{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Newington Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":47.1,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":7670938,"projectId":10117954,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our elementary art classroom fundraiser. Because of your kindness, our students now have a dedicated clay practice station where they can explore sculpting techniques using play-doh and a variety of tools before working with ceramic clay. This opportunity gives our little artists the confidence to experiment, make mistakes, and build foundational skills in a low-pressure, hands-on way. Your contribution is helping create a space where creativity can grow every single day!\r\n\r\nWith this new station, students will be able to practice rolling, shaping, carving, and constructing as they learn how three-dimensional art comes to life. These early experiences will make a meaningful difference when they transition to real clay, allowing them to focus more on artistic expression and less on learning the basics. Watching their excitement as they discover new techniques has already been incredibly rewarding, and it's all thanks to your support.\r\n\r\nYour generosity is directly inspiring creativity, problem-solving, and confidence in our classroom. Our students are eager to create, explore, and share their sculptures, and this practice station will benefit them for years to come. Thank you again for believing in our young artists and for helping bring this project to life. 🎨💛","fullyFundedDate":1774550338884,"projectUrl":"project/clay-practice-station-refresher/10117954/","projectTitle":"Clay Practice Station Refresher!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Slappey","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7670938_orig.jpg?crop=822,822,x2,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1685986881201","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7670938"},{"teacherId":9647676,"projectId":9940810,"letterContent":"The addition of Tonie music boxes and Tonies has brought a whole new level of engagement and joy to our 4K classroom. These interactive listening tools give my students the opportunity to independently explore stories, songs, and educational content in a hands-on and meaningful way.\r\n\r\nThrough listening to Tonies, students are strengthening their language and comprehension skills as they follow along with stories, hear new vocabulary, and build early literacy connections. The music and movement elements also support listening skills, rhythm, and self-expression.\r\n\r\nOne of the most impactful changes has been in student independence and confidence. Even my youngest learners are able to operate the Tonieboxes on their own, allowing them to make choices and take ownership of their learning. It has also created a calm, inviting space where students can relax, regulate their emotions, and reset when needed.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, these resources have made learning feel magical. My students are excited to listen, imagine, and connect with stories in a way that feels special and meaningful, helping to foster a lifelong love of books and learning.","fullyFundedDate":1774963802417,"projectUrl":"project/press-play-on-imagination/9940810/","projectTitle":"Press Play on Imagination","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Mazell","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9647676_orig.jpg?crop=837,837,x0,y75&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733327139336","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9647676"},{"teacherId":9647676,"projectId":9964452,"letterContent":"The crafting materials provided through this project gave my students the opportunity to explore, create, and express themselves in new ways. Many of my Pre-K learners were initially hesitant to try new tasks or unsure of their abilities. With consistent access to engaging, hands-on materials, they began to take risks, make choices, and feel proud of their creations.\r\n\r\nAs their crafting confidence grew, so did their fine motor skills, creativity, and independence. Students learned how to use tools like scissors, glue, and paint with greater control and purpose. They also strengthened important early learning skills such as following directions, problem-solving, and staying focused on a task.\r\n\r\nMost importantly, crafting became a joyful and empowering experience. My students now approach activities with excitement and a \"I can do it!\" mindset. This boost in confidence carries over into other areas of our classroom, helping them become more engaged, resilient, and eager to learn each day.","fullyFundedDate":1770999083460,"projectUrl":"project/crafting-confidence-in-pre-k/9964452/","projectTitle":"Crafting Confidence in Pre-K","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Mazell","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9647676_orig.jpg?crop=837,837,x0,y75&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733327139336","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9647676"},{"teacherId":2434695,"projectId":10093859,"letterContent":"Dear Supporters,\r\n\r\nThank you so much for funding our DonorsChoose project for TinkerTar Guitars! These instruments have completely transformed the way my students experience music, giving them the opportunity to explore string instruments in a hands-on and meaningful way.\r\n\r\nWe began using the TinkerTars during our introduction to string instruments unit, where students learned how to strum, pluck, and create simple melodies. One of my favorite moments was watching students work together to play a short song—many of them had never held a guitar before, and their excitement when they successfully played their first notes was unforgettable. They quickly began experimenting, creating their own patterns, and even asking to play beyond class time.\r\n\r\nWhen the guitars were first introduced, the room filled with excitement. Students were amazed that they each had the chance to play a real instrument, and there were so many smiles as they carefully explored how to hold and play the strings. For many, this was their very first experience with a guitar, and it sparked a new level of curiosity and confidence.\r\n\r\nNext, we will be building on these skills by incorporating the TinkerTars into our composition and performance units. Our goal is to showcase their progress in a future class performance, where they can demonstrate their growth as young musicians.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, my students are not just learning about music—they are actively making it. Thank you for providing them with an opportunity they will remember for years to come and for supporting music education in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1770999082212,"projectUrl":"project/jamming-with-tinkertar-guitars/10093859/","projectTitle":"Jamming with TinkerTar Guitars","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bromley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp2434695_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1449059165973","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ebromley"},{"teacherId":2434695,"projectId":10163786,"letterContent":"Dear Supporters,\r\n\r\nThank you so much for funding our DonorsChoose project for TinkerTar Guitars! These instruments have completely transformed the way my students experience music, giving them the opportunity to explore string instruments in a hands-on and meaningful way.\r\n\r\nWe began using the TinkerTars during our introduction to string instruments unit, where students learned how to strum, pluck, and create simple melodies. One of my favorite moments was watching students work together to play a short song—many of them had never held a guitar before, and their excitement when they successfully played their first notes was unforgettable. They quickly began experimenting, creating their own patterns, and even asking to play beyond class time.\r\n\r\nWhen the guitars were first introduced, the room filled with excitement. Students were amazed that they each had the chance to play a real instrument, and there were so many smiles as they carefully explored how to hold and play the strings. For many, this was their very first experience with a guitar, and it sparked a new level of curiosity and confidence.\r\n\r\nNext, we will be building on these skills by incorporating the TinkerTars into some of our performances. Our goal is to showcase their progress in a future class performance, where they can demonstrate their growth as young musicians.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, my students are not just learning about music—they are actively making it. Thank you for providing them with an opportunity they will remember for years to come and for supporting music education in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1774498324408,"projectUrl":"project/jamming-with-tinkertar-guitars-part-2/10163786/","projectTitle":"Jamming With TinkerTar Guitars, Part 2","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bromley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp2434695_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1449059165973","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ebromley"},{"teacherId":2434695,"projectId":10140124,"letterContent":"Dear Supporters,\r\n\r\nThank you so much for funding our DonorsChoose project for music biography books! These stories have quickly become a favorite in our classroom and are helping students connect with music in a deeper, more meaningful way.\r\n\r\nThrough these books, students are learning important skills such as making connections between a musician's life and their music, identifying key ideas, and reflecting on themes like perseverance, creativity, and cultural impact. We use the books during read-alouds and discussion-based lessons, where students listen, think critically, and then respond through writing, discussion, or even musical activities inspired by what they've learned.\r\n\r\nReading in our classroom is active and engaging. Students don't just listen—they interact with the stories by asking questions, sharing observations, and making musical connections. Often, a book will lead directly into a hands-on activity, like creating a rhythm pattern or soundscape that reflects the life or style of the musician we studied.\r\n\r\nI've seen several students especially light up during these lessons. Some who are usually quiet have eagerly volunteered to share their thoughts, while others have been inspired by the stories of musicians who overcame challenges. One student was particularly excited to recognize an instrument from a story and then try it out in class, making a powerful connection between reading and real-life music-making.\r\n\r\nThese books are not only building literacy skills, but also inspiring confidence, curiosity, and a love for music history. Thank you for helping bring these stories—and these learning opportunities—into our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1773832593284,"projectUrl":"project/music-biographies-part-2/10140124/","projectTitle":"Music Biographies, Part 2","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bromley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp2434695_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1449059165973","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ebromley"},{"teacherId":2434695,"projectId":10065440,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding our Donors Choose project for woodblocks! These instruments have brought a new level of focus, creativity, and rhythmic exploration into our music classroom.\r\n\r\nWe began using the woodblocks during our rhythm and ensemble unit, where students created layered percussion pieces in small groups. One memorable moment was during a \"Rhythm Train\" activity—each group added a different repeating pattern, and the woodblocks helped keep a steady beat that held the entire performance together. Students quickly realized how important their role was in the ensemble, and their pride was evident when everything stayed in sync.\r\n\r\nWhen the woodblocks were first introduced, students were immediately curious and excited. Many had never seen or played one before, so they were eager to learn how to produce different sounds and play with proper technique. The room was filled with smiles as they experimented and discovered how such a simple instrument could make such a strong, clear sound.\r\n\r\nNext, we will be incorporating the woodblocks into our upcoming composition and folk music units. Students will use them to create their own rhythmic patterns and accompany songs, helping them deepen their understanding of beat, texture, and musical structure while continuing to build teamwork skills.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, my students are able to experience music in a hands-on, meaningful way. Thank you for helping them grow as musicians and for bringing more joy and rhythm into our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1770818432341,"projectUrl":"project/knock-knock-knock-on-the-woodblock-part/10065440/","projectTitle":"Knock Knock Knock on the Woodblock, Part 2","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bromley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp2434695_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1449059165973","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ebromley"},{"teacherId":2434695,"projectId":10093661,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our music manipulatives project! Because of your generosity, my students now have hands-on tools that bring music learning to life in a whole new way.\r\n\r\nWith these manipulatives, students can explore rhythms, build patterns, and actively engage with musical concepts in a way that is both meaningful and fun. These materials allow every child—no matter their learning style—to participate, create, and succeed in our classroom.\r\n\r\nSeeing their excitement as they use these new tools has been incredible. Your support has not only enhanced our lessons, but it has also inspired confidence, creativity, and joy in making music. Specifically we will use the ribbons in the upcoming Kindergarten Fine Arts showcase. We are already putting the dice to good use with some fun recorder centers to make our learning differentiated\r\n\r\nI am truly grateful that you chose to invest in my students and our music program. Thank you for helping us create a classroom where learning is active, engaging, and full of possibilities.","fullyFundedDate":1773984454655,"projectUrl":"project/music-manipulatives-for-the-music-room/10093661/","projectTitle":"Music Manipulatives for the Music Room","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bromley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp2434695_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1449059165973","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ebromley"},{"teacherId":10307746,"projectId":9815141,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our kindergarten classroom! Because of your generosity, my students now have copy paper, construction paper, cardstock, and dry erase packets that we use every day for learning. The copy paper allows me to create personalized worksheets and activities tailored to each student's learning level, helping them practice important reading, writing, and math skills at their own pace. The dry erase packets have also become a favorite in our classroom because students can actively participate in lessons, practice writing letters and numbers, solve problems, and receive immediate feedback without worrying about making mistakes.\r\n\r\nWe have also used the construction paper and cardstock to make themed crafts connected to our lessons and stories. These projects allow students to express their creativity while also strengthening their fine motor skills. My students were so excited when they first saw all the colorful paper and new materials. They love creating projects that connect to what we are learning, and they are proud to display their work around the classroom.\r\n\r\nTogether, these resources help create a dynamic and interactive learning environment where students stay engaged and excited about learning. They allow my students to practice important skills, express their creativity, and build confidence in themselves as learners. Thank you again for your generosity and for helping support my students as they grow both academically and personally.","fullyFundedDate":1764692477910,"projectUrl":"project/from-paper-to-progress-empowering-ever/9815141/","projectTitle":"“From Paper to Progress: Empowering Every Student”","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Carman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10307746"},{"teacherId":7670938,"projectId":9980691,"letterContent":"My students have been ECSTATIC with their new marker sets! \r\nIt is such a breath of fresh air to have brand new sharpies and markers to share with my artists, their artworks are already so much more vibrant- I can't wait for you to see their layered printmaking projects they're making with them! \r\n\r\nThank you so much for your support in hundreds of young artists' artworks and creations- it really is amazing whenever projects are supported and funded through DonorsChoose. It lets me take a deep breath and start something new with my kids that otherwise I may not have been able to do. It is more than appreciated, thank you!","fullyFundedDate":1770999082977,"projectUrl":"project/markers-for-makers/9980691/","projectTitle":"Markers for Makers","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Slappey","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7670938_orig.jpg?crop=822,822,x2,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1685986881201","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7670938"},{"teacherId":2228300,"projectId":9925091,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation toward guiros and sand block instruments for our music classroom. Because of your support, our students now have even more opportunities to explore sound through hands-on, tactile instruments.\r\n\r\nThese instruments are wonderful for building rhythm skills, coordination, and expressive playing. Their unique textures and sounds invite curiosity and creativity, and they are especially engaging for students who learn best through movement and sensory experiences. Guiros and sand blocks help students focus on steady beat, dynamics, and listening while actively participating in ensemble music-making.\r\n\r\nYour donation directly enriches our classroom and helps create an inclusive, engaging environment where every child can succeed and feel confident making music. We are so grateful for your kindness and investment in our students' musical journey. 🎶💛","fullyFundedDate":1765456715453,"projectUrl":"project/scrape-scrape/9925091/","projectTitle":"Scrape Scrape","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Iggleden","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2228300_orig.jpg?crop=1200,1200,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1622568557329","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/hodgens"},{"teacherId":2228300,"projectId":9696520,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation towards a rolling Orff xylophone stand for our music classroom. This stand has made a meaningful difference in how our students are able to engage with the instrument.\r\n\r\nBecause the stand is mobile and adjustable, the xylophone is now more accessible to all students, including those who need the instrument at a specific height or location. It allows us to quickly move the xylophone where it's needed, create inclusive performance setups, and ensure every child has the opportunity to participate comfortably and confidently.\r\n\r\nYour support helps remove barriers to music-making and creates a more welcoming, student-centered learning environment. This stand will benefit our students for years to come, and we are incredibly grateful for your generosity and commitment to music education. 🎶💛","fullyFundedDate":1757587251894,"projectUrl":"project/they-see-me-rollin/9696520/","projectTitle":"They See Me Rollin'","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Iggleden","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2228300_orig.jpg?crop=1200,1200,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1622568557329","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/hodgens"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_6177","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":862,"numTeachers":58,"percentFrplEligible":77,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":24,"percentWhite":49,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":12,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"14.9:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":52.9,"schoolId":6177,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Newington Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Newington Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/south-carolina/dorchester-school-district-two/newington-elementary-school/6177"}