{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Lake Tapps Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":12.2,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8874660,"projectId":9801780,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support—our classroom is already benefiting from these new texts! Many of our donors love reading themselves, and I'm excited to share how we use books like Among the Hidden to build strong literacy skills and a love for reading.\r\n\r\nSkills and Lessons Introduced by These New Texts\r\nAmong the Hidden opens the door to several powerful reading skills we practice in class, including:\r\n\r\nCharacter analysis: Students closely track Luke's emotions, motivations, and growth as a \"third child\" in hiding. They learn to support their thinking with text evidence.\r\n\r\nTheme development: We explore big ideas such as freedom, fairness, and courage, helping students understand how themes emerge and evolve across a story.\r\n\r\nMaking inferences: Since the book often reveals important information indirectly, students learn to \"read between the lines\" using context clues and prior knowledge.\r\n\r\nUnderstanding plot structure: We break down rising action, conflict, and climax as Luke's world becomes more complicated.\r\n\r\nPerspective-taking: Students reflect on what life might feel like as someone who is forced to remain unseen, deepening empathy and critical thinking.\r\n\r\nWhat Reading Looks Like in Our Classroom\r\nReading in our classroom is a blend of guided instruction, group discussion, and independent thinking. Often, we read a chapter together and pause to annotate, ask questions, and predict what might happen next. Students work in small groups to talk through their ideas, and we finish with journaling prompts that help them connect the book to their own lives or to larger themes. Our classroom is full of conversation, curiosity, and those wonderful moments when a student gasps, \"Wait, I didn't see that coming!\"\r\n\r\nStudents Who Are Especially Enjoying the New Books\r\nA few students have truly connected with Among the Hidden. One student who sometimes struggles with engagement has been captivated by the suspense—he told me he \"had to know what happened next\" and has started reading ahead during free time. Another student who is usually shy during discussions has become one of our most thoughtful voices; she shared how she relates to Luke's fear of being misunderstood and has offered insightful interpretations of his decisions. Several students have also enjoyed debating the choices the characters make, especially when Luke meets Jen and learns about the outside world.\r\n\r\nThese books have already sparked meaningful conversations, deeper comprehension, and genuine enthusiasm for reading. Thank you for helping make that possible for our students!","fullyFundedDate":1760500406699,"projectUrl":"project/among-the-hidden/9801780/","projectTitle":"Among The Hidden","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Beach","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8874660_orig.jpg?crop=1080,1080,x0,y32&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1727042058395","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8874660"},{"teacherId":8065328,"projectId":9572745,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for donating to the classroom set of blending boards. We have been using them during our daily phonics instruction and practice. The kids all love using them and building words with the phonetic code that we have learned for the day. \r\nThis physical movement, of building and touching the sound letter spelling combination allows for a more in depth learning experience. Building up our class as readers first starts with the memorization of the grapheme phoneme connection ad these boards allows each student the opportunity to have hands on practice in these new foundational skills.","fullyFundedDate":1756387059771,"projectUrl":"project/blending-boards-for-literacy-success/9572745/","projectTitle":"Blending Boards for Literacy Success!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Kleven","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8065328_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1634056399982","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8065328"},{"teacherId":8874660,"projectId":9407733,"letterContent":"By donating diversity books to my 3rd grade classroom has had an incredible meaningful and lasting impact. These books have provided students with windows into experiences different from their own, as well as mirrors that reflect and affirm their own identities. They've sparked important conversations about inclusion, kindness, and understanding, helping to build empathy and broaden perspectives at an early age.\r\n\r\nThe students have been genuinely excited to explore stories featuring characters of various backgrounds, cultures, abilities, and family structures. Many have expressed curiosity, made connections to their own lives, or felt seen in ways they hadn't before. These books have not only enriched our classroom library, but have also become valuable tools for fostering a more inclusive and respectful classroom environment.\r\n\r\nThe donation was deeply appreciated—not just as a gift of books, but as a meaningful contribution to the growth, learning, and emotional development of every child in our room. Thank you for investing in the power of diverse stories.","fullyFundedDate":1755715797852,"projectUrl":"project/representation-matters-help-us-diversif/9407733/","projectTitle":"Representation Matters: Help Us Diversify Our Bookshelf","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Beach","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8874660_orig.jpg?crop=1080,1080,x0,y32&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1727042058395","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8874660"},{"teacherId":8065328,"projectId":9146673,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for donating to our classroom! The wobble stools have provided additional flexible seating options for our class. Flexible seating is an important tool in our classroom as it allows our students the freedom of much needed movement while also attuning to the task at hand. \r\n\r\nThese stools have become and instant hit with out students and are often the first seats to be chosen. They provide a safe choice for our students who sometimes struggle or find it hard to work in a more traditional hard back chair at school. \r\n\r\nThank you again for your support of our students and our class!","fullyFundedDate":1746825761525,"projectUrl":"project/flexible-seating-stools-for-flexible-lea/9146673/","projectTitle":"Flexible Seating Stools for Flexible Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Kleven","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8065328_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1634056399982","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8065328"},{"teacherId":3323426,"projectId":9282896,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation! The reading headphones have been a game changer. We are able to all read independently without disrupting each other. This has really improved the students' reading fluency, as they can finally hear themselves read. \r\n\r\nI also appreciate the quieter noise level in the classroom, as they don't feel the need to yell while reading just to hear themselves. We have found these to be especially helpful during our daily decodable reading time and during free reading time.","fullyFundedDate":1746787109901,"projectUrl":"project/making-oral-reading-fun/9282896/","projectTitle":"Making Oral Reading Fun!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Eley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3323426_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1458353099819","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3323426"},{"teacherId":8874660,"projectId":9337459,"letterContent":"The new materials have brought fresh energy and hands-on engagement into our classroom! We've used the Magnatiles for a STEM-focused building project, where students collaborated in small groups to construct model communities. They practiced engineering skills while also learning about geometric shapes and spatial reasoning. The Fraction Magnets have been a game-changer during our math stations—students use them on whiteboards to compare and manipulate fractions visually, which has helped deepen their understanding of part-to-whole relationships. With the Whisper Phones, our reading stations have become more focused. Students use them during independent reading to hear themselves read aloud, which supports fluency and self-correction.\r\n\r\nHow did your students react when they first saw the materials?\r\nThe excitement was immediate and contagious! Students were full of curiosity—many couldn't wait to start building with the Magnatiles or try the Whisper Phones. When I introduced the Fraction Magnets, students actually cheered because they love anything that makes math feel like a puzzle or a game. It was such a joyful moment seeing them dive right in.\r\n\r\nWhat are the next steps for your students on a current classroom lesson or project?\r\nRight now, we're starting a math unit on equivalent fractions and will continue using the Fraction Magnets to model and compare different values. We're also beginning a literacy fluency challenge, where students will track their reading progress while using the Whisper Phones to improve expression and accuracy. And for STEM, we're planning a collaborative architecture challenge using the Magnatiles, where students will design and present a \"dream school\" layout using what they've learned about structure and design.\r\n\r\nThanks YOU, these materials are not just tools—they're gateways to deeper learning, creativity, and confidence!","fullyFundedDate":1747126013775,"projectUrl":"project/support-hands-on-learning/9337459/","projectTitle":"Support Hands on Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Beach","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8874660_orig.jpg?crop=1080,1080,x0,y32&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1727042058395","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8874660"},{"teacherId":8874660,"projectId":9176394,"letterContent":"Adding cozy seating to my classroom has transformed the learning environment in powerful ways. With soft chairs, cushions, and flexible seating options, students feel more comfortable, relaxed, and at home. This simple change has created a more welcoming and friendly atmosphere where students are more motivated to engage in their work. I've noticed a clear boost in focus, collaboration, and the quality of work they produce. Giving students ownership over where and how they work has empowered them to take their learning more seriously—all while feeling supported and valued.\r\nThank you so much for your support. It is truly appreciated more than you will ever know.","fullyFundedDate":1746443594725,"projectUrl":"project/creating-a-cozy-inspiring-classroom/9176394/","projectTitle":"Creating a Cozy & Inspiring Classroom!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Beach","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8874660_orig.jpg?crop=1080,1080,x0,y32&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1727042058395","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8874660"},{"teacherId":3323426,"projectId":9146651,"letterContent":"Our students have LOVED these new chairs! They are able to move and wiggle without breaking the chair or distracting their classmates. They love how they wiggle and roll. They were so excited to see them when they arrived and couldn't wait for us to build them. They are working so much better than our old chairs that were breaking and we are so grateful for them.\r\n\r\nFlexible seating is a powerful choice to help students choose their learning environment. When students are able to choose a seat that works for them, we see a huge increase in motivation and success.","fullyFundedDate":1742402532751,"projectUrl":"project/flexible-seating-for-flexible-learners/9146651/","projectTitle":"Flexible Seating for Flexible Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Eley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3323426_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1458353099819","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3323426"},{"teacherId":3976359,"projectId":9232428,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your donation to my classroom!\r\nI am so excited for the opportunity to have a new class set of books to use for a read aloud. \"When Life Gives You Lemons, Make Peach Pie\" is such a fantastic story with many opportunities for extensions into math, geography, and writing.\r\nI believe it is essential to share books like this with my 2nd graders- ones that inspire, create interest to read the next books in the series, and instill a love of story.\r\nThank you for making this book possible! \r\nFondly-\r\nHeather Stewart","fullyFundedDate":1744209734653,"projectUrl":"project/when-life-gives-you-lemons-make-peach-p/9232428/","projectTitle":"When Life Gives You Lemons, Make Peach Pie!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Heather Stewart","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3976359_orig.jpg?crop=1228,1228,x0,y122&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1649715351236","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrsheatherstewart"},{"teacherId":8874660,"projectId":9017153,"letterContent":"Books donated to our classroom have made a profound impact on both students and our learning environment. These contributions have enriched our library, providing students with access to a diverse range of literature, educational resources, and engaging stories.\r\n\r\nKey Impacts:\r\nEnhanced Learning Opportunities: With more books available, students can explore new topics, improve literacy skills, and develop a love for reading.\r\nEquity in Education: Donations help bridge gaps for students who may not have access to books at home, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn and grow.\r\nEncouraging Curiosity and Imagination: A well-stocked classroom library inspires students to discover new ideas, cultures, and perspectives.\r\nSupporting Academic Success: Access to quality reading materials improves comprehension, vocabulary, and critical thinking skills, all of which contribute to better academic performance.\r\nBuilding a Reading Culture: With more books in the classroom, students are more likely to engage in independent reading and discussions, fostering a lifelong passion for learning.\r\nThese generous donations are more than just books; they are investments in the future of our students. Every book represents an opportunity for growth, creativity, and knowledge, shaping young minds for years to come.","fullyFundedDate":1735068560512,"projectUrl":"project/book-club-books/9017153/","projectTitle":"Book Club Books!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Beach","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8874660_orig.jpg?crop=1080,1080,x0,y32&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1727042058395","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8874660"},{"teacherId":3323426,"projectId":8636363,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your donation. We love our art drying rack! We have used it with art projects that need to dry. I've loved it as the teacher because it's very kid friendly to use and their projects can dry neatly in one spot. I used to have to put them all over the counters to dry, which was messy and easily knocked over.\r\n\r\nThe kids were super excited to see their new drying rack! They loved getting to put their art on it to dry and then retrieve it later.\r\n\r\nWe will get much use out of the art drying rack, as art is a big part of first grade! We have parent art docents that do projects once a month. In addition, we do many themed art projects in class as well. Our next project is a Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer craft with a red glitter nose that will fit perfectly on the drying rack.","fullyFundedDate":1729528924414,"projectUrl":"project/art-drying-rack-for-creative-first-grade/8636363/","projectTitle":"Art Drying Rack for Creative First Graders","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Eley","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3323426_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1458353099819","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/3323426"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_36275","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":460,"numTeachers":30,"percentFrplEligible":24,"percentAsian":11,"percentBlack":5,"percentWhite":62,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":8,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"1 - 3","studentTeacherRatio":"15.3:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":false,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":87.8,"schoolId":36275,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Lake Tapps Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Lake Tapps Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/washington/dieringer-school-district-343/lake-tapps-elementary-school/36275"}
Join the 237 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Lake Tapps Elementary School is
a suburban public school
in Lake Tapps, Washington that is part of Dieringer School District 343.
It serves 460 students
in grades 1 - 3 with a student/teacher ratio of 15.3:1.
Its teachers have had 101 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Public School
Title 1
Data about Title 1 status comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education.
Grades 1 - 3
460 Students
30 Teachers
1320 178th Ave EContact info is sourced from our partners at MDR Education, and DonorsChoose updates our site ahead of each school year.
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. Each classroom request for funding was created by a classroom teacher and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
of students receive free or reduced price lunch
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
Source: the National Center for Education Statistics
24%
of students are Black, Latino, Native
American, or Asian
Data about school demographics comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. The numbers in this chart may not add up to 100% because of limitations in the available data.
Lake Tapps Elementary School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Dec 5, 2025
DonorsChoose makes it easy for anyone to help a teacher in need, moving us closer to a nation where students
in every community have the tools and experiences they need for a great education.
Lake Tapps Elementary School
$51,627
raised using DonorsChoose
101
projects
funded
20
teachers
funded
237
donors
2
projects
for
basic supplies
18
projects for
technology
46
projects for
books
2
projects
for
art supplies
Lake Tapps Elementary School has received support from
208 individuals from Washington and
29 individuals out-of-state.