{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"ACPS Early Childhood Center","outOfStateSupporters":35.2,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10179518,"projectId":9829901,"letterContent":"We've been using the new resources to support movement and physical activity lessons that has been highly engaging for my students. Flexible seating options have been especially helpful, giving students the choice to sit, stand, or move while participating in activities, which supports regulation and focus throughout the day. We also use movement cards during structured group times, where students practice following simple directions and imitating actions such as jumping, clapping, stretching, or balancing. These activities directly support IEP goals for following directions, motor imitation, and body awareness in a fun and motivating way. Students are more engaged when learning is active and playful, and the combination of movement supports and clear visuals has helped them participate with greater independence and confidence. It has been exciting to see their growth as they build both physical skills and the ability to attend and respond to directions.","fullyFundedDate":1765767548661,"projectUrl":"project/movement-matters/9829901/","projectTitle":"Movement Matters!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Kierstin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10179518_orig.jpg?crop=1022,1022,x128,y119&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755516998633","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10179518"},{"teacherId":10179518,"projectId":9937302,"letterContent":"We are using these resources during large group centers and play-based learning, with a strong focus on our pets study, which has been one of the most favorite units of the year. The pet toys and puppets have been especially meaningful, as they closely reflect real animals like cats, dogs, birds, and fish. Having these realistic materials available has helped my students make important real-life connections between classroom learning and animals they see at home or in their community. During play, students use the puppets to act out simple interactions, care for pets, and engage in early communication and social skills. These materials also support curriculum goals such as vocabulary development, expressive language, and understanding of the world around them. It has been wonderful to see students' excitement and engagement grow as they interact with familiar animals in such a hands-on and meaningful way.","fullyFundedDate":1766846410603,"projectUrl":"project/furry-friends/9937302/","projectTitle":"Furry Friends","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Kierstin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10179518_orig.jpg?crop=1022,1022,x128,y119&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755516998633","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10179518"},{"teacherId":10179518,"projectId":9953862,"letterContent":"In my classroom, we are using the new puzzle resources during small group centers and calm work times. The puzzles were chosen based on student interests and choices, as well as curriculum themes for the rest of the year, including animals/pets, insects, and community helpers/buildings. Students love selecting their own puzzles, which helps increase engagement and independence. As they work, they are building important skills such as matching, fine motor coordination, problem-solving, and sustained attention. It has been wonderful to see students take pride in completing puzzles together or independently, often returning to favorite ones again and again.","fullyFundedDate":1767202322996,"projectUrl":"project/puzzle-pals/9953862/","projectTitle":"Puzzle Pals","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Kierstin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10179518_orig.jpg?crop=1022,1022,x128,y119&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755516998633","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10179518"},{"teacherId":10179518,"projectId":9994657,"letterContent":"Reading in my classroom is closely connected to our daily routines, especially as we explore the new books centered around food. For my preschool special needs students, literacy becomes much more meaningful when it's paired with real-life experiences, so we often read these stories during snack time and breakfast. This allows students to see, touch, and sometimes taste the foods they are learning about, helping them make clear and comforting connections between the books and their own lives. With repetition, songs, and shared reading, students are encouraged to participate in ways that feel comfortable. Whether that's pointing to pictures, making choices, or using communication supports. The goal is to create a calm, supportive environment where both reading and eating feel safe and enjoyable.","fullyFundedDate":1768425690729,"projectUrl":"project/little-bites-big-stories/9994657/","projectTitle":"Little Bites, Big Stories","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Kierstin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10179518_orig.jpg?crop=1022,1022,x128,y119&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755516998633","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10179518"},{"teacherId":10179518,"projectId":9962052,"letterContent":"I have been using the new resources to support several classroom projects centered on arts and craft materials in a way that feels inviting, hands-on, and accessible for my preschool special needs students. The projects are simple, creative activities where students can explore different textures, colors, and tools at their own pace. We use materials like paper, paint, glue, and sensory items to create opportunities for expression while also reinforcing skills like following directions and making choices. I incorporate visual supports, modeling, and consistent routines so students feel secure and know what to expect. The resources have helped create a calm, supportive environment where creativity and exploration can flourish.\r\n It has been especially rewarding to see students express themselves through their creations—whether it's choosing colors, making marks on paper, or simply enjoying the sensory experience. The activities have brought a sense of joy and pride to the classroom, helping each child feel successful and included in their own unique way.","fullyFundedDate":1768674216943,"projectUrl":"project/create-grow/9962052/","projectTitle":"Create & Grow","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Kierstin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10179518_orig.jpg?crop=1022,1022,x128,y119&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755516998633","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10179518"},{"teacherId":10439250,"projectId":10161730,"letterContent":"Our classroom has been buzzing with excitement since the arrival of our new insect-based learning supplies! These materials have already made a meaningful impact on how my students engage with vocabulary and hands-on exploration.\r\n\r\nWe've been using the insect kits during our literacy and science blocks to build vocabulary in a way that feels natural and fun. The insect figures instantly created a sense of wonder and lowered barriers to learning, allowing every student to feel included and excited with hands on experiences.\r\nLooking ahead, we are building on this momentum by starting a mini \"Insect Investigation\" project. Students will be able to take home dramatic play sets and become entomologists at home.\r\n\r\nThanks to your generosity, our classroom has become a more engaging, inclusive, and interactive place to learn. These resources are not just tools—they are opening doors for students to connect with language and science in meaningful ways.","fullyFundedDate":1776164695823,"projectUrl":"project/all-about-bugs-exploring-the-world-of-i/10161730/","projectTitle":"All About Bugs: Exploring the World of Insects Through Play","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Kim","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10439250_orig.jpg?crop=1170,1170,x0,y54&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1771959833967","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10439250"},{"teacherId":10179518,"projectId":9957144,"letterContent":"I have been using the new resources to support a classroom project focused on musical instruments in a way that feels playful, supportive, and accessible for my preschool special needs students. Each lesson includes short, hands-on activities where students can see, touch, and hear the instruments, helping them connect with the experience in a meaningful way. We explore simple ideas like loud and soft sounds or fast and slow rhythms using visuals, repetition, and gentle guidance. I also incorporate movement, sensory supports, and consistent routines so students feel comfortable and confident participating. The resources have been especially helpful in creating a predictable and engaging environment where every child can join in at their own pace.\r\n\r\nWhen I first brought out the musical instruments, my students were immediately drawn to the sounds and were excited to explore the instruments. Some students needed a little extra time and reassurance, but with patience and encouragement, they began to engage more fully. Over time, it has been wonderful to see their confidence grow! They are now responding to musical cues, and making choices between instruments! The experience has created a joyful atmosphere in the classroom and has helped students connect with music in ways that feel both comfortable and meaningful.","fullyFundedDate":1765742329588,"projectUrl":"project/joyful-jamboree/9957144/","projectTitle":"Joyful Jamboree","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Kierstin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10179518_orig.jpg?crop=1022,1022,x128,y119&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755516998633","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10179518"},{"teacherId":1977981,"projectId":9767628,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom and making this project possible. Your generosity provides our students with meaningful opportunities to explore, create, and express themselves through art each day.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, our students will have access to a wide variety of materials that encourage creativity, strengthen fine motor skills, and promote inclusion. From representing themselves and their families with diverse construction paper to building and displaying their own artwork, these experiences help foster confidence, independence, and pride in their work.\r\n\r\nWe are truly grateful for your contribution in helping us create an engaging and inclusive art environment. Your support is making a lasting impact on our students' learning and allowing their creativity to shine. Thank you for helping bring their ideas to life!","fullyFundedDate":1774054969939,"projectUrl":"project/color-create-and-celebrate-every-stude/9767628/","projectTitle":"Color, Create, and Celebrate Every Student’s Art","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. H","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1977981_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1590704491877","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/andrea-handel"},{"teacherId":1977981,"projectId":9896443,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our classroom. Your contribution helps turn everyday moments like mealtime into meaningful learning experiences for my students.\r\n\r\nIn our classroom, meals are more than just a time to eat, they are an opportunity to build language, social skills, and healthy habits. With these food-themed books, we can create a calm and engaging routine where students listen, learn, and connect. Stories about fruits, vegetables, colors, and different foods spark curiosity and encourage conversations, especially for students who may feel hesitant about trying new things.\r\n\r\nBecause of your kindness, our students will benefit from daily opportunities to grow their vocabulary, strengthen listening skills, and develop a more positive relationship with food. Your support truly makes a difference in helping create a warm, predictable, and joyful learning environment. Thank you for being a part of our classroom community!","fullyFundedDate":1773873962138,"projectUrl":"project/eat-read-and-learn-food-themed-books/9896443/","projectTitle":"Eat, Read, and Learn: Food-Themed Books for Little Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. H","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1977981_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1590704491877","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/andrea-handel"},{"teacherId":10439250,"projectId":10121103,"letterContent":"This project has had a meaningful and positive impact on my Pre-K students by helping them see themselves and others reflected in the stories we read each day. Access to a wider range of inclusive, culturally rich books has supported their social-emotional development, encouraged empathy, and sparked important conversations about identity, family, and community. My students are more engaged during read-alouds because they feel connected to the characters and experiences, which has strengthened both their love of reading and early literacy skills. This project has also helped create a more welcoming and affirming classroom environment where every child feels valued, seen, and inspired to learn.","fullyFundedDate":1773873819515,"projectUrl":"project/books-that-reflect-us-celebrating-diver/10121103/","projectTitle":"Books That Reflect Us: Celebrating Diversity in Pre-K","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Kim","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10439250_orig.jpg?crop=1170,1170,x0,y54&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1771959833967","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10439250"},{"teacherId":1977981,"projectId":9984686,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our classroom. As an Early Childhood Special Education teacher, I rely on careful data collection and collaboration to support my students' growth, and your contribution makes this work more effective and efficient.\r\n\r\nWith a computer monitor, keyboard, and mouse, I will be able to work across two screens while analyzing student data, creating individualized data sheets, and holding IEP meetings with families and service providers. This improved setup allows for clearer communication and more organized, responsive planning.\r\n\r\nHaving an efficient workstation helps me track progress more accurately and make informed instructional decisions. Your investment directly supports stronger collaboration, better planning, and improved outcomes for my students. Thank you again for making such a meaningful difference in our classroom and school community.","fullyFundedDate":1773167002787,"projectUrl":"project/dual-screen-setup-for-data-ieps-and-st/9984686/","projectTitle":"Dual-Screen Setup for Data, IEPs, and Student Progress","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. H","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1977981_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1590704491877","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/andrea-handel"},{"teacherId":10179518,"projectId":9783956,"letterContent":"In our special needs classroom, my students are exploring and enjoying a variety of sensory tools and toys that help them feel calm, focused, and engaged from our project. From textured fidgets to soft squeezable toys, these items give my students comforting sensory experiences that support their unique learning needs. It's wonderful to watch their smiles and curiosity grow as they discover what helps them feel their best while learning and playing. Thank you for all your love and support! My students are growing everyday thanks to your generosity!","fullyFundedDate":1763561765491,"projectUrl":"project/we-see-we-feel-we-learn/9783956/","projectTitle":"We See, We Feel, We Learn","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Kierstin","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10179518_orig.jpg?crop=1022,1022,x128,y119&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755516998633","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10179518"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_126068","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":null,"numTeachers":null,"percentFrplEligible":72,"percentAsian":6,"percentBlack":23,"percentWhite":26,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":36,"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":64.8,"schoolId":126068,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about ACPS Early Childhood Center on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"ACPS Early Childhood Center","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/virginia/alexandria-city-public-school-district/acps-early-childhood-center/126068"}