{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Highland Community School","outOfStateSupporters":25.8,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":3904740,"projectId":9883554,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity and support. Because of you, meaningful moments are happening in our classroom every day.\r\n\r\nOne moment that truly stood out was with my autistic child, who was able to stay engaged in a lesson for a full 30 minutes. This was a big achievement, and even more exciting—after taking a break, he chose to return and continue participating. That kind of independent re-engagement is something we celebrate, and it wouldn't have been possible without the resources you helped provide.\r\n\r\nAll of the children are thoroughly enjoying the STEM lessons. These activities not only capture their attention but also encourage them to think creatively and explore their own ideas. It's inspiring to watch them build confidence as they experiment, problem-solve, and discover new interests.\r\n\r\nYour generosity is making a real difference in their learning experiences and growth. Thank you for helping create opportunities that truly matter.","fullyFundedDate":1763567492649,"projectUrl":"project/stem-in-action-counting-growing-and-r/9883554/","projectTitle":"STEM in Action: Counting, Growing, and Reaching for the Stars","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Darla","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3904740_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1525845659962","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msdarla"},{"teacherId":7430375,"projectId":10017712,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous contribution. Because of your support, my students are now able to go outside and play comfortably in the snow and cold air. Recently, I watched a group of children happily climb a snow pile, slide down together, and laugh as they worked as a team to dig tunnels. It was a joyful moment that would not have been possible without proper winter gear. Because we have enough gloves, all children who need them can wear waterproof gloves and stay warm and dry during outdoor play.\r\n\r\nWe will continue using these materials throughout the winter season, making outdoor play a meaningful part of our daily learning. I will also take good care of them so future students can benefit from these resources next year. Thank you again for making this possible! ❄️💛","fullyFundedDate":1769604780575,"projectUrl":"project/warm-hands-happy-play/10017712/","projectTitle":"Warm Hands, Happy Play","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Tomo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7430375_orig.jpg?crop=1975,1975,x0,y151&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690864828437","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7430375"},{"teacherId":8670179,"projectId":10038937,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, abstract science concepts are becoming something my students can truly see and feel.\r\n\r\nWith our magnetic atom, molecular, and VSEPR model kits, students are building and exploring ideas that would normally feel out of reach. They're working together, testing their thinking, and adjusting their models as they go. It's thoughtful, hands-on learning that invites real curiosity and persistence.\r\n\r\nThis experience has also helped me grow as a teacher. I've been learning alongside my students, deepening my own understanding so I can better guide their discoveries. That shared learning has made our classroom feel even more connected.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping my students see themselves as scientists and problem-solvers. Your support is making a lasting impact.","fullyFundedDate":1772135106202,"projectUrl":"project/periodic-table-explorers-discovering-th/10038937/","projectTitle":"Periodic Table Explorers: Discovering the Building Blocks of Our World","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Beth","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8670179_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753056481869","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8670179"},{"teacherId":8670179,"projectId":10038976,"letterContent":"Because of you, our classroom has been filled with curiosity and joy.\r\n\r\nOur new Hand2Mind STEM kits have given my students the chance to truly experience learning by building, testing, and figuring things out together. I've seen students who sometimes struggle to stay engaged become completely focused and excited to solve problems.\r\n\r\nWhat's been most special is watching their confidence grow. They're taking risks, making mistakes, and trying again without giving up. Those moments feel so important.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students and helping them see what they're capable of. Everything we're doing feels more connected and meaningful because of your support.","fullyFundedDate":1770666873369,"projectUrl":"project/stem-bins-for-building-thinking-and-cr/10038976/","projectTitle":"STEM Bins for Building, Thinking, and Creating","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Beth","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8670179_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753056481869","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8670179"},{"teacherId":7888135,"projectId":9935145,"letterContent":"Thanks to this project, every child in our classroom had thick, warm mittens and scarves this winter. In Wisconsin, we go outside daily unless temperatures drop below zero, and the cold can be intense.\r\n\r\nIn past years, I often had children return indoors with frozen fingers and tears. This was the first winter that didn't happen.\r\n\r\nBecause of these donations, students were able to play longer, explore freely, and fully enjoy outdoor time without discomfort. Just as importantly, every child had what they needed — creating a sense of dignity and equity in our classroom community.\r\n\r\nYour generosity brought warmth, comfort, and joyful winter experiences to our students. We are so grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1764710903995,"projectUrl":"project/warm-hands-for-winter-play-insulated-mi/9935145/","projectTitle":"Warm Hands for Winter Play: Insulated Mittens for Our Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Stephanie","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7888135_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1624330566874","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7888135"},{"teacherId":8670179,"projectId":9328230,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom library has grown in ways that truly bring learning to life. Your support has allowed us to add high-interest chapter books for daily read-alouds and targeted titles that enrich our lessons in science, history, language, and art.\r\n\r\nThese books do more than fill shelves—they spark curiosity, fuel discussion, and deepen our students' love of reading. Children gather excitedly each day for our novel read-alouds, exploring new ideas together and connecting as a classroom community. With these new resources, every lesson is richer, every story more engaging, and every student more inspired to read, learn, and explore.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping us nurture thoughtful, curious, and joyful learners.","fullyFundedDate":1758857851572,"projectUrl":"project/more-books-read-aloud-rebels-and-lesson/9328230/","projectTitle":"More Books! Read-Aloud Rebels and Lesson Book Legends","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Beth","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8670179_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753056481869","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8670179"},{"teacherId":8670179,"projectId":9483224,"letterContent":"Because this project was funded, my students now have the tools they need to grow as independent, confident learners.\r\n\r\nThe hygiene items have supported dignity and self-care, helping students feel proud and capable each day. The musical instruments have brought rhythm and collaboration into our classroom, giving children new ways to express themselves. The art supplies have sparked creativity and deeper focus during work cycles, and the science materials have inspired hands-on discovery and richer questioning.\r\n\r\nThese small resources have made a big impact—strengthening both my students' learning and their sense of responsibility within our classroom community.","fullyFundedDate":1758811655197,"projectUrl":"project/exploring-creating-and-caring-in-our-m/9483224/","projectTitle":"Exploring, Creating, and Caring in Our Montessori Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Beth","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8670179_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753056481869","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8670179"},{"teacherId":8670179,"projectId":9250173,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom library has become a place where every child can see both mirrors and windows.\r\n\r\nThe new books have transformed our read-alouds, small group lessons, and independent research time. Students are encountering stories that reflect their own identities, cultures, family structures, and lived experiences — and they are also stepping into perspectives different from their own. This has led to richer discussions, deeper empathy, and more thoughtful questions during our community conversations.\r\n\r\nIn our Montessori environment, students often follow their curiosity into research projects. With a more diverse and representative library, they now have access to biographies of changemakers from many backgrounds, stories set across the globe, and nonfiction texts that honor multiple voices. Their work has become more layered and more meaningful because their sources are more inclusive.\r\n\r\nAs a teacher, I've been able to intentionally plan read-alouds that spark dialogue about identity, fairness, resilience, and belonging. I've watched students light up when they recognize themselves in a character, and I've seen others grow in understanding as they learn about experiences outside their own.\r\n\r\nThis project didn't just add books to shelves — it strengthened our classroom culture. It helped us build a community rooted in respect, curiosity, and connection.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping us create a library where every child feels seen and every child is invited to see others more clearly.","fullyFundedDate":1753713261489,"projectUrl":"project/building-a-diverse-classroom-library/9250173/","projectTitle":"Building a Diverse Classroom Library","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Beth","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8670179_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753056481869","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8670179"},{"teacherId":8670179,"projectId":9483191,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our rainy and cold days have completely transformed. Instead of feeling restless during indoor recess, students are building, creating, and collaborating in meaningful ways. The materials you provided encourage problem-solving, teamwork, and imagination — skills that strengthen both their social growth and their classroom learning.\r\n\r\nIndoor recess is no longer just time inside; it's become an extension of our community where students connect, lead, and create together. Thank you for turning rainy days into opportunities for joy and growth.","fullyFundedDate":1754022832249,"projectUrl":"project/rainy-days-indoor-recess-that-builds-c/9483191/","projectTitle":"Rainy Days: Indoor Recess that Builds, Creates, and Connects","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Beth","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8670179_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753056481869","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8670179"},{"teacherId":8670179,"projectId":9250574,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom guinea pigs are thriving and so are we.\r\n\r\nWe already had our furry classroom companions, but the supplies and fresh food you provided have made it possible for us to care for them in the thoughtful, high-quality way they deserve. Students are now able to consistently provide nutritious meals, clean bedding, enrichment materials, and safe habitats that support the guinea pigs' health and comfort.\r\n\r\nThis has deepened the children's sense of responsibility and stewardship. Caring for our animals is not just a classroom job, it is meaningful work. Students measure food portions, monitor water levels, track supply use, and ensure our guinea pigs' environment stays clean and welcoming. They are learning that love shows up in daily, dependable actions.\r\n\r\nYour support has also allowed this experience to remain sustainable. Instead of worrying about running low on essentials, we can focus on what matters most: building empathy, strengthening our classroom community, and nurturing a calm, connected environment where both children and animals feel safe.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping us continue this important work. Your kindness is felt every single day, by seven very happy guinea pigs and a room full of grateful children.","fullyFundedDate":1752771368901,"projectUrl":"project/supporting-our-classroom-guinea-pigs-su/9250574/","projectTitle":"Supporting Our Classroom Guinea Pigs: Supplies for Learning and Care","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Beth","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8670179_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753056481869","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8670179"},{"teacherId":7430375,"projectId":9819629,"letterContent":"Thank you so much to The Chuck Lorre Family Foundation for your generous support of our music project. The handbells and tongue drum have become very special tools in our classroom. Handbells help children learn not only rhythm, but also body control, careful listening, and teamwork—important skills they are still developing.\r\n\r\nBecause of you, students now have meaningful opportunities to enjoy music and collaborate with their peers. The tongue drum adds moments of calm and mindfulness, helping create a peaceful environment where children can connect, cooperate, and grow together through music.","fullyFundedDate":1760693567652,"projectUrl":"project/making-harmony-together-building-teamwo/9819629/","projectTitle":"Making Harmony Together: Building Teamwork and Calm with Music","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Tomo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7430375_orig.jpg?crop=1975,1975,x0,y151&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690864828437","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7430375"},{"teacherId":7430375,"projectId":9539730,"letterContent":"Audiobooks make a meaningful difference for children who have difficulty focusing during group read-alouds, allowing them to enjoy stories in a way that meets their individual needs. Through expressive narration, students can engage with language at their own pace and experience stories more fully.\r\n\r\nAudiobooks also provide a calming and comforting experience for children who need a quiet moment during the day. They help students regulate their emotions, refocus their attention, and feel supported in a gentle, non-disruptive way.\r\n\r\nThis resource supports both academic growth and emotional well-being, helping create an inclusive and nurturing classroom environment. Thank you for making these meaningful learning experiences possible for our students.","fullyFundedDate":1758811655436,"projectUrl":"project/bringing-stories-to-life-audiobook-list/9539730/","projectTitle":"Bringing Stories to Life: Audiobook Listening Station for Little Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Tomo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7430375_orig.jpg?crop=1975,1975,x0,y151&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1690864828437","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7430375"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_41597","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":414,"numTeachers":15,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":36,"percentWhite":37,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":12,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"27.6:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":74.2,"schoolId":41597,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Highland Community School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Highland Community School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/wisconsin/milwaukee-public-schools/highland-community-school/41597"}