{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Morningside Middle School","outOfStateSupporters":49.0,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8903423,"projectId":9845208,"letterContent":"The addition of new 3D printing materials has transformed our classroom into a true hands on innovation space. Many people are familiar with 3D printing as something cool or futuristic, but in our classroom it has become a powerful learning tool. Students are not just watching technology work, they are designing objects on a computer and then seeing those ideas become real things they can hold. They are learning to think like engineers, making decisions about structure, measurements, and function while also expressing creativity through color and design.\r\n\r\nThe most exciting part for students has been the freedom to make something that is entirely their own. With the wide variety of filament colors, they can personalize their projects in ways that match their imagination. They love the moment when their printed creation finishes and they get to peel it off the bed, proudly showing classmates what they made. These experiences build confidence, spark curiosity, and inspire students to keep improving their designs.\r\n\r\nWe have already seen students who were hesitant to participate in traditional lessons become some of the most excited designers in the room. One student in particular, who rarely spoke up during group activities, has found a new voice. He loves working with the silk filament, creating detailed pieces that look like polished artwork. Now he eagerly explains his process to others and encourages classmates to try new techniques. This project has given him and many others a chance to shine in ways that are meaningful and long lasting.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping our students discover what they are capable of when they have the right tools to explore, invent, and dream. Your support has opened the door to real world learning experiences that will continue to shape their futures.","fullyFundedDate":1762266244355,"projectUrl":"project/from-ideas-to-reality-3d-printing-in-co/9845208/","projectTitle":"From Ideas to Reality: 3D Printing in Color","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Chinchilla","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8903423_orig.png?crop=593,593,x0,y37&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1721872206586","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrchinchilla"},{"teacherId":8903423,"projectId":9782149,"letterContent":"When the boxes of LEGO sets arrived, my students were filled with excitement and pride. They could not wait to begin planning their Building Kindness Day, and they immediately started sorting the sets and brainstorming creative stations they could design. They knew these materials were meant to help them serve others in our school, and that made them even more eager to get started.\r\n\r\nOur students have already led their first kindness building event with a younger grade level. They taught small groups how to build teamwork models, encouraged peers to share pieces and ideas, and celebrated every completed creation with cheers and high fives. One younger student said, \"I did not think I could build something like this\", and my students proudly replied, \"We knew you could.\" Moments like that show how kindness and confidence grow together.\r\n\r\nWe also created mini kindness displays that are now placed in the hallways to brighten the days of everyone who walks by. Students are already asking when the next event will be, because they saw firsthand that their actions can lift others up. The next step is to continue hosting these kindness activities throughout the year so that even more students can enjoy building, connecting, and caring for one another.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping my students become leaders who create positive change. Your generosity did more than provide building blocks, it helped us build a stronger and kinder community.","fullyFundedDate":1761576300304,"projectUrl":"project/play-create-and-care-a-student-led-ki/9782149/","projectTitle":"Play, Create, and Care: A Student-Led Kindness Project","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Chinchilla","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8903423_orig.png?crop=593,593,x0,y37&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1721872206586","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrchinchilla"},{"teacherId":8903423,"projectId":9640468,"letterContent":"The addition of our new 3D printer and tools has completely transformed how my students think about technology and careers in manufacturing. Before this project, most of them had only seen 3D printing online or in videos. Now, they are using professional equipment to design, measure, and create real objects from their own digital models. This hands-on experience has helped them understand how ideas move from the computer screen to physical products, giving them insight into the same processes used in modern industrial and engineering workplaces.\r\nWhat excites my students most is seeing their creativity take shape right in front of them. They are constantly experimenting with new designs, testing measurements with the digital caliper, and learning how small adjustments affect the final result. The process of problem solving and refinement has taught them patience, precision, and pride in their work skills that are essential in manufacturing and design careers.\r\nSeveral students who were unsure about their interests have now found a clear direction. One student who had never shown much interest in traditional academic work has become deeply engaged in learning how to operate and maintain the 3D printer. Another student is already exploring how 3D printing can be applied to sustainable product design. The project has opened doors to new possibilities, helping students see themselves as innovators and creators ready for future workforce opportunities.","fullyFundedDate":1760742945052,"projectUrl":"project/hands-on-manufacturing-student-careers/9640468/","projectTitle":"Hands-On Manufacturing: Student Careers Start Here","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Chinchilla","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8903423_orig.png?crop=593,593,x0,y37&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1721872206586","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrchinchilla"},{"teacherId":5622220,"projectId":9177845,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generosity. My students will benefit greatly from your donations. My scholars are ready to type their papers and print their writing. With the printer being in the classroom, students can see their writing in its published form quickly. I appreciate the way you care so much for my learners. We look forward to seeing published work on our classroom walls and in our school hallways. You are a key component to our writing process. Students are now eager to make it to the finish-line to see their masterpieces.","fullyFundedDate":1746666896795,"projectUrl":"project/print-that-draft-now/9177845/","projectTitle":"Print That Draft, Now!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Newton","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/dnewthing"},{"teacherId":8903423,"projectId":9344129,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has been transformed into a hub of creativity, collaboration, and discovery! The resources from this project have jumpstarted both our STEM Club and Gaming Club, giving students new ways to learn, connect, and express themselves.\r\nTechnology That Opens Doors\r\nThe 4K webcam has been especially impactful. We've used it to hold virtual meetings for students who can't always attend in person, record project demos, and even experiment with livestreaming gaming sessions. It's made our clubs more accessible and inclusive—something that's really important in our school community.\r\nExcitement and Engagement\r\nThe Nintendo Switch and Mario Kart game have been a massive hit! Students are excited to come in before or after school to compete, strategize, and cheer each other on. What's most exciting is how it builds teamwork, communication, and digital citizenship—they're not just playing, they're learning to play together responsibly.\r\nHands-On STEM Exploration\r\nThe LEGO brick set and marble run kits have sparked incredible creativity. Students who aren't into video games have found their passion in building intricate mazes, testing gravity, and figuring out how to make their marbles move faster or in more interesting ways. One quiet student, in particular, has truly come out of their shell while designing marble tracks—and now leads a small group of younger builders during our meetings!\r\nA Lasting Impact\r\nThis project has made our clubs more than just extracurriculars—they've become communities. Students feel a sense of ownership and pride, and they're asking to take on leadership roles, plan tournaments, or organize building challenges. It's inspiring to see them grow in confidence and curiosity because of the tools you helped provide.\r\nThank you for investing in our students. Your support is helping us build not just clubs—but future engineers, storytellers, teammates, and leaders.","fullyFundedDate":1756678076285,"projectUrl":"project/ready-set-build-stem-and-gaming-adven/9344129/","projectTitle":"Ready, Set, Build! STEM and Gaming Adventures Start Here","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Chinchilla","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8903423_orig.png?crop=593,593,x0,y37&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1721872206586","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrchinchilla"},{"teacherId":8903423,"projectId":9094290,"letterContent":"The impact of this project has been immediately noticeable in our classroom! The charging station has become a central hub where students place their phones at the start of class. This small shift has greatly reduced distractions and helped students stay more focused during lessons. Because their devices are still accessible and charging, they feel secure, which makes them more willing to part with their phones temporarily.\r\nThe short charging cables have made it easy for all types of devices to connect neatly to the station. Students are especially excited about how organized it looks. It's become a part of our routine and something they take pride in using responsibly.\r\nThe floor lamp and LED bulbs have brightened up a previously dim corner of the classroom, turning it into a cozy, well-lit reading and reflection space. Several students now gravitate toward that area during group work and independent reading time, saying it feels \"more inviting\" and \"comfortable to concentrate.\"\r\nOne student in particular, who used to struggle with staying engaged during class discussions, has shared that not having her phone at her desk has helped her focus better. She's now more active in class, and I believe the supportive environment played a big role in that change.\r\nThanks to your support, our classroom is not only more functional but also more peaceful, focused, and student centered.","fullyFundedDate":1746785554475,"projectUrl":"project/power-up-learning-a-charging-station-/9094290/","projectTitle":"Power Up Learning: A Charging Station & Bright Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Chinchilla","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8903423_orig.png?crop=593,593,x0,y37&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1721872206586","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrchinchilla"},{"teacherId":8903423,"projectId":9344071,"letterContent":"The impact of this project has been powerful! The digital camera and drone have transformed my classroom into a hub of student-led storytelling and advocacy. My students have used these tools to research and film meaningful videos that raise awareness about mental health in our school community. They've interviewed peers, captured creative visuals, and even edited short public service announcements that will be shared during school assemblies and digital newsletters.\r\nFor many students, this was their first experience handling professional equipment—and the excitement was contagious! One student who rarely speaks up in class took the lead as our main videographer, while another found her voice scripting and narrating a video that helped her classmates better understand anxiety and support one another.\r\nThis project has not only strengthened my students' tech skills but also empowered them to speak out, collaborate, and drive positive change in their community. Thank you for giving them the tools to be both learners and leaders!","fullyFundedDate":1747763213332,"projectUrl":"project/voices-in-focus-capturing-community-sto/9344071/","projectTitle":"Voices in Focus: Capturing Community Stories","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Chinchilla","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8903423_orig.png?crop=593,593,x0,y37&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1721872206586","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrchinchilla"},{"teacherId":8903423,"projectId":8802905,"letterContent":"The new classroom headphones with microphones have been a game-changer, especially for my English language learners. They can now practice their listening and speaking skills with clarity, engage in interactive language programs, and participate in digital assignments without distractions. For many of them, this is the first time they've been able to record and hear their own voices in an academic setting, which is boosting both their confidence and communication skills. Seeing their excitement as they use this technology to improve their English is truly inspiring!\r\n\r\nThe USB-C chargers have ensured that our classroom devices remain powered throughout the day, preventing interruptions in digital learning. This has been particularly helpful for students working on individualized assignments, allowing them to stay on track with their lessons. Additionally, the sanitizing wipes have helped us maintain a clean and safe learning space, ensuring that students can focus without concerns about their environment.\r\n\r\nOne student who was initially shy about speaking English has been using the headphones to practice pronunciation daily. In just a few weeks, their confidence has soared, and they are now actively participating in class discussions. Moments like these remind me just how impactful your donations are!\r\n\r\nYour support has created a ripple effect of positive change in our classroom, and I cannot thank you enough for investing in my students' success. You are making a difference in their education and future, and we are all deeply appreciative.","fullyFundedDate":1737161765912,"projectUrl":"project/tech-tools-and-hygiene-essentials-for-en/8802905/","projectTitle":"Tech Tools and Hygiene Essentials for Engaged, Focused Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Chinchilla","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8903423_orig.png?crop=593,593,x0,y37&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1721872206586","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrchinchilla"},{"teacherId":8903423,"projectId":8894791,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students now have access to tools that are transforming their learning experience! The 3D printing materials have sparked creativity and innovation, allowing students to turn their ideas into real objects. They are developing problem-solving skills, experimenting with design, and exploring new ways to express their ideas. It's incredible to see their excitement when they hold something they've created with their own hands.\r\n\r\nThe portable lectern has made lessons more interactive, giving me the flexibility to engage students from different parts of the classroom. This has encouraged more participation and made learning feel more dynamic. The storage bins have also made a huge difference in keeping our classroom organized, making it easier for students to focus on their work without distractions.\r\n\r\nOne of my students, who was initially hesitant about technology, has truly embraced 3D printing and is now leading small group projects. Seeing their confidence grow has been one of the most rewarding parts of this project. Every student is benefiting from the resources you've provided, and I cannot thank you enough for your kindness and support.","fullyFundedDate":1731544135725,"projectUrl":"project/hands-on-learning-with-a-projector-and-3/8894791/","projectTitle":"Hands-On Learning with a Projector and 3D Printer","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Chinchilla","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8903423_orig.png?crop=593,593,x0,y37&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1721872206586","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrchinchilla"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_16897","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":430,"numTeachers":50,"percentFrplEligible":94,"percentAsian":2,"percentBlack":36,"percentWhite":3,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":56,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"8.6:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":51.0,"schoolId":16897,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Morningside Middle School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Morningside Middle School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/texas/fort-worth-independent-school-district/morningside-middle-school/16897"}