Date: May 2024

School: Meridian Academy High School

Wish Delivered: Counseling group supplies

Teacher Megan Peterman says "I am the only counselor at our school, which is a public school in the West Ada School District for students who qualify as at-risk of not graduating. Students here often qualify though mental health concerns that families do not have the resources to treat. I have enough supplies on this list to run 3 separate small counseling groups, and have a counselor intern who could assist with making this group powerful in supporting students in removing barriers of anxiety and depression and meeting their goal of graduating high school. I would identify students who are struggling with academic progress due to anxiety and depression, get parent permission for a counseling group, and prioritize students without insurance or who do not have access to counseling resources outside of school."

Wish Amount: $880.00

Date: May 2024

School: Hillsdale Elementary School

Wish Delivered: Life skills materials

Teacher Kayla Blaisdell says "I currently teach in an extended resource special education classroom. We have students with moderate to severe disabilities. In the past, I have had many students with lower support needs and we focused on academics quite heavily. This year I have accrued an extremely high caseload of students, including many students with high support needs that focus on life skills instruction. Unfortunately, at this time I do not have many life skills materials needed to support these students and I do not have a budget to purchase these items. These items would allow for me to support life skills instruction with not only students with high support needs, but also with all of my students. This allows for instruction in life skills such as communication, cause and effect, social skills, cooking, cleaning, and pre-academic concepts. My special education program continues to grow and change and it is important that we have the right materials to meet the needs of our students."

Wish Amount: $1,674.33

Date: May 2024

School: Eagle Elementary School

Wish Delivered: New tables and chairs

Teacher Jacqueline White says "As a kindergarten teacher, I've witnessed firsthand the impact of classroom environment on student learning and engagement. I recall a particular instance where a group of students struggled to collaborate effectively during a hands-on science experiment due to the cramped, broken tables and chairs. This experience highlighted the urgent need for furniture that supports collaboration, creativity, and active participation. I envision a classroom where students are excited to come to school every day, eager to explore, learn, and grow. By investing in new tables and chairs, we can create a space where every child feels valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential."

Wish Amount: $3,834.00

Date: May 2024

School: Shoshone Elementary School

Wish Delivered: Classroom supplies and sensory items

Teacher Gual Reyes says "These items will greatly improved the systems and efficiency of my classroom and provide support for my many students that struggle with learning disabilities. For example, the flexible seating and foot bands will help students who have a hard sitting still and who can learn better while moving. The motivational stickers, behavior charts, prize toys and other items will help motivate those that do not have intrinsic motivation to learn. Every year I have at least 3-4 students (and next year it will be 5) who are on IEP's and who have a very difficult time learning in the classroom. My goal is to provide them with the best learning environment and to tap into their strengths and motivations in order for them to want to learn and to enjoy school."

Wish Amount: $834.99