{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Winchester Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":63.7,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9668633,"projectId":9925945,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom now has a steady supply of snacks that support both learning and emotional well‑being. These resources have made an immediate difference for students who come to school hungry, distracted, or worried about not having enough food at home. Having snacks available has helped students stay focused, feel cared for, and approach their work with more confidence.\r\n\r\nThe day the snacks arrived, my students' faces lit up. Several of them asked, \"Are these really for us?\" and others immediately began offering to help organize the bins. One student who often hesitates to participate told me, \"Now I won't have to worry about being hungry during math.\" Moments like that remind me how deeply these small acts of care matter.","fullyFundedDate":1764165743222,"projectUrl":"project/confidence-and-care-through-classroom-sn/9925945/","projectTitle":"Confidence and Care Through Classroom Snacks","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Otey-Jethro","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9668633_orig.jpg?crop=3000,3000,x0,y480&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1724762113672","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9668633"},{"teacherId":9668633,"projectId":9890607,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our Emergency Pantry Support project has become a lifeline for students and families facing unpredictable challenges. The resources you provided are already being used to ensure that no child at our school has to worry about having enough to eat. This project has brought stability, dignity, and comfort to students who need it most.\r\n\r\nWhen the supplies first arrived, my students were amazed by the abundance and variety. Several of them immediately began brainstorming how we could organize the items to make sure families could access what they needed quickly. One student said, \"This is going to help so many people,\" and another asked if they could help pack bags right away. Their excitement came not from receiving something for themselves, but from knowing they were part of something that would support their classmates and community.\r\n\r\nWe've already begun using the materials to assemble emergency food bags for students who may be experiencing food insecurity. During one of our first packing sessions, students worked together to sort items, check dates, and create balanced bags that included breakfast, snacks, and easy‑to‑prepare meals. Watching them take ownership of this work—carefully choosing items and writing encouraging notes—was a powerful reminder of how deeply they care for one another.","fullyFundedDate":1763490186195,"projectUrl":"project/emergency-pantry-support-feeding-studen/9890607/","projectTitle":"Emergency Pantry Support: Feeding Students Through Uncertainty","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Otey-Jethro","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9668633_orig.jpg?crop=3000,3000,x0,y480&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1724762113672","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9668633"},{"teacherId":9914160,"projectId":9877175,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our student‑led pantry cart has become a powerful symbol of kindness, leadership, and community care at Winchester Elementary. What began as an idea to help families in need has grown into a hands‑on learning experience that empowers students to take action and see themselves as problem‑solvers.\r\n\r\nThe excitement was immediate the day the materials arrived. Students gathered around the boxes, trying to guess what was inside, and when they saw the cart and supplies, they erupted with cheers. One student said, \"We get to run this ourselves?\" Another whispered, \"This is going to help so many people.\" Their pride was unmistakable—they knew this project mattered.\r\n\r\nWe've already begun using the cart during our weekly pantry hours. Students take on roles such as stocking shelves, organizing donations, greeting families, and tracking what items are most needed. During our first \"Kindness in Motion\" shift, a group of students worked together to arrange the cart with care, making sure everything looked welcoming and accessible. Watching them collaborate, problem‑solve, and show genuine compassion for others has been one of the most meaningful moments of our school year.","fullyFundedDate":1763481697266,"projectUrl":"project/kindness-in-motiona-student-led-pantry/9877175/","projectTitle":"Kindness in Motion—A Student-Led Pantry Cart for Our School Community","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. B. Fuller","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9914160"},{"teacherId":9914160,"projectId":9925486,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our Potato Bar Celebration became a powerful moment of confidence‑building, community, and joy for my students. What seemed like a simple celebration turned into something much bigger—an opportunity for students to feel proud of their hard work, practice social‑emotional skills, and enjoy a shared experience that made them feel seen and valued.\r\n\r\nWhen the supplies arrived, the excitement was instant. Students crowded around the table, pointing out toppings, asking questions, and cheering when they realized everything was for them. One student said, \"We've never had anything like this before!\" Another whispered, \"I feel fancy,\" which made the whole class laugh and smile. That sense of belonging and celebration filled the room.\r\n\r\nWe used the Potato Bar as the culminating activity for our confidence‑building lessons. Students practiced positive self‑talk, reflected on their growth, and shared affirmations with classmates before building their plates. It was beautiful to watch them encourage one another and celebrate not just the food, but the progress they've made as learners and leaders. Thank you for giving my students an experience that nourished both their hearts and their confidence. Your kindness made a real impact.","fullyFundedDate":1764708857994,"projectUrl":"project/building-confidence-with-a-potato-bar-ce/9925486/","projectTitle":"Building Confidence with a Potato Bar Celebration","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. B. Fuller","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9914160"},{"teacherId":9914160,"projectId":9394818,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our \"Paint and Sip\" experience became one of the most joyful and creative moments of our school year. The new art materials transformed our classroom into a true studio space, giving my students the chance to slow down, express themselves, and experience the calm and confidence that come from creating something with their own hands.\r\n\r\nOne of my favorite moments happened the morning the supplies arrived. As soon as the students walked in and saw the canvases, brushes, and paints set up at each table, the room erupted with excitement. Several students gasped, a few whispered \"Are these really for us?\", and one student said, \"I feel like a real artist today.\" That sense of pride and belonging stayed with them throughout the entire activity.\r\n\r\nWe used the materials to guide students through a step‑by‑step painting session while sipping juice and talking about how art can help us relax, focus, and express emotions in healthy ways. Students encouraged one another, shared techniques, and celebrated each other's work. Many asked if we could do it again—and some even asked if they could take their canvases home to surprise their families.\r\n\r\nThese resources will continue to support our SEL lessons as we explore creativity, mindfulness, and confidence-building. Our next step is to connect this experience to our writing unit, where students will reflect on their artwork and describe the emotions and choices behind their paintings. This project has opened the door for deeper conversations about self-expression, community, and joy.","fullyFundedDate":1749086480780,"projectUrl":"project/paint-and-sip/9394818/","projectTitle":"Paint and Sip","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. B. Fuller","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9914160"},{"teacherId":3157774,"projectId":9927881,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom guinea pig has become the heart of our science lessons and a powerful source of confidence for my students. The new care supplies, habitat materials, and enrichment items you provided have allowed students to take on real responsibility as they learn about animal needs, life science, and empathy. When the materials first arrived, the students were thrilled—they crowded around the boxes, eager to unpack everything, and several immediately volunteered to help set up the improved habitat. One student whispered, \"He's going to be so happy,\" and that excitement set the tone for the meaningful work ahead.\r\n\r\nWe've been using the new resources during our daily care routines and science block. Students rotate through roles such as Habitat Helper, Nutrition Monitor, and Wellness Watcher, each job giving them a chance to practice observation skills, record data, and reflect on how living things depend on us. A favorite moment happened when a student who is usually hesitant in class confidently explained to his peers why clean bedding and fresh hay are essential for a guinea pig's health. Seeing him step into leadership—because he felt knowledgeable and trusted—was exactly the kind of self‑confidence this project was meant to build.\r\n\r\nNext, students will be using their observations to begin a mini‑research project on animal behavior and needs. They'll track patterns, make predictions, and create care guides based on what they've learned. Your support has given them not only the tools to study science in a hands‑on way, but also the belief that they are capable, responsible, and important members of our classroom community.","fullyFundedDate":1764708858207,"projectUrl":"project/science-and-selfconfidence-through-cari/9927881/","projectTitle":"Science and Self‑Confidence Through Caring for Our Classroom Guinea Pig","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bush-Brown","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3157774"},{"teacherId":3157774,"projectId":9885250,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has become a place where compassion is not just talked about—it's practiced, created, and shared. The new felt, yarn, and knitting machines have already transformed our SEL lessons into hands‑on opportunities for students to comfort others through creativity.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the students were buzzing with excitement. They immediately began imagining what they could make and who they could help. One student said, \"I want to make something for someone who feels alone,\" and that simple statement captured exactly why this project matters. Their faces lit up as they unpacked the soft felt sheets and yarn, eager to begin crafting scarves, sensory squares, and kindness tokens.\r\n\r\nWe've been using the resources during our compassion‑focused lessons, where students reflect on what it feels like to be unseen, in transition, or in need of comfort. A powerful moment happened when a group worked together to create a comfort item for a child in foster care. As they crafted, they talked about how their creation might bring peace or joy to someone else. These conversations—rooted in empathy and imagination—are exactly the growth we hoped for.\r\n\r\nOur Boys with Ties leadership group has taken the lead in organizing materials, teaching peers how to use the knitting machines, and writing uplifting notes to accompany each handmade item. Watching them step into leadership roles with pride has been one of the most meaningful parts of this project.\r\n\r\nNext, students will continue documenting their work in their compassion journals, reflecting on what they made, who they made it for, and how the experience shaped their understanding of empathy. We'll also be observing how these acts of service influence their interactions with one another—more kindness, more patience, more initiative.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping us turn yarn and felt into tools for healing, connection, and growth. Your generosity is shaping not only what students create, but who they are becoming.","fullyFundedDate":1763929127856,"projectUrl":"project/threads-of-empathy-crafting-comfort-to/9885250/","projectTitle":"Threads of Empathy: Crafting Comfort to Build Compassion","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bush-Brown","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3157774"},{"teacherId":3157774,"projectId":9886468,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our students have been able to learn, explore, and grow in ways that simply weren't possible before. The new resources have already become an important part of our daily routines, and the excitement they brought into our classroom was unforgettable.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the students were buzzing with curiosity. They gathered around the boxes, guessing what might be inside, and their faces lit up as soon as they saw the new supplies. One student said, \"We get to use this today?\" with a smile that made the whole room feel brighter. Your support made them feel seen, valued, and excited to learn.\r\n\r\nWe've been using the resources during our current lessons, and they've helped students engage more deeply and confidently. Whether they're working together on a hands‑on activity, practicing new skills, or exploring a project that connects to their real lives, the materials have opened doors to richer learning experiences. A favorite moment was watching students collaborate and encourage one another while using the new tools—proof that your gift is building both academic skills and community.\r\n\r\nNext, we'll continue integrating these materials into upcoming lessons and projects, giving students even more opportunities to create, problem‑solve, and take pride in their work. Your generosity has set the stage for meaningful learning that will continue long after this project.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our students and helping us create a classroom where they can thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1762795929020,"projectUrl":"project/rolling-with-purpose/9886468/","projectTitle":"Rolling with Purpose","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bush-Brown","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3157774"},{"teacherId":3728832,"projectId":9927965,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has been filled with warmth, comfort, and confidence this winter—quite literally. The hot cocoa supplies, warm drink station, and cozy materials you provided have already become a beloved part of our daily routine, giving students a moment of calm and connection during a season that can feel long and heavy.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the students were thrilled. They crowded around the boxes, guessing what might be inside, and when they saw the cocoa mixes, cups, and toppings, the room erupted with excitement. One student said, \"We get to have this at school?\" with a smile so big it could melt snow. That moment alone showed how special this project would be for them.\r\n\r\nWe've been using the warm drink station during morning meetings and SEL check‑ins. Students take turns serving as \"Cocoa Captains,\" preparing drinks, greeting classmates, and helping set a positive tone for the day. One especially meaningful moment happened when a usually quiet student confidently led the station, handing out warm drinks and saying, \"I hope this helps you have a good day.\" Your support helped him step into leadership with pride.\r\n\r\nNext, we'll be connecting this project to our SEL lessons on kindness, community, and self‑confidence. Students will continue practicing leadership roles, writing encouraging notes to accompany the drinks, and reflecting on how small acts of warmth can make a big difference in someone's day.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping us create a space where students feel cared for, capable, and connected. Your generosity has brought real warmth to our classroom—inside and out.","fullyFundedDate":1764708858818,"projectUrl":"project/warm-hearts-warm-drinks-building-confi/9927965/","projectTitle":"Warm Hearts, Warm Drinks: Building Confidence This Winter","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Herrington","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3728832"},{"teacherId":3728832,"projectId":9921684,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our boys now have access to essential hygiene supplies that help them feel confident, cared for, and ready to learn each day. These items have already made a meaningful difference in how our students carry themselves and how they show up in the classroom.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the boys were excited—and honestly, a little relieved. Several of them immediately asked if they could take what they needed right away. One student said, \"Now I don't have to worry about smelling bad at school,\" and the pride on his face after using the supplies was unforgettable. Your support gave them dignity in a moment when they needed it most.\r\n\r\nWe've been using these resources during our morning routines and SEL check‑ins, helping students learn how to care for themselves and build healthy habits. A favorite moment was watching a group of boys encourage each other while choosing deodorant and grooming items, turning what could have been an awkward moment into one filled with laughter, confidence, and brotherhood.\r\n\r\nNext, we'll continue integrating these supplies into our lessons on self‑respect, responsibility, and leadership. Our boys will be taking on more roles in our classroom community, and having their basic needs met allows them to step into those roles with pride.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping our boys feel seen, supported, and capable. Your kindness has created a ripple of confidence that will carry them far beyond our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1764165743489,"projectUrl":"project/confidence-starts-with-care-essential-s/9921684/","projectTitle":"Confidence Starts with Care: Essential Supplies for Our Boys","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Herrington","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3728832"},{"teacherId":3728832,"projectId":9579185,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our students and families have had immediate access to emergency food bags during moments of real need. These resources have already made a tremendous difference for children who face food insecurity both during the school day and at home after dismissal.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, students were surprised by how much care had gone into each bag. Several asked, \"Is this really for us?\" with a mix of relief and excitement. One student quietly shared that having food to take home meant their younger siblings wouldn't go to bed hungry. That moment alone showed just how deeply your support matters.\r\n\r\nWe've been using the food bags to respond quickly and compassionately when students express hunger, arrive without breakfast, or share that there is little to eat at home. During our SEL block, students helped assemble bags and talked about what it means to care for our community. Watching them take ownership of this work—choosing items, organizing supplies, and writing encouraging notes—was a powerful reminder that compassion grows when students feel supported themselves.\r\n\r\nNext, we will continue integrating this project into our lessons on empathy, responsibility, and community wellness. Students will help maintain our pantry shelves, learn about nutrition, and participate in service‑learning projects that strengthen their understanding of how we care for one another.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping us meet essential needs with dignity and love. Your generosity has brought comfort, stability, and hope to our school community.","fullyFundedDate":1763686102287,"projectUrl":"project/emergency-food-bags-supporting-students/9579185/","projectTitle":"Emergency Food Bags: Supporting Students During and After the Shutdown","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Herrington","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3728832"},{"teacherId":3728832,"projectId":9498207,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has become a space where compassion is not only taught but created and expressed through art. The new materials have already helped students explore what kindness looks like in their daily lives and how they can use their voices to uplift others.\r\n\r\nWhen the supplies first arrived, my students were thrilled. They immediately began imagining the murals, posters, and reflection pieces they wanted to create. One student said, \"We get to make art that helps people feel better,\" and that simple statement captured the heart of this project. The excitement in the room was undeniable as they unpacked the materials and began planning their compassion‑themed artwork.\r\n\r\nWe've been using the resources during our SEL block and art‑integrated lessons. Students have created visual reflections showing moments when they showed empathy, helped a friend, or stood up for someone. One especially meaningful moment was watching a group collaborate on a piece titled \"Compassion Grows Here,\" where each student added a leaf representing an act of kindness they had shown or received. Their pride in that shared creation was powerful.\r\n\r\nNext, students will be curating a small \"Compassion Gallery\" in our hallway, where they will display their artwork and write artist statements explaining the meaning behind their pieces. This will allow them to practice communication skills, build confidence, and inspire others in our school community to reflect on compassion as well.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping our students turn empathy into action and creativity. Your support has made our classroom a brighter, kinder place.","fullyFundedDate":1763903100742,"projectUrl":"project/reflecting-compassion-through-art/9498207/","projectTitle":"Reflecting Compassion Through Art","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Herrington","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3728832"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_93277","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":422,"numTeachers":42,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":88,"percentWhite":1,"percentIndigenous":1,"percentLatinx":6,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"10.0:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":36.3,"schoolId":93277,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Winchester Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Winchester Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/tennessee/memphis-shelby-county-schools/winchester-elementary-school/93277"}