West Middle School in Desoto, Texas on DonorsChoose

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Dust, trash, and clutter can spread germs, leading to more illnesses and increased absences among students and teachers. Every missed day is a missed opportunity to learn, participate, and grow. When classrooms are kept clean and sanitized, students can remain present in school, fully engaged in their lessons. Clean surfaces, organized spaces, and fresh air also reduce physical distractions. Instead of being preoccupied with an unpleasant odor, cluttered desks, or messy floors, students can focus on the lesson in front of them. Cleanliness fosters clarity—both in the physical environment and in the minds of learners.\r\n\r\nSecond, the condition of a classroom sets the tone for how much learning is valued in that space. A clean classroom communicates respect—for the students, the teacher, and the process of education itself. When students walk into an organized and tidy environment, they immediately sense that their learning is important. It creates a mindset of responsibility and pride. On the other hand, a messy classroom can give the impression that education is not taken seriously, which may cause students to reflect that same lack of care in their own work. A clean environment, by contrast, models positive habits that students can carry into their studies and even into their lives beyond school.\r\n\r\nThird, a clean classroom encourages better classroom behavior and relationships. Students are more likely to respect a space that is well-maintained. They are also more likely to work together to keep it clean, reinforcing teamwork, cooperation, and responsibility. This shared effort creates a sense of community and belonging, which is essential for a positive learning environment. When students feel ownership of their space, they are more motivated to treat it—and one another—with kindness and respect. A clean classroom is not just about physical order; it helps foster social and emotional balance as well.\r\n\r\nFinally, research consistently shows that students perform better academically in environments that are well-organized and free of clutter. A clean classroom minimizes unnecessary distractions, allowing students to direct their attention to the lesson. It also helps teachers deliver instruction more effectively, as materials are accessible and the room is ready for learning activities. In this way, a clean classroom enhances efficiency, focus, and overall achievement.\r\n\r\nIn conclusion, a clean classroom is a powerful tool for creating a better learning environment. It protects health, fosters respect, promotes positive behavior, and supports academic success. Maintaining cleanliness is not just the responsibility of custodians or teachers—it is a shared commitment between students, staff, and the entire school community. 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My students will be very happy to receive these gifts. They have worked and studied very long for this achievement and I am honored to recognize them for all their dedication. This will inspire them to continue to do their best in everything that they do.\r\n\r\nMy students were very grateful for your donations toward the gift cards. They were so excited to get them. They understood that their determination and all their hard work didn't go unnoticed. Some have never received an award or even been recognized for their accomplishments. 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About this school

West Middle School is a suburban public school in Desoto, Texas that is part of Desoto Independent School District. It serves 399 students in grades 6 - 8 with a student/teacher ratio of 7.1:1. Its teachers have had 20 projects funded on DonorsChoose.

Equity Focus School

Support towards this school will directly impact historically underfunded classrooms.

Public School

Title 1

Grades 6 - 8

399 Students

56 Teachers

800 N Westmoreland Rd

Desoto, TX 75115 View local requests

http://www.desotoisd.org

Evidence-based impact

Inspire teachers to stay in the classroom and boost student achievement.¹

Give to this school

Ms. Vero, a DonorsChoose teacher for 9 years.

Kindergarten teacher at PS81 - Robert J. Christen School in Bronx, NY

West Middle School Teachers on DonorsChoose

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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. Each classroom request for funding was created by a classroom teacher and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.

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West Middle School Demographics

95%

of students receive free or reduced price lunch

Source: the National Center for Education Statistics

92%

of students are Black, Latino, Native American, or Asian

Schools in districts that mainly serve students of color receive substantially less state and local support than similar districts that serve primarily White students. Learn more about this gap, why it exists, and how you can help close it.

West Middle School Support on DonorsChoose Last updated Dec 5, 2025

DonorsChoose makes it easy for anyone to help a teacher in need, moving us closer to a nation where students in every community have the tools and experiences they need for a great education.