{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Rhodes School","outOfStateSupporters":41.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10187711,"projectId":9909447,"letterContent":"Every Friday in our classroom, something special happens. My 7th-graders line up with their Scholar Dollars in hand — currency they've earned throughout the week by showing up, working hard, supporting their classmates, and making good choices — and they get to shop. What looks like a simple reward moment is actually so much more: it's a lesson in financial literacy, delayed gratification, and the very real connection between effort and outcome.\r\n\r\nWhen our classroom store was fully stocked, the energy in our room was transformed. Students who once struggled to stay engaged began tracking their earnings, setting savings goals, and encouraging each other to make positive choices. One student told me she was \"saving up for three weeks\" for a specific snack — and when she finally bought it, the pride on her face was worth everything. These aren't just treats; they're proof to a 12-year-old that persistence pays off.\r\n\r\nRight now, our store shelves are nearly empty, and students are asking what they can save up for. Your donation will restock our reward bin with snacks like Pringles, Oreos, and Animal Crackers, as well as stress-relief items that give students the brain breaks they need to stay focused. The next step for us is a \"Scholar Dollar Auction\" at the end of the month, where students can bid on bigger reward bundles — a culminating event that will bring excitement, friendly competition, and one more real-world financial lesson to our classroom. With your support, we can make it happen.","fullyFundedDate":1767216114186,"projectUrl":"project/rewarding-hard-work-scholar-dollars-bui/9909447/","projectTitle":"Rewarding Hard Work: Scholar Dollars Build Success in 7th-grade","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Westlund","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10187711_orig.jpg?crop=370,370,x339,y230&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755632463903","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10187711"},{"teacherId":8197011,"projectId":9967792,"letterContent":"The \"Giving to the Hungry\" initiative has proven to be more than just a charitable gesture; it has become a cornerstone of academic success within our school community. By addressing the immediate physical needs of students who often arrive without breakfast, the program has fundamentally transformed the classroom environment from one of fatigue to one of focused engagement.\r\n\r\nThe Connection Between Nutrition and Focus\r\nIt is a well-documented reality that a hungry mind cannot learn. When students miss the most important meal of the day, their blood sugar levels drop, leading to irritability, lethargy, and a significant decrease in cognitive function. Before this initiative, many children struggled to remain upright at their desks, let alone process complex instructions. The introduction of consistent, nutritious snacks acted as a literal \"restart button\" for their brains. With the physical distraction of hunger removed, students gained the necessary energy to participate in discussions and tackle their assignments with newfound vigor.\r\n\r\nIncreased Participation: Students who were previously withdrawn are now raising their hands and engaging with their peers.\r\n\r\nImproved Retention: Proper nutrition supports memory, allowing children to actually absorb the material being taught.\r\n\r\nReduced Behavioral Issues: Much of what was previously labeled as \"acting out\" was simply the frustration of a hungry child; with full stomachs, the atmosphere is calmer and more productive.\r\n\r\nA Foundation for Equity\r\nUltimately, this program bridges the gap for students facing food insecurity at home. By providing these snacks, the school ensures that every child—regardless of their socioeconomic background—starts the day on an equal playing field. We have seen firsthand that when we meet a child's basic needs, we unlock their full academic potential. The \"Giving to the Hungry\" initiative is a powerful reminder that sometimes, the best tool for education isn't a pencil or a book, but a simple, healthy snack.","fullyFundedDate":1767213230525,"projectUrl":"project/give-to-the-hungry-ones/9967792/","projectTitle":"Give to the Hungry Ones","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ramsey","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8197011_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1730944802142","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8197011"},{"teacherId":3562754,"projectId":10147884,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping me to fund this book project for my students! Your thoughtful donation has made a tremendous impact on our reading program and our students' growth as both readers and leaders! With your generous support, we now have access to diverse, high-quality books that reflect our students' cultures, interests, and reading levels. Your support is helping me to build confident readers who also know how to be kind, speak up for themselves, and support their friends. We're so grateful for you and for believing in our students!","fullyFundedDate":1773889995696,"projectUrl":"project/from-readers-to-leaders/10147884/","projectTitle":"From Readers to Leaders!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Serwinski","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3562754_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1513022036816","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3562754"},{"teacherId":1616220,"projectId":10153481,"letterContent":"State testing is often a high-pressure time for students. They are asked to sit for long periods, maintain intense focus, and demonstrate everything they have learned throughout the year. As an educator, I know that even the most brilliant mind cannot function at its peak if the body is running on empty. Unfortunately, many of our scholars arrive at school without having had a nutritious breakfast or a reliable snack to sustain them through a three-hour testing block. I am writing to share my deepest gratitude for your generous contributions to our \"Snacks For Testing\" project. Because of your kindness, our classroom is now fully stocked with the snacks and drinks our students need to perform their best during next month's state testing window.","fullyFundedDate":1774039634793,"projectUrl":"project/the-summit-climb-equipping-scholars-for/10153481/","projectTitle":"The Summit Climb: Equipping Scholars for the Testing Peak","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. LaBar","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1616220_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1449281977500","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mslabar"},{"teacherId":1616220,"projectId":10146511,"letterContent":"State testing is often a high-pressure time for students. They are asked to sit for long periods, maintain intense focus, and demonstrate everything they have learned throughout the year. As an educator, I know that even the most brilliant mind cannot function at its peak if the body is running on empty. Unfortunately, many of our scholars arrive at school without having had a nutritious breakfast or a reliable snack to sustain them through a three-hour testing block.\r\n\r\nBy providing these \"brain power\" snacks, you are removing a significant barrier to their success. Your donation ensures that no child in my room will be distracted by hunger or a lack of energy while they are trying to show what they know. When our testing window begins next month, I will be able to greet every student with a smile and a snack, creating a supportive environment that says, \"We believe in you, and we have provided everything you need to succeed.\"","fullyFundedDate":1773962810687,"projectUrl":"project/coaching-our-academic-athletes-fueling/10146511/","projectTitle":"Coaching Our Academic Athletes: Fueling the State Testing Marathon","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. LaBar","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1616220_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1449281977500","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mslabar"},{"teacherId":8896752,"projectId":10125825,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting this project. With the document camera I am able to project all the familiar physical curriculum to the students. For example, I use the exact reading, math, science, and social studies book that the students have. I don't need to show a digital version. Some times, digital versions are edited without notification. The standing desk gives me the ability to have a space for the document camera, my laptop, and other various tools that make teaching my students easier and more effective. This project has already had a huge impact and will for many years to come. Thank you!","fullyFundedDate":1772413080764,"projectUrl":"project/coaching-camera/10125825/","projectTitle":"Coaching Camera","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Johns","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8896752_orig.png?crop=263,263,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1730825379480","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/kimberly-johns"},{"teacherId":8896752,"projectId":9938828,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity in supporting our classroom hydration station! Because of you, our students have access to refreshing, flavored water throughout the day—helping them stay hydrated, focused, and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nThis simple but powerful addition has already made a big difference in our classroom. The students are excited, energized, and learning firsthand how taking care of their bodies supports their brains. Your kindness is fueling both healthy habits and academic growth, and we are incredibly grateful for your support of our learners.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in our students and our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1772763770550,"projectUrl":"project/hydration-station-celebration/9938828/","projectTitle":"Hydration Station Celebration","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Johns","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8896752_orig.png?crop=263,263,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1730825379480","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/kimberly-johns"},{"teacherId":8896752,"projectId":10039589,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, Fridays have become something my third grade students truly look forward to. We use our Friday time as a reward and also as a chance to build community. Students who complete their work, show kindness, and stay focused during the week get to enjoy this special time together. I have seen students encourage each other more, stay on task, and take pride in their accomplishments. It has also helped some of my struggling students stay motivated, because they know their effort matters and will be recognized.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, my students are learning that hard work and kindness is important. You have not only provided materials, but you have also given them encouragement, joy, and confidence. We are truly grateful for your kindness and for believing in my students!","fullyFundedDate":1772399492420,"projectUrl":"project/popcorn-party/10039589/","projectTitle":"Popcorn Party","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Johns","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8896752_orig.png?crop=263,263,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1730825379480","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/kimberly-johns"},{"teacherId":8896752,"projectId":10097828,"letterContent":"When students first saw the materials, they were genuinely excited and curious. Many immediately recognized the items and talked about when and how they use them in their daily lives. The supplies helped spark thoughtful conversations about self-care, responsibility, and respecting shared spaces. Several students expressed how happy they were to have access to these resources at school, which made them feel supported and cared for. Last week we started our very first yoga class, and I was able to pass out some deodorant to students who expressed interest. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for making this happen for my students! <3","fullyFundedDate":1771291910304,"projectUrl":"project/hygiene-closet/10097828/","projectTitle":"Hygiene Closet","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Johns","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8896752_orig.png?crop=263,263,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1730825379480","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/kimberly-johns"},{"teacherId":8896752,"projectId":10088874,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping give my students and me the joy that our polaroid camera has provided. Now that we've had it for a bit of time, each student has been able to take at least one picture home that features them and their friends. Many of my students had never even seen a polaroid camera, let alone been able to use one. I still have printed photos from my elementary days that I treasure deeply, so I know my 3rd graders will be able to have that same experience one day. And that is all thanks to you! Again, thank you for helping me give my students wonderful memories for so many years to come.","fullyFundedDate":1771008130600,"projectUrl":"project/picture-perfect/10088874/","projectTitle":"Picture Perfect","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Johns","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8896752_orig.png?crop=263,263,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1730825379480","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/kimberly-johns"},{"teacherId":8197011,"projectId":9638354,"letterContent":"We extend our deepest gratitude to the donors who dedicate themselves to helping children navigate social and emotional challenges. Your compassion transforms my students lives. Through patient and kindness. You recognize that emotional well-being directly impacts learning and success. Your unwavering commitment to whole-child development makes an immeasurable difference. Thank you for investing in my children's futures, fostering empathy, and building emotionally intelligent generations prepared to thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1764707985816,"projectUrl":"project/helping-children-with-social-and-emotion/9638354/","projectTitle":"Helping Children with Social and Emotional Learning Challenges","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ramsey","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8197011_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1730944802142","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8197011"},{"teacherId":1616220,"projectId":10129521,"letterContent":"I am writing to share my deepest gratitude for your generous contributions to our \"Snacks For Testing\" project. Because of your kindness, our classroom is now fully stocked with the snacks and drinks our students need to perform their best during next month's state testing window.\r\n\r\nState testing is often a high-pressure time for students. They are asked to sit for long periods, maintain intense focus, and demonstrate everything they have learned throughout the year. As an educator, I know that even the most brilliant mind cannot function at its peak if the body is running on empty. Unfortunately, many of our scholars arrive at school without having had a nutritious breakfast or a reliable snack to sustain them through a three-hour testing block.\r\n\r\nBy providing these \"brain power\" snacks, you are removing a significant barrier to their success. Your donation ensures that no child in my room will be distracted by hunger or a lack of energy while they are trying to show what they know. When our testing window begins next month, I will be able to greet every student with a smile and a snack, creating a supportive environment that says, \"We believe in you, and we have provided everything you need to succeed.\"\r\n\r\nThese treats provide a sense of security and care that lowers testing anxiety and boosts student confidence. It is a powerful thing for a child to realize that people they have never met are rooting for them and investing in their future.\r\n\r\nThank you for choosing our school and for being a vital part of our testing \"support team.\"","fullyFundedDate":1773707888787,"projectUrl":"project/snacks-for-testing/10129521/","projectTitle":"Snacks for Testing","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. LaBar","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp1616220_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1449281977500","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mslabar"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_103523","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":354,"numTeachers":26,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":88,"percentWhite":0,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":8,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"13.6:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":58.7,"schoolId":103523,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Rhodes School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Rhodes School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/pennsylvania/philadelphia-city-school-district/rhodes-middle-school/103523"}