{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Treakle Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":48.6,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":7883991,"projectId":9619397,"letterContent":"On behalf of my students and our classroom community, I want to extend my deepest gratitude for your generous contribution toward our new sensory corner. Your kindness has made an incredible difference in the daily lives of our students with autism, and I am truly thankful for your support. \r\n\r\nBecause of your donations, our classroom now has a calm, engaging space where students can regulate their emotions, explore sensory materials, and regain focus when they feel overwhelmed. The sensory tools you helped provide—such as the weighted items, tactile toys, and soothing visual elements—have already had a visible impact. I have seen students who once struggled to self-regulate now seek out the sensory corner on their own, returning to class activities calmer, more focused, and ready to learn. \r\n\r\nThis corner has quickly become a favorite part of our classroom. It provides comfort, builds independence, and fosters emotional well-being. Your generosity has not only provided materials but also created an environment where our students feel understood, supported, and valued for who they are. \r\n\r\nThank you again for your compassion and for believing in our mission to create a welcoming, inclusive learning space for all. Your gift continues to make a meaningful difference every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1764610653968,"projectUrl":"project/autism-students-need-a-sensory-calming-c/9619397/","projectTitle":"Autism Students Need a Sensory Calming Corner!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Williams","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7883991_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742339278784","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7883991"},{"teacherId":9711258,"projectId":9775620,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding my stem project. I have kindergarten inclusion and my students love manipulatives that they can get creative with. Right now we have only tried the magnatiles and it was a huge hit. The students loved building things and making social connections with their classmates. One table make the school using the magnatiles. We have not yet used the other kits yet as they are not in the curriculum to be taught yet ,but when we get to it thanks to you we will be ready! Thanks for being the hero!","fullyFundedDate":1763639916879,"projectUrl":"project/magnets-in-motion-hands-on-science-for/9775620/","projectTitle":"Magnets in Motion: Hands-On Science for Curious Kindergarteners!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Godfrey","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9711258_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1728444760064","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9711258"},{"teacherId":9711258,"projectId":9447193,"letterContent":"My students that need sensory items love this rug! They are so fascinated by all of the graphics and colors and it keeps them engaged. The second rug is in my calm down room and the students find it to be so cozy and it does it's job. These items have made my classroom a safe and learning space that my students absolutely love. Its the perfect size in case I have additional students and its so bright and vibrant. It also goes with the calming theme of the classroom and promotes individuality ,learning , and social skills.","fullyFundedDate":1758202774023,"projectUrl":"project/exceptionally-learning-chapter-2/9447193/","projectTitle":"Exceptionally Learning - Chapter 2","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Godfrey","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9711258_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1728444760064","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9711258"},{"teacherId":4500770,"projectId":9473578,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generosity of spirit in supporting my classroom. You have made a real difference in the quality of learning in our room. My children are so excited to learn new things about space, plants, history, and current events. \r\n\r\nI've already seen increased understanding in the children's knowledge of their world. The Scholastic weekly newspapers have led to many higher level questions, discussions, and conclusions! The editions do a great job of sparking children's interest while explaining complexities so that they understand them. Your gift has made a huge difference for our kindergartners.","fullyFundedDate":1755704783791,"projectUrl":"project/keeping-current-in-kindergarten/9473578/","projectTitle":"Keeping Current in Kindergarten","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Kelleter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4500770_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1533743885621","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-kelleter"},{"teacherId":7974005,"projectId":9093256,"letterContent":"My students absolutely love their listening center. The books are very engaging and age appropriate. We are able to do so many fun activities with these materials. They have helped create a fun way to learn about author, illustrator, character, setting, sequencing events, feelings, etc. This has also been a wonderful way to talk about the different types of stories, while really getting children interested and engaged in what they are doing. The kids love the colorful books. They love being able to operate the simple machine and be in control of their own learning. This has provided so many wonderful learning opportunities and experiences not only in my classroom, but other kindergarten classrooms in our building as well. Thank you so much for your kindness and generosity. It is helping to spark a love for reading among young learners in our building.","fullyFundedDate":1746785688140,"projectUrl":"project/giving-tiny-people-a-giant-reading-toolb/9093256/","projectTitle":"Giving Tiny People a Giant Reading Toolbox!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Cash","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7974005"},{"teacherId":9711258,"projectId":9188868,"letterContent":"I work at an elementary school as a sped Teacher, sometimes the work that the teacher has given the students is too hard or needs to be simplified. Other times the 2 good copiers that we do have always have a line waiting, or is out of toner, or has a part broken. I also print out sticker charts in color for my behavior children so I needed a reliable color printer for various reasons. I alsonuse snacks as part of the reward system or just for my students who need a small snack to get through the day. Thanks for funding my project and making a small part of my job less stressful!","fullyFundedDate":1752505088068,"projectUrl":"project/broken-printers-delay-progress/9188868/","projectTitle":"Broken Printers Delay Progress","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Godfrey","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9711258_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1728444760064","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9711258"},{"teacherId":7883991,"projectId":9406118,"letterContent":"Here's a 350-word response for you:\r\n\r\n**The Impact of Special Education Students Having Devices That Align With Their Learning Needs**\r\n\r\nWhen special education students are provided with devices that match their unique learning needs, the impact on their educational experience is significant. Assistive technology—such as tablets with communication apps, text-to-speech tools, speech-generating devices, adaptive keyboards, and visual supports—empowers students to access the curriculum in ways that would otherwise be difficult or impossible. These devices help bridge gaps, reduce frustration, and open doors to greater independence and achievement.\r\n\r\nOne of the most profound effects is improved communication. For nonverbal students, speech-generating devices or picture exchange systems allow them to express their thoughts, needs, and ideas. This not only enhances their ability to participate in lessons but also fosters stronger social interactions with peers and teachers. When communication barriers are lowered, students feel more included and confident, which in turn supports emotional well-being.\r\n\r\nDevices also promote engagement and participation in learning tasks. For example, text-to-speech tools assist students with reading difficulties by making written material accessible, while adaptive keyboards or touchscreens help those with fine motor challenges complete assignments independently. As a result, students can demonstrate their knowledge without being limited by physical or sensory barriers.\r\n\r\nAnother critical impact is the development of self-confidence and autonomy. When students can use devices to complete academic work, communicate effectively, or organize their tasks, they gain a sense of ownership over their learning. This independence builds resilience and motivates them to continue making progress. Teachers also benefit because they can deliver instruction more effectively, ensuring lessons are tailored to each student's strengths.\r\n\r\nLong-term, the use of appropriate devices prepares students for future success beyond the classroom. Technology skills learned in school can support future employment, higher education, and daily living. Overall, aligning devices with learning needs transforms challenges into opportunities, making education more equitable and empowering for special education students. Thank you for your donation.","fullyFundedDate":1753993017341,"projectUrl":"project/autistic-students-need-devices-that-alig/9406118/","projectTitle":"Autistic Students Need Devices That Align With Their Learning Needs!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Williams","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7883991_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742339278784","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7883991"},{"teacherId":7883991,"projectId":9460534,"letterContent":"**The Impact of Food on Children's Learning**\r\n\r\nThe connection between nutrition and learning in children is both profound and well-documented. Food provides the energy and nutrients necessary for brain development, attention, memory, and overall academic performance. When children have consistent access to balanced meals, they are more likely to thrive in school, while hunger and poor nutrition can create significant barriers to learning.\r\n\r\nOne of the most immediate impacts of food on learning is its effect on concentration and attention. The brain requires a steady supply of glucose to function effectively. When children skip meals, especially breakfast, they often experience fatigue, irritability, and difficulty focusing on classroom tasks. In contrast, students who consume a nutritious breakfast are more alert, better able to process new information, and perform higher on tests of memory and problem-solving. Studies consistently show that children who eat breakfast regularly achieve better academic outcomes than those who do not.\r\n\r\nNutrition also plays a crucial role in long-term cognitive development. Essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins A, C, and D are vital for brain growth and function. Iron deficiency, for example, has been linked to delayed cognitive development, reduced attention span, and lower achievement scores. Similarly, diets lacking in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein can lead to slower processing speeds and weaker memory retention. In this sense, learning is not just about what happens in the classroom—it is deeply tied to what children eat on a daily basis.\r\n\r\nBeyond academic performance, food impacts behavior and emotional regulation. Children who experience food insecurity are more likely to exhibit hyperactivity, anxiety, or withdrawal, which can interfere with classroom learning and peer relationships. Teachers often report that hungry students struggle with discipline, display less motivation, and require more redirection. Proper nutrition, on the other hand, helps stabilize mood and energy levels, creating a classroom environment that is more conducive to learning for everyone.\r\n\r\nSchool meal programs have proven to be an effective way to address this issue. Initiatives like free or reduced-price lunch and breakfast programs ensure that children, regardless of family income, have access to at least two nutritious meals each school day. Research has shown that such programs not only reduce hunger but also improve attendance, classroom participation, and test scores. In Title I schools, where many families face economic hardship, access to reliable school meals can be the difference between a student struggling to learn and a student succeeding academically.\r\n\r\nIt is also important to recognize the long-term implications of nutrition on learning. Children who develop healthy eating habits early are more likely to carry them into adulthood, supporting lifelong learning and productivity. Poor nutrition during critical developmental years, however, can contribute to chronic health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease—all of which can impact educational attainment and career opportunities later in life.\r\n\r\nIn conclusion, food is not just fuel for the body; it is fuel for the mind. Adequate nutrition directly shapes children's ability to concentrate, remember, and perform academically while also influencing behavior and emotional well-being. When children are well-fed with healthy, balanced meals, they are more likely to succeed in school and develop the skills necessary for lifelong learning. Ensuring that every child has access to nutritious food is not only a health priority but also an essential step toward educational equity.","fullyFundedDate":1756420969236,"projectUrl":"project/hunger-can-affect-learning/9460534/","projectTitle":"Hunger Can Affect Learning!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Williams","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7883991_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742339278784","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7883991"},{"teacherId":7379599,"projectId":9274787,"letterContent":"Thank you for your contributions to my project! My students were extremely grateful for the goodies that you supplied for them to enjoy after testing. I promised them that they would be rewarded for their hard work and you made that possible.\r\n\r\nThey were so happy to see the treats that were donated. The snacks were distributed after each test that they completed and they had enough snacks to last for the rest of the school year. I appreciate you and the joy you brought them through your generosity. Thank you for thinking of them.","fullyFundedDate":1746699631453,"projectUrl":"project/test-time-treats/9274787/","projectTitle":"Test Time Treats","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hansbury","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-10_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7379599"},{"teacherId":9711258,"projectId":9199010,"letterContent":"Thank you helping my students release their \"testing tension\". I decided to do this project during SOL season and our students were feeling test anxiety really bad. After going over their 3 hour long review I \"borrowed\" a few at a time and treating them to calm music, the smell of lavender and eucalyptus and relaxing hot tea. They were so excited and tou could see the tension leave their body. We had a pep talk with each group of students while they sipped their tea and buscuits and they got to take home some homemade bath salt that they couldnt stop smelling while at their seats. We have gotten several thank you emails from some of the parents as well. Tour donation has actually helped their scores!","fullyFundedDate":1746787162536,"projectUrl":"project/strengthening-minds-mental-health-tool/9199010/","projectTitle":"\"Strengthening Minds: Mental Health Tools for a Thriving Classroom\"","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Godfrey","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9711258_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1728444760064","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9711258"},{"teacherId":7883991,"projectId":9186608,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your continued support! Large color print materials can have a significant positive impact on autistic students in school. These materials support learning, engagement, and independence in several ways:\r\n\r\n1. Improved Visual Clarity and Focus\r\nLarge print helps reduce visual strain and increases readability, which is beneficial for autistic students who may have visual processing challenges or attention difficulties.\r\n\r\nBold, high-contrast visuals can guide attention more effectively than standard print.\r\n\r\n2. Enhanced Comprehension and Engagement\r\nColor coding can be used to categorize information (e.g., red for warning, green for go, blue for calming), which supports understanding and memory.\r\n\r\nVibrant, appealing visuals can increase interest and motivate participation, especially for visual learners.\r\n\r\n3. Support for Communication and Social Skills\r\nVisual supports like PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System), schedules, or social stories in large color format help autistic students understand routines and expectations.\r\n\r\nThese tools foster independence and reduce anxiety by providing clear, consistent visual cues.\r\n\r\n4. Reduced Behavioral Challenges\r\nVisual clarity and predictability can reduce frustration and help students regulate emotions and behavior.\r\n\r\nWhen instructions and transitions are clearly presented in large, color-coded steps, students are more likely to stay on task and follow directions.\r\n\r\n5. Facilitated Inclusion\r\nWith appropriate visual supports, autistic students can more easily participate in general education settings alongside peers.\r\n\r\nTeachers and aides can communicate more effectively using shared visual materials.\r\nLarge color print materials are not just accommodations—they're essential tools for creating an inclusive, accessible, and supportive learning environment for autistic students. They promote understanding, autonomy, and success in both academic and social areas.","fullyFundedDate":1746752867757,"projectUrl":"project/autistic-and-special-needs-students-bene/9186608/","projectTitle":"Autistic and Special Needs Students Benefit from Large Print Materials!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Williams","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7883991_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742339278784","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7883991"},{"teacherId":3083818,"projectId":8925120,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting this project to provide safe and secure seating for toddlers and preschool children with Autism. These students are young and have difficulty sitting in typical elementary sized classroom chairs. These chairs are different sizes and allow students of many sizes to have a safe and comfortable seat.\r\n These chairs are perfect for the table we have in the classroom that can be adjusted to the needed size for the children. Before this project was funded, the children had to sit in chairs that did not allow their feet to rest on the floor. This causes anxiety and fear due to the instability displayed by young children. If a child can not sit securely at a table, they cannot participate in activities to facilitate learning.\r\n Thank you again for the kind donation to help these very worthy students.","fullyFundedDate":1733266708462,"projectUrl":"project/preschoolers-with-autism-are-sitting-pre/8925120/","projectTitle":"Preschoolers With Autism Are Sitting Pretty","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Blankenship","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3083818_orig.jpg?crop=2000,2000,x0,y33&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1695736710150","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3083818"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_34695","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":441,"numTeachers":40,"percentFrplEligible":83,"percentAsian":1,"percentBlack":43,"percentWhite":24,"percentIndigenous":1,"percentLatinx":18,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"11.0:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":51.4,"schoolId":34695,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Treakle Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Treakle Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/virginia/chesapeake-public-schools/g-a-treakle-elementary-school/34695"}