{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Herod Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":29.9,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9692967,"projectId":10068720,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom snack project. Your generosity has made a meaningful difference in the daily lives of my students.\r\n\r\nMany of my students benefit from having access to snacks throughout the day. With your support, we are able to provide snacks that help students stay focused, energized, and ready to learn. When students are not distracted by hunger, they are better able to participate in lessons, complete their work, and stay engaged in classroom activities.\r\n\r\nSnack time has also become an important learning opportunity in our classroom. Students practice communication skills by requesting items, making choices, and interacting with their peers. They also work on independence, routines, and social skills during these moments.\r\n\r\nBecause of your kindness, our classroom environment feels more supportive and welcoming. Your donation not only helped provide food for our students but also helped create opportunities for learning, growth, and connection each day.\r\n\r\nWe are incredibly grateful for your generosity and for believing in our students. Thank you for helping make our classroom a place where every child can feel supported and ready to succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1770821053173,"projectUrl":"project/snacks-to-help-our-autism-students-learn/10068720/","projectTitle":"Snacks to Help Our Autism Students Learn and Self-Regulate","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Compton","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9692967_orig.jpg?crop=1548,1548,x262,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1769621867259","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9692967"},{"teacherId":5508834,"projectId":10016978,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, my students now have safe, appropriate tools to meet their sensory needs and stay ready to learn.\r\n\r\nIn our classroom for learners with severe and profound autism, oral sensory input is not a preference—it is a need. Before this project, many students would chew on pencils, clothing, or other unsafe objects as a way to regulate their bodies. Thanks to you, they now have access to Chubuddy Strong Chews that are specifically designed to provide the deep pressure input they seek in a safe and hygienic way.\r\n\r\nThe laminating sheets and Velcro have allowed me to create durable visual stories and sensory supports that explicitly teach students when, where, and how to use their chews appropriately. These visual tools are clear, consistent, and built to withstand daily use. Students can now follow structured sensory routines, reference visual reminders independently, and better understand expectations.\r\n\r\nSince introducing these supports, I have already seen a reduction in unsafe chewing behaviors and an increase in students' ability to remain calm and focused during instruction. Most importantly, my students are building independence. They are learning to recognize their sensory needs and access the right tool at the right time.\r\n\r\nYour support has helped create a safer, more regulated learning environment where my students can participate more fully in their day. Thank you for investing in tools that protect their safety, support their regulation, and empower them to succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1768513577062,"projectUrl":"project/chew-to-learn-safe-sensory-supports/10016978/","projectTitle":"Chew to Learn: Safe Sensory Supports","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. DeMunbrun","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5508834_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1686087639592","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5508834"},{"teacherId":5508834,"projectId":9893478,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom has become an even more structured, supportive, and empowering space for my students.\r\n\r\nIn our Grades 3–5 autism/self-contained classroom in Houston, visuals and hands-on systems are not extras—they are essential. Thanks to your support, I was able to laminate durable visual schedules, token boards, communication supports, and academic task materials that my students use every single day. These materials now withstand frequent use, sensory exploration, and the busy pace of our classroom without falling apart.\r\n\r\nThe Velcro you provided has transformed simple worksheets into interactive, engaging work systems. My students are now independently matching, sorting, sequencing, and completing tasks with confidence. Instead of waiting for adult help, they can manipulate materials on their own, which builds both academic skills and self-esteem.\r\n\r\nThe color-coded duct tape has also made a meaningful difference. Each student has an assigned classroom color, and being able to quickly identify their materials has reduced frustration and increased independence. Transitions are smoother. Work time is more focused. Students feel ownership over their space.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, our classroom is more predictable, organized, and calm. My students—who are creative, determined, and full of personality—now have the tools they need to communicate clearly, follow routines, and celebrate their successes each day.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students and investing in a structured environment where they can truly thrive. Your kindness has made a lasting impact on our classroom community.","fullyFundedDate":1768402639164,"projectUrl":"project/organized-independent-and-ready-to-lea/9893478/","projectTitle":"Organized, Independent, and Ready to Learn","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. DeMunbrun","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5508834_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1686087639592","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5508834"},{"teacherId":5872186,"projectId":10075869,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom and helping provide the tools my students need to succeed. My students come to school each day with curiosity, resilience, and a strong desire to learn. They all have different learning styles and needs, and your generosity has helped me create a classroom environment where every student feels supported, confident, and ready to do their best.\r\n\r\nThe materials from this project have already made a meaningful impact on our daily learning. The privacy boards help students stay focused during testing and independent work, allowing them to feel more confident and less distracted. The Expo markers and erasers are used every day during lessons, giving students the opportunity to practice skills, share their thinking, and learn from mistakes in a supportive way. The erase dots have also helped organize our small-group tables, making guided reading and math groups more structured and engaging.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, my students now have access to essential tools that help them stay engaged, participate actively, and take ownership of their learning. These resources have helped create a more focused, collaborative, and positive learning environment where students feel comfortable taking risks and celebrating their progress. Thank you for investing in my students and making a difference in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1770596007732,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-essentials/10075869/","projectTitle":"Classroom Essentials","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Lutfak","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5872186_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1629529693331","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-lutfak"},{"teacherId":5872186,"projectId":9973578,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project and helping bring joyful celebrations into our classroom. Because of your generosity, I was able to create personalized cookie treats for my students and package them in special goodie bags for holidays and classroom celebrations. These small but meaningful moments helped students feel valued, included, and excited to be part of our classroom community.\r\n\r\nThe treats quickly became more than just cookies—they became a way to celebrate effort, kindness, and positive behavior. My students were thrilled to receive something made especially for them, and it created a warm atmosphere where students felt seen and appreciated. These moments boosted morale and strengthened the sense of belonging in our classroom, which helped students feel more confident and engaged in their learning.\r\n\r\nI truly love finding ways to show my students that they matter, and this project allowed me to combine creativity with care. Your support helped turn simple celebrations into meaningful experiences that brought smiles, encouragement, and connection to our classroom. Thank you for helping make our learning environment a place where students feel happy, supported, and motivated to learn.","fullyFundedDate":1769177480265,"projectUrl":"project/sweet-creations-and-valentine-smiles/9973578/","projectTitle":"Sweet Creations and Valentine Smiles","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Lutfak","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5872186_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1629529693331","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-lutfak"},{"teacherId":5872186,"projectId":9792288,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting our Miniature Garden Project through DonorsChoose! Because of your generosity, our classroom was able to bring science to life in a hands-on and meaningful way.\r\n\r\nMy students were incredibly excited to plant their own seeds and create miniature gardens right at their desks. Throughout this project, they explored plant biology, ecosystems, and environmental science in a way that felt real and engaging. They carefully measured soil and water, observed how sunlight affected growth, and recorded their observations like true young scientists.\r\n\r\nBeyond science, the project also encouraged creativity. Students designed labels, decorated their garden spaces, and built small garden structures. It was wonderful to see them combine STEM learning with art while taking pride in their living projects.\r\n\r\nOne of the most powerful moments was watching students take responsibility for their plants. They worked together, discussed what plants need to grow, and celebrated each new sprout they discovered. These experiences helped them build teamwork, observation skills, and confidence as learners.\r\n\r\nYour support made this project possible. Because of you, my students were able to experience the joy of discovery, creativity, and hands-on learning. The miniature gardens turned our classroom into a small ecosystem filled with curiosity, excitement, and growth.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in our students and helping them learn in such a memorable way. Your kindness truly made a difference in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1766170843915,"projectUrl":"project/miniature-garden-steam-lab-growing-curi/9792288/","projectTitle":"Miniature Garden STEAM Lab: Growing Curiosity and Creativity!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Lutfak","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5872186_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1629529693331","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-lutfak"},{"teacherId":6143552,"projectId":8521338,"letterContent":"This project will make snack time a fun, positive part of our day while also supporting learning and behavior. For many students, snack time is not only a time to refuel—it's a chance to practice communication, social skills, and routines in a structured way. Having consistent snacks will help students stay regulated, reduce distractions caused by hunger, and create a joyful classroom experience where students feel cared for. A happy, predictable snack routine strengthens classroom community and helps students be ready to learn.","fullyFundedDate":1724004383804,"projectUrl":"project/snack-time-fun-time/8521338/","projectTitle":"Snack Time Fun Time","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Kallie","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6143552_orig.jpg?crop=1200,1200,x400,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1561047727654","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6143552"},{"teacherId":5508834,"projectId":9602992,"letterContent":"With your support, students will gain access to sensory and learning tools that help them stay focused, regulated, and ready to learn. These resources will empower students who struggle with attention, sensory processing, or emotional regulation by giving them safe, effective ways to engage in lessons and participate confidently in the classroom. By meeting students' individual needs, this project will create a more inclusive learning environment where all children feel supported, capable, and prepared to succeed—academically and emotionally. Your generosity will make a lasting difference by helping students build the skills they need to learn, grow, and thrive every day.","fullyFundedDate":1755731034749,"projectUrl":"project/building-success-through-sensory-and-lea/9602992/","projectTitle":"Building Success Through Sensory and Learning Tools","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. DeMunbrun","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5508834_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1686087639592","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5508834"},{"teacherId":34634,"projectId":9745243,"letterContent":"I want to express my sincere gratitude for the amazing treasure box treats you provided for my students. Your donation has already enabled my students and I to create fun, memorable learning experiences in our fight against dyslexia. We are extremely grateful for the supply of party favors, fidget toys, pencil top erasers, and the variety of other great prizes added to our classroom treasure chest. The Sticky Wall Crawlers and pull-back vehicles received immediate rave reviews and are two popular choices on treasure chest days. \r\n\r\nFor my students – reading, writing, and spelling tasks can be frustrating and overwhelming. My dyslexic students struggle to make connections between sounds and letters - which makes blending and decoding words exceedingly difficult. To encourage my students to persevere, I sought to create a consistent and enjoyable incentive system that allows them to celebrate their personal accomplishments while overcoming reading obstacles. Thanks to your generosity – this mission has been accomplished!\r\n\r\nNow, as they work to achieve their goals my students can look forward to our weekly celebrations and choosing a well-earned prize from the treasure box. Even when the task seems hard, my students show more excitement about staying the course and completing activities. Our treasure box incentives help them realize that their efforts are valued and appreciated.\r\n\r\nOnce again, thank you for your generosity. It warms my heart to know good people like yourselves are willing to invest in public education.","fullyFundedDate":1758841724510,"projectUrl":"project/conquering-dyslexia-is-really-great-now/9745243/","projectTitle":"Conquering Dyslexia Is Really Great! Now It's Time to Celebrate!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Harrell","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp34634_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1507043457425","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/tan-harrell"},{"teacherId":5872186,"projectId":9875121,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom was able to truly celebrate the winter season in a joyful and meaningful way. The winter goodie bags and craft materials were used during our winter party and throughout the season to create a welcoming, festive environment for all students. Each child received their own goodie bag, which made them feel special, included, and excited to participate in our celebration.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, their faces lit up with excitement. They were eager to explore the crafts, share ideas, and create winter-themed projects that reflected their creativity. The hands-on activities encouraged collaboration, fine motor skills, and self-expression, while also helping build a strong sense of classroom community during a busy and exciting time of year.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, we will continue using these materials to connect seasonal themes with classroom lessons, including writing reflections about winter traditions, sharing crafts with classmates, and discussing how different seasons affect our world. Your support gave my students more than supplies—it gave them memories, joy, and a positive learning experience they will carry with them. Thank you for helping make our winter celebration so meaningful.","fullyFundedDate":1764729863328,"projectUrl":"project/lets-celebrate-winter/9875121/","projectTitle":"Let's Celebrate Winter","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Lutfak","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5872186_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1629529693331","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-lutfak"},{"teacherId":5872186,"projectId":9740761,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding our project! Because of your generosity, my students now have amazing materials that make learning hands-on, creative, and fun. The colorful floor cushions and comfy seat give students a flexible and cozy space to collaborate, read, and focus. The art supplies, heat press tools, and vinyl materials allow students to explore their creativity and complete meaningful projects.\r\n\r\nThe mini photo albums, tote bags, fidget toys, and plush prizes help students celebrate each other, practice kindness, and enjoy special moments together. Classroom decorations and management tools help create a bright, welcoming environment that supports learning every day.\r\n\r\nYour support has truly transformed our classroom into a space where curiosity, creativity, and compassion thrive. Thank you for helping my students grow, explore, and enjoy learning in so many new ways!","fullyFundedDate":1758823586293,"projectUrl":"project/field-trip-and-craft-project/9740761/","projectTitle":"Field Trip and Craft Project","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Lutfak","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5872186_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1629529693331","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-lutfak"},{"teacherId":5872186,"projectId":9781123,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding our Compassion and Kindness project! Your generosity made it possible for my students to learn and practice empathy, gratitude, and helping others in meaningful ways.\r\n\r\nThe materials you helped provide will let us create thoughtful activities, kindness crafts, and class projects that encourage teamwork and caring for our community. Every item will help students see that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, my students are not just learning academics—they're growing into compassionate, responsible individuals who care about the world around them. Thank you for inspiring kindness in our classroom and beyond!","fullyFundedDate":1760379115413,"projectUrl":"project/learning-through-compassion/9781123/","projectTitle":"Learning Through Compassion","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Lutfak","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5872186_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1629529693331","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-lutfak"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_9863","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":768,"numTeachers":48,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":6,"percentBlack":32,"percentWhite":16,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":40,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"16.0:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":70.1,"schoolId":9863,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Herod Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Herod Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/texas/houston-independent-school-district/herod-elementary-school/9863"}