{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Kelly - Pharr Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":43.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"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"},{"teacherId":9434833,"projectId":10074667,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding our CPR project. Because of your generosity, my students are now getting hands-on experience practicing real-life lifesaving skills using our new CPR training equipment. When they first saw the mannequins and materials, their eyes lit up with excitement and curiosity. They couldn't wait to begin practicing chest compressions and learning how to respond in an emergency. One powerful moment was watching students confidently work in teams to practice proper compression depth and rhythm while encouraging one another. These resources have transformed our classroom into an interactive, skill-based learning environment. Our next steps include combining CPR skills with first aid scenarios, allowing students to apply what they've learned in realistic emergency simulations. Your support is truly helping build confident, capable, and prepared students who now know they can make a difference and potentially save a life.","fullyFundedDate":1771194228942,"projectUrl":"project/cpr-safety-and-first-aid-skills-for-fu/10074667/","projectTitle":"CPR, Safety, and First Aid Skills for Future Heroes","teacherDisplayName":"Coach Martinez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9434833_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1771522747904","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9434833"},{"teacherId":9434833,"projectId":9771377,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous donation, our running club is thriving with the new water bottles, string bags, and cones! When students first saw the materials, they were thrilled—excited to have their own water bottles and gear to use during practice. One special moment was during a recent club meet, when students set up cones to create their own running course and cheered each other on as they completed laps.\r\n\r\nThese resources are helping students stay hydrated, organized, and motivated while learning teamwork and perseverance. Next, we'll be using the agility ladder to create skill stations and timed challenges, giving students new goals to work toward and making every running club session more fun and engaging.","fullyFundedDate":1762267740029,"projectUrl":"project/building-endurance-and-teamwork-through/9771377/","projectTitle":"Building Endurance and Teamwork Through Running","teacherDisplayName":"Coach Martinez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9434833_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1771522747904","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9434833"},{"teacherId":9434833,"projectId":10025624,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous donation, our students are now enjoying the new pickleball paddles, which have brought energy, teamwork, and fun into our PE lessons. When they first saw the paddles, their faces lit up with excitement—they couldn't wait to try them out! One memorable moment was when students partnered up to practice serving and rallying, encouraging each other and celebrating every successful hit.\r\n\r\nThese paddles are already helping students improve hand-eye coordination, sportsmanship, and confidence. Next, we'll be incorporating structured games and skill challenges, giving students the chance to set goals, track progress, and enjoy active, healthy competition—all thanks to your support.","fullyFundedDate":1771194864415,"projectUrl":"project/active-skills-for-every-pe-student/10025624/","projectTitle":"Active Skills for Every PE Student","teacherDisplayName":"Coach Martinez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9434833_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1771522747904","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9434833"},{"teacherId":9851259,"projectId":10066951,"letterContent":"Your support has transformed our classroom in ways that go far beyond the pantry shelves. Students are actively using the new resources to sort donations, design organizational systems, and prepare food bags for families. One memorable moment was when a group of students worked together to create welcome notes to include in pantry packages—they wanted every family to feel encouraged and supported.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, students were eager and full of questions about how soon we could begin helping others. Their excitement quickly turned into action as they volunteered for roles and began planning improvements for the space.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, they are learning that leadership and kindness go hand in hand. Thank you for giving them this opportunity to serve.","fullyFundedDate":1770131150918,"projectUrl":"project/our-students-community-food-pantry-proj/10066951/","projectTitle":"Our Students’ Community Food Pantry Project","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":9434833,"projectId":10066852,"letterContent":"Because of your support of *Growing Kindness Through a Community Food Pantry*, our students have experienced learning in a powerful and meaningful way. We are using the new pantry supplies to stock shelves, sort donations, check expiration dates, and create organized systems to ensure families can easily access food items. One special moment was watching my students carefully set up the pantry for the first time—labeling shelves, arranging canned goods, and proudly stepping back to admire the space they helped create. They truly took ownership of the project.\r\n\r\nWhen they first saw the materials arrive, their faces lit up with excitement. They immediately began talking about how many families we could help and volunteered for different responsibilities. It was incredible to see their empathy and teamwork shine so naturally.\r\n\r\nThey are learning that small acts of kindness can create a big impact, and that they have the power to make a difference in our community. Thank you for making this opportunity possible.","fullyFundedDate":1770130234401,"projectUrl":"project/growing-kindness-through-a-community-foo/10066852/","projectTitle":"Growing Kindness Through a Community Food Pantry","teacherDisplayName":"Coach Martinez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9434833_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1771522747904","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9434833"},{"teacherId":6753453,"projectId":10079687,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project, \"Students Leading a Community Food Support Project.\" Your generosity has made it possible for our students to take an active role in serving others and learning the true meaning of compassion, responsibility, and leadership.\r\n\r\nWith your support, students have been organizing, sorting, and preparing food items to help families in need within our community. They have taken ownership of the project—creating plans, working collaboratively, and reflecting on how their actions make a difference. Seeing their pride and excitement as they realized they were helping real families has been incredibly powerful.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, students were eager and full of questions about how we would begin. They immediately understood that this project was about more than a lesson—it was about making an impact. Many shared that it made them feel proud to be leaders and helpers in their community.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, our classroom has become a place where academics and service come together. Thank you for believing in our students and empowering them to lead with kindness and purpose. Your support is helping shape caring, thoughtful leaders for the future.","fullyFundedDate":1770398609898,"projectUrl":"project/students-leading-a-community-food-suppor/10079687/","projectTitle":"Students Leading a Community Food Support Project","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Monica Garcia","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6753453"},{"teacherId":9705418,"projectId":9980619,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting \"Discovering Chinese New Year Through Books and Creativity.\" Because of you, my students explored the holiday through read alouds, close reading lessons, and meaningful discussions using our new books. They created lantern crafts and decorated our classroom with paper lanterns and festive supplies, turning it into a space full of color and learning. When the materials arrived, their faces lit up. One of my favorite moments was watching them proudly share the meaning behind their lantern designs with classmates.\r\n\r\nWe also ordered food from our local Panda Express and enjoyed orange chicken, teriyaki chicken, rice, and Chow Mein. Students practiced using chopsticks and each had a fortune cookie, which led to great conversations about traditions and symbolism. Our entire fourth grade level participated in this experience thanks to DonorsChoose. Next, students are writing informational paragraphs using text evidence from our books to explain the importance of Lunar New Year traditions. Your support made this learning real and unforgettable.","fullyFundedDate":1769707682060,"projectUrl":"project/exploring-chinese-new-year-with-books-c/9980619/","projectTitle":"Exploring Chinese New Year With Books, Crafts, and Culture","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Y. Diaz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9705418_orig.jpg?crop=768,769,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1724549778738","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ydiaz3rd"},{"teacherId":9701016,"projectId":9835830,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting Cooking Up Life Skills in Fourth Grade. Because of you, my students have been able to use the toaster oven, griddle, and cooking tools during small group rotations tied to math and science. We recently practiced measuring ingredients while reviewing fractions, then observed how heat changed our ingredients from solid to melted. When the appliances arrived, my students were wide-eyed and full of questions. They were excited, but also serious about learning the safety rules and responsibilities that come with using real equipment.\r\n\r\nWith reading, writing, math, science, and social studies filling our days, we have carved out intentional time to practice these skills in short, meaningful lessons. Next, students will design simple investigations comparing cooking methods and record temperature data to connect to our science standards. They will also write procedural texts explaining each step of a recipe. Your support is helping us build confidence, responsibility, and real-world problem-solving skills that go far beyond the classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1763498163210,"projectUrl":"project/cooking-up-life-skills-in-fourth-grade/9835830/","projectTitle":"Cooking Up Life Skills in Fourth Grade","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":9701016,"projectId":9980517,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting \"Experiencing Chinese New Year Through Books and Crafts.\" Because of you, our classroom turned into a space filled with bright lanterns, meaningful discussions, and hands-on learning. We began by reading Bringing In the New Year and Holidays Around the World: Celebrate Chinese New Year, and students were excited to connect the stories to the decorations and craft kits. When they first saw the lantern supplies and table setups, they immediately started asking questions about the symbols and traditions. One of my favorite moments was watching them carefully build their lanterns while discussing why red is considered lucky and what the chocolate coins represent.\r\n\r\nThese resources have helped my students move beyond simply reading about a holiday to actually understanding its cultural meaning. Next, we are working on comparing Chinese New Year traditions with other global celebrations and writing short informational responses about what they learned. Students are using their notes from our readings and discussions to support their thinking. Your generosity made this experience interactive and meaningful, and my students are walking away with a deeper appreciation for cultures around the world.","fullyFundedDate":1769570062535,"projectUrl":"project/experiencing-chinese-new-year-through-bo/9980517/","projectTitle":"Experiencing Chinese New Year Through Books and Crafts","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"}],"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":56.7,"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"}