{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Kelly - Pharr Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":43.4,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10255108,"projectId":9712131,"letterContent":"These new books have made a meaningful difference in my students' learning and engagement. Through them, students are building important reading skills like comprehension, making predictions, and connecting stories to their own lives in a more engaging way.\r\n\r\nReading is interactive and student-centered. Students work in small groups, share ideas with partners, and explore books that interest them, helping them grow both their skills and confidence. Several students, especially those who were once hesitant, have become more excited about reading.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping create a classroom where students can truly enjoy and grow through reading!","fullyFundedDate":1767653879541,"projectUrl":"project/building-early-literacy-skills-through-b/9712131/","projectTitle":"Building Early Literacy Skills Through Books","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Rivera","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10255108"},{"teacherId":10401558,"projectId":10007452,"letterContent":"I am truly excited and deeply grateful for your generous donation of these highly requested books. These titles are often difficult to purchase due to their popularity—especially when trying to acquire them in Spanish. As a Title I school with over 99% of our students identified as economically disadvantaged, our library budget is very limited. This means that purchasing Spanish-language books, which are so essential for many of our students, is often a luxury we simply cannot afford.\r\nWith that said, I cannot express enough how thankful I am. Students who read in Spanish will now have the opportunity to check out books in their native tongue. This donation will have a profound impact on their literacy development and confidence. Being able to read popular, high‑interest books in their own language helps students expand their vocabulary, strengthen comprehension skills, and most importantly, feel seen and supported. As we all know, language is one thing, and education is another—but the power of education transfers across languages, and providing meaningful reading opportunities helps nurture a lasting love for learning.\r\nHaving access to popular titles that they previously could not find in Spanish gives our students a sense of belonging and inclusion in the reading community. Popular books are often unavailable in Spanish, which is why your donation will have such a significant and lasting impact. Thank you for supporting our students and for helping us build a library that truly reflects and celebrates the diverse needs of our readers.\r\n\r\nWith heartfelt appreciation,\r\nConcepción Gonzalez\r\nLibrarian, Kelly- Pharr Elementary","fullyFundedDate":1768669053160,"projectUrl":"project/expanding-our-library-with-spanish-wimpy/10007452/","projectTitle":"Expanding Our Library With Spanish Wimpy Kid Books","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. C. Gonzalez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10401558_orig.jpg?crop=501,501,x0,y20&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1768063100136","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10401558"},{"teacherId":5734973,"projectId":10100026,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom now has a dedicated space where students can quietly access the hygiene supplies they need. We introduced the materials during a short health and wellness talk focused on self-care, confidence, and respecting one another's privacy. One meaningful moment was when a student, who had previously asked to go home due to discomfort, was able to stay in class, take care of their needs, and continue learning with confidence.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the materials, many expressed relief and gratitude. Some shared that they had worried about these situations before, and knowing they now have access to these resources at school made them feel safe and supported.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, we will continue incorporating health and wellness into our classroom conversations by teaching students about personal responsibility, hygiene, and self-confidence in age-appropriate ways. These resources will remain available throughout the year, ensuring that students can focus on their academic goals without unnecessary stress. Thanks to you, our students are not only learning they are thriving with dignity and confidence.","fullyFundedDate":1771979374029,"projectUrl":"project/clean-confident-and-ready-to-learn/10100026/","projectTitle":"Clean, Confident, and Ready to Learn","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Cindy Martinez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5734973_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1725950357614","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-cindysalinas"},{"teacherId":5734973,"projectId":10129177,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has transformed into a space filled with warmth, care, and comfort. The hygiene products have been organized into discrete individual kits, allowing students to confidently access what they need without worry. I've already seen meaningful moments students quietly taking what they need and returning to class with a renewed sense of confidence and focus. One student shared how having their own hygiene items made them feel \"ready for the day,\" which truly touched my heart.\r\n\r\nThe food and snacks have also made an immediate impact. Students who once struggled to stay focused due to hunger are now able to fully engage in lessons. During a recent activity, I noticed increased participation and energy, especially from students who had a quick snack beforehand. When the materials first arrived, students were genuinely excited and grateful many expressed appreciation in ways that showed just how much these resources meant to them.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, we are now able to continue building a classroom environment where basic needs are met, allowing learning to thrive. Moving forward, we will incorporate these supports into our daily routines while continuing to focus on academic growth, collaboration, and social-emotional learning. Your generosity has not only provided resources but has also given our students a sense of dignity, stability, and hope.","fullyFundedDate":1773322044818,"projectUrl":"project/hygiene-and-food-for-student-support/10129177/","projectTitle":"Hygiene and Food for Student Support","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Cindy Martinez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5734973_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1725950357614","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-cindysalinas"},{"teacherId":5734973,"projectId":9894289,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom store is now in full operation, and students are actively earning and spending classroom currency. They are using the wireless mice during technology time and carefully budgeting their earnings to purchase snacks or save for bigger rewards. One special moment was watching students calculate totals and proudly decide to save instead of spend. When the materials first arrived, their excitement filled the room they immediately began planning their financial goals. Next, we will track spending habits, set savings targets, and reflect on needs versus wants to deepen their understanding of responsible money management.","fullyFundedDate":1771008498884,"projectUrl":"project/money-matters-building-financial-litera/9894289/","projectTitle":"Money Matters: Building Financial Literacy Through a Classroom Store","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Cindy Martinez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5734973_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1725950357614","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-cindysalinas"},{"teacherId":9701016,"projectId":10076518,"letterContent":"Your support has made a tangible difference in our classroom and beyond. As the food and tote bags were received, my students were amazed and immediately asked, \"When do we start?\" They assisted in unloading, sorting, and organizing all of the food into categories such as pasta, rice dishes, canned goods, cereal cups, and snacks. One of the most impactful experiences was watching them think about how to assemble the food packs to ensure that all families received a balanced and useful food item. These were not just food packs; they were thinking about the families that would receive these food packs and enjoy the food inside. \r\n\r\nThe food pantry is currently being used as a service project. My students are tracking the food, calculating how many food packs we can assemble, and coordinating with the school staff to distribute the food. Next, they will be reflecting on the difference they are making and creating goals to sustain this food pantry. Your support has helped my students understand that service is not just about giving, but about planning, teamwork, and heart, and that they are making a difference.","fullyFundedDate":1770666455993,"projectUrl":"project/fourth-graders-leading-a-community-food/10076518/","projectTitle":"Fourth Graders Leading a Community Food Support Project","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. P. Castro","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9701016_orig.jpg?crop=1365,1365,x341,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1724471657167","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/pcastro2nd"},{"teacherId":9851259,"projectId":10066992,"letterContent":"Beyond literacy growth, this project has strengthened our classroom community. Students are recommending books to one another, sharing favorite quotes, and celebrating when someone finishes a challenging biography. They see themselves in these stories. They feel represented. They feel motivated. And that sense of ownership over their learning is priceless.\r\n\r\nPlease know that your generosity has created something lasting. You have built more than a shelf library — you have built confidence, curiosity, and connection. You have shown our students that people outside their classroom believe in them and are willing to invest in their future. That message matters deeply.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our vision. Thank you for supporting literacy in a way that speaks directly to our students' interests. Thank you for helping us build a space where sports and reading come together to inspire greatness. Your kindness will continue to echo through every page turned and every goal achieved.","fullyFundedDate":1771194978208,"projectUrl":"project/building-a-shelf-library-for-sports-read/10066992/","projectTitle":"Building a Shelf Library for Sports Readers","teacherDisplayName":"Coach De La Garza","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9851259_orig.jpg?crop=708,708,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733082633791","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9851259"},{"teacherId":9851259,"projectId":10074711,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for fully funding our CPR materials project! Because of your incredible generosity, my 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students now have access to professional, hands-on training equipment that is already transforming our learning environment. When the boxes arrived, the excitement in the room was unforgettable. Students immediately began asking thoughtful questions about how CPR works, why compression depth matters, and how they could use these skills to help someone in an emergency.\r\n\r\nYour support is doing more than funding materials; it is empowering young learners with life-saving knowledge. My students are beginning to understand that even at their age, they can learn skills that truly make a difference. They are cheering each other on, correcting technique respectfully, and taking pride in mastering something important.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, our classroom is filled with energy, curiosity, and purpose. You have helped create an experience that goes beyond a typical lesson and becomes a lasting memory. The impact of your generosity will stay with these students for years to come, and I am deeply grateful for your investment in their growth, confidence, and ability to help others.","fullyFundedDate":1771193810787,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-students-through-cpr-safety/10074711/","projectTitle":"Empowering Students Through CPR, Safety, and First Aid","teacherDisplayName":"Coach De La Garza","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9851259_orig.jpg?crop=708,708,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733082633791","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9851259"},{"teacherId":6753453,"projectId":10031979,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom has been transformed in the most meaningful way. The new resources have allowed my students to engage in hands-on, collaborative learning that truly brings lessons to life. We recently used the materials during a small-group reading rotation, and I watched students who typically struggle with focus become fully engaged and excited to participate. One of my quieter students even volunteered to lead her group discussion — a huge moment of growth and confidence!\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, their faces lit up with excitement. They immediately started asking, \"When do we get to use this?\" and \"Is this really for our class?\" They felt special and valued knowing that people beyond our school care about their success.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, learning feels fresh and motivating. Our next steps include using these resources to support project-based learning activities and differentiated instruction so that every child's needs are met. We are building stronger reading, writing, and collaboration skills each day, and your support is at the heart of that growth.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students and investing in their future. Your generosity is making a lasting difference in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1771191846997,"projectUrl":"project/flexible-seating-and-books-to-build-inde/10031979/","projectTitle":"Flexible Seating and Books to Build Independent Readers","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Monica Garcia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6753453"},{"teacherId":10211528,"projectId":9981480,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity and support of our classroom. Because of you, our learning space has been transformed into a warm, welcoming environment where students feel calm, safe, and inspired. The bean bag chair has quickly become a favorite flexible seating option during independent reading and reflection time. The neon wall lights and new clock have added both personality and structure to our space, helping students manage their time while feeling proud of their classroom. The fish sensory tube and other sensory items have been especially meaningful—they've created a calming corner where students can reset, regulate their emotions, and return to learning ready to succeed.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, my students were absolutely amazed. Their faces lit up as they explored each item, and they immediately began talking about how \"cozy\" and \"cool\" our classroom felt. One special moment happened during our group rotations: a student who sometimes struggles to stay focused, became overwhelmed and chose to sit in the bean bag chair near the sensory tube. After a few calming minutes watching the fish gently float, he was able to return to his group and complete an assignment independently—something that would normally take longer to complete or wouldn't complete it at all because he would shut down. It was such a powerful reminder of how environment truly impacts learning.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, we are continuing to build independence and self-regulation skills. Students are learning how to choose the tools they need to support their focus and emotional well-being while working on assignments or independent tasks. Your generosity has not only provided materials—it has created opportunities for growth, comfort, and joy in our classroom. We are so grateful for your kindness and belief in our students. Thank you for making a lasting difference!","fullyFundedDate":1769788207722,"projectUrl":"project/supporting-student-success-with-comfort/9981480/","projectTitle":"Supporting Student Success with Comfort and Care","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. De Hoyos","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10211528"},{"teacherId":10211528,"projectId":9669372,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support to our project. Working with students who have special needs is incredibly self-rewarding, and I feel privileged every day to witness their growth, resilience, and joy in learning. At the same time, meeting each of their unique academic, sensory, and emotional needs can be challenging—especially when classroom funds are limited. Your contributions have made a meaningful difference in bridging that gap. Because of you, our classroom continues to be a safe, welcoming space where every student has an equal opportunity to learn, explore, and succeed.\r\n\r\nWe have already begun putting up and using the items in our classroom. One special moment that truly stood out was during sensory time, students were very amazed and relaxed with the fish sensory tube. Their tranquility is vital to ensuring they stay motivated and engaged with learning and their over all well being. The excitement on their face was unforgettable. When the students first saw the materials, their eyes lit up—they immediately wanted to explore, touch, and ask questions. Their enthusiasm reminded me just how powerful the right tools can be in sparking motivation, confidence and most importantly, happiness when walking into their classroom.\r\n\r\nAs we move forward, we will continue incorporating these items into our differentiated instruction, as well as into sensory-support activities that help students regulate and focus. Our next steps include applying these items to student's IEPs to see which will help demonstrate progress and growth by using sticker charts, rotations with sensory items and calming techniques when needed. Because of your generosity, my students are not only gaining access to high-quality resources, but they are also building independence, confidence, and a deeper love of learning. Thank you for investing in our classroom and in the bright futures of these incredible students. Your kindness truly makes a lasting impact.","fullyFundedDate":1764695366613,"projectUrl":"project/a-colorful-and-organized-learning-enviro/9669372/","projectTitle":"A Colorful and Organized Learning Environment","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. De Hoyos","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10211528"},{"teacherId":5734973,"projectId":10078073,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students were able to bring learning to life by creating a student-led food pantry to serve families in our school community. Using the supplies from this project, students organized shelves, sorted donated items, created bilingual labels, and prepared care bags for families in need. One of the most meaningful moments was watching students proudly welcome parents and classmates as they helped distribute food, explaining in both English and Spanish how the pantry works.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, students were beyond excited. They couldn't wait to unpack the boxes and immediately began brainstorming ways to help others. Many shared stories about neighbors and relatives who could benefit, which made the project feel personal and powerful.\r\n\r\nNext, students are tracking inventory, planning food drives, and connecting the pantry to lessons on community service, math, and responsibility. Your support didn't just provide food—it empowered students to become compassionate leaders.","fullyFundedDate":1770391532589,"projectUrl":"project/students-leading-the-way-creating-a-com/10078073/","projectTitle":"Students Leading the Way: Creating a Community Food Pantry","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Cindy Martinez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5734973_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1725950357614","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-cindysalinas"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_8807","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":629,"numTeachers":42,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":0,"percentWhite":1,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":98,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"15.0:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_SMALL"},"inStateSupporters":56.6,"schoolId":8807,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Kelly - Pharr Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Kelly - Pharr Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/texas/pharr-san-juan-alamo-independent-school-district/pharr-elementary-school/8807"}
Join the 445 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Kelly - Pharr Elementary School is
an urban public school
in Pharr, Texas that is part of Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District.
It serves 629 students
in grades Pre-K - 5 with a student/teacher ratio of 15.0:1.
Its teachers have had 332 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Share and help support Kelly - Pharr Elementary School
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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
98%
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.
Kelly - Pharr Elementary School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Apr 7, 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.
Kelly - Pharr Elementary School
$93,096
raised using DonorsChoose
332
projects
funded
49
teachers
funded
445
donors
62
projects
for
basic supplies
36
projects for
technology
74
projects for
books
20
projects
for
art supplies
Kelly - Pharr Elementary School has received support from
252 individuals from Texas and
193 individuals out-of-state.