{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Hillcrest High School","outOfStateSupporters":32.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9108004,"projectId":9907045,"letterContent":"Our next step is to transform our Biology classroom into a fossil excavation site where students will have the opportunity to become paleontologists for a day! As we begin our Fossil Evidence and Evolution Unit, students will carefully excavate their fossil eggs, uncover hidden specimens, and experience the excitement of making their own scientific discoveries.\r\n\r\nOnce students uncover their fossils, they will examine their specimens, record observations, and compare their findings with those of their classmates. We will use these discoveries to explore how fossils provide evidence of Earth's history, how organisms have changed over millions of years, and how some species have remained relatively unchanged through a process called stasis. Students will also practice using scientific evidence to support their explanations, just like real scientists.\r\n\r\nThis experience is particularly meaningful for my emergent bilingual students, who often understand scientific concepts best when they can physically interact with what they are learning. Instead of simply looking at pictures in a textbook or memorizing definitions, they will get to touch, investigate, question, and make connections through their own discoveries.\r\n\r\nAs a teacher, one of my favorite things is seeing my students genuinely excited about learning. Although they are high school freshmen, I never want them to lose that childhood curiosity or the excitement of discovering something new. I want them to see that Biology is not just another class they have to pass, but a subject that helps them understand the world around them.\r\n\r\nI'm especially excited to watch my students work together, share their discoveries, and proudly show off the fossils they uncover. My hope is that this lesson will not only strengthen their understanding of evolution but also build their confidence, encourage curiosity, and create a classroom memory they will carry with them beyond 9th grade.\r\n\r\nThanks to our generous donors, my students will have the opportunity to experience science in a way that is engaging, meaningful, and memorable. I cannot wait to bring this experience to life and share their discoveries with you!","fullyFundedDate":1763580657919,"projectUrl":"project/paleontologists-in-high-school/9907045/","projectTitle":"Paleontologists In High School","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Nguyen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9108004_orig.jpg?crop=1706,1706,x88,y696&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754409636703","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9108004"},{"teacherId":8839375,"projectId":10393219,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping make A Classroom Where Every Mind Can Glow possible! I am truly grateful for every single person who chose to support my students and my classroom. As a teacher, I put a lot of thought into creating a space where my students can walk in and feel comfortable, welcomed, supported, and ready to learn, and your generosity is helping me do exactly that.\r\n\r\nThese materials may seem like small things individually, but together they help create an environment that feels organized, positive, and intentional. My students spend so much of their day at school, and I want my classroom to be a place where they can take a breath, feel encouraged, stay focused, and know that someone thought about what they might need to be successful. From the classroom displays and organization materials to the calming lighting and positive reminders, each item will have a purpose throughout our school year.\r\n\r\nWhat means the most to me is being able to tell my students that people they may never meet cared enough to invest in them. That is something bigger than any classroom supply. It is a reminder that their education matters, their well-being matters, and they matter.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students, supporting my classroom, and helping me create a space where every mind has the opportunity to learn, grow, and glow. I truly appreciate you more than I can say.","fullyFundedDate":1786982965419,"projectUrl":"project/a-colorful-classroom-where-every-mind-ca/10393219/","projectTitle":"A Colorful Classroom Where Every Mind Can Glow","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Holmes-Turner","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8839375_orig.jpg?crop=2048,2048,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1668124758986","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsaht"},{"teacherId":8839375,"projectId":10446967,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping bring Helping Student Ideas Stick to life! I am truly so grateful for your support and for believing in my students.\r\n\r\nI cannot wait to tell them that this project was fully funded! There is something really special about being able to tell students that people they may never meet saw their classroom, believed in what they were doing, and chose to invest in them. Because of you, they will have the supplies they need to brainstorm, work together, create, and actually bring some of those big ideas in their heads to life.\r\n\r\nThese materials are not going to be used for just one project and then put away. We will use them over and over again for lessons, group activities, projects, planning, and so many of the creative things we do throughout the year.\r\n\r\nThank you for choosing my classroom, supporting my students, and helping make learning a little more colorful, creative, and fun. We are so grateful for you, and I cannot wait to see all of the BIG ideas that are about to stick!","fullyFundedDate":1786982968468,"projectUrl":"project/helping-student-ideas-stick/10446967/","projectTitle":"Helping Student Ideas Stick","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Holmes-Turner","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8839375_orig.jpg?crop=2048,2048,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1668124758986","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsaht"},{"teacherId":10113336,"projectId":9540093,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping bring this project to life for our Hillcrest Lady Panthers! We are using the new basketball nets, agility cones, blocking pads, coaching boards, ball pumps, and whistles during our daily practices. The cones have allowed us to create more effective footwork, speed, and ball-handling drills, while the blocking pads help our players practice finishing strong through contact. The coaching boards have also made it easier to teach plays and defensive strategies in a clear, visual way.\r\n\r\nOur players were excited when they first saw all the new equipment. They immediately wanted to use the cones and blocking pads, and their energy during practice showed how much it meant to them to receive quality training resources. One of the best moments was watching the girls encourage one another as they worked through a new agility and finishing circuit. The equipment made practice more challenging and enjoyable while helping our athletes build confidence, teamwork, and discipline.\r\n\r\nOur next step is to continue using these materials to create competitive practice stations that develop the skills we will need throughout the season. As our players improve, we will introduce more advanced drills and use the coaching boards to deepen their understanding of game situations. Because of your generosity, our students have a better environment in which to train, grow, and become stronger athletes and leaders. Thank you for investing in our team!","fullyFundedDate":1757620395418,"projectUrl":"project/hillcrest-hoops-essential-training-equi/9540093/","projectTitle":"Hillcrest Hoops: Essential Training Equipment for Our Girls Team","teacherDisplayName":"Coach Norton","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10113336"},{"teacherId":2871220,"projectId":10096201,"letterContent":"Thank you for providing my students with the materials they will use to transform their digital designs into finished products. My students are currently learning how to use Autodesk Inventor to design their own original products. As they create their models, they are learning how to use precise measurements, visualize objects in three dimensions, and make thoughtful design choices. They are excited to know that the skills they are practicing will soon allow them to create real objects they can hold and use.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials arrived, the students were excited to see all the different ways they could finish and personalize their future projects. The LED kits, earring hardware, lapel pin backings, keychain rings, magnets, and finishing supplies helped them imagine possibilities beyond what they could see on their computer screens.\r\n\r\nThe next step is for students to complete and refine their original designs before preparing them for 3D printing. They will evaluate their finished models, make corrections, and learn how the design process continues through testing and improvement. Later, they will use the donated materials to create functional lamps, jewelry, keychains, pins, magnets, and other personalized items. Thank you for giving my students the resources to explore engineering, build confidence, and bring their ideas to life.","fullyFundedDate":1777830351366,"projectUrl":"project/bringing-ideas-to-life-with-3d-design/10096201/","projectTitle":"Bringing Ideas to Life with 3D Design","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. O.","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp2871220_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1474557624427","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2871220"},{"teacherId":9626170,"projectId":10017848,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting \"Spring Fueling Focus.\" Because of your generosity, my students have access to snacks that help them feel cared for, energized, and ready to focus. We use these resources throughout the school day whenever students need an extra boost. Having them available has helped create a more welcoming and encouraging classroom environment.\r\n\r\nMy students were excited and grateful when they first saw the materials. The variety of snacks made them feel special, and they appreciated knowing that others were invested in their success. A quick snack can help a student settle in, regain energy, and remain engaged. The resources also allow me to recognize consistent effort, participation, improvement, and positive classroom choices.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, we will continue using these resources to support students throughout the busy semester and celebrate their progress. Your donation has strengthened both student motivation and our classroom community. Most importantly, it reminds my students that people outside our classroom believe in them. Thank you for making such a thoughtful and meaningful difference!","fullyFundedDate":1772550268813,"projectUrl":"project/spring-fueling-focus/10017848/","projectTitle":"Spring Fueling Focus","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Merritt","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9626170_orig.png?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723755704403","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9626170"},{"teacherId":9626170,"projectId":9539727,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting my project, \"Tasty Incentives, Big Achievements.\" Your generosity has helped me create a positive and motivating classroom environment for my students. We use the snacks and incentives to recognize consistent effort, participation, completed assignments, improvement, and positive choices. These rewards help students feel noticed and appreciated while encouraging them to continue doing their best.\r\n\r\nMy students were excited when they first saw the new materials and immediately began asking how they could earn them. The incentives have increased enthusiasm and given students something fun to work toward. I have also noticed students encouraging one another, taking greater pride in their accomplishments, and becoming more willing to participate.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, students will continue setting goals, tracking their progress, and celebrating both individual and class achievements. Your contribution provided more than tasty treats, it helped build confidence, motivation, and a stronger sense of classroom community. Thank you for investing in my students and helping us recognize every step of their growth!","fullyFundedDate":1761343389379,"projectUrl":"project/tasty-incentives-big-achievements/9539727/","projectTitle":"“Tasty Incentives, Big Achievements”","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Merritt","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9626170_orig.png?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723755704403","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9626170"},{"teacherId":9416452,"projectId":10352345,"letterContent":"From the bottom of my English teacher heart, thank you so much for your incredible generosity in funding our refreshed reading corner.\r\n\r\nThe moment the students walked into the classroom, their faces lit up. The bright blue chair was an immediate hit, quickly becoming the most sought-after seat in the room. The new bookends do a fantastic job showcasing our \"Books of the Month,\" turning our display into a focal point that draws students in. They can't wit for me to start reading corener Fridays!\r\n\r\nYour support allowed us to bring in diverse new titles that truly reflect and appeal to our student population. In particular, the new graphic novels have been a game-changer for my English Language Learners, offering an accessible, engaging way to build confidence and literacy skills. To top it off, the magnetic bookmarks have served as the perfect reward—or, as the kids put it, a seriously \"cool addition.\"\r\n\r\nAs a no-phone school, my goal is to create a safe haven where students can disconnect from screens and fully immerse themselves in the power of a good story. Thanks to you, this refreshed space is already helping them discover new ideas, expand their vocabulary, and see our classroom as a fun, welcoming place to be.\r\n\r\nThank you for reigniting my students' excitement for reading. Your kindness has made a lasting impact on our classroom community. that will make a a great year going forward!","fullyFundedDate":1783995404782,"projectUrl":"project/booked-for-success-fresh-reads-for-10th/10352345/","projectTitle":"Booked for Success: Fresh Reads for 10th Grade ELAR","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Patel","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9416452_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1703006155033","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9416452"},{"teacherId":7666706,"projectId":10240488,"letterContent":"Although this project was funded after the Class of 2026 celebrated their final events, its impact is already being felt. The snacks were repurposed to welcome the Class of 2027 during their Senior Sunrise, the tradition that marks the beginning of their final year together. It was the perfect reminder that every donation finds its purpose in celebrating our students.\r\n\r\nPerhaps the greatest gift this project provides is peace of mind. Thanks to your generosity, we already have the organizational supplies and resources needed for the Class of 2027's end-of-year celebrations. Instead of worrying about gathering materials at the last minute, we can focus on creating meaningful traditions and unforgettable memories. Your support has allowed us to prepare in advance, ensuring the next senior class can enjoy a well-organized, joy-filled year from their very first celebration to their very last. Thank you for investing in both the present and the future of our Panthers.","fullyFundedDate":1784651472859,"projectUrl":"project/a-final-celebration-worth-remembering/10240488/","projectTitle":"A Final Celebration Worth Remembering","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. McCarter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7666706_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1669922422849","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msmccarter01"},{"teacherId":7666706,"projectId":10234222,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, organization has become one less obstacle and student experiences have become the priority. Every labeled bin, storage container, and rolling cart now has a purpose, allowing our Student Council and Senior Class officers to quickly prepare for pep rallies, homecoming, prom, senior celebrations, and countless other events that bring our school community together.\r\n\r\nYour support is creating an impact that will last far beyond this school year. These organizational systems will be used by future student leaders, teaching them responsibility, stewardship, and the importance of caring for shared resources. Instead of replacing lost or damaged materials, we can preserve what we have and invest more time and energy into creating meaningful traditions for our students. Thank you for helping us build a legacy of organization, school pride, and unforgettable memories at Hillcrest High School.","fullyFundedDate":1785101707213,"projectUrl":"project/the-labor-behind-the-legacy-storage-and/10234222/","projectTitle":"The Labor Behind the Legacy: Storage and Organization for Sponsors","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. McCarter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7666706_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1669922422849","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msmccarter01"},{"teacherId":7031620,"projectId":10216609,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous and much-appreciated support of my classroom. Beginning the year with the supplies we need to keep student organized and supported may seem like an easy task, but that is not always the case.\r\n\r\nThe supplies you ordered will be used to create student-friendly spaces to access laptop chargers, headphones, writing utensils, and art supplies. The timers will be a useful timer to me during class, as I often have different groups of students working at different paces. All of this together will create opportunity for success for everyone in my classroom.\r\n\r\nThank you again so much.","fullyFundedDate":1785293505476,"projectUrl":"project/getting-ready-for-a-new-year/10216609/","projectTitle":"Getting Ready for a New Year!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Huntley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7031620_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1598715086727","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7031620"},{"teacherId":7666706,"projectId":10058339,"letterContent":"Because of your incredible generosity, our vision for a truly unforgettable prom became a reality. Thanks to your support, our Pop Art Met Gala theme came to life in ways our students could never have imagined.\r\n\r\nFrom the moment students entered the venue, they were immersed in a colorful, gallery-inspired experience that celebrated creativity, individuality, and the excitement of reaching this milestone. The bold décor transformed an ordinary space into one worthy of a red-carpet event, allowing our seniors to feel celebrated and valued on one of the most memorable nights of their high school journey.\r\n\r\nFor many of our students, prom is more than a dance, it is the culmination of years of hard work, perseverance, and personal growth. Your generosity created an environment where they could laugh, dance, take beautiful photographs, and simply enjoy being teenagers surrounded by friends and loved ones. Many students shared how amazed they were by the decorations and how special the evening felt because of the attention to detail.\r\n\r\nYour donation did more than provide decorations; it created lasting memories and reminded our students that there are people beyond their school community who believe in them and want to celebrate their accomplishments. That message is powerful and will stay with them long after graduation.\r\n\r\nOn behalf of the Class of 2026, our faculty, and our school community, thank you for making our Pop Art Met Gala prom an extraordinary success. Your kindness helped transform a celebration into an experience our students will cherish for the rest of their lives.","fullyFundedDate":1776208998715,"projectUrl":"project/polished-pop-art-for-met-gala-prom-decor/10058339/","projectTitle":"Polished Pop Art for Met Gala Prom Decoration Club","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. McCarter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7666706_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1669922422849","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msmccarter01"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_11769","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":1414,"numTeachers":73,"percentFrplEligible":92,"percentAsian":1,"percentBlack":17,"percentWhite":10,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":68,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":1,"gradesServed":"9 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":"19.4:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":67.7,"schoolId":11769,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Hillcrest High School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Hillcrest High School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/texas/dallas-independent-school-district/hillcrest-high-school/11769"}