{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Discipline Alternative Education Program","outOfStateSupporters":30.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":7481643,"projectId":9747189,"letterContent":"Thanks to your support, my students now have access to paired novels and graphic novels that have transformed how some approach reading. By providing both traditional text and visual adaptations, students who struggle with or resist reading can engage with stories in the format that works best for them. Seeing characters and plot come to life in graphic form has boosted confidence on \"The Great Gatsby\" midterm exams, which we just passed, sparked new curiosities, especially, \"Coraline,\" and helped students connect with complex themes they might have avoided otherwise.\r\n\r\nSome of my most challenging students are now able to read independently, discuss characters and plot in class, and even compare the graphic and traditional versions to deepen comprehension even further. Many reluctant readers who once avoided full-length novels are now completing stories and feeling proud of their accomplishments. Their reading comprehension is scaffolded by the accessibility of the highly visual graphic novels. The paired format has made reading accessible, engaging, and meaningful for all skill levels.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has made a real difference in my classroom by giving students tools to succeed in literacy, explore stories they love, and gain confidence as readers. Because of your support, struggling and reluctant readers are now participating, discussing, and thriving in ways that would not have been possible without these books. Thank you for helping make reading exciting and achievable for every student.","fullyFundedDate":1761938929622,"projectUrl":"project/panels-to-pages-engaging-resistant-read/9747189/","projectTitle":"Panels to Pages: Engaging Resistant Readers","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Norris","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7481643_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1767904963107","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/norris-biology"},{"teacherId":7481643,"projectId":9683079,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students are now using STEM journals as a consistent part of their daily learning. These journals have given them a structured place to write, sketch, problem-solve, and reflect as they work through science, technology, engineering, and math concepts. We've used them to break down multi-step problems, record observations during hands-on activities, and explain how they arrived at an answer—not just whether it was right or wrong. Having a dedicated space for this thinking has helped students slow down and engage more deeply with the material.\r\n\r\nFor students who often struggle with organization or confidence, having a fresh, new, personal journal has made learning feel more manageable and less intimidating. It's become a safe space for trial and error, where mistakes are part of the process instead of something to avoid.\r\n\r\nNext, students will continue using their STEM journals to support ongoing lessons that require planning, reflection, and persistence. As we move into more complex problem-solving and project-based learning, these journals will help students track their thinking over time and see their own growth. Because of your support, my students now have tools that encourage curiosity, accountability, and a stronger connection to their learning. Thank you for helping make that possible.","fullyFundedDate":1763559251174,"projectUrl":"project/stem-education-journaling/9683079/","projectTitle":"STEM Education Journaling","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Norris","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7481643_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1767904963107","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/norris-biology"},{"teacherId":7481643,"projectId":9719317,"letterContent":"I want to sincerely thank you for providing the materials to create our classroom values board. Your generosity made it possible for us to display the Ten Commandments in a way that also honors other religious and secular value systems — something I never imagined we would have to navigate. Honestly, I feel the display you enabled me to create is not only beautiful, but the ONLY appropriate way to display something like the ten commandments in a classroom. \r\n\r\nI'll be honest: the new state law requiring the Ten Commandments in Texas public school classrooms has been incredibly frustrating, and it puts educators in a difficult position. Yet, because of your support, we were able to meet this requirement thoughtfully and inclusively, without making any student feel singled out or excluded! That is no small feat, and it wouldn't have been possible without you. \r\n\r\nYour willingness to see this as a worthwhile cause — and to invest your time and resources in it — means more than words can express. Thanks to you, our students now have a space that encourages reflection, respect, and understanding of multiple value systems, all while complying with a mandate that could have felt divisive. I especially love the way students can see that our various cultural value systems have certain threads in common. Certain values that transcend culture and religion. Human values.\r\n\r\nPlease know that your contribution made a real difference for our classroom community, and for that, I am truly grateful. Also, I just thought I'd share that I have big plans in the future for allowing students to include their very own values to the values board. It is going to be used and loved for many years to come.","fullyFundedDate":1759545832082,"projectUrl":"project/celebrating-diversity-through-shared-val/9719317/","projectTitle":"Celebrating Diversity Through Shared Values","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Norris","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7481643_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1767904963107","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/norris-biology"},{"teacherId":7481643,"projectId":9055473,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our classroom project! Your gift of sensory tools has already made a meaningful difference for my students here in our DAEP program.\r\n\r\nWe've been using the sensory toys daily during independent work time. Each student has the option to choose a tool that works for them, and I've noticed a positive shift in their ability to stay on task and manage their emotions. It has opened the door for conversations about healthy coping strategies and self-control—skills that are especially important for students here that hopefully they will take back to campus with them to increase their success after returning to the traditional classroom. \r\n\r\nOur next step is to build on these tools by practicing mindfulness and reflection activities, helping students connect what they feel physically with how they respond behaviorally. Thanks to your generosity, they now have the resources to practice staying calm, focused, and in charge of themselves during the school day.\r\n\r\nWe are deeply grateful that you chose to invest in these students. Your kindness has made our classroom a calmer, more supportive space.","fullyFundedDate":1746125228025,"projectUrl":"project/sensory-toys-for-self-regulation/9055473/","projectTitle":"Sensory Toys for Self Regulation","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Norris","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7481643_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1767904963107","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/norris-biology"},{"teacherId":10040398,"projectId":9369758,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has been filled with tools that support both learning and emotional well-being. The Teaching Time clock has been such a helpful resource during our math lessons—students are gaining confidence as they practice telling time in a hands-on way. At the same time, the \"How to Write Cursive\" books have sparked so much excitement, with many students eager to master a skill that feels both new and special to them. These learning materials are helping our students build confidence in their academic growth each day.\r\n\r\nThe arrival of the fidgets, stress balls, and squishy toys was a huge hit! Students were wide-eyed and full of smiles as they explored the different textures and calming tools. For many of them, these items provide a safe and quiet outlet to manage anxiety so they can focus better in class. The coloring books and word search books have also become a favorite way for students to take mindful breaks—especially those who sometimes feel overwhelmed. One student even said, \"When I use the coloring book, I don't feel so worried anymore.\" It's clear these resources are making a real difference in their ability to self-regulate and feel supported.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we'll continue using these tools daily—not just in our lessons, but in the small, meaningful moments when students need a bit of calm or encouragement. Your gift has done more than provide supplies; it has created a classroom environment where students feel safe, cared for, and ready to learn. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for believing in our kids and giving them the support they need to thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1755712294982,"projectUrl":"project/from-struggles-to-successwith-your-help/9369758/","projectTitle":"From Struggles to Success—With Your Help","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Purdom","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10040398_orig.jpg?crop=1365,1366,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1748997450331","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10040398"},{"teacherId":7481643,"projectId":9087375,"letterContent":"Thanks to this project, our classroom library now reflects the interests and voices of our students — every book was requested by a student! This has made reading more engaging, meaningful, and motivating because students are excited to pick up books they specifically asked for.\r\n\r\nWith these materials, I've been able to encourage independent reading, spark lively classroom discussions, and support students in discovering new authors and genres they might not have explored on their own. Giving students choice in their reading has strengthened their love for learning and made them feel truly heard and valued.","fullyFundedDate":1746785582522,"projectUrl":"project/wishlist-to-classroom-library/9087375/","projectTitle":"Wishlist to Classroom Library","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Norris","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7481643_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1767904963107","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/norris-biology"},{"teacherId":7481643,"projectId":9122818,"letterContent":"I want to sincerely thank you for supporting our project, \"Treasure Box Rewards for Positive Reinforcement.\" Your generosity has allowed us to create a treasure box filled with fun and meaningful rewards that we use to celebrate students' positive behavior, effort, and achievements, something essential to a disciplinary campus. \r\n\r\nThese rewards may seem small, but they make a huge difference. Students are motivated, encouraged, and excited to make good choices because they know their efforts are noticed and appreciated. It's not always about what a student gets out of the treasure box. Sometimes it's about having a physical reminder of their good choices, to show their families and remember their good efforts. Your gift has helped foster a positive and supportive classroom environment where every student can thrive.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping us reinforce kindness, responsibility, and growth in our students. Your support truly makes a difference!","fullyFundedDate":1746785624519,"projectUrl":"project/treasure-box-rewards-for-positive-reinfo/9122818/","projectTitle":"Treasure Box Rewards for Positive Reinforcement","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Norris","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7481643_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1767904963107","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/norris-biology"},{"teacherId":7481643,"projectId":9128844,"letterContent":"I wanted to personally thank you for supporting our project, \"Winter Warmth for Every Student.\" Because of your generosity, our classroom now has cozy sweaters for students to use during school, and we are able to provide winter coats and jackets for students in need to take home and keep when the weather gets cold.\r\n\r\nYour gift is more than just clothing — it's comfort, confidence, and care. It impacts the way they see themselves as well as their personal comfort. Many of our students face chilly days with limited options, and your donation has made a real difference in their daily lives. I see the smiles and gratitude that you miss every day, and it's all thanks to you.\r\n\r\nWe are so grateful for your support and belief in our students. Thank you for helping us make this winter warmer and brighter for every child in our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1746125565838,"projectUrl":"project/winter-warmth-for-every-student/9128844/","projectTitle":"Winter Warmth for Every Student","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Norris","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7481643_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1767904963107","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/norris-biology"},{"teacherId":7481643,"projectId":9109917,"letterContent":"On behalf of the students at DAEP, I want to extend our deepest thanks for your generous contribution to our DonorsChoose project. Your support in providing high-quality metal brain teasers and Rubik's cubes has made a remarkable impact on our students.\r\n\r\nThese puzzles are more than just fun — they're a tool for developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and sensory regulation skills. Your donation is helping our students grow their cognitive abilities in a way that will serve them for years to come. The focus and patience required to solve these brain teasers not only challenges their minds but also brings a sense of accomplishment that is incredibly empowering.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, our students are engaging in an activity that stimulates their thinking, calms their minds, and encourages perseverance — all essential skills for their academic and personal growth.\r\n\r\nOnce again, thank you for your kindness and belief in the potential of our students. You've made a lasting difference, and we are truly grateful for your support.","fullyFundedDate":1739552178523,"projectUrl":"project/sharper-minds-stronger-futures/9109917/","projectTitle":"Sharper Minds, Stronger Futures","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Norris","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7481643_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1767904963107","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/norris-biology"},{"teacherId":7481643,"projectId":9034440,"letterContent":"I want to extend our deepest gratitude for your generous support in providing art supplies to our at-risk students. Thanks to your contribution, we have been able to offer these students a creative outlet, a chance to express themselves, and an opportunity to heal through art. It really makes a difference to them knowing that people out there care about them, their education, and support them expressing themselves through art.\r\n\r\nYour commitment to their growth and development makes a profound impact on their lives, helping them build confidence, focus, and positive outlets for their emotions. Your belief in the power of art to transform lives is inspiring, and we are incredibly grateful to have you as a partner in this important work.\r\n\r\nThank you again for your kindness and generosity. We couldn't do this without you!","fullyFundedDate":1738257604844,"projectUrl":"project/art-supplies-for-atrisk-students/9034440/","projectTitle":"Art Supplies for At=Risk Students","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Norris","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7481643_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1767904963107","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/norris-biology"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_10512","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":0,"numTeachers":null,"percentFrplEligible":50,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":3,"percentWhite":51,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":40,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Not specified","studentTeacherRatio":null,"demographicsDataSource":"MDR District Record","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"UNCLASSIFIED","ncesMetroType":null},"inStateSupporters":69.7,"schoolId":10512,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Discipline Alternative Education Program on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Discipline Alternative Education Program","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/texas/mineral-wells-independent-school-district/alternative-education-center/10512"}
Join the 33 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Discipline Alternative Education Program is
a public school
in Mineral Wells, Texas that is part of Mineral Wells Independent School District.
Its teachers have had 40 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
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Discipline Alternative Education Program Demographics
50%
of students receive free or reduced price lunch
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
Source: the National Center for Education Statistics
43%
of students are Black, Latino, Native
American, or Asian
Data about school demographics comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. The numbers in this chart may not add up to 100% because of limitations in the available data.
Discipline Alternative Education Program Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Jan 15, 2026
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.
Discipline Alternative Education Program
$9,402
raised using DonorsChoose
40
projects
funded
3
teachers
funded
33
donors
3
projects
for
basic supplies
2
projects for
technology
14
projects for
books
3
projects
for
art supplies
Discipline Alternative Education Program has received support from
23 individuals from Texas and
10 individuals out-of-state.