{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"W.H. Taylor Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":45.1,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":3422970,"projectId":10122217,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generosity, our students are learning the value of teamwork, discipline, and physical fitness—both on and off the field. Your support for \"Supporting Physical Education Through Team Sports\" is helping us provide resources, equipment, and opportunities that make active learning possible for every student.\r\n\r\nThanks to you, we're not just building stronger athletes—we're nurturing confident, cooperative learners who carry these lessons into every part of their lives.\r\n\r\nWe're deeply grateful for your partnership and belief in the power of physical education. Together, we're creating healthier, more connected communities through sport.","fullyFundedDate":1773429854848,"projectUrl":"project/supporting-physical-education-through-te/10122217/","projectTitle":"Supporting Physical Education Through Team Sports","teacherDisplayName":"Teacher Melshen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3422970_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1475892630182","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3422970"},{"teacherId":3422970,"projectId":10033534,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project, \"Additional Portable Basketball Hoop\"! Your generosity has made an immediate and exciting impact on our students.\r\n\r\nWith the addition of this new hoop, more students are able to participate at the same time, increasing activity, engagement, and opportunities to build skills. It has helped create a more inclusive and active environment where everyone gets a chance to practice, play, and grow.\r\n\r\nOur students were thrilled when they saw the new hoop—there was instant excitement and eagerness to get started. It has already become a favorite part of our class and is helping foster teamwork, confidence, and a love for movement.\r\n\r\nWe are so grateful for your support and for helping us create more opportunities for our students to stay active and have fun. Thank you for making a difference!","fullyFundedDate":1770517732708,"projectUrl":"project/additional-portable-basketball-hoop/10033534/","projectTitle":"Additional Portable Basketball Hoop","teacherDisplayName":"Teacher Melshen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3422970_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1475892630182","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3422970"},{"teacherId":3422970,"projectId":10149208,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for providing febreze plug-ins and screen cleaners for our classroom! These simple but essential supplies are making a big difference in creating a cleaner, healthier, and more comfortable learning environment for our students.\r\n\r\nWith your support, we're able to keep our screens clear and easy to see, helping students stay focused and engaged during lessons. The added cleanliness also promotes better habits and a sense of pride in our shared classroom space.\r\n\r\nWe truly appreciate your thoughtfulness and support in helping our students learn in the best environment possible. Thank you for making a meaningful impact!","fullyFundedDate":1774288350423,"projectUrl":"project/clear-screens-fresh-air-happy-learners/10149208/","projectTitle":"Clear Screens, Fresh Air, Happy Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Teacher Melshen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3422970_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1475892630182","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3422970"},{"teacherId":3422970,"projectId":9967610,"letterContent":"This project has had a meaningful impact on our classroom by creating a more engaging, inclusive, and active learning environment. By introducing an outdoor basketball hoop through the \"Shoot for Success – An Outside Hoop for All\" initiative, students now have greater opportunities to participate in physical activity, which supports both their physical health and overall well-being.\r\nThe project has improved student focus and behavior in the classroom. After having time to be active outdoors, students return more energized and ready to learn. It has also helped build a stronger sense of community—students collaborate, encourage one another, and develop teamwork and leadership skills during play.\r\nIn addition, the hoop has made recess and break times more structured and inclusive. Students of all skill levels feel welcome to participate, which promotes confidence and social interaction, especially for those who may not typically engage in group activities.\r\nOverall, this project has enhanced not only physical activity but also classroom morale, student relationships, and readiness to learn, making it a valuable addition to our school environment.","fullyFundedDate":1767236875408,"projectUrl":"project/shoot-for-success-an-outside-hoop-for/9967610/","projectTitle":"Shoot for Success - An Outside Hoop for All","teacherDisplayName":"Teacher Melshen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3422970_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1475892630182","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3422970"},{"teacherId":4497335,"projectId":9930712,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping give my students the chance to a share a favorite story, as well as make a holiday craft to give their families over the holidays. The familiar characters in The Boxcar Children gave a sense of familiarity for my reluctant readers. They LOVED the special holiday \"reading\" glasses as well! \r\n\r\nMy third graders also created wooden ornaments to give their families which also provided a sense of pride for them. Having something special to give their families gave them a chance to learn firsthand it is better to give rather than receive.\r\n\r\nThank you again for helping provide these valuable memories!","fullyFundedDate":1764683866709,"projectUrl":"project/the-gift-of-sharing-stories/9930712/","projectTitle":"The Gift of Sharing Stories","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Turgeon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4497335_orig.jpg?crop=960,960,x302,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1566532409886","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/sturgeonteaching"},{"teacherId":3422970,"projectId":9878264,"letterContent":"Thank you for helping us bring \"Make Magic With Perler Beads in Swiftie Club\" to life! Because of your generosity, our Swiftie Club members were able to design, create, and share their own bead art inspired by creativity, friendship, and a little sparkle.\r\nYour support provided the supplies we needed and gave our students the chance to express themselves in a hands-on, joyful way. The smiles, laughter, and colorful creations were truly magical — and it wouldn't have happened without you.\r\nWe are so grateful for your kindness and belief in our club. Thank you for making magic with us!","fullyFundedDate":1770818457775,"projectUrl":"project/make-magic-with-perler-beads-in-swiftie/9878264/","projectTitle":"Make Magic With Perler Beads in Swiftie Club","teacherDisplayName":"Teacher Melshen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3422970_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1475892630182","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3422970"},{"teacherId":3422970,"projectId":9983252,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project, \"Loud, Clear, and Hands-Free: Modern PE Communication Tools.\" Because of you, PE class runs more smoothly and safely every day.\r\n\r\nThe hands-free communication tools allow students to hear directions clearly while staying active. Transitions are quicker, lessons flow better, and I'm able to move around the space while giving clear instructions and encouragement. Students noticed the difference right away!\r\n\r\nYour generosity has made a real impact on our PE classes, and my students and I are truly grateful for your support.\r\n\r\nThank you again for helping make PE a positive and engaging experience.","fullyFundedDate":1768139190187,"projectUrl":"project/loud-clear-and-hands-free-modern-pe-c/9983252/","projectTitle":"Loud, Clear, and Hands-Free: Modern PE Communication Tools","teacherDisplayName":"Teacher Melshen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3422970_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1475892630182","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3422970"},{"teacherId":3422970,"projectId":9660142,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting Creating a Calmer, Inclusive PE Experience for All Learners. Because of your generosity, the materials are now helping my students feel more confident, regulated, and successful during physical education. \r\n\r\nMany students are more eager to participate because they feel prepared and supported, rather than rushed or unsure. The technology has helped transform PE into a space where students can move, learn, and regulate their emotions at the same time.\r\n\r\nThis has been especially meaningful for students who struggle with sensory overload, attention challenges, or anxiety. Students who were once hesitant or withdrawn are now more willing to try activities, stay engaged, and advocate for their needs. Because of your support, PE has become a calmer, more inclusive environment where every learner feels seen, supported, and capable. Thank you for making such a positive difference in the lives of my students.","fullyFundedDate":1765421167092,"projectUrl":"project/creating-a-calmer-inclusive-pe-experien/9660142/","projectTitle":"Creating a Calmer, Inclusive PE Experience for All Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Teacher Melshen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3422970_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1475892630182","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3422970"},{"teacherId":3422970,"projectId":9939973,"letterContent":"hank you so much for supporting our project, Big Parachute, Big Fun: Music and Movement for 50+ Students. The moment we opened the parachute for the first time, the gym filled with cheers, wide eyes, and excitement. Students couldn't wait to grab a handle and work together as we lifted, waved, and moved to the music. The parachute has instantly become a favorite tool for building teamwork, cooperation, and joy in our PE classes.\r\n\r\nWe are using the parachute during music-and-movement activities, cooperative games, and large-group challenges that allow all students to participate at once. With over 50 students in a class, this parachute has made it possible for everyone to be included, engaged, and active at the same time. It has been especially impactful for students who thrive in collaborative and rhythmic activities, helping them feel confident and successful.\r\n\r\nNext, students will continue using the parachute to explore rhythm, spatial awareness, and cooperative problem-solving through new games and movement patterns. Because of your generosity, our PE program is more inclusive, energetic, and fun—and our students are learning that movement is something we can all enjoy together. Thank you for making such a meaningful difference in our gym and in our students' school experience.","fullyFundedDate":1765706635309,"projectUrl":"project/big-parachute-big-fun-music-and-moveme/9939973/","projectTitle":"Big Parachute, Big Fun: Music and Movement for 50+ Students","teacherDisplayName":"Teacher Melshen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3422970_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1475892630182","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3422970"},{"teacherId":3422970,"projectId":9697807,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project, \"Fun and Inclusive PE: Tennis Balls & Bean Bags.\" Because of your generosity, my students now have access to safe, versatile equipment that has made a noticeable difference in our physical education classes. We are using the tennis balls and bean bags daily for throwing, catching, rolling, striking, and cooperative games. One of my favorite moments was watching students who are usually hesitant jump right in—smiling, laughing, and confidently participating because the equipment feels approachable and success-friendly.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the new materials, their excitement was immediate. They couldn't wait to try them out and were eager to help organize and set up activities. The soft, lightweight nature of the equipment has helped all students feel comfortable taking risks and practicing skills without fear, which has been especially important for our younger learners and students with varying ability levels. I've already seen improvements in hand-eye coordination, teamwork, and overall engagement during class.\r\n\r\nNext, we are building on these skills through small-group challenges, target games, and inclusive stations that allow every student to progress at their own pace. The materials you provided will continue to support lessons focused on cooperation, movement confidence, and lifelong physical activity habits. Thank you for giving my students the opportunity to learn, move, and succeed in such a positive and inclusive way—your support truly makes a lasting impact in our PE program.","fullyFundedDate":1762849357923,"projectUrl":"project/fun-and-inclusive-pe-tennis-balls-bea/9697807/","projectTitle":"Fun and Inclusive PE: Tennis Balls & Bean Bags","teacherDisplayName":"Teacher Melshen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3422970_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1475892630182","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3422970"},{"teacherId":3422970,"projectId":9638654,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our After School Swiftie Club! Because of your generosity, our students now have a safe, joyful space after school where they can connect through music, creativity, and friendship. We are using these resources during weekly club meetings to explore different Taylor Swift eras through listening activities, lyric games, trivia, movement breaks, and collaborative projects. One of our favorite moments so far was watching students work together during our debut-era lyric hunt, cheering each other on as they made connections and shared their favorite lines.\r\nWhen the students first saw the new materials, their excitement was immediate and contagious. Smiles, gasps, and happy chatter filled the room as they realized this was a club created just for them. Many students who are usually quiet during the school day found their voices here—singing along, volunteering answers, and confidently sharing their ideas. The club has quickly become a place where students feel included, celebrated, and comfortable being themselves.\r\nThanks to your support, our next steps include continuing our journey through additional eras, incorporating more student-led activities, and building in opportunities for reflection, teamwork, and positive self-expression. The Swiftie Club has become much more than an after-school activity—it's a community that promotes belonging, creativity, and joy. We are incredibly grateful for your role in making this experience possible for our students.","fullyFundedDate":1761374572688,"projectUrl":"project/after-school-swiftie-club/9638654/","projectTitle":"After School Swiftie Club","teacherDisplayName":"Teacher Melshen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3422970_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1475892630182","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3422970"},{"teacherId":3422970,"projectId":9896867,"letterContent":"The big scooters have already made a huge impact in our classroom. We've been using them during our movement and STEM stations, where students work on balance, coordination, teamwork, and problem-solving. They've quickly become a favorite resource for combining physical activity with hands-on learning. \r\nMy students use the scooters to complete relay challenges, measure distance and time during math integration lessons, and collaborate in small groups to design obstacle paths that require strategy and communication.\r\nWhen my students first saw the scooters, the room practically erupted. There were cheers, wide eyes, and so many excited questions. A few students even asked if the materials were \"really for us.\" It was a joyful moment of surprise and appreciation—they couldn't believe they now had equipment like this in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1764632569038,"projectUrl":"project/scooters-for-all-learners-all-sizes/9896867/","projectTitle":"Scooters for All Learners, All Sizes","teacherDisplayName":"Teacher Melshen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3422970_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1475892630182","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3422970"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_34887","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":403,"numTeachers":25,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":2,"percentBlack":38,"percentWhite":41,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":7,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"16.1:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":54.9,"schoolId":34887,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about W.H. Taylor Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"W.H. Taylor Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/virginia/norfolk-public-schools/w-h-taylor-elementary-school/34887"}