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This teacher needs your help!

Mrs. Nishimitsu from Makawao, HI is requesting classroom basics through DonorsChoose, the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.

See what Mrs. Nishimitsu is requesting

Thinking, Talking, Solving TOGETHER: Building Confident Problem Solvers

Help me give my students experiences with rich math tasks and the tools needed to successfully collaborate in a building thinking classroom setting.

  • 1 donor
  • $724 goal

Hooray! This project is fully funded

Hooray! This project is fully funded

Keep the momentum going! Make a donation to Mrs. Nishimitsu for her next project!

Help Mrs. Nishimitsu

Keep the momentum going! Make a donation to Mrs. Nishimitsu for her next project!

My Project

My students are curious, creative, and resilient learners who are working hard to overcome challenges in math. Many of them come to my classroom feeling unsure of their abilities, but I know that with the right approach, they can grow into confident problem solvers. As middle schoolers who are below grade level in math, they often feel discouraged when faced with traditional methods of instruction. I strive to create an environment where they feel safe to take risks, make mistakes, and learn from one another.

I am implementing the Building Thinking Classrooms framework by Dr. Peter Liljedahl to transform how my students think about and engage with math.

This innovative approach focuses on collaborative problem-solving, critical thinking, and active participation. Students work in visibly random groups, use vertical non-permanent surfaces, and engage with rich mathematical tasks that foster deeper understanding.

Beyond building mathematical skills, this approach fosters Social Emotional Learning (SEL) by promoting teamwork, communication, and perseverance. Students learn to respect diverse perspectives, practice empathy by supporting their peers, and develop confidence as they see their ideas valued and discussed. Mistakes become learning opportunities rather than obstacles, creating a safe space where students feel empowered to take risks.

Building Thinking Classrooms not only improves problem-solving skills but also nurtures social and emotional growth. Students develop a growth mindset, practice respectful collaboration, and build resilience as they navigate challenging tasks together. These skills will serve them well beyond math class, fostering a positive mindset and strengthening their ability to work as part of a team. By contributing to this project, you are helping transform my classroom into a place where students feel empowered to explore mathematical ideas without fear of being wrong. You are helping create a community of thinkers who support each other in their learning journey.

Thank you!

Mrs. Nishimitsu Samuel Enoka Kalama Intermediate School Grades 6-8

Equity Focus

At this school, more than 50% of students are Black, Latino, and/or Native American, and more than 50% come from low-income households. Learn how your donation to this school supports a more equitable education.

This project will directly impact historically underfunded classrooms.

More about Mrs. Nishimitsu

Makawao, HI View local requests

More than half of students from low‑income households Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more

125 students impacted 1donor

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Expand the "Where your donation goes" section below to see exactly what Mrs. Nishimitsu is requesting.

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Where Your Donation Goes

Where your donation goes
Materials Cost Quantity Total
Charles Leonard CLI Magnetic Pocket (26400) • Amazon Business $12.14 10 $121.40
Hoikwo 30 Packs 8.5x11 Black Adhesive Magnetic Frames for Letter Document Holder for Refrigerator Glass Door • Amazon Business $47.99 2 $95.98
YixangDD Magnetic Picture Frames 100 Packs-Fridge Magnetic Photo Frames-Holds 4 x 6 Inches Photos,Black • Amazon Business $38.99 2 $77.98
Astrobrights Mega Collection, Colored Cardstock, Bright Confetti White, 320 Sheets, 65 lb/176 gsm, 8.5" x 11" - MORE SHEETS! (91683) • Amazon Business $17.49 3 $52.47
Classroom-Ready Rich Math Tasks, Grades 4-5: Engaging Students in Doing Math (Corwin Mathematics Series) • Amazon Business $35.71 1 $35.71
LOVIMAG Magnets for Whiteboard, 40pcs Strong Refrigerator Magnets, Neodymium Fridge Magnet,Small Push Pin Magnets for Whiteboard, Fridge, Office, Classroom and Map Magnets • Amazon Business $17.09 2 $34.18
Mathematics Tasks for the Thinking Classroom, Grades K-5 (Corwin Mathematics Series) • Amazon Business $33.96 1 $33.96
Classroom-Ready Rich Algebra Tasks, Grades 6-12: Engaging Students in Doing Math (Corwin Mathematics Series) • Amazon Business $30.48 1 $30.48
AFMAT Electric Pencil Sharpener, Pencil Sharpener for Colored Pencils, Auto Stop, Super Sharp & Fast, Electric Pencil Sharpener Plug in for 6-12mm No.2/Colored Pencils/Office/Home-Black • Amazon Business $24.99 1 $24.99
6 Pieces Microfiber Shag Whiteboard Eraser, Microfiber Whiteboard Eraser, Dry Erase Eraser, Whiteboard Eraser Washable Microfiber Shag Dry Erase Board Eraser • Amazon Business $7.89 3 $23.67
EXPO White Board Care Dry Erase Wipes, 8-Inches x 5.5-Inches, 50 Count • Amazon Business $7.18 3 $21.54

Materials cost

$552.36

Vendor shipping charges

 FREE

Sales tax

 $24.30

3rd party payment processing fee

$8.29

Fulfillment labor & materials

$30.00

Total project cost

$614.95

Suggested donation to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms

$108.52

Total project goal

$723.47

How we calculate what's needed

Total project goal

 $723.47

1 Donor

-$723.47

Donations toward project cost

-$614.95

Donations to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms

-$108.52

Still needed View calculationHide calculation

 $0.00

Our team works hard to negotiate the best pricing and selections available.

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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. Nishimitsu and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.

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