{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Whitman Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":17.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":2833718,"projectId":10410224,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our \"Shelve Our Stories, Print Our Success!\" project! Your generosity is making a meaningful difference for our 46 multilingual learners, who bring so many beautiful languages, cultures, and experiences into our classroom every day. Our new rotating bookshelves are helping transform our classroom library into an inviting, organized space where students can independently explore books, discover new interests, and take ownership of their reading journeys. Instead of digging through buckets on the floor, students can now browse books more easily and find stories that spark their curiosity. For children who are developing their English skills, having books visible and accessible is especially important in building confidence and excitement about reading.\r\n\r\nOur classroom printer is another wonderful addition that allows me to provide engaging, differentiated learning materials that meet students where they are in their language development. Whether we are exploring science concepts, learning about different cultures, practicing new vocabulary, or strengthening reading comprehension, I can now create and print resources that connect directly to what students are learning. This is especially valuable for our newcomers, who benefit from visuals, picture-supported vocabulary, and accessible texts as they build their English language skills. Having these materials readily available means more opportunities for meaningful practice, participation, and academic success.\r\n\r\nWhat makes your gift so special is that you are providing more than bookshelves and a printer—you are helping create opportunities for students to see themselves as capable, confident readers and learners. Many of my students come from families facing economic challenges, and access to quality literacy resources at school can make an incredible difference. Your kindness helps ensure that every child in our classroom has the tools and opportunities to grow, regardless of their background or the language they speak at home. Thank you for believing in my multilingual learners and helping us build a classroom where their stories, voices, and dreams truly matter.","fullyFundedDate":1788181238210,"projectUrl":"project/shelve-our-stories-print-our-success/10410224/","projectTitle":"Shelve Our Stories, Print Our Success!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Carr","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2833718_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1744735761816","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-carrtacoma"},{"teacherId":2833718,"projectId":10126831,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity and for supporting our Multilingual Marvels at Whitman Elementary! Your thoughtful donation has helped us create a cleaner, healthier, and more welcoming learning environment for our students. Throughout the day, I work with multiple small groups of multilingual learners who are developing their English listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. With so many little hands sharing tables, books, and learning materials, having disinfecting wipes readily available makes our daily classroom routines much easier. These supplies may seem like a small gift, but they make a big difference in our busy classroom!\r\n\r\nOur students are always excited to learn, share stories, and participate in hands-on activities. We are also teaching them the importance of taking care of our classroom and shared learning spaces. Having these supplies helps us establish routines that encourage responsibility, teamwork, and pride in our learning environment. Whether students are practicing new vocabulary, working with classmates, or celebrating their progress in English, your generosity helps us maintain a welcoming space where everyone belongs.\r\n\r\nAs we continue through the school year, our Multilingual Marvels will be building their language skills through interactive lessons, storytelling, reading, writing, and meaningful conversations. Many of our students are learning English while also navigating a new culture and school experience. Your kindness helps us provide the supportive environment they deserve. Most importantly, it reminds our students that there are caring people in our community who believe in their potential and want to see them succeed.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping our Multilingual","fullyFundedDate":1777997749511,"projectUrl":"project/the-sparkle-squad-classroom-cleanup-cha/10126831/","projectTitle":"The Sparkle Squad: Classroom Cleanup Champions!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Carr","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2833718_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1744735761816","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-carrtacoma"},{"teacherId":8122548,"projectId":10238444,"letterContent":"Thank you again for your support of my classroom! The air purifier has been a huge game changer. I am hoping to see fewer sick students as the year progresses, as clean air is being pumped out 24/7. Last year was one of the worst years of sicknesses I had seen in my career, with students being out for a full week of more. With the help of the air purifier, I am hoping those numbers are reduced so students aren't losing out on vital instruction! Your generosity does not go unnoticed, as I am reminded of donors like you every time I walk past the purifier.","fullyFundedDate":1780585881935,"projectUrl":"project/clean-air-clear-minds/10238444/","projectTitle":"Clean Air, Clear Minds!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Coates","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8122548_orig.jpg?crop=1653,1653,x2378,y80&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1653116714059","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8122548"},{"teacherId":9239508,"projectId":9817960,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom through DonorsChoose! Your generosity has provided our students with valuable social-emotional learning resources, including the A Little Spot of Emotion books and activities.\r\n\r\nThese materials have helped students learn to identify, understand, and express their feelings in healthy ways. Through engaging stories, visuals, and hands-on activities, students are building important skills such as self-awareness, emotional regulation, empathy, and problem-solving.\r\n\r\nWe use these resources during small-group instruction, classroom discussions, and individual support sessions. Students are excited to learn about different emotions and practice strategies for managing big feelings. The colorful characters and relatable lessons make SEL concepts accessible and meaningful for young learners.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, our students are developing the social and emotional skills they need to be successful both in and out of the classroom. Thank you for making a positive impact on our school community and helping our students grow into confident, caring, and resilient learners.","fullyFundedDate":1770303584087,"projectUrl":"project/helping-little-learners-manage-big-feeli/9817960/","projectTitle":"Helping Little Learners Manage Big Feelings","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Olivarrias","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9239508_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1758942760755","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9239508"},{"teacherId":6728835,"projectId":10073108,"letterContent":"These headphones have made a significant difference in our classroom. Students have been able to focus on their work during independent time. Those with speech-to-text accommodations have been able to utilize this function without issue. Their confidence in completing work has grown greatly due to these headphones!\r\nThe headphones are sturdy, provide clear sound, and are easy for students to use. They were very excited to receive new headphones, something they haven't had since 1st grade, and have been treating them with care. They wanted me to share a huge THANK YOU to all!","fullyFundedDate":1771016877880,"projectUrl":"project/clear-sturdy-reliable-sound-for-all/10073108/","projectTitle":"Clear, Sturdy, Reliable Sound for All!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Bowman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6728835_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1642607201148","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msbowmanteacher"},{"teacherId":10112089,"projectId":10065152,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom project and helping provide these amazing resources for our students. Because of your generosity, our classroom now has weighted vests, Play-Doh, kinetic sand, chewy necklaces, laminating sheets, a pop-up book, and safety locks that are already making a positive impact each day. We have been using these materials to support learning, focus, and sensory needs. The weighted vests and chewy necklaces have helped students stay calm and engaged during lessons, while the Play-Doh and kinetic sand have been wonderful for fine motor centers where students practice forming letters, numbers, and shapes. One special moment was seeing a student who often has difficulty participating during group time remain focused and actively engaged while using a weighted vest.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the new materials, they were thrilled. Smiles spread across the room as they explored each item with excitement and curiosity. The Play-Doh and kinetic sand were instant favorites, and students eagerly began creating and experimenting. The pop-up book also captured everyone's attention, and students gathered together to watch each page come to life. Their enthusiasm made it clear how meaningful these new resources are for our classroom community.\r\n\r\nThe next steps for our students include continuing to use these tools to strengthen academic, sensory, and social-emotional skills. We plan to incorporate the Play-Doh and kinetic sand into literacy and math centers to build letters, numbers, and patterns. The laminating sheets will help us create durable visual schedules, communication supports, and task cards that students can use daily. The weighted vests, chewy necklaces, and safety locks will continue to help us maintain a safe, supportive learning environment where every student can grow and succeed. Thank you again for making this possible for our students.","fullyFundedDate":1771026975990,"projectUrl":"project/tools-for-calm-focus-and-classroom-suc/10065152/","projectTitle":"Tools for Calm, Focus, and Classroom Success","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Gordon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10112089"},{"teacherId":8122548,"projectId":9979222,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your contributions to my project! My students were so overjoyed when the shipment came of new activities! They have enjoyed learning each game or activity and play with them during our center time each day. These activities continue to grow their minds and reading and writing skills each day through play and engagement. \r\nWhile they are growing their foundational reading and writing skills, they are also learning valuable social skills like taking turns, showing good sportsmanship, and patience; all very important skills that they will need as they get older. Thank you again for contributing to these students and to future ones as well!","fullyFundedDate":1768411437934,"projectUrl":"project/engaging-educational-activities-for-1st/9979222/","projectTitle":"Engaging Educational Activities for 1st Graders!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Coates","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8122548_orig.jpg?crop=1653,1653,x2378,y80&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1653116714059","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8122548"},{"teacherId":9827333,"projectId":9868701,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your donations to my project. My students have loved the farm with farm animals the most, and it has encouraged so many great language opportunities. It has also provided my students with the opportunity to practice playing together, taking turns, and taking the perspectives of others. We have also loved reading the Pete the Cat Book, and the tissues have gotten a lot of use as well! Thank you for helping to keep my office clean and germ free, we really appreciate you. \r\n\r\nYour donations really do make a difference, and I'm grateful to be part of a community that is so supportive.","fullyFundedDate":1767232082004,"projectUrl":"project/speech-therapy-supplies/9868701/","projectTitle":"Speech Therapy Supplies","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Dean","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9827333_orig.jpg?crop=1203,1204,x0,y84&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1730842507977","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9827333"},{"teacherId":9239508,"projectId":9755658,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for providing my students with noise-canceling headphones, fidget pop-its, wiggle chairs, and chair bands. These resources have made an immediate and meaningful difference in our classroom. Students are now able to better manage sensory input and stay focused during learning time. For example, during small-group instruction, students independently choose a tool that helps them regulate their bodies—whether that's wearing headphones during noisy transitions or using a wiggle chair to remain seated and engaged.\r\n\r\nWhen students first saw the materials, they were excited and eager to try them. Many shared that the headphones helped them feel calmer, and others noticed they could focus longer while using the chair bands or fidgets. These tools have helped reduce distractions, increase time on task, and support positive behavior, especially for students who experience sensory overload or need movement to learn effectively.\r\n\r\nNext, we will continue teaching students how to independently choose and use the tools that best support their learning needs. We are working on building self-regulation skills so students can advocate for themselves and use these supports across different activities and settings. Your generosity has helped create a more inclusive, calm, and supportive learning environment, and it truly shows in our students' confidence and success. Thank you for making such a powerful impact on our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1759330552295,"projectUrl":"project/calm-minds-focused-learning/9755658/","projectTitle":"Calm Minds, Focused Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Olivarrias","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9239508_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1758942760755","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9239508"},{"teacherId":10112089,"projectId":9662069,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our project! Our new cube chairs have already made a huge difference for my Success K–2 class. Many of my students learn best when they have clear personal space, sturdy seating, and materials that help them stay regulated. These cube chairs give them exactly that.\r\n\r\nThe moment they arrived, my students were excited to have their own special seat. The chairs help them sit securely during small-group lessons, centers, and independent work, which means they're able to stay focused for longer periods of time. The lightweight design makes it easy for them to move their chairs independently, giving them a sense of ownership and responsibility. For students who struggle with transitions or sensory needs, the structure and consistency of having the same chair each time has been especially calming.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, my students now have a learning environment that better matches their needs—one that supports engagement, confidence, and success. Thank you for believing in them and helping create a classroom where every child can thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1757530482077,"projectUrl":"project/a-seat-for-success-cube-chairs-for-my-s/9662069/","projectTitle":"A Seat for Success: Cube Chairs for My Students","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Gordon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10112089"},{"teacherId":10112089,"projectId":9537043,"letterContent":"When the materials first arrived, the students were so excited! Their eyes lit up at the bright colors of the kinetic sand and playdough, and they immediately began exploring and sharing with each other. The chewy necklaces have been especially helpful for my students who need oral sensory support — providing a safe and calming alternative when they feel anxious or need to focus. The sight word cards have also been a fun and interactive way for students to practice reading and build confidence in literacy.\r\n\r\nSince this project, we have also been fortunate to have our adaptable seating funded! This has truly transformed our classroom during whole group lessons — students are more engaged, comfortable, and focused. Our next goal is to continue building on these tools by incorporating more hands-on sensory learning opportunities and fine-motor activities that keep our students motivated and growing every day. I'm so grateful for your generosity in making our classroom a place where every student can thrive.","fullyFundedDate":1755711046214,"projectUrl":"project/hands-on-hearts-open-sensory-tools-for/9537043/","projectTitle":"Hands-On, Hearts Open: Sensory Tools for Special Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Gordon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10112089"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_36383","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":359,"numTeachers":25,"percentFrplEligible":74,"percentAsian":5,"percentBlack":16,"percentWhite":24,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":27,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":5,"percentMultiracialImputed":19,"gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"14.4:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_MIDSIZE"},"inStateSupporters":82.7,"schoolId":36383,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Whitman Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Whitman Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/washington/tacoma-public-schools/whitman-elementary-school/36383"}