{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Northwest Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":42.0,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9580875,"projectId":9223815,"letterContent":"Students have been able to express themselves creatively through math and it has made a world of a difference. Being able to use these tools as manipulatives has supported their understanding tremendously. Hands on materials make such an impact on how students are able to visualize the work they are doing.\r\nThe joy on their faces when we get to use these materials has been incredible to witness and if I could capture it fully I would. Thank you from not only myself but from my classroom and all the students you have supported through this donation.","fullyFundedDate":1746785397084,"projectUrl":"project/creative-testing-incentives/9223815/","projectTitle":"Creative Testing Incentives","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Haugen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9580875_orig.jpg?crop=1370,1370,x745,y574&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1719846909159","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9580875"},{"teacherId":7939010,"projectId":7936168,"letterContent":"Thanks to the generous support our classroom has been able to enrich the learning experience with a diverse range of engaging materials. The Nearpod license has allowed us to create more interactive and dynamic lessons, ensuring that every student can engage with the content from their seat. This tool has not only enhanced participation but also made learning more inclusive and exciting. The students use this everyday. \r\n\r\nThe addition of hands-on materials such as the ChiButtons button maker and lab equipment like the radiometer and convection apparatus has been a game-changer. These items allow students to actively create and explore concepts in heat transfer and energy, reinforcing the practical applications of science. By incorporating interactive games and sensory rewards like fidget toys, students have developed better focus and improved critical thinking skills, especially during activities that are traditionally less engaging.\r\n\r\nMoreover, the new storage solutions, like the mobile snack cart and caddy bins, have helped us stay organized and ready for any learning opportunity that arises. With these materials, I've been able to foster a classroom environment where students feel empowered to take ownership of their learning and creativity, working collaboratively and problem-solving together. The support from [Donor's Name] has had a profound impact on our classroom, allowing us to provide a richer, more engaging educational experience for every student.","fullyFundedDate":1697041514480,"projectUrl":"project/learning-engineered/7936168/","projectTitle":"Learning Engineered","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lamb","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7939010_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1651709201065","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-lamb-science"},{"teacherId":7939010,"projectId":8226751,"letterContent":"The Sir Cumference book series, along with the math games and dice, has brought a new level of excitement and engagement to our math lessons. The colorful storytelling and captivating characters of the books make abstract math concepts like geometry, fractions, and probability come to life in a way that's both fun and accessible. These books not only deepen students' understanding of math but also foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills, inspiring students to view mathematics as an enjoyable and valuable tool for understanding the world around them.\r\n\r\nThe interactive dice games and board games have transformed our classroom into an active learning environment where students eagerly explore mathematical concepts. The large foam dice, in particular, make learning more hands-on and engaging, reinforcing concepts like probability, number sense, and strategy in a playful, memorable way. Through these activities, students learn to think critically, work together, and apply math skills in real-life scenarios. This project has helped create an inclusive, collaborative space where students feel empowered to think creatively, challenge themselves, and advocate for change in their communities by using math to address important social issues.","fullyFundedDate":1708541734856,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-students-through-math/8226751/","projectTitle":"Empowering Students Through Math","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lamb","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7939010_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1651709201065","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-lamb-science"},{"teacherId":7939010,"projectId":7312432,"letterContent":"The additional 3Doodler Start pens, along with the mobile storage cabinet and flexible seating options, have transformed our ability to engage with engineering and problem-solving in a hands-on way. The 3D pens have opened up a whole new world of creativity for my students. They've already used them to build prototypes, design solutions for real-world problems, and even create models to help visualize complex concepts. Having more pens for full-class activities means no one has to wait for their turn—we can now collaborate on projects at a faster pace, keeping everyone engaged and contributing.\r\n\r\nThe mobile file cabinet has helped us organize our growing collection of materials, while the balance ball chairs give students a dynamic seating option that helps channel their energy into the projects we're working on. These flexible seating solutions are not just helping with focus—they're fostering collaboration as students work together, using the pens to build, fix, and create in ways we couldn't before. With the support of these materials, we are ready to take our engineering projects to the next level and start developing solutions that will make a real-world impact.","fullyFundedDate":1683683903435,"projectUrl":"project/doodling-solutions/7312432/","projectTitle":"Doodling Solutions","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lamb","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7939010_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1651709201065","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-lamb-science"},{"teacherId":7939010,"projectId":8226975,"letterContent":"Adding five more Sphero Mini robots to our classroom has expanded learning in ways I couldn't have imagined. With more robots, more students are able to participate in coding challenges simultaneously, which means increased engagement, hands-on practice, and deeper learning across the board. Instead of taking turns, students can now work in smaller groups or even pairs, allowing for more meaningful collaboration and giving every student a voice in the coding process. This has especially benefited my quieter learners, who now have more opportunities to lead and experiment without feeling rushed.\r\n\r\nThe additional Spheros have also allowed us to scale up our STEM projects. We've been able to run larger group challenges, like designing obstacle courses and simulating real-world problems—turning our classroom into a mini robotics lab. Students are applying critical thinking and math concepts in real time, while learning perseverance, teamwork, and how to debug code. These new robots have truly elevated our curriculum, and watching my students light up as they problem-solve and code has been one of the most rewarding parts of teaching this year.","fullyFundedDate":1710878223180,"projectUrl":"project/engineer-minds-sphero-stem-boost/8226975/","projectTitle":"Engineer Minds: Sphero STEM Boost!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lamb","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7939010_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1651709201065","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-lamb-science"},{"teacherId":7939010,"projectId":8239183,"letterContent":"Our Active Learning Hub has completely transformed how students engage with learning in our classroom. The rolling chairs, mobile desk, and standing desk have introduced flexibility and movement into our day, helping students stay energized, focused, and ready to collaborate. Students now feel empowered to choose the seating and workspace that best fits their needs, whether that's standing to work on a project, rolling over to join a group discussion, or finding a quiet corner for independent tasks. These new options have boosted engagement and made learning feel more accessible and student-centered.\r\n\r\nThe organizational tools—like the adjustable shelves, magnetic pen holders, and clip-on cup holders—have created a more efficient and clutter-free learning space. With the addition of wired computer mice and extension cords, students are now navigating digital resources more easily, participating in tech-based learning activities with greater confidence. And with access to high-quality materials through the Teachers Pay Teachers gift card, I've been able to tailor instruction on the fly, using creative and effective resources that meet students exactly where they are. Thanks to this project, we've created a learning environment that's not only functional but also inspiring—a space where students are excited to learn, move, and grow every day.","fullyFundedDate":1715225005645,"projectUrl":"project/active-learning-hub/8239183/","projectTitle":"Active Learning Hub","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lamb","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7939010_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1651709201065","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-lamb-science"},{"teacherId":7939010,"projectId":8385992,"letterContent":"The five Sphero Mini robots have become a highlight of our STEM learning experiences. During special lessons and project-based learning days, students use the Spheros to explore concepts like angles, speed, measurement, and coding. Whether programming the robots to complete a challenge course or collaborating on group tasks, students are fully engaged—combining creativity with critical thinking. These hands-on opportunities allow them to apply math and science in real-world contexts, making learning both exciting and meaningful.\r\nOne of the most meaningful impacts has been watching students who normally shy away from math or science become fully engaged and confident while coding their Sphero. They troubleshoot, experiment, and work together to overcome challenges, learning not just content, but perseverance and teamwork. These moments remind us why tools like the Sphero Mini matter so much—they don't just teach what to learn, they inspire how to learn. Thanks to the support of generous donors, these Spheros are helping us create a classroom culture built on curiosity, collaboration, and discovery.","fullyFundedDate":1715789448602,"projectUrl":"project/engineer-minds-sphero-stem-boost/8385992/","projectTitle":"Engineer Minds: Sphero STEM Boost!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lamb","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7939010_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1651709201065","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-lamb-science"},{"teacherId":7939010,"projectId":8581905,"letterContent":"When my students first saw the colorful magnetic tiles, stamps, and piles of treats arrive, their faces lit up with excitement—they couldn't believe these fun supplies were actually for math! We immediately dove into exploring surface area and volume by building 3D models with the magnetic tiles and mapping out nets on our desks using painter's tape. The stamps became a favorite tool for creating graphs and tracking data, transforming what could be a dull worksheet into a visual and interactive experience. One student said, \"This is the first time I've ever liked doing math!\"\r\n\r\nOur current project is a student-led fundraiser where kids use math to organize and run a holiday-themed candy-gram shop. They budget for treats like Rice Krispies, Fun Dips, and Blow Pops, track inventory, and calculate profits—all while practicing kindness by delivering sweet messages around school. The real-world application of math has helped students see that these aren't just numbers on a page; they're skills they can use to make a difference, build confidence, and maybe even dream about future careers in business or STEM. Thank you for helping math come alive in our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1723660432393,"projectUrl":"project/real-world-math/8581905/","projectTitle":"Real World Math","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lamb","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7939010_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1651709201065","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-lamb-science"},{"teacherId":9158317,"projectId":8272333,"letterContent":"We recently completed a unit on animal adaptations and genetics. Our culminating project was to create butterflies that would camouflage in with the classroom environment. Administration from within our building then came around at the end of the day and \"hunted\" out the butterflies. Any butterflies not found, those that remained hidden due to their adaptive patterning, won their student a prize.\r\nWe used markers, card stock, rulers, arm grease, scissors, and a whole lot of outside the box thinking to make this work. Ultimately, the solid black butterflies that blended in with the floor molding, and a very well-measured to match with the stripes on the flag butterfly were the winners.\r\nIt was awesome to see the friendly competition and encouragement amongst the students. Thank you for being a part of it.","fullyFundedDate":1715306909585,"projectUrl":"project/students-enjoy-learning-more-from-one-ot/8272333/","projectTitle":"Students Enjoy Learning More From One Other","teacherDisplayName":"Dr. Berlin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9158317_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1693015252292","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9158317"},{"teacherId":9580875,"projectId":8972447,"letterContent":"This project has been a game changer in my classroom and has affected the students in such a positive way. My students were overjoyed when they saw all of these things come in. We have been able to enjoy so many new ways of learning because of these donated items.\r\nI cannot express enough just how much this means. Working in a low income area school, things like this are not taken for granted. I am able to provide an elevated level of education now because I do not have to work around the lack of school items. \r\nThank you from me and from everyone of my students.","fullyFundedDate":1734708571752,"projectUrl":"project/a-magnificent-math-classroom/8972447/","projectTitle":"A Magnificent Math Classroom!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Haugen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9580875_orig.jpg?crop=1370,1370,x745,y574&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1719846909159","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9580875"},{"teacherId":9158317,"projectId":8785867,"letterContent":"I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for your generous financial support of our classroom. Your contribution has made a significant impact, and thanks to your kindness, we now have essential supplies like Post-it notes for students to share their ideas and glue sticks to keep their work together. Watching the students trade Post-it ideas and glue them down shows at minimum a willingness to work together. The words written, however, show they've mastered the lesson.\r\n\r\nThese materials are more than just tools; they enable creativity, collaboration, and organization in the classroom, all of which are invaluable for the students' learning experience. We are truly fortunate to have your support, and I cannot thank you enough for helping make our classroom a better place for learning.","fullyFundedDate":1726454787146,"projectUrl":"project/glue-and-notes-to-make-it-stick/8785867/","projectTitle":"Glue and Notes to Make It Stick","teacherDisplayName":"Dr. Berlin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9158317_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1693015252292","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9158317"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_92831","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":761,"numTeachers":55,"percentFrplEligible":85,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":21,"percentWhite":27,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":41,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"13.8:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":58.0,"schoolId":92831,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Northwest Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Northwest Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/tennessee/knox-county-schools/northwest-middle-school/92831"}
Join the 262 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Northwest Middle School is
an urban public school
in Knoxville, Tennessee that is part of Knox County Schools.
It serves 761 students
in grades 6 - 8 with a student/teacher ratio of 13.8:1.
Its teachers have had 154 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Boost support for our school's classrooms. Share this page with friends and family who want to make a difference. If you're a teacher, sign up to get started!
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. Each classroom request for funding was created by a classroom teacher and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
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
62%
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.
Northwest Middle School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Dec 5, 2025
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.
Northwest Middle School
$57,752
raised using DonorsChoose
154
projects
funded
31
teachers
funded
262
donors
26
projects
for
basic supplies
37
projects for
technology
13
projects for
books
12
projects
for
art supplies
Northwest Middle School has received support from
152 individuals from Tennessee and
110 individuals out-of-state.