{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Murell Dobbins Career Technical Education High School","outOfStateSupporters":33.4,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9471042,"projectId":10517192,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity in supporting our project, \"Fueling Hungry Minds & Happy Hearts.\" When the boxes first arrived and we unpacked them together, my students' faces immediately lit up with joy and excitement. For scholars in an Autistic Support classroom, having access to familiar, nourishing snacks and sensory-friendly comfort items makes our room feel safe, welcoming, and predictable. Knowing that caring supporters contributed to their classroom made our students feel truly special and valued from the moment they saw the supplies.\r\n\r\nWe use these resources throughout the day to meet sensory needs, celebrate daily progress, and power through our academic blocks. Having healthy snacks available ensures that basic physical needs are met so no student is trying to focus while hungry. A specific moment that highlights the impact happened during our independent work time last week: one of my scholars was feeling overwhelmed and struggling to regulate his emotions during a tough task. Instead of escalating, we took a brief snack and sensory break to reset. Having that simple comfort available allowed him to self-regulate, regain his calm, and proudly complete his reading assignment with a smile.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, our next steps are to integrate these resources directly into our daily living and executive functioning lessons. My students will be using snack times to practice functional communication routines, positive social interactions with peers, and independence skills like opening packaging, sorting items, and organizing our community cupboard. Your support did so much more than provide snacks; you helped us build a nurturing, safe environment where happy hearts and hungry minds can thrive every single day. Thank you for investing in our classroom family!","fullyFundedDate":1790959370710,"projectUrl":"project/fueling-hungry-minds-happy-hearts/10517192/","projectTitle":"Fueling Hungry Minds & Happy Hearts","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Williams","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9471042_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754967189330","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/naylah-williams"},{"teacherId":9471042,"projectId":10517344,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity in supporting our project, \"Morning Warm-Up: Fueling Focus & Readying Readers.\" When the boxes first arrived in our room, my students' eyes lit up with excitement and curiosity. Unboxing the new materials felt like opening gifts, and having brand-new, dedicated resources made our scholars feel valued and cared for right from the start of the day. In our Autistic Support classroom, transitions—especially entering the building and settling down for the morning—can sometimes feel overwhelming. Having structured, engaging warm-up tools ready the moment students step through the door has completely transformed how we kick off our morning routines.\r\n\r\nWe are using these resources every single day during our entry and morning warm-up block to help scholars regulate their sensory needs and transition into an active learning mindset. A specific moment that stands out happened just last week with one of my students who usually experiences high anxiety during morning arrival and struggles to get settled. With these new warm-up tools in place, he walked into the room, went directly to his designated warm-up station, and began working independently through his morning literacy prompts without needing a single verbal redirect. Seeing him start his day feeling calm, confident, and focused set a positive tone for his entire afternoon.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, our next step is to leverage this morning momentum to build higher levels of independence and leadership. As my students master their daily warm-up routines, they will begin taking turns serving as our \"Morning Routine Leaders,\" guiding their peers through calendar tasks, visual schedule checks, and daily reading goals. Your support did not just provide physical materials; you provided our students with the daily predictability, calm focus, and motivation they need to start every school day ready to read, learn, and thrive. Thank you for believing in our scholars!","fullyFundedDate":1790959371269,"projectUrl":"project/morning-warm-up-fueling-focus-readyin/10517344/","projectTitle":"Morning Warm-Up: Fueling Focus & Readying Readers","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Williams","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9471042_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754967189330","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/naylah-williams"},{"teacherId":9471042,"projectId":10517402,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your incredible generosity in supporting our project, \"Tech Tools for Active Minds.\" While headphones might seem like a simple accessory at home, in an Autistic Support classroom, high-quality headphones are a game-changing tool for focus, sensory regulation, and personalized learning. For students on the autism spectrum, everyday background noise or sudden auditory triggers can make concentrating on academic tasks overwhelming. These new headphones create a quiet, controlled listening space that allows our scholars to filter out distractions, utilize text-to-speech accommodation tools, and listen to interactive, step-by-step read-alouds at their own comfortable volume.\r\n\r\nThe most exciting part of these new headphones for my students is the sense of personal control and sensory comfort they provide. They love having their own reliable headsets and stepping into their own focused \"learning bubble.\" One of my students, who is particularly sensitive to classroom noise and used to get anxious or easily overwhelmed during independent work, has completely transformed with these headphones. Now, as soon as independent work begins, he proudly reaches for his headphones, puts them on, and immediately settles into his lesson with total focus and calm.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has given our active minds the exact sensory support and peace they need to feel safe, regulate their focus, and thrive academically. On behalf of our entire department and our incredible scholars, thank you for supporting our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1790959348738,"projectUrl":"project/tech-tools-for-active-minds/10517402/","projectTitle":"Tech Tools for Active Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Williams","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9471042_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754967189330","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/naylah-williams"},{"teacherId":9471042,"projectId":10517293,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity in supporting our project, \"From Classroom to Career: Real-World Life Skills.\" Because of your support, reading in our classroom has transformed into an active, hands-on workshop where literacy directly connects to life beyond high school. When we teach these new texts, reading goes far beyond simply decoding words on a page—we use structured text-chunking, guided discussion protocols, and real-world scenario analysis to teach crucial life skills. Through these books, our students are learning professional communication, financial literacy, critical decision-making, and executive functioning skills like time management and goal-setting. Instead of passive reading, our scholars engage in turn-and-talk debates, analyze real-world case studies, and apply the lessons directly to practical scenarios they will face in college and the workplace.\r\n\r\nThese new books have made an immediate impact, particularly on our reluctant readers and students in our specialized support and vocational programs. Several scholars who used to put their heads down or struggle with academic anxiety are now actively raising their hands to read out loud and share their perspectives. One student in particular, who often hesitated to participate during traditional English units, completely lit up while analyzing real-world career profiles and financial management strategies, proudly sharing how she plans to use these exact tools when she starts her first job. Seeing students gain self-confidence and realize that reading is a powerful tool for their own independence has been inspiring to witness every single day.\r\n\r\nYour contribution did more than just put books on our shelves; you gave our students tangible tools to navigate their futures with confidence, purpose, and pride. On behalf of our entire classroom and department, thank you for believing in our scholars and investing in their journey from the classroom to successful careers!","fullyFundedDate":1790794281121,"projectUrl":"project/from-classroom-to-career-real-world-lif/10517293/","projectTitle":"From Classroom to Career: Real-World Life Skills","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Williams","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9471042_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754967189330","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/naylah-williams"},{"teacherId":5243956,"projectId":9813121,"letterContent":"When the boxes arrived, my students were so excited—mostly because high schoolers are always hungry, but also because they were thrilled to finally have a speaker that didn't sound like a tin can. We put both resources to work immediately during a tough bacterial transformation lab. Instead of straining to hear the background audio on our instructional videos, the whole room could actually follow the steps clearly, which cut out a ton of initial confusion. When the precise pipetting steps got tedious and a few students started to get frustrated, a quick snack break gave them the exact mental reset they needed to keep trying. It was amazing to see them choose to push through the challenge rather than just give up.\r\n\r\nRight now, we are waiting to analyze our petri dishes to see if our genetic engineering was successful, and because of their new mindset, they're actually excited to troubleshoot the data even if the experiment didn't work perfectly. Next week, we're moving on to PCR and DNA sequencing, and having a classroom that feels supported and properly equipped is going to make those advanced concepts so much easier to tackle. Thank you so much for investing in these kids and giving them the fuel—both literal and figurative—to see themselves as real scientists who don't quit when things get hard.","fullyFundedDate":1772550511286,"projectUrl":"project/fueling-focus-snacks-sound-for-lab-su/9813121/","projectTitle":"Fueling Focus: Snacks & Sound for Lab Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Flowers","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5243956_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1759744234197","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/k-flowers"},{"teacherId":7830363,"projectId":10205586,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your donation for our State Testing Care Packs. Students created this project because they wanted to motivate their peers to do well on state testing. Our students often struggle with the requirements of state testing and become disappointed when the task feels too challenging. These care packs helped students to know that they can do it and that they are capable! \r\nThis donation means so much to us. We were able to provide a small token of motivation to the entire school prior to the biggest test of the year.\r\n\r\nThank you!","fullyFundedDate":1779454934580,"projectUrl":"project/state-testing-care-packs/10205586/","projectTitle":"State Testing Care Packs","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Culp","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7830363_orig.jpg?crop=1380,1380,x645,y725&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1620234331983","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/miss-culp"},{"teacherId":9471042,"projectId":9862857,"letterContent":"I am writing to share the incredible impact your generosity has had on our classroom. Because of you, \"The Caffeine and Kindness Cart\" is no longer just an idea—it is a thriving, mobile hub of inclusion and vocational training for my students.\r\n\r\nHow We Are Using the Resources\r\nThe keurig machine and supplies are being used as a \"live lab\" for my students to practice functional life skills. Each morning, students take on specific roles: the \"Barista\" (following multi-step recipes to prep drinks), the \"Accountant\" (managing the mock-currency and inventory), and the \"Ambassador\" (practicing social scripts and professional greetings).\r\n\r\nA Standout Moment: Just last week, one of my students, who typically struggles with social anxiety, took the lead on the cart. Armed with his new apron and the professional-grade supplies you provided, he navigated the hallway with a huge smile, successfully delivering a \"Kindness Cup\" to the Assistant Principal. Seeing his confidence soar from \"student\" to \"professional\" was a moment I'll never forget.\r\n\r\nThe Grand Reveal\r\nWhen the boxes first arrived, the classroom felt like a holiday morning! The students were mesmerized by the sleekness of the equipment. One student ran his hand over the new cart and said, \"Wait, people we don't even know bought this for us?\" It was a powerful lesson in community support. They didn't just see coffee supplies; they saw that the world believes in their potential.","fullyFundedDate":1768402158119,"projectUrl":"project/the-caffeine-and-kindness-cart/9862857/","projectTitle":"The Caffeine and Kindness Cart","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Williams","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9471042_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754967189330","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/naylah-williams"},{"teacherId":6624900,"projectId":9516125,"letterContent":"In our classroom, the addition of punching bags has become a transformative tool for emotional regulation and stress relief. High-energy environments can often lead to feelings of overwhelm, but having a dedicated physical outlet allows students to channel their frustrations in a constructive way. Instead of letting tension build up, students can take a brief \"reset\" break to engage with the bags, helping them release pent-up energy and clear their minds. This physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, naturally lowering stress levels and making it much easier for them to transition back into a focused state of learning.\r\n\r\nThe impact on our classroom culture has been profound, as the bags serve as a tangible reminder that managing one's mental health is a priority. I've observed a significant decrease in verbal outbursts and restless behavior since we integrated this equipment. By providing a safe space for physical expression, students are learning the vital skill of self-awareness—recognizing when they are becoming \"dysregulated\" and taking proactive steps to calm themselves. It has turned our room into a more supportive environment where students feel empowered to handle their big emotions without fear of judgment.\r\n\r\nNone of this would have been possible without the incredible generosity of the donors who funded this project. Purchasing high-quality, durable athletic equipment is often outside the scope of a standard classroom budget, and these contributions bridged that gap. Because of these donations, my students now have access to resources that directly support their well-being and academic success. This gift has done more than just provide \"material\"—it has sent a powerful message to my students that their community cares about their comfort and is invested in their growth.","fullyFundedDate":1762595185677,"projectUrl":"project/relieve-stress-from-my-desk/9516125/","projectTitle":"Relieve Stress From My Desk","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Thomia West","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6624900_orig.jpg?crop=2264,2264,x0,y30&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1572016218484","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6624900"},{"teacherId":7830363,"projectId":10137416,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for donating to our Super Softball Seniors! We were so excited to open these supplies. The students are printing out pictures and putting them in the frames to decorate their bedrooms and our school hallways. All of the softball swag is going to help us to bring our school spirit to life! \r\nWe were thrilled to open our donations to prepare gift bags and thank you cards to our donors. Our season is kicking off strong with students motivated to learn the game and to be dedicated to our practice time.","fullyFundedDate":1773438540754,"projectUrl":"project/softball-seniors-strive-for-success/10137416/","projectTitle":"Softball Seniors Strive for Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Culp","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7830363_orig.jpg?crop=1380,1380,x645,y725&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1620234331983","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/miss-culp"},{"teacherId":10099002,"projectId":9756384,"letterContent":"When the boxes finally arrived, the energy in the room shifted instantly. My students who often struggle with the transition into a long, demanding school day were buzzing with a focused curiosity I rarely see. One student, who typically keeps his hood up and eyes down, actually stepped forward to help me unpack the materials. Seeing their faces light up wasn't just about the \"new stuff\"; it was the realization that someone they've never met cared enough about their success to send these materials. They felt seen, and in a high school setting, that is half the battle. We are currently using these resources to navigate our 90-minute blocks each day. \r\n\r\nThese resources have transformed our room from a place of high-stress \"survival\" into a functional space for genuine learning. Because of your generosity, my students are learning the most important life skill of all; how to advocate for their own needs and regulate their emotions. You haven't just provided \"supplies\"; you've provided the scaffolding they need to stay in the room and keep growing. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for believing in these kids and helping them realize they are capable of tackling anything the school day throws at them.","fullyFundedDate":1766940406906,"projectUrl":"project/fueling-our-future/9756384/","projectTitle":"Fueling Our Future","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Graham (Mama Graham)","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10099002_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753808489183","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10099002"},{"teacherId":7830363,"projectId":10010651,"letterContent":"We are starting our season just this week and can't wait to use our new equipment! We are so lucky that you donated new gloves, first aid kit, socks and visors for our team. Students did an unboxing and were so excited to stock our closet.\r\n\r\n\r\nWe have been able to practice everyday after school with snacks and water bottles to makes sure we are ready to go. \r\n\r\nAccess to sports can help students make better decisions at school. We are building our basic skills and starting to form a strong team. Our first game is March 16th and we hope to see you there!","fullyFundedDate":1768445205307,"projectUrl":"project/super-softball-scholars/10010651/","projectTitle":"Super Softball Scholars","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Culp","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7830363_orig.jpg?crop=1380,1380,x645,y725&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1620234331983","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/miss-culp"},{"teacherId":10302308,"projectId":9794127,"letterContent":"Thank you all for your donations for these snacks and treats for the children from this donors choose fundraiser. Although the students I work with come to me everyday bragging about their new jobs and other major achievements in their lives, they still enjoy the simplicity of child like rewards for classroom participation. Being able to rewards the children with sweets and snacks for simple classroom competitions have changed classroom participation for me greatly. Thank you again to everyone who helped fund this donation.","fullyFundedDate":1765205054647,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-instruments/9794127/","projectTitle":"Classroom Instruments","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Bynum","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10302308_orig.jpg?crop=895,895,x648,y772&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1759755876106","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10302308"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_90789","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":581,"numTeachers":29,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":89,"percentWhite":0,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":7,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":2,"gradesServed":"9 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":"20.0:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":66.6,"schoolId":90789,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Murell Dobbins Career Technical Education High School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Murell Dobbins Career Technical Education High School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/pennsylvania/philadelphia-city-school-district/murell-dobbins-avts/90789"}