{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Chester Upland School of Arts","outOfStateSupporters":31.1,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":5240806,"projectId":10135000,"letterContent":"The Nex Playground System has already made a big difference for my students. Very soon after it arrived, our area was hit with a heat wave, and we were unable to go outside for recess several days in a row. Normally, that kind of change is really hard for my students, but the Nex Playground gave us an engaging, structured indoor option that still let them move, play, and be together.\r\n\r\nWhen we first rolled the travel case into the room and set the system up, the students were immediately curious and excited. They crowded around, asking questions and making guesses about how it worked. As we learned the games together, they practiced taking turns, encouraging one another, and figuring out the controls as a team. Even I joined in the games with them, which they loved—they were cheering for me and giving me tips just like I do for them in class. That shared experience helped strengthen our classroom community and gave students a positive, active outlet during a time when they were disappointed about missing outdoor recess.\r\n\r\nWe are now building the Nex Playground into our regular routine for indoor recess, movement breaks, and even as a reward for meeting behavior or academic goals. Our next steps are to have students work in small groups to choose specific games that match skills we are practicing—such as cooperation, following directions, and persistence—and then reflect on how they used those skills during play. This will help us keep connecting the fun of the Nex Playground to the social‑emotional and academic growth we are working on every day.","fullyFundedDate":1778017854063,"projectUrl":"project/active-bodies-ready-minds-nex-playgrou/10135000/","projectTitle":"Active Bodies, Ready Minds: Nex Playground for Our Students","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":10339831,"projectId":10134920,"letterContent":"Our students thrive when learning is active, engaging, and joyful. The addition of a Nex Playground will transform our classroom into an interactive space where movement and academics come together. This innovative tool will provide students with opportunities to build teamwork, problem-solving skills, and physical activity—all while reinforcing key academic concepts.\r\n\r\nMany of our students benefit from hands-on and movement-based learning experiences. The Nex Playground will support diverse learning styles by offering interactive games that promote collaboration, critical thinking, and social-emotional growth. It will also serve as a motivating reward system and brain break tool, helping students stay focused and energized throughout the day.\r\n\r\nThis project will create a more inclusive and dynamic classroom environment where every student can participate, succeed, and feel excited about learning. With your support, we can bring meaningful, engaging experiences to our students that will have a lasting impact on their academic success and overall well-being.","fullyFundedDate":1778017853602,"projectUrl":"project/jump-move-learn-a-nex-playground-for/10134920/","projectTitle":"Jump, Move, Learn! A Nex Playground for Our Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Chung","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10339831_orig.png?crop=179,179,x0,y4&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1772722953856","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10339831"},{"teacherId":9782161,"projectId":9537745,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom now has a reliable printer, sticker paper, copy paper, and access to TIME for Kids—tools that have truly transformed how my students learn and engage with the world around them.\r\n\r\nWhile many donors may use printers at home, in our classroom this technology has become a powerful learning tool. Students are now able to design and print projects that connect directly to our lessons, from science posters to published writing pieces. The addition of sticker paper has been especially exciting—students love turning their work into stickers, which has increased motivation, pride, and creativity.","fullyFundedDate":1765465008937,"projectUrl":"project/bringing-vivid-projects-and-current-even/9537745/","projectTitle":"Bringing Vivid Projects and Current Events Into Our Classroom!","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":9871125,"projectId":10047369,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom! Because of your generosity, my students have been able to use these new resources in meaningful and exciting ways. We've already started incorporating them into our daily lessons, and they have helped make learning more hands-on and engaging. One of my favorite moments was seeing students actively participate and collaborate using the materials—they were more focused, confident, and eager to learn.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, my students were beyond excited. Their faces lit up with curiosity and enthusiasm, and they couldn't wait to start using everything right away. It was such a powerful moment to see how something as simple as new classroom resources can spark motivation and joy in learning.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, we will continue using these materials to support our current lessons and build on important skills. These resources are helping us create a more interactive and supportive learning environment, and I'm excited to see how my students continue to grow. Thank you again for making a difference in our classroom—we truly appreciate your generosity!","fullyFundedDate":1774607020254,"projectUrl":"project/finishing-strong-flexible-seating-snac/10047369/","projectTitle":"Finishing Strong: Flexible Seating, Snacks, and Supplies for Small-Group Success","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":5240806,"projectId":9984134,"letterContent":"When our project was funded, my students were amazed that people they've never met cared enough to give our class everyday things like a microwave, pencil sharpeners, erasers, and fresh pencils. On the day everything arrived, they were excited just unpacking the boxes—several students immediately noticed the \"fancy\" sharpeners and started talking about how they wouldn't have to fight with broken pencils anymore.\r\n\r\nThe new microwave has already made a big difference in our classroom. It is faster and more powerful than our old one, so lunches that need to be reheated are ready much more quickly and safely. Students who bring food from home, as well as students who need some of the extra food options I'm able to offer, are now able to eat warm meals without long waits. Because it is new, students are not allowed to use it independently yet; I operate it myself while I look for a responsible student helper I can train and trust to take great care of it.\r\n\r\nThe reliable pencil sharpeners, erasers, and pencils have also cut down on lost learning time; instead of waiting in line at a noisy, broken sharpener or borrowing from friends, students can quickly get what they need and get right back to reading, writing, and math. One moment that stands out is during writing time: a student who often shuts down over \"little stuff\" like dull pencils quietly walked to the new sharpener, fixed his pencil in seconds, and whispered, \"Now I can actually finish.\"","fullyFundedDate":1772550462483,"projectUrl":"project/warm-lunches-sharp-pencils/9984134/","projectTitle":"Warm Lunches & Sharp Pencils","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":5240806,"projectId":10052166,"letterContent":"When the warm winter essentials arrived, they came at exactly the right time—just as we were hit with a winter storm that brought lots of snow and very cold weather. The items were given discreetly to specific students I knew needed them most, allowing them to receive hats, gloves, socks, snow bibs, tights, and coats in a way that protected their privacy and dignity. Several students were so appreciative that they teared up, with one student saying, \"Thanks for always having things we need, Ms. Ellis,\" which showed just how much this support meant to them.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, these students are now able to come to school warmer and better prepared for harsh weather, which helps them focus more on learning instead of worrying about being cold. The winter gear has also allowed them to safely participate in outdoor activities and arrive and leave school more comfortably. Your support truly arrived in a moment of real need and made an immediate, heartfelt impact on their daily lives.","fullyFundedDate":1769310801161,"projectUrl":"project/warm-winter-essentials-for-our-students/10052166/","projectTitle":"Warm Winter Essentials for Our Students","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":10339831,"projectId":9906682,"letterContent":"Flexible seating, basic nutrition, and access to water are small supports that make a powerful difference in student success. With your help, our classroom will become a space where students can focus, feel comfortable, and stay energized throughout the school day.\r\n\r\nWobble chairs will give students the ability to move safely while they work, helping improve focus, engagement, and self-regulation—especially for students who benefit from flexible seating options. By allowing natural movement, these chairs support active learners and reduce distractions.\r\n\r\nHealthy snacks and personal water bottles will ensure students' basic needs are met so they can concentrate on learning instead of hunger or thirst. Many of our students come to school without consistent access to nutritious food or reusable water containers. Providing snacks and water bottles promotes wellness, builds healthy habits, and creates a sense of care and belonging in our classroom community.\r\n\r\nYour generosity will directly impact students every single day—supporting their physical needs, increasing their focus, and helping them feel valued and ready to learn. Thank you for investing in their success and well-being.","fullyFundedDate":1772550534496,"projectUrl":"project/healthy-snacks-flexible-seats-confid/9906682/","projectTitle":"Healthy Snacks + Flexible Seats = Confident, Engaged Students","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Chung","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10339831_orig.png?crop=179,179,x0,y4&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1772722953856","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10339831"},{"teacherId":5240806,"projectId":9879222,"letterContent":"When my students first saw the shelves filled with food and snacks from our \"No Empty Bellies, Only Full Minds\" project, their faces lit up with relief and excitement. Many students quietly asked if they could take something home for the weekend or for a sibling, and knowing that we could say \"yes\" because of you meant the world to them.\r\n\r\nWe now use these resources every day to make sure students have something to eat when they come to school hungry, are staying late for activities, or need a little extra to get through the weekend. Having this safety net has helped students focus more in class, participate more confidently, and worry less about where their next snack or meal is coming from. Your generosity has turned our classroom into a place where students know their basic needs are cared for, so they can concentrate on learning and growing.\r\n\r\nAs a next step, students are working on setting personal academic and behavior goals, and having consistent access to food supports them in meeting those goals with clearer minds and more energy. Your support has made a real, daily difference in their lives, and we are so grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1766067617626,"projectUrl":"project/no-empty-bellies-only-full-minds/9879222/","projectTitle":"“No Empty Bellies, Only Full 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":9871125,"projectId":9862662,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom has become more organized, interactive, and responsive to student learning. The new printer has already made a tremendous difference. I am now able to quickly print differentiated materials, graphic organizers, visuals, and student work samples without delay. This means students get immediate access to the resources they need to practice skills, review concepts, and showcase their learning. The drawer organizers have also helped us create a more structured classroom environment, allowing students to independently access supplies and take responsibility for keeping our space tidy and efficient.\r\n\r\nThe Post-it easel pad and thumbs up/thumbs down paddles have been especially exciting for my students. The easel pad has transformed our lessons into collaborative experiences—students eagerly come up to contribute ideas, solve problems, and brainstorm together. The paddles allow every student to participate in real time. Instead of just a few hands raised, I can instantly check for understanding from everyone, giving even my quieter students a voice and helping me adjust instruction immediately when needed.\r\n\r\nOur prize chest has also received a boost with the addition of slap \r\n bracelets, which have quickly become a class favorite. These small incentives have had a big impact on motivation and positive behavior. I've noticed that students who sometimes struggle with focus are working harder to meet expectations, and they beam with pride when they earn a reward. Your support has strengthened both our academic learning and our classroom community. Thank you for investing in my students and helping create an engaging, organized, and encouraging learning environment.","fullyFundedDate":1766794739631,"projectUrl":"project/stick-print-organize-and-shine/9862662/","projectTitle":"Stick, Print, Organize, and Shine!","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":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"}],"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","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":3,"gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"13.2:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":68.9,"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"}