{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Pittsburgh Westwood Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":25.4,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9698693,"projectId":9979758,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous contribution to our classroom! Because of you, our students now have access to hands-on learning tools including LEGO bricks, Play-Doh, and individual dry erase boards that have truly transformed the way we learn every single day. These aren't just toys, they're the building blocks of real understanding for our youngest learners.\r\n\r\nThe moment our students saw the new materials, the room came alive! Eyes went wide, hands shot up, and the excitement was contagious. Now, each morning during our math and reading rotations, students reach for their personal dry erase boards to practice letters, sound out words, and work through number problems. The LEGO bricks and Play-Doh have become go-to tools for counting, patterning, and even building letters with their hands. There's something magical about watching a student suddenly \"get it\" because they could touch and move the concept in front of them. The materials are reaching all of our different levels of learners as well, so thankful for that. \r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we'll be using these materials as we dive deeper into foundational reading skills and early addition and subtraction to 1,000. Your gift will be in our students' hands every step of the way. Thank you for believing in the power of play-based learning and for giving our kids the tools they deserve. This classroom is brighter because of you!","fullyFundedDate":1776897986951,"projectUrl":"project/little-hands-big-learning/9979758/","projectTitle":"Little Hands, Big Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Boden","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9698693_orig.jpg?crop=584,585,x0,y193&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1767567009638","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9698693"},{"teacherId":4520884,"projectId":10001638,"letterContent":"Thank you so much, technology in our classroom has become a powerful tool for engagement, differentiation, and deeper learning. It allows students to access content in multiple ways—through interactive games, multimedia resources, and hands-on practice—helping meet a wide range of learning styles and needs. Students are more motivated and take greater ownership of their learning when they can actively participate and receive immediate feedback.\r\n\r\nWhat excites students most about this new technology is the interactive and collaborative element. They love being able to move, create, and respond in real time, whether they're working together to solve problems, participating in whole-group activities, or showcasing their thinking in creative ways. It turns lessons into experiences rather than just tasks. AGAIN, many thanks to the donors who help support teachers like me!!","fullyFundedDate":1775752257803,"projectUrl":"project/byte-me-a-technology-adventure/10001638/","projectTitle":"Byte Me: A Technology Adventure","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Abbott","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4520884_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1517245280357","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4520884"},{"teacherId":9759396,"projectId":9571609,"letterContent":"I want to thank you for contributing and fully funding my project, \"Organization and Motivation for my Students on the Autism Spectrum.\" This project has made such a difference in my classroom, not just for the students, but for myself as well. A lot of the items I received were used to organize my classroom to help make my classroom more functional. I was able to give my teaching materials a \"home\" in order to access them more readily. A big part of our classroom routine is using visuals and schedules for our students. The clear magnetic pockets have been a life saver finding schedule visuals to set up throughout the day. \r\n\r\nMy students were most excited about their headphones and being able to choose their favorite color. My students tend to be working at their own pace, therefore, various groups and instruction is going on at the same time that other students are practicing math and reading skills through computer apps/games. Having the headphones to block out the noise from their computers enables other students to better focus on their work tasks.","fullyFundedDate":1760760502548,"projectUrl":"project/organization-and-motivation-for-my-stude/9571609/","projectTitle":"Organization and Motivation for My Students on the Autism Spectrum!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Sakulsky","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9759396"},{"teacherId":8100304,"projectId":10044810,"letterContent":"Thank you very much for your donation to support my project \"Sounds for Little Ears\". These over the ear headphones have made such a difference in their ability to complete their work online without being frustrated with hearing the computer and earbuds falling out of their ears. These headphones are much more durable and actually work in their computers! Students are able to focus better, get work done, and actually hear the difference. Again thank you to all who contributed to make a difference for my students!!","fullyFundedDate":1772066466354,"projectUrl":"project/sound-for-little-ears/10044810/","projectTitle":"Sound for Little Ears","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bazmore","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8100304_orig.jpg?crop=340,340,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1757093503466","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8100304"},{"teacherId":8000957,"projectId":9657722,"letterContent":"We sincerely want to thank our donors for providing the pocket chair covers for our classroom. These have made a tremendous difference in helping students stay organized and ready to learn each day. Students are able to keep their folders, assignments, and important learning materials right at their seats, which helps reduce lost papers and makes transitions between activities smoother.\r\n\r\nWhen students first received the pocket chair covers, they were very excited. They enjoyed having their own space to store their materials, and it helped them feel more responsible and prepared for classwork. The organization these resources provide has helped students stay focused on their tasks and spend more time learning instead of searching for materials.\r\n\r\nThank you again for your generosity and support of our students. Your donation is helping build student confidence, independence, and stronger learning habits that will support them throughout the school year.","fullyFundedDate":1766768553689,"projectUrl":"project/a-place-for-everything-and-everything-in/9657722/","projectTitle":"A Place for Everything and Everything in Its Place!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. King","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8000957_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1705291399369","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8000957"},{"teacherId":5688403,"projectId":8660421,"letterContent":"I'm over the moon that my project was funded! My kindergarten kiddos were so excited when the boxes arrived at Westwood School! They love using the snap letters to spell CVC words and sight words. They also love using the connecting letters to build the entire alphabet in order when they work with their partners at center \r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, my students have access to enriching materials and experiences that spark curiosity and a love of learning. I really appreciate your kindness and generosity. Thank you again for supporting teachers who want to make a difference and have their students succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1733271084706,"projectUrl":"project/learning-to-read-in-kindergarten/8660421/","projectTitle":"Learning to Read in Kindergarten!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Powell","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5688403"},{"teacherId":2821970,"projectId":9747416,"letterContent":"On behalf of our students and the entire teaching team, I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for your incredible generosity. Because of your contributions, we have successfully met our goal to purchase a brand-new Mobile Math Cart for our fourth grade classroom.\r\nIn an elementary classroom, math is a hands-on journey. Children don't just learn by looking at numbers on a screen or a whiteboard; they learn by touching, moving, and building. Before this project was funded, our manipulatives—the blocks, counters, geometric shapes, and measuring tools—were tucked away in various cupboards or heavy bins that were difficult for small hands to access.\r\nWith this new mobile cart, we are creating a \"Mathematics Hub\" that follows the students wherever they go.\r\nYour support is doing much more than buying a piece of furniture; it is transforming the way our students experience mathematics every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1767312582269,"projectUrl":"project/mobile-math-station-enhancing-access-to/9747416/","projectTitle":"Mobile Math Station: Enhancing Access to Hands-On Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. K.","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2821970_orig.jpg?crop=436,436,x0,y110&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1761064560895","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mskskindergarten"},{"teacherId":10326791,"projectId":9852445,"letterContent":"I am thrilled about the new headphones for my students. The 2nd graders ears are so tiny, and cheap earbuds the school district purchases for us just don't stay in their ears. The students were frustrated and very distracted with the way the earbuds weren't fitting properly.\r\nWith our new headphones, I've seen a tremendous increase in my 7 and 8 year old students' focus. They're more engaged in their independent computer work and able to complete their activities without focusing on trivial things such as properly fitted listening devices. I am so thankful for the support for my classroom, and my students are very appreciative of the funds to receive these headphones!","fullyFundedDate":1762293077646,"projectUrl":"project/headphones-please/9852445/","projectTitle":"Headphones Please!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Squires","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10326791"},{"teacherId":4520884,"projectId":9711571,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, my students now have access to resources that make learning more engaging, inclusive, and meaningful. This project helped transform our classroom into a space where students feel confident to participate, take risks, and express their ideas.\r\n\r\nMy students are more motivated, focused, and excited to learn. They are building stronger academic skills while also developing creativity, collaboration, and pride in their work. For many of them, these materials provided opportunities they would not otherwise have had, and that has made a powerful difference in their confidence and growth.","fullyFundedDate":1758294328300,"projectUrl":"project/book-nerds/9711571/","projectTitle":"Book Nerds","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Abbott","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4520884_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1517245280357","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4520884"},{"teacherId":4520884,"projectId":8395988,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, my students now have access to resources that make learning more engaging, inclusive, and meaningful. This project helped transform our classroom into a space where students feel confident to participate, take risks, and express their ideas. My students are more motivated, focused, and excited to learn. They are building stronger academic skills while also developing creativity, collaboration, and pride in their work. For many of them, these materials provided opportunities they would not otherwise have had, and that has made a powerful difference in their confidence and growth.","fullyFundedDate":1723636007386,"projectUrl":"project/hear-me-out/8395988/","projectTitle":"Hear me out!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Abbott","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4520884_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1517245280357","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4520884"},{"teacherId":4520884,"projectId":9735313,"letterContent":"This project has had a powerful and meaningful impact on my students, both academically and emotionally. Because of the generosity of our donors, my students now have access to resources that truly meet them where they are as learners and help them grow with confidence. These tools have transformed the way students engage with learning and how they see themselves in the classroom.\r\n\r\nBefore this project, many of my students struggled to stay motivated or confident, especially when learning felt challenging. Some students needed extra support, while others needed more engaging ways to practice and reinforce skills. Thanks to this project, my students now have access to interactive resources that allow them to work at their own pace, receive immediate feedback, and experience success in a way that feels attainable and encouraging.\r\n\r\nOne of the most noticeable changes has been student engagement. My students are more focused, eager to participate, and excited about learning. They look forward to using these resources and take pride in their work. Even students who were once hesitant to participate are now raising their hands, asking questions, and taking academic risks. These tools have helped remove barriers to learning and create a more inclusive environment where every student feels supported.\r\n\r\nAcademically, this project has helped students strengthen critical skills and deepen their understanding of content. The resources allow for personalized learning, which has been especially impactful for students with diverse learning needs. Students are able to practice skills multiple times, track their progress, and see tangible growth. This has led to improved confidence and a stronger sense of ownership over their learning.\r\n\r\nBeyond academics, this project has positively affected my students' confidence and mindset. Students are beginning to see themselves as capable learners. They celebrate their progress, encourage one another, and feel proud of their accomplishments. The sense of excitement and positivity in our classroom has grown, and learning feels more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.\r\n\r\nThis project has also strengthened our classroom community. Students collaborate more effectively, support one another, and share in each other's successes. The resources have helped foster an environment where mistakes are seen as part of learning and growth is celebrated. My students feel empowered to try, practice, and persevere.\r\n\r\nNone of this would have been possible without the generosity of our donors. Your support has directly impacted my students by providing them with tools that make learning meaningful, engaging, and supportive. Because of you, my classroom is a place where students feel motivated, confident, and excited to learn.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students and investing in their future. Your generosity has made a lasting difference, and my students will continue to benefit from these resources for years to come.","fullyFundedDate":1764713385322,"projectUrl":"project/the-everything-bagel-of-classroom-needs/9735313/","projectTitle":"The Everything Bagel of Classroom Needs","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Abbott","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4520884_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1517245280357","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4520884"},{"teacherId":9698693,"projectId":9890976,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation to our classroom. Because of you, my students now have access to magnets and headphones that are already making a meaningful difference in our daily learning.\r\n\r\nWe are using the magnets during lessons to make learning more hands-on and engaging and it really enhances our FriYay weekly celebration for students who complete all their weekly tasks. Students use them for activities like building words, practicing spelling patterns, and sorting ideas during small-group work. Being able to physically move and manipulate the magnets has helped students stay focused and better understand the concepts we are learning.\r\n\r\nThe headphones have also been a wonderful addition to our classroom. Students use them during independent reading and listening activities, allowing them to focus without distractions. This has been especially helpful during literacy centers, where students can listen to stories or complete assignments at their own pace.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, they were thrilled. Many students couldn't wait to try them out and immediately asked when they could start using them. Their excitement made it clear how special and appreciated these resources are.\r\n\r\nOur next steps include continuing to use the magnets to strengthen reading and language skills and using the headphones to support independent and small-group learning. These tools are helping students build confidence, stay engaged, and take greater ownership of their learning.\r\n\r\nThank you again for your generosity and for giving us a glimpse of your support in our classroom. Your kindness has had a lasting and positive impact on my students.","fullyFundedDate":1762962430710,"projectUrl":"project/turning-up-the-volume-on-creativity/9890976/","projectTitle":"Turning Up the Volume on Creativity!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Boden","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9698693_orig.jpg?crop=584,585,x0,y193&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1767567009638","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9698693"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_88716","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":278,"numTeachers":20,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":13,"percentBlack":39,"percentWhite":30,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":3,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":11,"gradesServed":"K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"13.9:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":74.6,"schoolId":88716,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Pittsburgh Westwood Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Pittsburgh Westwood Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/pennsylvania/pittsburgh-public-schools/pittsburgh-westwood-elementary-school/88716"}