{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Arnoldo Cantu Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":28.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":4234321,"projectId":9359351,"letterContent":"Thanks to your incredible support, our classroom now has a whiteboard— and the impact has been amazing!\r\nEvery day during math, reading, and even science, my students are able to see the lesson come to life and even go and take the role of the teacher. Whether we're solving math problems, practicing spelling words, or drawing models for a story, this whiteboard has made learning more hands-on and exciting. One moment that really stood out was during a math warm-up: I asked a question and the excitement and eagerness to come up and share was contagious!\r\nFrom the bottom of our hearts, thank you for believing in our students.","fullyFundedDate":1757903267478,"projectUrl":"project/small-group-visuals/9359351/","projectTitle":"Small Group Visuals","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Escamilla","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4234321_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1485389846087","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4234321"},{"teacherId":8855216,"projectId":9287887,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation to our classroom! Your support provided us with new dry-erase markers and erasers, and they are already making a huge difference in our math lessons.These simple tools help my students practice problem-solving, show their thinking, and try again without feeling discouraged. Having bright, reliable markers and clean erasers makes our whiteboard work more engaging and helps students stay focused and confident as they learn new math skills.\r\n\r\nYour kindness gives my students the chance to participate more actively and joyfully every day. We are truly grateful for your support and for believing in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1746785360398,"projectUrl":"project/eureka-math-masters-markers-and-erasers/9287887/","projectTitle":"Eureka Math Masters: Markers and Erasers for Success!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. B. Alaniz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8855216_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1745376849066","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsbeegarza"},{"teacherId":8855216,"projectId":9244186,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our classroom art project! Because of your donation, my students now have beautiful new paintbrushes, paints, and art supplies that they are already excited to use.\r\n\r\nThese materials will help my students explore their creativity, express their ideas, and feel proud of the artwork they create. Many of them have never had access to high-quality art supplies before, and seeing their faces light up when they opened the materials was incredibly special.\r\n\r\nYour kindness is making our art lessons more meaningful and inspiring, and it reminds my students that people believe in them and their potential. We are truly grateful for your support.","fullyFundedDate":1746785309388,"projectUrl":"project/creating-with-color-inspiring-young-art/9244186/","projectTitle":"Creating with Color: Inspiring Young Artists!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. B. Alaniz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8855216_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1745376849066","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsbeegarza"},{"teacherId":7860021,"projectId":9589164,"letterContent":"Thanks to your incredible generosity, my counseling office has become an even more welcoming and supportive space for students. The new books, tactile fidget pads, sensory toys, and brochure holder have made a lasting impact on the way students experience counseling sessions. Each item you helped provide has allowed me to create an environment that encourages learning, emotional regulation, and open communication. Your support has truly helped me meet the diverse social and emotional needs of our students, and I am so grateful for your contribution.\r\n\r\nThe books have played a powerful role in helping students build emotional awareness, empathy, and communication skills. During individual and group sessions, I use these stories to introduce important lessons about friendship, managing emotions, problem-solving, and self-esteem. Many students relate deeply to the characters and situations in these books, which helps them talk about their own experiences more comfortably. Through guided discussions and reflections, students are learning how to identify feelings, make positive choices, and express themselves in healthy ways. It's amazing to see how their confidence grows with each session especially for students who were once shy or hesitant to speak up.\r\n\r\nIn my office, reading is not just about the words on the page it's about connection. Students sit together on the rug or at our counseling table, listening intently and sharing their thoughts about the story. Sometimes they draw or write about what they learned, and other times we role-play the situations from the books to practice real-life social skills. The books have opened the door to meaningful conversations that might not have happened otherwise. Watching students make connections between the stories and their own feelings has been one of the most rewarding parts of this project.\r\n\r\nThe tactile fidget pads and sensory toys have also been an incredible addition to the counseling office. These tools give students a calming outlet to manage anxiety, restlessness, or frustration during sessions. Many children reach for a fidget pad as soon as they sit down it helps them relax and focus on the conversation. For some students, especially those who struggle with self-regulation, these sensory items provide the comfort and grounding they need to fully engage in counseling activities. I've noticed that students are now able to stay in sessions longer and participate more openly because they feel comfortable and at ease.\r\n\r\nThe brochure holder has helped me stay organized and provide accessible resources for families and staff. I use it to display brochures on mental health, coping strategies, and community services so parents and teachers can easily find information to support students outside of school. It's a small but meaningful change that has made my counseling office more welcoming and professional.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, my office has become a safe, nurturing space where students can learn, grow, and heal. You've helped create a place where children feel heard, supported, and empowered to develop lifelong social and emotional skills. Thank you for believing in the importance of counseling and for giving our students the tools they need to thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1755463091250,"projectUrl":"project/tools-for-a-peaceful-mind/9589164/","projectTitle":"Tools for a Peaceful Mind","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Orozco","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7860021_orig.png?crop=979,979,x0,y437&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1680710531301","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7860021"},{"teacherId":4234321,"projectId":9355633,"letterContent":"As the school year has once again began, I am thrilled to start sharing my love for chapter books with my second graders. Every school year a new group of students enter our classrooms and are a reflection of what we do and say. I have already began reading chapter books with them in class and will now be allowing them to select their own book to read. The students loved book 1 from the Junie B. Jones collection and are now ready to move on to reading others independently. The Amelia Bedilia book set will teach them so much about figurative language. They are sure to love them as much as I do. Once again, thank you so much for your donation and making this possible.","fullyFundedDate":1747431866413,"projectUrl":"project/take-me-away-with-a-good-book/9355633/","projectTitle":"Take Me Away With A Good Book","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Escamilla","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4234321_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1485389846087","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4234321"},{"teacherId":4234321,"projectId":9299009,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your donation! You have no idea how excited the students were when they saw boxes being delivered to our classroom. When I told them they were games so that we could enjoy a field day with our friends and families they couldn't stop smiling.\r\n The students were able to plan a variety of activities to have available for our field day. They were able to play games, sit and relax a bit, and even enjoy some refreshing ice pops. It was a very busy and engaging day. \r\n The best part is that these resources will be used over and over again! Once again, thank you so much for your generous donation, this would not have been possible if it weren't for you.","fullyFundedDate":1748008390317,"projectUrl":"project/community-field-day-service/9299009/","projectTitle":"Community (Field Day) Service","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Escamilla","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4234321_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1485389846087","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4234321"},{"teacherId":8855216,"projectId":9384619,"letterContent":"I want to extend our heartfelt thanks for your generous donation of wireless headphones and a portable monitor. Your support has made a tangible difference in enhancing our learning and working environment.\r\n\r\nThe headphones has been helping reduce distractions and improve focus. The portable monitor has added a level of flexibility and efficiency that allows me to be more productive and better support my students.\r\n\r\nYour generosity not only provided valuable tools but also reminded us that we have a community that believes in the power of education and innovation. Thank you for making a meaningful impact in my classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1749260601963,"projectUrl":"project/access-for-all-tech-tools-for-inclusive/9384619/","projectTitle":"Access for All: Tech Tools for Inclusive Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. B. Alaniz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8855216_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1745376849066","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsbeegarza"},{"teacherId":8855216,"projectId":9252949,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful donation! The math tools you provided—especially the Expo markers—have made a huge difference in our classroom.\r\n\r\nThanks to your support, my students are now more engaged than ever during math lessons. Whether they're solving problems on their whiteboards during small group instruction or working through equations together at the carpet, the Expo markers allow them to participate actively and confidently. Having the right tools helps them take ownership of their learning—and they love using them!\r\n\r\nIt may seem like a small supply, but these markers have helped make math feel more fun, hands-on, and interactive. Your generosity is helping build strong math foundations for eager young learners, and we are truly grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1746785263166,"projectUrl":"project/hands-on-math-tools-for-learning-and-su/9252949/","projectTitle":"Hands-On Math: Tools for Learning and Success!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. B. Alaniz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8855216_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1745376849066","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsbeegarza"},{"teacherId":8855216,"projectId":9227609,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping bring new books into our classroom. You may not see it every day, but your support has made a real difference for my students.\r\n\r\nThese books aren't just stories—they've become tools for thinking, talking, and growing. We've been using them to build reading skills like identifying themes, making inferences, and understanding different points of view. But more than that, they've sparked excitement, curiosity, and real connection.\r\n\r\nIn our room, reading doesn't just mean being quiet with a book (though we definitely have those cozy, focused moments). It looks like students leaning in close to read aloud together, jotting down questions on sticky notes, or sitting in a circle debating a character's choices. They're laughing, wondering, and sometimes even challenging each other's thinking—in the best way.\r\n\r\nThere's one student in particular who used to dread reading time. Since we added a few graphic novels to our shelves, everything has changed. Now, they're not only reading—they're recommending books to classmates. Another student who rarely spoke up in class shared a powerful connection they felt with a character, and it led to one of our most meaningful discussions all year.\r\n\r\nYou helped make that happen. These books are opening doors for my students, and I'm so grateful you're part of that.","fullyFundedDate":1745375370277,"projectUrl":"project/bridging-the-gap-to-independent-reading/9227609/","projectTitle":"Bridging the Gap to Independent Reading for My Firsties","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. B. Alaniz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8855216_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1745376849066","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsbeegarza"},{"teacherId":8855216,"projectId":8755000,"letterContent":"Thanks to your incredible support, our classroom is now fully stocked with whiteboards and fresh Expo markers — and the impact has been amazing! \r\n\r\nEvery day during math, reading, and even science, my students grab their whiteboards and get right to work. Whether we're solving Eureka Math problems, practicing spelling words, or drawing models for a story, these tools have made learning more hands-on and exciting. One moment that really stood out was during a math warm-up: I asked a question, and instantly, I saw a sea of little boards popping up proudly with answers — the excitement and eagerness to share were contagious!\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the new markers and boards, their faces lit up. They were so excited to have tools that worked easily and didn't dry out after one use. It gave them a sense of pride in their work, knowing they had real materials that made them feel like \"big kids\" doing important work.\r\n\r\nFrom the bottom of our hearts, thank you for believing in our students and giving them the tools they need to succeed every day!","fullyFundedDate":1731960563003,"projectUrl":"project/math-tools-for-my-first-graders/8755000/","projectTitle":"Math Tools for My First Graders","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. B. Alaniz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8855216_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1745376849066","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsbeegarza"},{"teacherId":8855216,"projectId":8325731,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom now has a *Soothing Sand Space*—and my students absolutely love it! The moment they saw the sand table, they couldn't wait to explore. One student said, \"This makes me feel calm and happy!\"\r\n\r\nWe've been using the sand table during calm-down times and literacy centers. Students trace letters and words in the sand, helping them relax while reinforcing important skills. It's also been a great tool for students who need a sensory break during the day.\r\n\r\nNext, we'll use it for themed activities tied to our reading and science units. Thank you for making such a meaningful difference in our classroom!","fullyFundedDate":1718994665481,"projectUrl":"project/sand-and-water-table-for-little-explorer/8325731/","projectTitle":"Sand and Water Table for Little Explorers","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. B. Alaniz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8855216_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1745376849066","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsbeegarza"},{"teacherId":8855216,"projectId":8934316,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our STEM project! The LEGO kits have completely transformed our classroom into a hub of creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. From the moment my first graders saw the materials, their eyes lit up with excitement—they could hardly believe they were allowed to build during class time! One student exclaimed, \"This is like playing, but for school!\" and that joy has stayed with them ever since.\r\n\r\nWe've been using the LEGOs during our STEM rotations and for special problem-solving challenges. One of our favorite classroom projects so far was designing a \"Safe Animal Habitat.\" Students had to work in teams to build shelters for different toy animals, considering space, protection, and structure stability. It was incredible to see them discuss their ideas, revise their plans, and proudly present their creations. These materials have not only sparked engineering skills, but they've also helped strengthen teamwork, perseverance, and confidence in each student.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we're beginning a new unit on simple machines, and the students are eager to use the LEGO kits to create working models of levers, pulleys, and wheels. Your donation has opened the door to hands-on learning that makes abstract concepts real and exciting. We are so grateful for your kindness and investment in our classroom—thank you for helping our little engineers dream big!","fullyFundedDate":1741558254034,"projectUrl":"project/stem-tastic-builders-building-brick-cha/8934316/","projectTitle":"STEM-tastic Builders: Building Brick Challenges Kits for First Grade","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. B. Alaniz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8855216_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1745376849066","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsbeegarza"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_8199","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":612,"numTeachers":39,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":0,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":99,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"15.7:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":71.7,"schoolId":8199,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Arnoldo Cantu Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Arnoldo Cantu Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/texas/pharr-san-juan-alamo-independent-school-district/north-san-juan-elementary-school/8199"}
Join the 60 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Arnoldo Cantu Elementary School is
a suburban public school
in San Juan, Texas that is part of Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District.
It serves 612 students
in grades Pre-K - 5 with a student/teacher ratio of 15.7:1.
Its teachers have had 41 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Boost support for our school's classrooms. Share this page with friends and family who want to make a difference. If you're a teacher, sign up to get started!
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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.
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
99%
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.
Arnoldo Cantu Elementary School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Dec 4, 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.
Arnoldo Cantu Elementary School
$15,320
raised using DonorsChoose
41
projects
funded
11
teachers
funded
60
donors
8
projects
for
basic supplies
9
projects for
technology
6
projects for
books
2
projects
for
art supplies
Arnoldo Cantu Elementary School has received support from
43 individuals from Texas and
17 individuals out-of-state.