{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Bean Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":36.8,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8663531,"projectId":10709847,"letterContent":"Reading in our library is all about choice, engagement, and discovering stories that make students excited to read! Students explore graphic novels independently, share favorite characters with classmates, and discuss the connections they make with the stories. Graphic novels encourage students to slow down, study illustrations, interpret dialogue, and make predictions about what might happen next. I love seeing students recommend books to one another and become excited about finding the next book in a series. My goal is to create a welcoming reading environment where every student can find something they enjoy, build confidence in their abilities, and develop a lifelong love of reading.\r\nThe Emmie & Friends graphic novels introduce students to important themes such as friendship, self-confidence, empathy, changing relationships, and navigating the challenges of growing up. Through relatable characters and everyday school experiences, students learn that misunderstandings happen, friendships can change, and everyone has their own thoughts, feelings, and struggles. These books also strengthen essential literacy skills, including vocabulary development, reading comprehension, sequencing, making inferences, and visual literacy. Students learn to use illustrations, facial expressions, and dialogue to better understand characters and follow the story. Most importantly, these books remind students that they are not alone in their experiences and that reading can be both meaningful and fun.","fullyFundedDate":1791940270505,"projectUrl":"project/building-connections-with-graphic-novels/10709847/","projectTitle":"Building Connections With Graphic Novels","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Arias","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8663531_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753112495411","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8663531"},{"teacherId":8663531,"projectId":10317394,"letterContent":"Reading in our library is an engaging, interactive experience! Students enjoy read-alouds, independent reading, partner discussions, and activities that connect stories to their own lives. As we explore these books, students discuss characters' feelings, consider how they would respond in similar situations, and brainstorm positive ways to handle everyday challenges. We use stories as a starting point for meaningful conversations about kindness, inclusion, courage, and friendship. My goal is to create a welcoming environment where students feel comfortable sharing ideas, exploring new perspectives, and discovering books that inspire them both as readers and as individuals.\r\nThese new books help students develop important social-emotional skills, including empathy, kindness, self-awareness, emotional regulation, problem-solving, and positive relationship-building. Through relatable characters and meaningful stories, students learn how to recognize and express their feelings, navigate friendships, overcome challenges, and appreciate differences in others. These books also encourage students to build confidence, practice resilience, and understand that everyone has unique experiences and strengths. Along the way, students strengthen literacy skills such as comprehension, vocabulary, making connections, and critical thinking.","fullyFundedDate":1790816641198,"projectUrl":"project/building-character-confidence-and-comp/10317394/","projectTitle":"Building Character, Confidence, and Compassion Through Story","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Arias","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8663531_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753112495411","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8663531"},{"teacherId":9503755,"projectId":10288605,"letterContent":"We have used everything that was sent to us. These have been very useful for our classroom. Form the markers to the prizes to our new chapter books. We are very thankful for what you have donated to us.\r\nWe love using our new markers to learn writing and reading. We love to use our books during silent reading. We love having fun Fridays and getting to win prizes for working hard all week. We especially love our glue which allows us to do may projects on reading and social studies. \r\nWe really do appreciate everything that we recieved.","fullyFundedDate":1783343270536,"projectUrl":"project/new-year-new-grade/10288605/","projectTitle":"New Year New Grade","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. White","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9503755_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1712185272233","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9503755"},{"teacherId":8663531,"projectId":10339339,"letterContent":"These new books provide much more than enjoyable stories—they give students meaningful opportunities to develop important literacy skills. Through fiction, adventure, humor, poetry, informational texts, and bilingual stories, students practice reading comprehension, vocabulary, fluency, sequencing, making predictions, identifying main ideas and supporting details, understanding characters and plot, making connections, and using context clues to determine the meaning of unfamiliar words. The bilingual and Spanish-language books also help students strengthen literacy skills in both languages while building confidence and supporting the transfer of reading strategies from one language to another. Series such as Spy School, Big Nate, Dragon, and The One and Only Bob encourage students to read longer texts, follow characters across multiple books, make connections between stories, and develop the stamina needed to become independent readers.\r\n\r\nReading in our library looks different for every student, and that is intentional. Students have opportunities to browse and choose books based on their interests, reading levels, and preferred language. During library time, students participate in read-alouds, book discussions, independent reading, partner reading, and activities that help them respond to what they read. I encourage students to talk about books, recommend titles to their classmates, make connections to their own lives, and explore different genres. Having access to Spanish and bilingual books allows students to choose books in the language in which they feel most comfortable while also encouraging them to explore reading in English.\r\n\r\nThe students who are especially enjoying these new books are our bilingual and emergent bilingual learners, as well as students who have sometimes struggled to find books that capture their interests. Many students immediately recognize familiar characters, series, or Spanish-language titles and are excited to take them home. Some students who may hesitate when choosing an English-only book are much more confident when they can select a Spanish or bilingual title. I have also seen students become excited about reading because they discover that the library has books that reflect their language, family, culture, and interests.\r\n\r\nOne of the most rewarding parts of adding these books to our collection is watching students recommend them to one another. A student who discovers a funny Big Nate book may encourage a friend to read it next, while another student may proudly share a Spanish-language book with a classmate or family member. These moments build a reading community where students see themselves as readers and understand that reading can be enjoyable, social, and meaningful.","fullyFundedDate":1789523723800,"projectUrl":"project/building-bilingual-readers-through-engag/10339339/","projectTitle":"Building Bilingual Readers Through Engaging Chapter Books and Literature","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Arias","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8663531_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753112495411","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8663531"},{"teacherId":8663531,"projectId":10420877,"letterContent":"The new books introduce students to important literacy and academic skills while allowing them to explore topics they genuinely enjoy. Books about weather, rocks and minerals, sports, climate change, animals, geography, and the environment encourage students to ask questions, gather information, make connections, and think critically about the world around them. Students practice vocabulary, comprehension, identifying key details, making inferences, comparing information, and using text features to locate and understand information. These books also provide natural opportunities to connect reading with science, STEM, social studies, and real-world issues.\r\n\r\nReading in our library is hands-on and student-centered. Students browse the shelves, talk with classmates about books they enjoy, participate in read-alouds and discussions, and choose books based on their own interests. A student fascinated by rocks might explore a nonfiction book about gems and minerals, while another student may choose a sports book or become completely immersed in a classic story. These personal connections make reading meaningful and help students develop the confidence to explore new subjects.\r\n\r\nOur bilingual and Spanish-language books have been especially important for our emergent bilingual students. Being able to choose a book in Spanish, English, or both allows students to access content while continuing to develop their literacy skills. These books also communicate an important message: your language and your experiences belong in our library. Students are excited to recognize familiar words, cultures, experiences, and perspectives in the books they read.","fullyFundedDate":1785978331823,"projectUrl":"project/building-curious-minds-through-diverse-l/10420877/","projectTitle":"Building Curious Minds Through Diverse Literature","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Arias","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8663531_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753112495411","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8663531"},{"teacherId":8663531,"projectId":10317428,"letterContent":"This project has made a meaningful difference in the way our students experience reading. Our expanded graphic novel collection has given students more opportunities to find books that feel exciting, accessible, and relevant to them. For many students, picking up a graphic novel is the first step toward becoming a more confident and independent reader.\r\n\r\nThese books introduce and reinforce important literacy skills in a way that feels natural and engaging. Students practice sequencing events, making predictions, identifying character traits, determining main ideas, using context clues, building vocabulary, and making inferences. They also learn to interpret illustrations, facial expressions, body language, panel layouts, and visual clues to better understand the story. Graphic novels require students to combine information from both text and images, strengthening comprehension and visual literacy.\r\n\r\nReading in our library is active, social, and student-driven. Students spend time browsing for books that interest them, recommending favorites to friends, reading independently, and talking about characters and storylines. During library lessons, graphic novels are used for read-alouds, partner discussions, literature circles, and activities that encourage students to think deeply about what they are reading. Students are excited to share a new series with a friend or tell me about the latest book they have discovered","fullyFundedDate":1786029271887,"projectUrl":"project/igniting-a-love-of-reading-through-graph/10317428/","projectTitle":"Igniting a Love of Reading Through Graphic Novels","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Arias","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8663531_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753112495411","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8663531"},{"teacherId":8663531,"projectId":10257417,"letterContent":"Reading in our library is active, engaging, and connected to real-life learning. During read-alouds, students listen, make predictions, ask questions, and share personal connections. We use the new books for small-group discussions, social-emotional learning activities, classroom collaborations, and counseling support. Students may respond to a story through writing, drawing, discussion, or hands-on activities. The motivational stickers also allow us to celebrate effort, kindness, perseverance, and positive choices, helping students recognize their own growth and accomplishments.\r\n\r\nThese materials have been especially meaningful for students who may need additional encouragement or who sometimes struggle to see themselves as successful learners. Students are excited to receive a new pencil, choose a motivational sticker, or hear a story that reminds them they are capable of great things. Books about empathy and confidence have encouraged students to talk openly about feelings, friendships, challenges, and ways they can support one another. Reluctant readers have also been drawn to the engaging picture books and the positive messages they contain.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has provided much more than school supplies and books. You have helped create an environment where students feel prepared, encouraged, and valued. Every sharpened pencil, completed drawing, thoughtful conversation, and proud smile represents an opportunity for a child to build confidence and experience success. Thank you for investing in our students and helping us create a library where creativity, kindness, literacy, and confidence can thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1786542157191,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-young-learners-with-tools-for/10257417/","projectTitle":"Empowering Young Learners with Tools for Creativity, Confidence, and Connection","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Arias","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8663531_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753112495411","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8663531"},{"teacherId":8663531,"projectId":10317376,"letterContent":"Reading in our library is an interactive and joyful experience. We begin with engaging read-alouds where students ask questions, make predictions, and share connections to the characters and events in the story. Students work together to discuss new vocabulary, compare the English and Spanish text, and explore how language can express the same ideas in different ways. Many lessons extend beyond the book through writing activities, art projects, STEM connections, and collaborative discussions that encourage creativity and critical thinking. Students also have opportunities to independently browse and check out books that match their interests, helping them develop both reading confidence and a lifelong love of books.","fullyFundedDate":1786032077337,"projectUrl":"project/celebrating-diverse-voices-through-bilin/10317376/","projectTitle":"Celebrating Diverse Voices Through Bilingual Literature","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Arias","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8663531_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753112495411","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8663531"},{"teacherId":8663531,"projectId":10317415,"letterContent":"These new picture books introduce students to so much more than just great stories. They help children develop essential literacy skills such as vocabulary, comprehension, making predictions, identifying themes, and making text-to-self and text-to-world connections. Beyond reading skills, the books encourage important life lessons about kindness, perseverance, financial responsibility, creativity, family relationships, cultural awareness, and celebrating the unique qualities that make each person special. Students are also learning about inspiring individuals like Jackie Ormes, whose stories help them understand the importance of determination, representation, and using their talents to make a difference.\r\nReading in our library is an active, engaging experience. Students gather together for interactive read-alouds where they ask questions, make predictions, share personal connections, and discuss the characters' choices and challenges. After reading, they often participate in writing activities, collaborative discussions, STEM connections, art projects, or other hands-on experiences inspired by the books. Students also have opportunities to independently explore books that match their interests, allowing them to develop confidence, curiosity, and a genuine love of reading.","fullyFundedDate":1785953847579,"projectUrl":"project/expanding-horizons-through-diverse-stori/10317415/","projectTitle":"Expanding Horizons Through Diverse Stories and Real-World Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Arias","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8663531_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753112495411","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8663531"},{"teacherId":8663531,"projectId":10302150,"letterContent":"Because of your kindness, our students, especially reluctant readers, emergent bilingual students, and English language learners, will have access to engaging books that make reading both approachable and enjoyable. Graphic novels provide a unique way for students to strengthen comprehension, vocabulary, sequencing, and visual literacy while immersing themselves in stories filled with adventure, humor, history, mythology, and inspiring characters.\r\n\r\nThese books will be used throughout our library program during checkout, literacy centers, reading interventions, classroom collaborations, and independent reading. They will encourage students to read more often, explore new genres, and discover books that reflect their interests and experiences. Thank you!!","fullyFundedDate":1785870844345,"projectUrl":"project/turning-pages-through-graphic-novels/10302150/","projectTitle":"Turning Pages Through Graphic Novels","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Arias","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8663531_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753112495411","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8663531"},{"teacherId":8663531,"projectId":10339367,"letterContent":"These books support far more than basic reading skills. Through these texts, students practice comprehension, vocabulary development, sequencing, making predictions, identifying character traits, and understanding story structure. Many of the titles also introduce important social-emotional learning concepts such as empathy, perseverance, self-confidence, friendship, problem-solving, and emotional regulation. Students learn to analyze characters' choices, discuss feelings and motivations, and make connections between the stories and their own lives.\r\n\r\nReading in our library is an active and engaging experience. Students participate in interactive read-alouds, partner discussions, literacy centers, and independent book selection. They ask questions, share connections, discuss themes, and often recommend favorite books to their classmates. During library lessons, students use these stories as springboards for conversations about kindness, identity, culture, and community. The books are also used during classroom collaborations and family literacy events, helping extend learning beyond the library.\r\n\r\nSeveral students who were previously hesitant to check out books have become enthusiastic readers after discovering titles available in Spanish or bilingual formats. Emergent bilingual students often light up when they realize they can read and understand a story independently, building confidence and a stronger sense of belonging in the library. Other students enjoy comparing Spanish and English text, strengthening language skills while developing an appreciation for multilingualism. Watching students eagerly search for the next book in a series or excitedly share a story with friends has been one of the most rewarding outcomes of this project.","fullyFundedDate":1782065766494,"projectUrl":"project/celebrating-identity-culture-and-emoti/10339367/","projectTitle":"Celebrating Identity, Culture, and Emotional Wellness Through Bilingual Literature","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Arias","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8663531_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753112495411","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8663531"},{"teacherId":8663531,"projectId":10190273,"letterContent":"Reading in our library and classrooms is an active, joyful experience. Students participate in read-alouds, partner reading, small-group discussions, and independent reading time. They are encouraged to think about the stories, make connections to their own lives, and share book recommendations with their classmates. One of the most exciting changes we've seen is students eagerly asking for the next book in a series as soon as they finish the first one.\r\n\r\nSeveral students who were previously hesitant to choose chapter books have been especially drawn to these new titles. The colorful illustrations and engaging characters make the books feel approachable, while the shorter chapters help readers experience success. Some students have proudly completed an entire series for the first time, building confidence and motivation to read even more. Others have discovered favorite characters and now look forward to visiting the library to continue their adventures.","fullyFundedDate":1781717683086,"projectUrl":"project/building-confident-readers-with-acorn-bo/10190273/","projectTitle":"Building Confident Readers With Acorn Books: Engaging Early Readers","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Arias","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8663531_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753112495411","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8663531"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_18378","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":579,"numTeachers":46,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":5,"percentWhite":1,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":89,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":1,"gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"12.6:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":63.2,"schoolId":18378,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Bean Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Bean Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/texas/lubbock-independent-school-district/bean-elementary-school/18378"}