Public school teachers across Virginia are signing up on wish list of classroom projects for funding, from updating old equipment to basics like pencils and glue.

They hope DonorsChoose.org can make their wishes come true.

The Web site went live in Virginia last month, and as of Thursday, public school teachers across the state have posted 277 projects to be funded.

It was started in 2000 by Charles Best, a Bronx, New York, high school history teacher. Since then, DonorsChoose has expanded to allow what it calls "citizen philanthropists" to fund projects in all 50 states. Since it began, contributors have given nearly $16 million.

Donors can search projects on the site by state, subject, grade level, cost, or specific keywords such as "autism" or "Shakespeare."

Site visitors can also buy gift certificates that let friends and family members fund the school projects of their choice.