{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Winchester Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":63.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9668633,"projectId":9385142,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, \"Pockets for Paradise\" has brought so much joy, creativity, and confidence into our classroom. The new resources have transformed the way my students engage with learning, and the impact was immediate from the moment the materials arrived.\r\n\r\nThe excitement in the room was unforgettable. As soon as the students saw the supplies, they started imagining all the ways they could use them—\"Can we start today?\" was the first question I heard. We jumped right into a hands‑on project where students created their own \"paradise pockets,\" filling them with writing prompts, math challenges, SEL reflections, and small tools that help them stay organized and focused. Watching them take ownership of their learning space and personalize their pockets was a beautiful moment of pride and independence.\r\n\r\nThese materials have already strengthened our routines. Students use their pockets during transitions, small‑group rotations, and independent work time. They love having a place where everything they need is right at their fingertips, and it has made them more responsible, more organized, and more excited to learn. One student said, \"It feels like I have my own little toolbox!\"—and that's exactly the confidence boost I hoped this project would bring.","fullyFundedDate":1758202992376,"projectUrl":"project/pockets-for-paradise/9385142/","projectTitle":"Pockets for Paradise","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":3157774,"projectId":9921220,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has been buzzing with excitement — and cool discoveries — ever since our new mini fridge arrived. My students could hardly believe it when they first saw it. They crowded around it with wide eyes, asking a dozen questions at once: \"What experiments can we do?\" \"Can we test temperatures?\" \"Does this mean we get to do real science?\" Their enthusiasm set the tone for everything that followed.\r\n\r\nWe've already begun using the fridge for hands-on investigations connected to our science standards. One of our favorite moments so far was a lesson on states of matter. Students compared how different liquids cooled at different rates, recorded temperature changes over time, and made predictions about why some materials responded faster than others. For many of them, this was the first time they felt like true scientists — collecting data, observing changes, and discussing results with confidence.\r\n\r\nThe fridge has also helped us build independence and responsibility. Students rotate as \"lab managers,\" checking temperatures, preparing materials, and ensuring everything is stored safely. This small leadership role has made a big difference in their sense of ownership and pride.\r\n\r\nNext, we'll be using the fridge for a series of experiments on thermal energy and insulation. Students will design and test their own \"cool keepers\" to see which materials slow down heat transfer most effectively. They're already brainstorming ideas and sketching prototypes, and your support is what makes this kind of creative, inquiry-based learning possible.\r\n\r\nThank you for giving my students the chance to explore science in a way that feels real, exciting, and empowering. Your kindness has brought confidence, curiosity, and joy into our classroom, and we are so grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1763996370086,"projectUrl":"project/cool-confidence-hands-on-experiments-wi/9921220/","projectTitle":"Cool Confidence: Hands-On Experiments with a Mini Fridge","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Bush-Brown","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3157774"},{"teacherId":3130368,"projectId":9905735,"letterContent":"When the pajama sets arrived, my older students reacted with a mix of excitement and quiet gratitude. Many of them are at an age where they don't always show big emotions, but the smiles, the careful unfolding of each set, and the whispered \"These actually fit me\" said everything. For students who have outgrown the sizes typically donated to schools, receiving pajamas made just for them was a powerful reminder that they deserve comfort, too.\r\n\r\nWe've already begun using the pajamas as part of our classroom wellness routine. On designated \"Cozy Confidence Days,\" students wear their new pajamas during morning meeting and independent reading time. One of my favorite moments was watching a student who rarely participates settle into his seat, pull his hood up, and say, \"I feel comfortable for once.\" That sense of ease has helped several students open up more during discussions and approach their work with a calmer mindset.\r\n\r\nYour generosity didn't just provide pajamas. You affirmed the dignity of older students who are so often overlooked. You helped create a classroom environment where they feel seen, valued, and supported. Thank you for giving my students the gift of comfort and confidence this winter.","fullyFundedDate":1764448975443,"projectUrl":"project/cozy-confidence-pajamas-for-wellness-an/9905735/","projectTitle":"Cozy Confidence: Pajamas for Wellness and Dignity","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Wilson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3130368_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1572485968476","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-d-wilson"},{"teacherId":3130368,"projectId":9852171,"letterContent":"When our pajama sets arrived, the energy in our classroom shifted instantly. My students crowded around the boxes with wide eyes, whispering guesses about the colors and patterns inside. The moment they realized the pajamas were for them, the room erupted—some students cheered, some hugged their sets tightly, and a few quietly smiled in that way children do when they feel truly seen and cared for.\r\n\r\nWe've already begun using the pajamas as part of our winter wellness routine. Each Friday, we start our morning meeting in our new cozy gear, pairing comfort with conversations about confidence, kindness, and taking care of ourselves. One of my favorite moments so far was watching a student who often struggles with self-esteem proudly show off her matching set to her classmates, saying, \"I feel like somebody thought about me.\" That small sentence captured exactly why this project mattered.\r\n\r\nYour support didn't just provide pajamas. You gave my students a sense of belonging, a boost of confidence, and a reminder that people beyond our school walls believe in them. Thank you for wrapping our classroom in warmth this winter.","fullyFundedDate":1762298008030,"projectUrl":"project/cozy-confidence-pajamas-for-winter-well/9852171/","projectTitle":"Cozy Confidence: Pajamas for Winter Wellness","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Wilson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3130368_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1572485968476","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-d-wilson"},{"teacherId":10042208,"projectId":9572405,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom has truly come to life—from crafts to crumbs to clean-up. The new materials are used daily during hands-on centers, helping students learn responsibility as they share supplies and clean their space. When students first saw the materials, their excitement was immediate, with smiles and eager questions filling the room. Clean-up time has become a positive routine, building pride and independence. Your support allows us to expand project-based learning and teach life skills that will last far beyond the classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1758202598023,"projectUrl":"project/paper-sound-a-listening-adventure/9572405/","projectTitle":"Paper & Sound: A Listening Adventure","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gary","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10042208_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y917&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753563714168","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10042208"},{"teacherId":9896882,"projectId":9405594,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for providing the mirrors, easels and canvases for my students. It was a great experience for them to be able to paint a picture on an easel like artists often do. It was also a great experience for my students to creat a self portrait while looking at themselves in a mirror. Although I was not looking for perfection, most of the paintings and portraits were absolutely amazing. They were excited and nervous at the same time.\r\nI am grateful for the opportunity to introduce my students to new and fun things in art. They were surprised at their own talents and really enjoyed painting and creating their self portraits.","fullyFundedDate":1757423934400,"projectUrl":"project/a-is-for-art-having-fun-while-creating/9405594/","projectTitle":"A is for ART: Having Fun While Creating Memories","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lindsey","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9896882_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1737926011766","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9896882"},{"teacherId":3130368,"projectId":9880880,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom was able to turn a simple idea into a powerful moment of care and community. On the first day back from Thanksgiving break, we served soup during tutoring, creating a cozy, welcoming space where students could focus and feel supported. For our walkers heading home, we filled coffee cups with soup so they could sip warmth and nourishment as they made their way back.\r\n\r\nThe reaction was priceless—students lit up with smiles, surprised and grateful that something so small could make them feel so cared for. Many shared that it made them feel special and gave them confidence to tackle the week ahead. What could have been just another chilly afternoon became a memory of kindness and encouragement.\r\n\r\nThese resources are not only feeding bodies but also building self‑confidence and resilience. Students are learning that their school community values them, and that showing up and working hard comes with moments of joy and care. Our next steps are to continue weaving these acts of nourishment into tutoring and classroom lessons, connecting food, wellness, and confidence to academic success.\r\n\r\nYour support has truly nourished both body and spirit. Thank you for helping us remind our students that they matter, and that even during challenging times, they can thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1762807338497,"projectUrl":"project/soup-for-the-soulnourishing-students-du/9880880/","projectTitle":"Soup for the Soul—Nourishing Students During the Shutdown","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Wilson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3130368_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1572485968476","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-d-wilson"},{"teacherId":3157774,"projectId":9890353,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our students have been able to enjoy learning in new ways that combine comfort and exploration. The technology and materials you provided are helping them extend their classroom outdoors, where lessons feel more engaging and connected to the real world. For many of my students, having access to these resources means they can focus better, collaborate more confidently, and see themselves as capable learners.\r\n\r\nThe most exciting part for my students has been the chance to use the new tools in hands‑on activities. Whether it's working on math problems outside in fresh air or exploring science concepts with technology that supports their curiosity, they are energized by the freedom and flexibility these resources provide.\r\n\r\nOne student who often struggled with confidence has especially warmed to this project. With the new materials, she feels comfortable participating in outdoor group work and is proud to share her ideas. Watching her step into leadership roles has been inspiring, and it shows how much impact your support has on individual lives.\r\n\r\nYour kindness has given my students not just warmth and learning tools, but also the confidence to grow, explore, and believe in themselves. We are deeply grateful for the way you've helped us build a classroom community that extends beyond four walls.","fullyFundedDate":1762904384451,"projectUrl":"project/warmth-and-outdoor-learning/9890353/","projectTitle":"Warmth and Outdoor Learning","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":9884973,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our students and families received emergency food bags that provided comfort and stability during a very uncertain time. These resources have been a lifeline—students were able to focus on their lessons without worrying about whether there would be enough to eat at home.\r\n\r\nOne moment that stood out was when students opened the bags for the first time. Their faces lit up with relief and joy, and many shared how excited they were to bring the food home to their families. It was a powerful reminder of how much your support means beyond the classroom walls.\r\n\r\nWith this foundation of care, our next steps are to connect the lessons of empathy and community service to our current projects. Students are now brainstorming ways to \"pay it forward,\" such as organizing small food drives and writing notes of encouragement to others in need. Your gift has not only nourished them physically but also inspired them to think about how they can make a difference.","fullyFundedDate":1762874351737,"projectUrl":"project/emergency-food-bags-supporting-students/9884973/","projectTitle":"Emergency Food Bags: Supporting Students During 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":9877535,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom pantry has been transformed into a place of dignity and care. The food and supplies you helped provide are being used daily to support families who need a little extra help. My students have taken ownership of organizing the boxes, carefully packing sausage links, waffles, French toast sticks, chicken bites, and other items so families can take home balanced meals with pride.\r\n\r\nOne of the most memorable moments was when students first saw the materials arrive. Their eyes lit up as they realized these weren't just supplies—they were tools for compassion. They immediately began brainstorming how to arrange the boxes so every family felt cared for. Several students even volunteered to write uplifting notes to tuck inside, reminding families that they are supported and valued.\r\n\r\nThe next steps for my students include connecting this project to our current lessons on empathy and leadership. They are rotating roles as \"Pantry Leaders,\" practicing teamwork, responsibility, and problem-solving as they manage the food distribution. This hands-on experience is helping them grow in confidence, showing them that their actions can make a real difference in the lives of others.\r\n\r\nYour support has given my students the chance to reflect compassion in tangible ways. They are learning that kindness is powerful, and that they themselves are capable of leading with dignity. We are deeply grateful for your generosity and excited to continue building on this project together.","fullyFundedDate":1762819947926,"projectUrl":"project/boxed-with-carehelping-families-take-ho/9877535/","projectTitle":"Boxed with Care—Helping Families Take Home Food with Dignity","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Herrington","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3728832"},{"teacherId":3130368,"projectId":9578134,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our Friendsgiving Luncheon became so much more than a meal—it was a true celebration of community and gratitude. The resources you provided allowed my students to set up a welcoming space where they could share food, laughter, and stories together. They took pride in arranging the tables, decorating with handmade crafts, and serving one another, which turned the luncheon into a lesson in teamwork and kindness.\r\n\r\nWhen my students first saw the food, their faces lit up with excitement. Many of them exclaimed that it felt like a \"real holiday dinner,\" and several said it was the first time they had helped host something so special. That moment of joy reminded us all how powerful it is to give students the chance to create memories that feel both festive and meaningful.\r\nMany of my students were able to go home with to-go plates, carrying not just food but the joy of knowing they were cared for and remembered during the holiday season. Watching them pack up meals to share with their families reminded me that a classroom truly becomes a family when we celebrate together. I am deeply grateful to have shared this holiday with my students, creating memories that nourish both body and spirit.\r\n\r\nYour support gave my students not only a joyful celebration but also a foundation for ongoing learning about compassion, leadership, and community. We are so grateful for the peek you've had into our classroom, and we look forward to showing you how these lessons continue to grow.","fullyFundedDate":1755724707276,"projectUrl":"project/friendsgiving-luncheon/9578134/","projectTitle":"Friendsgiving Luncheon","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Wilson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3130368_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1572485968476","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-d-wilson"},{"teacherId":3130368,"projectId":9884740,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our students now head into each weekend with dignity, comfort, and the assurance that their basic needs will be met. The food bags you provided are more than supplies—they are symbols of care and community that my students feel deeply.\r\n\r\n Every Friday, students help organize the pantry and prepare weekend food bags. This routine has become a service-learning project: they count, sort, and pack items while reflecting on fairness and empathy. It's a hands-on way to connect math skills with real-world impact.\r\n\r\nWhen the first set of food bags was distributed, students' faces lit up. One child said quietly, \"Now my family won't have to worry.\" That moment captured the relief and gratitude your gift brings. Students immediately began brainstorming ways to make the bags even more welcoming, adding handwritten notes of encouragement inside.\r\n\r\nYour support has given my students nourishment, confidence, and the chance to grow as compassionate leaders. Thank you for helping us fight hunger with dignity and for making our classroom a place where generosity and learning go hand in hand.","fullyFundedDate":1762874349252,"projectUrl":"project/weekend-food-bags-fighting-hunger-with/9884740/","projectTitle":"Weekend Food Bags: Fighting Hunger with Dignity","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Wilson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3130368_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1572485968476","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-d-wilson"}],"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":36.7,"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"}