{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Sto - Rox Upper Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":43.4,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":6534009,"projectId":10021429,"letterContent":"This project has had a meaningful impact in our classroom community by helping remove a basic but significant barrier to learning - student comfort. With access to warm, comfortable crewneck sweatshirts, students are better able to focus on instruction rather than being distracted by feeling cold. This is especially important during colder months when classroom temperatures can fluctuate, and not all students have access to adequate warm clothing at home.\r\n\r\nEach student keeps their sweatshirt in their locker for easy access throughout the school day, and they are laundered as needed to ensure they remain clean, comfortable, and ready to use. This system helps students take ownership while also maintaining hygiene and consistency.\r\n\r\nBeyond physical comfort, these sweatshirts also promote a sense of belonging and equity among students. When everyone has access to the same cozy layer, it reduces visible differences and helps create a more inclusive, supportive classroom environment. Students feel more confident, secure, and ready to participate.\r\n\r\nAs a result, I've seen improvements in student engagement, focus, and overall classroom morale. When students feel comfortable and cared for, they are more prepared to learn—and that readiness has made a noticeable difference in both their academic performance and daily interactions.","fullyFundedDate":1769098481285,"projectUrl":"project/warm-students-ready-minds-crewneck-swe/10021429/","projectTitle":"Warm Students, Ready Minds: Crewneck Sweatshirts for Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. M. Smith","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6534009_orig.jpg?crop=720,720,x0,y228&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1692981438746","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-mjamessmith"},{"teacherId":9702939,"projectId":10022797,"letterContent":"My students went WILD for their new \"snack stash!\" Lollipops have been a huge help in getting students to refresh after a loud lunch period. My after-lunch class gets a lollipop and a two minute guided meditation session with lights off. It helps them to get grounded by using the senses of taste, smell and sound. \r\nThe snacks have been a great resource to have on hand. I give them students who may express hunger before lunch, and again at the end of the day. I also use the snacks to motivate especially struggling students. This donation has been an excellent resource in our art room..my students and I thank you!","fullyFundedDate":1768619299656,"projectUrl":"project/snack-attack/10022797/","projectTitle":"Snack Attack!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Wood","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9702939_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1729818086083","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/art-rox"},{"teacherId":9004465,"projectId":9282266,"letterContent":"While these materials aren't traditional \"technology,\" they play an important role in supporting how students learn and function in a modern classroom environment. Pencils, folders, and sensory tools help create a structured and supportive space where students can stay organized, focused, and ready to engage with both digital and hands-on learning. Folders keep important papers in one place, reducing stress and lost work, while pencils ensure students are always prepared to actively participate. Sensory tools, such as fidgets and calming items, help students regulate their emotions so they can better focus during lessons, including when using classroom technology.\r\nWhat excites students most about these new materials is the sense of ownership and comfort they bring. Having fresh supplies like pencils and folders makes students feel prepared and confident, while sensory toys add an element of choice and self-regulation that they truly value. The calming corner, equipped with these tools, has become a special place where students know they can take a quick reset and return ready to learn. This builds a positive classroom environment where students feel supported and understood.\r\nSeveral students have especially benefited from these resources, particularly those who struggle with focus, organization, or managing emotions. Students who previously became easily frustrated or distracted are now using sensory tools to calm themselves and rejoin instruction more quickly. Others who had difficulty keeping track of their work are becoming more independent by using their folders consistently. These materials are helping all students, but especially those who need a little extra support, feel more successful and confident each day.","fullyFundedDate":1746785499462,"projectUrl":"project/essentials-for-learning/9282266/","projectTitle":"Essentials For Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Zonghetti","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9004465_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1688744374591","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9004465"},{"teacherId":9004465,"projectId":9282579,"letterContent":"My students and I have absolutely loved using our new Collaboration Cove! This space has quickly become a go-to spot for partner work, small group discussions, and hands-on activities. One of my favorite moments was watching a group of students use the area to solve a challenging math problem together—they were sharing ideas, respectfully disagreeing, and building off each other's thinking in a way that truly showed teamwork in action. It has created a space where students feel comfortable taking risks and learning from one another.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, they were beyond excited. They immediately asked when they could start using the space and were eager to try it out. There was a noticeable shift in engagement—students who are typically quieter began participating more, and everyone seemed more motivated knowing they had a special area designed just for collaboration. It made our classroom feel even more welcoming and student-centered.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, our next steps are to continue building strong collaboration skills and routines within the space. We are working on setting goals for group work, reflecting on how we work as a team, and using the Collaboration Cove for more structured projects across subjects. I'm excited to see how this space continues to grow with my students and support their learning. Thank you for helping create such a meaningful and engaging environment for them!","fullyFundedDate":1746785717067,"projectUrl":"project/the-collaboration-cove/9282579/","projectTitle":"The Collaboration Cove","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Zonghetti","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9004465_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1688744374591","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9004465"},{"teacherId":3894790,"projectId":9986548,"letterContent":"Thanks to this project, my students now have access to engaging, student-friendly reading materials that support their English language development. While this project doesn't focus on traditional technology, these resources are used alongside our classroom programs to strengthen important skills like reading comprehension, vocabulary, and fluency. The books allow students to interact with language in a meaningful, hands-on way, which is just as important as digital learning.\r\n\r\nWhat has been most exciting for my students is having books they can actually read and understand. Many of them are beginner English learners, and in the past, reading could feel frustrating or overwhelming. Now, with high-interest and accessible texts, they are more confident and willing to participate. I've seen students light up when they recognize words, follow along with a story, or even read aloud for the first time.\r\n\r\nSome of my quieter students, especially those who are newer to English, have shown the most growth. With the support of these books, they are taking risks, practicing speaking, and building confidence in a way I haven't seen before. This project has helped turn reading into a positive and empowering experience for my students.","fullyFundedDate":1768063272969,"projectUrl":"project/teachers-pay-teachers-gift-card/9986548/","projectTitle":"Teachers Pay Teachers Gift Card","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Scullion","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3894790_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1503423229097","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3894790"},{"teacherId":6534009,"projectId":9646003,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our classroom. While we were initially excited to implement the IXL Reading and Math program, our school administration was unable to approve its use this year. Thanks to your flexibility and generosity, we were able to redirect these funds toward impactful resources that directly support our students each day.\r\n\r\nWith your help, we added new classroom headphones, ensuring all students can fully participate in digital learning without distractions. A high-quality electric pencil sharpener has improved efficiency and minimized interruptions during instruction. Flexible seating options - including comfy floor seats, lap desks, a low table, and adjustable standing desks - have transformed our classroom environment, giving students choice, comfort, and the ability to learn in ways that work best for them.\r\n\r\nThese resources have increased student engagement, improved focus, and created a more inclusive and productive learning space. Most importantly, your support continues to make a lasting difference—helping my students feel comfortable, confident, and ready to learn each day.\r\n\r\nThank you for your kindness, flexibility, and for believing in our classroom. We are truly appreciative! 💚🖤","fullyFundedDate":1757508840214,"projectUrl":"project/unlocking-learning-with-ixl-reading-and/9646003/","projectTitle":"Unlocking Learning with IXL Reading and Math!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. M. Smith","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6534009_orig.jpg?crop=720,720,x0,y228&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1692981438746","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-mjamessmith"},{"teacherId":5362011,"projectId":9946862,"letterContent":"Thank you again for supporting our DonorsChoose project, Big Wins for Positive Choices! PBIS Prizes that Motivate! Your donation has had an immediate and meaningful impact on our students. The footballs, basketballs, and snack boxes you provided are being used as prizes in our Ron Clark–inspired PBIS House System. Students earn points for demonstrating behaviors that are safe, respectful, and responsible, and the houses with the most points are recognized. Recently, when our winners were announced, students proudly chose their prizes and celebrated together (tossing a football with friends at recess, shooting baskets, or enjoying a snack they worked hard to earn). It was a wonderful moment that reinforced how positive choices lead to real rewards.\r\n\r\nWhen the prizes were first revealed, our students were incredibly excited and brimming with pride. Having the opportunity to choose between basketballs, footballs, and snack boxes made the recognition feel even more special. We displayed the prizes for the entire school to see, which created a sense of anticipation and motivation throughout the building. Moving forward, these prizes will continue to encourage students to make positive choices every day. Our teachers and administrators will use the system to strengthen positive behavior and improve our school's behavioral data, while also showing students and families that caring stakeholders like LOFT truly believe in their success. Your generosity is helping us build a culture where students feel valued, motivated, and proud of the choices they make.","fullyFundedDate":1772550356500,"projectUrl":"project/earning-the-win-positive-choices-power/9946862/","projectTitle":"Earning the Win: Positive Choices, Powerful Rewards!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Scarnati","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5362011_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1759677045523","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5362011"},{"teacherId":8883898,"projectId":10051865,"letterContent":"Thank you for providing hoodies, snacks, tissues, and wipes, we are supporting one another's basic needs. This project helps show care, kindness, and understanding, and making sure every student in our class has what they need to feel comfortable, healthy, and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nKnowing that they have items that they might not have at home at school can make their life a little easier. I know oftentimes students will be cold and they do not have a hoodie to keep them warm so having one in their locker they can keep at school makes them feel comfortable. \r\n\r\nAgain, thank you for supporting my classroom and this project!","fullyFundedDate":1772550355496,"projectUrl":"project/warmth-care-hunger/10051865/","projectTitle":"Warmth, Care, & Hunger","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. O'Hara","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8883898_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1670000369529","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/teacherohara"},{"teacherId":9702939,"projectId":9821925,"letterContent":"My students and I have loved using the new materials that we were able to obtain through your generous donations. Our supplies have been getting a lot of use! The kids were so excited to open up brand new palettes of Crayola watercolor paints. Watercolor is now one of my go-to materials in the art room due to it's ease of use and cleanup, and its variety of applications. Every class in Kindergarten through sixth grade used the new paint, sharpies, sequins and brushes to create Kandinsky inspired trees. It was a huge hit! In the coming weeks we will study Shinique Smith, Van Gogh, and the still life genre. We truly appreciate you!","fullyFundedDate":1764694107236,"projectUrl":"project/fresh-paint/9821925/","projectTitle":"Fresh Paint","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Wood","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9702939_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1729818086083","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/art-rox"},{"teacherId":9004465,"projectId":9282342,"letterContent":"My students and I have been so excited to start using our new cleaning supplies in the classroom! From the moment they arrived, students were genuinely thrilled—they immediately noticed how fresh and organized our space felt. It sparked great conversations about responsibility, hygiene, and taking pride in our learning environment \r\nThank you again for giving my students the tools they need to take ownership of their classroom. Your support has made a meaningful difference in both our environment and our daily routines!","fullyFundedDate":1746785515200,"projectUrl":"project/clean-classroom-crew/9282342/","projectTitle":"Clean Classroom Crew","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Zonghetti","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9004465_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1688744374591","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9004465"},{"teacherId":9004465,"projectId":9066094,"letterContent":"Our students were so excited to receive the headphones that were donated! The headphones have made a huge impact during independent work time, small group rotations, and when students are using technology for learning. They help students stay focused, minimize distractions, and allow each student to learn at their own pace.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the headphones, they were eager to try them and were very thankful. Many students shared that it helped them hear directions, videos, and learning programs more clearly, which boosted their confidence while working independently.\r\n\r\nOur next steps are to continue using the headphones to support personalized learning, especially during math and reading technology lessons. We are also teaching students how to properly care for and store the headphones so they last as long as possible.\r\n\r\nThank you so much for your generous donation of headphones through DonorsChoose. Your support helps create an environment where students can focus, engage, and be successful learners every day!","fullyFundedDate":1746785467295,"projectUrl":"project/an-ear-resistible-approach-to-building-o/9066094/","projectTitle":"An Ear-Resistible Approach to Building Our Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Zonghetti","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9004465_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1688744374591","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9004465"},{"teacherId":9004465,"projectId":9282429,"letterContent":"Our students were absolutely thrilled when they saw the snacks that were donated! For many of them, having access to a quick snack during the day helps them stay focused, energized, and ready to learn. We've been able to use the snacks during longer learning blocks and as part of our positive behavior supports, which has helped keep students motivated and on track.\r\n\r\nWhen the snacks first arrived, students were so excited and immediately said thank you. It also opened up great conversations about gratitude and how people in our community care about their success.\r\n\r\nOur next steps are to continue using the snacks to support student focus during lessons and to ensure students have something to help fuel their learning throughout the day. We are also working on building responsibility and appreciation by having students help organize and manage snack supplies.\r\n\r\nThank you so much for your generous donation of snacks through DonorsChoose. Your kindness directly supports our students and helps create a classroom where they can do their very best every day!","fullyFundedDate":1746785793923,"projectUrl":"project/brain-food-boost/9282429/","projectTitle":"Brain Food Boost","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Zonghetti","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9004465_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1688744374591","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9004465"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_71480","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":193,"numTeachers":19,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":63,"percentWhite":15,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":4,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"4 - 6","studentTeacherRatio":"10.2:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":56.6,"schoolId":71480,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Sto - Rox Upper Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Sto - Rox Upper Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/pennsylvania/sto-rox-school-district/sto-rox-middle-school/71480"}
Join the 1,369 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Sto - Rox Upper Elementary School is
a suburban public school
in Mc Kees Rocks, Pennsylvania that is part of Sto - Rox School District.
It serves 193 students
in grades 4 - 6 with a student/teacher ratio of 10.2:1.
Its teachers have had 743 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Share and help support Sto - Rox Upper Elementary School
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of students receive free or reduced price lunch
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
Source: the National Center for Education Statistics
67%
of students are Black, Latino, Native
American, or Asian
Data about school demographics comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. The numbers in this chart may not add up to 100% because of limitations in the available data.
Sto - Rox Upper Elementary School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Apr 30, 2026
DonorsChoose makes it easy for anyone to help a teacher in need, moving us closer to a nation where students
in every community have the tools and experiences they need for a great education.
Sto - Rox Upper Elementary School
$253,686
raised using DonorsChoose
743
projects
funded
59
teachers
funded
1,369
donors
86
projects
for
basic supplies
128
projects for
technology
52
projects for
books
21
projects
for
art supplies
Sto - Rox Upper Elementary School has received support from
775 individuals from Pennsylvania and
594 individuals out-of-state.