{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Kelly - Pharr Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":43.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9281333,"projectId":9673451,"letterContent":"The new books have brought excitement and engagement to reading in our classroom while helping students strengthen important literacy skills such as reading fluency, comprehension and vocabulary. Reading in our classroom includes independent reading, partner reading, small-group discussions, and teacher-guided activities where students practice making predictions, asking questions, analyzing characters, and sharing their thinking. Many students, especially reluctant readers, have been especially excited about these books because of the humor, illustrations, and the popularity of these characters. Students who may not typically choose a book on their own are eager to read, discuss the stories. \r\n\r\nThank you for your generosity and support. Your kindness is making a meaningful difference in their learning journey.","fullyFundedDate":1767209303971,"projectUrl":"project/rolling-into-reading-with-dog-man-and-ca/9673451/","projectTitle":"Rolling Into Reading With Dog Man and Cat Kid","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. J. Alvarez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9281333_orig.jpg?crop=578,579,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1694988142666","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/jalvarez3rd"},{"teacherId":5048768,"projectId":7824445,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, my students now have some of their most anticipated reads in our school library. We have a system in our classroom, for every book read, the students write a small synopsis of the book, they write about what they liked or did not like about it, they fill out their recommendation based on 5 stars. When they are critiquing a book, they must mention character traits or events to support their critique (without spoiling the read for others). \r\n\r\nReading in our classroom is active, collaborative, and joyful. Students participate in read-alouds, partner reading, small group discussions, and independent reading time. It is common to see students recommending books to one another, discussing favorite characters, or eagerly waiting for their turn to read a popular title. The classroom library has become a space where students feel comfortable exploring books that match both their reading levels and personal interests.","fullyFundedDate":1694813923845,"projectUrl":"project/literacy-is-my-power/7824445/","projectTitle":"Literacy Is My Power!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Joanna Lynn Molina","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5048768_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1696774572804","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/joannalynn"},{"teacherId":9278116,"projectId":10027729,"letterContent":"My students were SO excited when they first saw the materials for our project, \"Digging into STEM: Edible Soil Layers!\" The second they realized we were going to learn about soil layers using a fun hands-on activity they could actually eat afterward, the classroom was full of smiles, questions, and excitement. They loved building each soil level and seeing how the layers worked together. It turned a science lesson into an experience they will definitely remember!\r\n\r\nThis project helped my students truly understand the different soil layers in a way that felt creative and interactive instead of just reading about it in a book. They were completely engaged from start to finish and loved comparing their \"soil creations\" with their classmates. The edible visual made learning feel like a fun challenge, and it encouraged even my quieter students to participate and share what they learned during \"Digging into STEM: Edible Soil Layers!\"\r\n\r\nThe best part was hearing students say things like, \"This is the best science lesson ever!\" and watching their faces light up when they got to enjoy their projects afterward. Your support brought learning to life in such a meaningful (and delicious!) way. Thank you for helping make \"Digging into STEM: Edible Soil Layers!\" such an unforgettable hands-on experience for my students!","fullyFundedDate":1776108425447,"projectUrl":"project/digging-into-stem-edible-soil-layers/10027729/","projectTitle":"Digging into STEM: Edible Soil Layers!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Vera","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9278116_orig.jpg?crop=350,350,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1694738068447","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/perla-vera"},{"teacherId":7571744,"projectId":9825973,"letterContent":"Tools for Tiny Thinkers has made a tremendous impact in my classroom and has helped create a more engaging, hands-on, and confidence-building learning environment for my students. The materials we received, including the big pencils, crayons, and LCD writing boards, have become essential tools that support daily learning and student success. These resources may seem simple, but for young learners, they have made a huge difference in both academic growth and classroom excitement.\r\n\r\nThe oversized pencils have been especially beneficial for my students who are still developing fine motor skills. Many of my students struggled at the beginning of the year with proper pencil grip and writing stamina. The larger pencils are easier for little hands to hold and control, allowing students to focus more on forming letters and numbers correctly instead of becoming frustrated with traditional-sized pencils. I have noticed increased confidence in students who once hesitated to write independently. They are now more willing to participate in writing activities, practice their names, complete journals, and work on phonics and math activities because they feel successful.\r\n\r\nThe crayons have also brought so much joy and creativity into our classroom. Young students learn best through visual and hands-on experiences, and having quality crayons available every day has allowed students to fully participate in activities that support reading, math, science, and social studies lessons. Students use the crayons to illustrate stories, sort and identify colors, create maps, complete anchor activities, and demonstrate understanding through pictures. Coloring activities have also encouraged students to slow down, focus, and develop hand strength and coordination. These seemingly small moments are helping students build important foundational skills they will use for years to come.\r\n\r\nOne of the most exciting tools for my students has been the LCD writing boards. These boards have completely transformed participation and engagement during lessons. Students absolutely love using them because they feel fun, interactive, and pressure-free. The boards allow students to practice writing letters, numbers, sight words, and solving math problems without fear of making mistakes. Because work can be erased instantly, students are more willing to take risks and try again. This has created a classroom environment where mistakes are viewed as part of learning rather than something to be embarrassed about.\r\n\r\nThe LCD writing boards have also increased participation from students who are typically shy or reluctant to answer aloud. During whole-group instruction, every student can write and display their answer at the same time, giving all students an equal opportunity to participate. I can quickly assess understanding, provide immediate feedback, and adjust instruction based on student needs. The boards have turned lessons into exciting interactive experiences where students are eager to contribute and stay engaged.\r\n\r\nBeyond academics, these supplies have helped create a positive classroom culture. My students are excited to come to school each day because they know they will have opportunities to use special tools that make learning fun and meaningful. The materials have encouraged collaboration, creativity, and independence while helping students build confidence in themselves as learners.\r\n\r\nAs a teacher, I am incredibly grateful for the generosity that made these resources possible. The support from donors has directly impacted my students by giving them tools that meet their developmental needs and inspire a love for learning. Every crayon stroke, every practiced letter, and every solved math problem represents growth and opportunity for my students. Thank you for investing in our classroom and helping provide meaningful learning experiences that our students will remember long after this school year ends.","fullyFundedDate":1770958462690,"projectUrl":"project/tools-for-tiny-thinkers/9825973/","projectTitle":"Tools for Tiny Thinkers","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Frias","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7571744_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x510,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1600979859535","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7571744"},{"teacherId":7571744,"projectId":9665221,"letterContent":"Receiving a color printer for my classroom through DonorsChoose has made a tremendous difference in the way my students learn and engage with classroom activities. The printer has allowed me to create colorful, hands-on learning materials that capture students' attention and make lessons more meaningful and interactive. My students are excited every time I introduce a new activity because the materials are vibrant, easy to understand, and visually engaging. Having access to color printing has truly transformed the learning experience in my classroom.\r\nOne of the most successful activities I created using the printer was a game called \"Coin Bingo.\" I was able to design and print colorful bingo cards featuring different coins and money amounts. The students were immediately interested because the visuals helped them recognize the coins more easily. During the game, students practiced identifying pennies, nickels, dimes, and quarters while also building their counting and money skills. The colorful materials made the activity feel exciting and fun rather than just another worksheet. Students who normally struggled with money concepts became more confident because they could clearly see the differences between the coins. It also encouraged teamwork, communication, and participation among classmates.\r\nAnother important lesson supported by the printer focused on teaching students about needs and wants. I created colorful picture cards showing items such as food, clothing, toys, electronics, and shelter. Students were able to sort and discuss which items represented needs and which represented wants. Because the images were printed in color, students could better connect with the lesson and recognize the items more quickly. The activity sparked meaningful discussions about daily life, decision-making, and understanding the difference between things we must have versus things we would simply like to have.\r\nStudents especially enjoyed being able to physically choose and sort the pictures themselves. The hands-on component kept them engaged and encouraged critical thinking. Many students shared personal examples from home and were excited to explain why they categorized certain items as needs or wants. The color printer helped make these discussions more real and relatable for them. It allowed me to create durable and reusable materials that I can continue using with future classes.\r\nBeyond these activities, the printer has helped me create classroom decorations, visual aids, reward certificates, and differentiated learning materials for students at different academic levels. It has saved valuable preparation time and given me the flexibility to quickly create resources that meet my students' individual needs. The ability to print in color has improved the overall quality of instruction and has made learning more enjoyable for my students every day.\r\nI am incredibly grateful for the generosity and support that made this possible. This printer is more than just a classroom tool—it is helping create engaging educational experiences that encourage creativity, participation, and confidence in learning. Thank you for investing in my students and helping provide them with opportunities to learn in fun, meaningful, and memorable ways.","fullyFundedDate":1766977720634,"projectUrl":"project/a-classroom-printer-for-bright-young-lea/9665221/","projectTitle":"A Classroom Printer for Bright Young Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Frias","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7571744_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x510,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1600979859535","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7571744"},{"teacherId":5734973,"projectId":10110547,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom has been filled with creativity and excitement! We used the new canvas materials to create beautiful Mother's Day art projects. With the easels and paints readily available, students were able to work more comfortably and confidently, having all the materials they needed right at their fingertips. It truly transformed the experience into something special and meaningful.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the supplies, their faces lit up with joy and amazement. They were eager to begin and took great pride in their work, carefully creating pieces they couldn't wait to gift to their loved ones.\r\n\r\nMoving forward, we will continue using these materials to support our current lessons by integrating more hands-on art projects that connect with our curriculum. These resources are helping my students express themselves, stay engaged, and deepen their learning in creative ways.","fullyFundedDate":1776440960682,"projectUrl":"project/creative-classroom-basics-art-supplies/10110547/","projectTitle":"Creative Classroom Basics: Art Supplies for Student Expression","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":9985606,"letterContent":"This project has made a meaningful difference in our classroom by giving students the tools they need to stay organized, confident, and engaged in their learning. Students are using their binders with Avery Write & Erase Dividers to keep subjects organized, making it easier for them to find their work and take ownership of their learning. The mechanical pencils have been especially helpful in improving handwriting and allowing students to write comfortably throughout the day. The mini composition notebooks are being used during writing workshops, math reflections, and quick daily journal entries.\r\n\r\nOne special moment that stood out was during our writing block, when students used their new notebooks to draft personal narratives. They were excited to have their own materials and took great pride in keeping their work neat and organized in their binders.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the materials, their excitement was immediate. They eagerly organized their binders, explored the dividers, and couldn't wait to start using their new supplies. Many shared how special it felt to have their own organized learning tools.\r\n\r\nNext, students will continue using these resources to build stronger writing skills, track their academic growth, and participate in more structured, independent, and collaborative learning activities.","fullyFundedDate":1769129988103,"projectUrl":"project/restocking-the-tools-that-keep-learning/9985606/","projectTitle":"Restocking the Tools That Keep Learning Moving","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":4032368,"projectId":9923947,"letterContent":"The donation of a 3D printer has had a meaningful and lasting impact on our kindergarten classroom. It has transformed the way our students learn by turning abstract ideas into tangible, hands-on experiences. Young learners who are just beginning to explore shapes, letters, and basic problem-solving can now see their ideas come to life, which deepens understanding and keeps them highly engaged.\r\n\r\nThe printer has also encouraged creativity and imagination. Students are excited to design simple objects, whether it's letters of the alphabet, animals, or small creations tied to classroom themes. This process helps build early confidence in innovation and shows them that they can be creators, not just learners.\r\n\r\nIn addition, the 3D printer has introduced foundational STEM concepts at an early age. Children are developing skills like critical thinking, spatial awareness, and persistence as they plan and refine their ideas. Even at a kindergarten level, they begin to understand that mistakes are part of learning, especially when a design doesn't turn out as expected.\r\n\r\nBeyond academics, the donation has fostered collaboration. Students often work together, sharing ideas and celebrating each other's creations, which strengthens communication and teamwork skills.\r\n\r\nOverall, the 3D printer has enriched our classroom environment by making learning more interactive, inspiring curiosity, and giving our students opportunities they might not otherwise have had at such a young age.","fullyFundedDate":1771001224080,"projectUrl":"project/print-our-ideas-into-reality/9923947/","projectTitle":"Print Our Ideas Into Reality","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Garza","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4032368_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1477538734216","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4032368"},{"teacherId":9701016,"projectId":10086425,"letterContent":"Your support has made a big difference in our classroom. We are using the markers, pens, sticky notes, folders, and notebooks every day during reading and writing time. One moment that stood out was during a RACE response lesson. Students used sticky notes and tabs to mark evidence, then wrote their responses using their new pens and notebooks. They were more organized and confident, and it showed in their work. When they first saw all the supplies, they were excited and kept saying, \"These are ours?\" It really motivated them to take care of the materials and do their best.\r\n\r\nNext, we are using the cardstock, laminator, and tape to create anchor charts and student projects we can reuse all year. Students are working on publishing writing pieces and creating visual projects to present their thinking. Having these materials ready has helped our lessons run smoother and keeps students focused. Your support gave my students the tools they needed to stay engaged, organized, and proud of their work. Thank you for being part of our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1772143545297,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-basics-for-writing-organizing/10086425/","projectTitle":"Classroom Basics for Writing, Organizing, and Creating","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":10028933,"letterContent":"Thank you again for supporting our classroom library with these Spanish Diary of a Wimpy Kid books. These stories have helped me teach important reading skills like making inferences, understanding character traits, and identifying theme, all in a way that feels natural and fun for my students. Because the books are familiar and engaging, students are more willing to read in Spanish, take risks with new vocabulary, and stay focused for longer periods of time.\r\n\r\nReading in our classroom now looks more active and student-driven. During independent reading, I see students laughing, turning pages quickly, and even recommending books to each other. Some of my quieter or struggling readers have especially connected with these books because they feel approachable and relatable. It's been exciting to watch their confidence grow as they participate more in discussions and share their thinking. Your support made that possible.","fullyFundedDate":1772235590190,"projectUrl":"project/building-bilingual-readers-with-spanish/10028933/","projectTitle":"Building Bilingual Readers With Spanish Wimpy Kid Books","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":10089761,"letterContent":"Thank you for fully funding our classroom printing project. This printer has already made a big difference in how my students learn each day. It allows me to print materials immediately, which means lessons stay flexible and students get what they need without waiting. We use it for reading passages, math practice, graphic organizers, and quick checks for understanding. Having access right in our classroom keeps instruction moving and helps me respond faster when students need extra support or a different approach.\r\n\r\nMy students were excited right away because they noticed how quickly I could provide \r\nfresh materials just for them. Some of my students who need extra practice or visual supports have especially benefited. They now get targeted resources they can highlight, write on, and revisit during small group time. It has helped them feel more confident and prepared. This simple tool has made our classroom more organized, responsive, and focused on student growth, and we are truly grateful for your support.","fullyFundedDate":1772143914765,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-printing-essentials-for-fourth/10089761/","projectTitle":"Classroom Printing Essentials for Fourth Grade Learning","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":4223376,"projectId":10099750,"letterContent":"Thank you again for supporting \"Boosting Learning With BrainPOP All Year Long.\" Because of you, my students are building stronger comprehension, vocabulary, and critical thinking skills across all subjects. With BrainPOP, we introduce new concepts through short, engaging videos, then reinforce learning with quizzes, discussions, and writing responses using strategies like RACE. Reading in my classroom now includes more meaningful conversations, where students explain their thinking, make connections, and use academic language with confidence.\r\n\r\nWhat I love most is seeing students who usually struggle become more engaged. My English learners especially benefit from the visuals and clear explanations, which help them better understand grade-level content. I've noticed several students going back to rewatch videos on their own just to fully grasp a concept. That kind of ownership is huge. Your support is helping my students feel more confident, curious, and excited to learn every day.","fullyFundedDate":1772143219024,"projectUrl":"project/boosting-learning-with-brainpop-all-year/10099750/","projectTitle":"Boosting Learning With BrainPOP All Year Long","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. B. Gonzalez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4223376_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1488051372404","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/b-gonzalez-4th"}],"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","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":0,"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"}