keychains, and water bottles—has completely energized our positive-behavior and motivation systems. Students are working hard, setting goals, and celebrating their growth with pride. The stuffed animals have become beloved classroom \"reading buddies,\" helping students feel comforted and confident during independent reading time. The keychains and water bottles have been a huge hit as well, giving students meaningful, practical rewards that last.\r\n\r\nThe addition of the HDMI transmitter and receiver has improved our instruction in ways we didn't even realize we needed. I can now project lessons from anywhere in the room, making it easier to move around, support students individually, and keep everyone engaged. This simple piece of technology has increased flexibility, participation, and visibility for all learners.\r\n\r\nThese items may seem simple, but together they have created joy, comfort, and a stronger sense of community. Students walk into the classroom excited, engaged, and ready to learn—because they know this space was built with people like you who believe in them.\r\n\r\nThank you for making this possible. Your kindness has made a lasting impact on our students, and we are truly grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1757568882714,"projectUrl":"project/successful-start-for-the-year/9533116/","projectTitle":"Successful Start for the Year!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Mangini","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9782161_orig.jpg?crop=1692,1692,x0,y208&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754343346557","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9782161"},{"teacherId":10339831,"projectId":9870821,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom has transformed into a more welcoming, energizing, and student-centered environment. The addition of the water cooler, along with healthy snacks, ensures that students can stay hydrated and focused throughout the day—something especially important during long lessons, testing weeks, and high-energy activities. Many students who previously struggled with fatigue or hunger-related distractions are now able to stay engaged and confident.\r\n\r\nThe Ninja slushie machine has quickly become a classroom favorite. Beyond simply being a fun treat, it has become a tool for building community, rewarding effort, and reinforcing positive behavior. We've incorporated slushie days into reading challenges, attendance incentives, and STEM lessons on temperature, states of matter, and mixtures. Students light up with excitement knowing that their hard work can culminate in a colorful, ice-cold reward. It has boosted morale, strengthened classroom bonds, and even encouraged students to take greater ownership of their learning.\r\n\r\nYour contribution didn't just provide equipment—it created joy, supported wellness, and enhanced student motivation every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1763498194005,"projectUrl":"project/sips-and-snacks-for-smiles-helping-hung/9870821/","projectTitle":"Sips and Snacks for Smiles: Helping Hungry Learners Stay Energized!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Chung","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10339831"},{"teacherId":9782161,"projectId":9668489,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity and support through DonorsChoose. Because of your kindness, our classroom now has resources that truly make learning more engaging, accessible, and joyful.\r\n\r\nThe new student library books have already had a tremendous impact. Students are eagerly exploring new stories, discovering new interests, and growing as readers every single day. Many have found favorite series and genres they never knew they loved. Our classroom library now feels like a place of excitement, imagination, and choice—and students are reading more because they want to, not just because they are asked to.\r\n\r\nThe dry erase board on wheels has also become an essential part of our daily learning. Its mobility allows us to bring instruction into small groups, breakout spaces, and different parts of the room. Students love using it during math problem-solving, brainstorming sessions, and collaborative work. It has encouraged participation, creativity, and confidence—especially for those who benefit from being able to think aloud and write in a shared space.\r\n\r\nThanks to your support, my classroom is now more interactive, more student-centered, and more inspiring. These resources are not just tools—they are opportunities for growth, excitement, and connection.\r\n\r\nWe are truly grateful for your generosity and the difference you have made. Thank you for believing in our students and supporting their learning journey.","fullyFundedDate":1758855357703,"projectUrl":"project/readers-today-leaders-tomorrow/9668489/","projectTitle":"Readers Today, Leaders Tomorrow!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Mangini","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9782161_orig.jpg?crop=1692,1692,x0,y208&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754343346557","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9782161"},{"teacherId":5223015,"projectId":9852764,"letterContent":"We are so grateful for your kind, generous and thoughtful donation. My students were ecstatic when they came back from Art Class and saw the boxes! They felt so proud that we were chosen. Having clean drinking water every day is amazing! Your donation has been a game changer for our thirsty learners. The snacks, lollipops and freeze pops are something the students enjoy after a hard day of working! Your donation has made a huge difference in our learning. Thank you for helping create a better and safer environment for our students. Your generosity has made a huge impact.","fullyFundedDate":1761418250377,"projectUrl":"project/snack-and-hydration-station-for-student/9852764/","projectTitle":"Snack and Hydration Station for Student Success","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Goodwin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5223015_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1520470944954","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5223015"},{"teacherId":7053676,"projectId":9853185,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your incredibly generous donation of snacks, fidgets, and classroom rewards for my students. Items such as slime, fun pencils, and other engaging incentives have already made a meaningful impact in our classroom. Your kindness and thoughtfulness are truly appreciated by both myself and my students.\r\n\r\nThese materials play an important role in promoting positive behavior and creating a supportive, motivating learning environment. The snacks help ensure students are focused and ready to learn, while the fidgets and rewards provide effective tools for encouragement, self-regulation, and positive reinforcement. They allow us to celebrate good choices, effort, and growth in ways that are both fun and meaningful for the students.\r\n\r\nWe are extremely grateful for your support and generosity. Donations like yours help create a classroom where students feel valued, motivated, and excited to do their best each day. Thank you again for investing in our students and contributing to their success.","fullyFundedDate":1761830614600,"projectUrl":"project/positive-behavior-classroom/9853185/","projectTitle":"Positive Behavior Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lewis","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7053676_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1743690801496","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7053676"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_96704","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":384,"numTeachers":29,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":85,"percentWhite":2,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":7,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"13.2:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":68.0,"schoolId":96704,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Chester Upland School of Arts on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Chester Upland School of Arts","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/pennsylvania/chester-upland-school-district/chester-upland-school-of-arts/96704"}