Project cost is the #1 factor that determines whether a teacher's project will succeed on DonorsChoose. If you keep the cost of items in your cart to less than $500, your project is more likely to receive full funding. (Check out the breakdown of success rates here.)"But Emilia!" you say. "Keeping cost down is easier said than done."You're right—but fear not! Here's a 1-minute rundown of the easiest ways to keep your dollars-needed low without sacrificing the materials your students need.
For more ideas, check out these awesome project cost hacks from fellow teachers. Amazing animation by Lynn Overmyer.