{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Downtown Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":31.5,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9010673,"projectId":10410155,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom has already been transformed into a place where creativity, organization, and learning come together every day. My second graders were so excited when they saw the new journals, storage organizers, and classroom supplies arrive. Their faces lit up with huge smiles, and they couldn't wait to begin writing, creating, and exploring. One of my favorite moments was watching students proudly open their new writing journals for the very first time. They immediately began filling the pages with stories, illustrations, and personal narratives, excited to share their ideas and grow as young authors.\r\n\r\nThe new resources have helped our classroom become more organized and student-centered. Students can easily access the materials they need, which allows us to spend more time learning and less time searching for supplies. During our writing lessons, every child has the opportunity to brainstorm, draft, revise, and publish their work in their own journal. Having organized learning materials has also made small-group instruction and literacy centers run much more smoothly, giving students more confidence and independence throughout the day.\r\n\r\nAs we continue through the school year, these resources will support our upcoming reading and writing units, hands-on learning activities, and collaborative projects across all subject areas. My students are building strong academic skills while discovering that their ideas and voices matter. Thank you for believing in them and investing in their future. Your kindness has made a lasting difference in our classroom, and we are incredibly grateful for your generosity and support.","fullyFundedDate":1785284780298,"projectUrl":"project/write-create-shine-in-second-grade/10410155/","projectTitle":"Write, Create & Shine in Second Grade","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ward","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9010673_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1758241919181","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-ward2016"},{"teacherId":9010673,"projectId":10186913,"letterContent":"Because of your incredible generosity, our classroom has already been transformed into a space where my second graders are excited to learn, create, and grow every single day. Thank you for believing in my students and investing in their future.\r\nThe new journals, organization carts, and classroom supplies have become part of our daily learning routine. My students are using their primary journals during our writing block to respond to reading, practice grammar skills, and write personal narratives. They absolutely love having journals that belong just to them, and they take pride in filling each page with their best work. The storage carts have helped us organize our classroom materials so students can quickly access what they need and spend more time learning instead of searching for supplies.\r\n\r\nOne of my favorite moments happened during our first writing activity. As I passed out the brand-new journals, several students smiled from ear to ear and said things like, \"This is mine?\" and \"I can't wait to write in it!\" Their excitement reminded me that something as simple as having quality classroom materials can make children feel valued, confident, and eager to learn.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has also helped create a more organized and welcoming classroom environment where students can work independently, collaborate with classmates, and focus on learning. Having the right resources available has made transitions smoother and allowed us to maximize every instructional minute.\r\n\r\nAs we continue through the school year, my students will use these materials for reading responses, writing workshops, science observations, math journals, and collaborative classroom projects. They are learning not only important academic skills but also responsibility, organization, and pride in their work. I know these resources will continue supporting meaningful learning experiences throughout the entire school year.\r\n\r\nFrom the bottom of our hearts, thank you for making this possible. Your kindness has made a lasting impact on my students, and every time they open their journals, complete a new project, or confidently participate in class, they are benefiting from your generosity. Thank you for believing in our classroom and helping our second graders learn, create, and shine!\r\n\r\nWith sincere gratitude,\r\nMrs. Kristen Ward\r\nSecond Grade Teacher","fullyFundedDate":1777575582403,"projectUrl":"project/building-strong-readers-phonics-tools-f/10186913/","projectTitle":"Building Strong Readers: Phonics Tools for Lifelong Success","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ward","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9010673_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1758241919181","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-ward2016"},{"teacherId":5643499,"projectId":9898430,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom through the \"Better Seating for Better Learning\" project. My students absolutely loved the new chairs and pillows. As soon as everything arrived, they were excited to try the different seating options and immediately started asking when it would be their turn for carpet time. We actually had to assign days so everyone could enjoy the pillows and flexible seating fairly!\r\n\r\nThe new furniture has truly changed the feel of our classroom. Students are more comfortable, relaxed, and excited to work during independent reading, partner activities, and small group time. I've noticed students settling in more quickly and enjoying having a cozy space where they can focus and collaborate with classmates. Even small moments, like lounging with a book or working together on the carpet, have helped create a more positive classroom culture.\r\n\r\nYour generosity helped create a classroom environment that feels welcoming, calm, and student-centered. The seating gave my students more than comfort, it gave them a space they are proud of and excited to learn in every day. Thank you again for investing in my students and helping make our classroom feel even more like home.","fullyFundedDate":1771032397222,"projectUrl":"project/better-seating-for-better-learning/9898430/","projectTitle":"Better Seating for Better Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. McCrary","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5643499_orig.jpg?crop=1365,1365,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1763250644290","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5643499"},{"teacherId":5643499,"projectId":9898376,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom project! My students were so excited to make and use the chunky knit blankets. What started as a calming activity quickly turned into a fun experience filled with teamwork, problem solving, and lots of laughs. Some students became frustrated at first, which honestly turned into a great learning moment, but it was amazing watching classmates step in to help each other figure it out.\r\n\r\nOne thing I really appreciated from this project was learning more about my students. While many found the blanket making calming and enjoyable, a few students chose to opt out, which helped me realize that calming activities can look different for every child. Overall, this project created meaningful conversations, encouraged patience, and gave students a creative outlet during the school day. Thank you again for helping bring something new and memorable to our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1769300913910,"projectUrl":"project/wrapped-in-reading-blankets-for-calm-cl/9898376/","projectTitle":"Wrapped In Reading: Blankets for Calm Classrooms","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. McCrary","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5643499_orig.jpg?crop=1365,1365,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1763250644290","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5643499"},{"teacherId":5643499,"projectId":9898460,"letterContent":"These books have made a huge difference in my classroom. Students were genuinely excited when the books arrived, and ever since then, reading time has become something many of them look forward to each day. The manga books, Goosebumps collection, and other high-interest books immediately grabbed their attention and helped students feel more connected to reading.\r\n\r\nI've seen students talk to each other about books more, recommend titles to friends, and stay focused during independent reading longer than before. Some students who normally struggled to find books they enjoyed were finally able to find stories that matched their interests.\r\n\r\nThese books have helped build excitement around reading while also strengthening comprehension, vocabulary, and reading stamina in a way that feels natural and enjoyable for my students. Thank you for helping create a classroom where students are excited to pick up a book.","fullyFundedDate":1764729936243,"projectUrl":"project/level-up-our-library-chapter-books-for/9898460/","projectTitle":"Level Up Our Library: Chapter Books for Growing Readers","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. McCrary","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5643499_orig.jpg?crop=1365,1365,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1763250644290","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5643499"},{"teacherId":5643499,"projectId":9898451,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting our classroom project and investing in my students! The rubber bands made a huge impact in our classroom by providing students with a hands-on activity that encouraged creativity, teamwork, and engagement. Students used the materials to create bracelets, keychains, and other designs while practicing focus, persistence, and problem-solving skills.\r\n\r\nThis project also helped strengthen classroom relationships and gave students a fun, productive way to collaborate and connect with one another. Many students became more confident as they learned new patterns and proudly showed off their creations. It was amazing watching students encourage each other, share ideas, and celebrate their successes together. Your generosity brought excitement, creativity, and joy into our classroom, and we truly appreciated your support!","fullyFundedDate":1763393834729,"projectUrl":"project/band-together-creative-calm-for-fun-fri/9898451/","projectTitle":"Band Together: Creative Calm for Fun Fridays","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. McCrary","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5643499_orig.jpg?crop=1365,1365,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1763250644290","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5643499"},{"teacherId":9010673,"projectId":9743256,"letterContent":"The new resources have already made a huge impact in our classroom! My students have been using them daily during small-group instruction, independent practice, and collaborative learning activities. One of our favorite moments happened during a math intervention lesson focused on fractions and problem-solving. Students used the new hands-on materials to model equivalent fractions and explain their thinking to their classmates. It was amazing to watch students become more confident and engaged as they worked together to solve problems.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, my students were absolutely thrilled. Their faces lit up with excitement, and many immediately asked when they could start using everything. Several students could not believe that people they had never met cared enough to support their learning. Seeing their excitement and gratitude reminded me just how meaningful these donations truly are.\r\n\r\nThe next steps for our classroom include using these resources to support upcoming project-based learning activities, TCAP review, and differentiated instruction in both math and reading. Students will continue using the materials during small-group rotations, interactive notebook activities, and hands-on projects that encourage collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity. We are especially excited to incorporate the resources into our end-of-year enrichment projects, where students will apply the skills they have learned in real-world and engaging ways.\r\n\r\nThank you again for your generosity and support. Because of you, my students are gaining access to meaningful learning experiences that help them grow academically and build confidence in themselves as learners.","fullyFundedDate":1760906261314,"projectUrl":"project/organized-and-ready-storage-baskets-for/9743256/","projectTitle":"Organized and Ready: Storage Baskets for Student Work & Centers","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ward","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9010673_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1758241919181","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-ward2016"},{"teacherId":9010673,"projectId":9717997,"letterContent":"The new resources have already made a huge impact in our classroom! My students have been using them daily during small-group instruction, independent practice, and collaborative learning activities. One of our favorite moments happened during a math intervention lesson focused on fractions and problem-solving. Students used the new hands-on materials to model equivalent fractions and explain their thinking to their classmates. It was amazing to watch students become more confident and engaged as they worked together to solve problems.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, my students were absolutely thrilled. Their faces lit up with excitement, and many immediately asked when they could start using everything. Several students could not believe that people they had never met cared enough to support their learning. Seeing their excitement and gratitude reminded me just how meaningful these donations truly are.\r\n\r\nThe next steps for our classroom include using these resources to support upcoming project-based learning activities, TCAP review, and differentiated instruction in both math and reading. Students will continue using the materials during small-group rotations, interactive notebook activities, and hands-on projects that encourage collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity. We are especially excited to incorporate the resources into our end-of-year enrichment projects, where students will apply the skills they have learned in real-world and engaging ways.\r\n\r\nThank you again for your generosity and support. Because of you, my students are gaining access to meaningful learning experiences that help them grow academically and build confidence in themselves as learners.","fullyFundedDate":1758202805622,"projectUrl":"project/help-our-students-write-with-color-and-e/9717997/","projectTitle":"Help Our Students Write with Color and Efficiency!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ward","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9010673_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1758241919181","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-ward2016"},{"teacherId":9010673,"projectId":9644584,"letterContent":"My students were beyond excited when our new resources arrived! As soon as they saw the materials, the classroom energy completely shifted. Several students immediately started asking if they could begin using them right away, and many of them were eager to explore the hands-on activities and technology-based resources independently. It was such a rewarding moment to watch their curiosity and excitement take over the room.\r\n\r\nWe are currently using these resources during our small group instruction, intervention rotations, and collaborative classroom projects. One specific moment that stood out was during a math lesson focused on problem-solving and critical thinking. Students who are usually hesitant to participate became more engaged and confident because the new materials made learning feel interactive, fun, and accessible. I watched students work together, explain their thinking to classmates, and celebrate their successes in ways that truly highlighted their growth.\r\n\r\nThese resources are also helping us prepare for end-of-year projects and deeper learning activities across multiple subjects. As we move forward, students will continue using the materials to strengthen foundational skills, complete hands-on STEM and literacy activities, and build independence during centers and group work. We are especially excited about incorporating the resources into project-based learning opportunities where students can apply their skills creatively and collaboratively.\r\n\r\nThank you again for investing in our classroom and believing in my students. Your generosity is creating meaningful learning experiences, building confidence, and helping students feel excited about coming to school each day.","fullyFundedDate":1757513014217,"projectUrl":"project/math-fun-inside-hands-on-games-and-mani/9644584/","projectTitle":"Math Fun Inside: Hands-On Games and Manipulatives for Learning!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ward","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9010673_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1758241919181","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-ward2016"},{"teacherId":9010673,"projectId":9394802,"letterContent":"My students were beyond excited when our new resources arrived! As soon as they saw the materials, the classroom energy completely shifted. Several students immediately started asking if they could begin using them right away, and many of them were eager to explore the hands-on activities and technology-based resources independently. It was such a rewarding moment to watch their curiosity and excitement take over the room.\r\n\r\nWe are currently using these resources during our small group instruction, intervention rotations, and collaborative classroom projects. One specific moment that stood out was during a math lesson focused on problem-solving and critical thinking. Students who are usually hesitant to participate became more engaged and confident because the new materials made learning feel interactive, fun, and accessible. I watched students work together, explain their thinking to classmates, and celebrate their successes in ways that truly highlighted their growth.\r\n\r\nThese resources are also helping us prepare for end-of-year projects and deeper learning activities across multiple subjects. As we move forward, students will continue using the materials to strengthen foundational skills, complete hands-on STEM and literacy activities, and build independence during centers and group work. We are especially excited about incorporating the resources into project-based learning opportunities where students can apply their skills creatively and collaboratively.\r\n\r\nThank you again for investing in our classroom and believing in my students. Your generosity is creating meaningful learning experiences, building confidence, and helping students feel excited about coming to school each day.","fullyFundedDate":1758202955544,"projectUrl":"project/bright-and-brilliant-learning/9394802/","projectTitle":"Bright and Brilliant Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ward","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9010673_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1758241919181","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-ward2016"},{"teacherId":9010673,"projectId":8242091,"letterContent":"My students were beyond excited when our new resources arrived! As soon as they saw the materials, the classroom energy completely shifted. Several students immediately started asking if they could begin using them right away, and many of them were eager to explore the hands-on activities and technology-based resources independently. It was such a rewarding moment to watch their curiosity and excitement take over the room.\r\n\r\nWe are currently using these resources during our small group instruction, intervention rotations, and collaborative classroom projects. One specific moment that stood out was during a math lesson focused on problem-solving and critical thinking. Students who are usually hesitant to participate became more engaged and confident because the new materials made learning feel interactive, fun, and accessible. I watched students work together, explain their thinking to classmates, and celebrate their successes in ways that truly highlighted their growth.\r\n\r\nThese resources are also helping us prepare for end-of-year projects and deeper learning activities across multiple subjects. As we move forward, students will continue using the materials to strengthen foundational skills, complete hands-on STEM and literacy activities, and build independence during centers and group work. We are especially excited about incorporating the resources into project-based learning opportunities where students can apply their skills creatively and collaboratively.\r\n\r\nThank you again for investing in our classroom and believing in my students. Your generosity is creating meaningful learning experiences, building confidence, and helping students feel excited about coming to school each day.","fullyFundedDate":1710714770121,"projectUrl":"project/leadership-through-technology/8242091/","projectTitle":"Leadership Through Technology","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ward","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9010673_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1758241919181","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-ward2016"},{"teacherId":9010673,"projectId":7961805,"letterContent":"My students were beyond excited when our new resources arrived! As soon as they saw the materials, the classroom energy completely shifted. Several students immediately started asking if they could begin using them right away, and many of them were eager to explore the hands-on activities and technology-based resources independently. It was such a rewarding moment to watch their curiosity and excitement take over the room.\r\n\r\nWe are currently using these resources during our small group instruction, intervention rotations, and collaborative classroom projects. One specific moment that stood out was during a math lesson focused on problem-solving and critical thinking. Students who are usually hesitant to participate became more engaged and confident because the new materials made learning feel interactive, fun, and accessible. I watched students work together, explain their thinking to classmates, and celebrate their successes in ways that truly highlighted their growth.\r\n\r\nThese resources are also helping us prepare for end-of-year projects and deeper learning activities across multiple subjects. As we move forward, students will continue using the materials to strengthen foundational skills, complete hands-on STEM and literacy activities, and build independence during centers and group work. We are especially excited about incorporating the resources into project-based learning opportunities where students can apply their skills creatively and collaboratively.\r\n\r\nThank you again for investing in our classroom and believing in my students. Your generosity is creating meaningful learning experiences, building confidence, and helping students feel excited about coming to school each day.","fullyFundedDate":1708631515634,"projectUrl":"project/center-based-learning-with-manipulatives/7961805/","projectTitle":"Center-Based Learning With Manipulatives!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Ward","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9010673_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1758241919181","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-ward2016"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_73999","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":762,"numTeachers":42,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":91,"percentWhite":2,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":2,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":3,"gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"18.1:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":68.5,"schoolId":73999,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Downtown Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Downtown Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/tennessee/memphis-shelby-county-schools/downtown-elementary-school/73999"}