{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Cuffe Math Science Technical Academy","outOfStateSupporters":35.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9284947,"projectId":9464547,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of basketballs to our Physical Education and Athletics program. Your kindness means more than you may realize.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, our students now have the opportunity to learn new skills, play with excitement, and experience the joy of being active together. For many of our kids, something as simple as having enough quality equipment makes a huge difference—it builds confidence, encourages teamwork, and helps them discover a love for movement that can last a lifetime.\r\n\r\nYour gift will be used every single day, not just in our PE classes, but across practices and after-school programs. Our athletes are already excited, and our younger students can't wait to get on the court and play.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our program and in the potential of every child who steps into our gym. Your generosity strengthens our community and helps us create a positive, inclusive environment where all students can grow.","fullyFundedDate":1755720041852,"projectUrl":"project/basketballs-needed-lets-make-every-sho/9464547/","projectTitle":"Basketballs Needed: Let’s Make Every Shot Count","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Bates","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9284947_orig.png?crop=1169,1170,x0,y510&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1705460004872","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9284947"},{"teacherId":9284947,"projectId":9462697,"letterContent":"I would like to extend our sincere gratitude for your generous donation of basketballs to our Physical Education program and after-school basketball team.\r\n\r\nYour contribution has made an immediate and meaningful impact. In our P.E. classes, students now have the opportunity to participate more actively in skill-building activities, team games, and fitness challenges. Because we have enough equipment for every student to be involved at once, participation has increased, lessons have become more dynamic, and students are more engaged and excited to learn.\r\n\r\nFor our after-school basketball team, your donation has been equally invaluable. Having high-quality basketballs allows our athletes to practice more effectively, develop proper technique, and build confidence on the court. The team now has the tools they need to train consistently and compete with pride. For many of our students, this team represents not only an athletic outlet but also a sense of belonging, responsibility, and personal growth—and your generosity supports that experience.\r\n\r\nPlease know that your donation is helping us provide safe, active, and enriching opportunities for all of our students. We are truly grateful for your commitment to supporting youth development and physical education in our school community.\r\n\r\nThank you once again for your meaningful contribution. It is making a real difference every single day.","fullyFundedDate":1755378379529,"projectUrl":"project/bounce-back-help-us-elevate-the-game/9462697/","projectTitle":"Bounce Back: Help Us Elevate the Game","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Bates","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9284947_orig.png?crop=1169,1170,x0,y510&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1705460004872","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9284947"},{"teacherId":8638889,"projectId":9519895,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom has truly transformed! The new sensory and learning tools have brought calm, focus, and excitement to our days. My students are using the materials during both independent work and small group sessions to help regulate their energy and attention. One favorite activity has been our new \"Focus Stations,\" where students use sensory bins, textured fidgets, and weighted lap pads before diving into reading or math tasks. The difference in their concentration has been incredible.\r\n\r\nWhen the materials first arrived, the students' faces lit up. They were curious and eager to explore every new item. One student said, \"This feels like my brain can rest for a second!\"—and that moment alone made it clear how much these resources were needed.\r\n\r\nRight now, we're using the sensory tools to support a unit on problem-solving and teamwork. Students are learning to recognize when they need a break and how to use these tools responsibly. Our next goal is to help them build routines that combine movement, mindfulness, and learning so they can carry these skills beyond the classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1758035447465,"projectUrl":"project/supporting-sensory-and-learning-needs-fo/9519895/","projectTitle":"Supporting Sensory and Learning Needs for a Fresh Start","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Walker","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8638889_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1701137279528","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8638889"},{"teacherId":9284947,"projectId":9366341,"letterContent":"On behalf of the students and staff at our school, I would like to extend our sincere appreciation for your generous donation of volleyballs to our Physical Education program.\r\nYour thoughtful contribution has made a wonderful difference in our students' learning experience. With the new volleyballs, our PE classes are now filled with enthusiasm, teamwork, and friendly competition. Students are eager to participate and practice their skills, and the improved equipment allows them to fully enjoy and benefit from the game.\r\nBeyond just playing, volleyball teaches our students about communication, cooperation, and resilience. Thanks to your generosity, they are able to build these valuable life skills while staying active and healthy.\r\nYour support reminds our students that their community believes in them and their potential. We are deeply grateful for your kindness and for helping us create a positive and engaging environment for all.","fullyFundedDate":1749004472870,"projectUrl":"project/can-you-dig-it/9366341/","projectTitle":"Can You Dig It?","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Bates","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9284947_orig.png?crop=1169,1170,x0,y510&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1705460004872","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9284947"},{"teacherId":9284947,"projectId":9400583,"letterContent":"I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for your generous donation of fresh white T-shirts for our students to change into after physical education classes.\r\n\r\nYour thoughtful contribution makes a meaningful difference in the lives of our students. Many of our learners come from low-income households where access to clean, fresh clothing is not always guaranteed. Providing these shirts ensures that all students can feel comfortable, confident, and ready to learn throughout the day.\r\n\r\nThis simple yet powerful act of kindness supports not only our students' physical well-being but also their sense of dignity and belonging within our school community. Your generosity helps us create an inclusive and caring environment where every child's needs are met with compassion and respect.\r\n\r\nThank you once again for your support and commitment to our students. We are deeply grateful for your partnership in helping us care for the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally.","fullyFundedDate":1753797919625,"projectUrl":"project/clean-and-confident-supporting-student/9400583/","projectTitle":"Clean and Confident: Supporting Student Hygiene Post-PE","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Bates","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9284947_orig.png?crop=1169,1170,x0,y510&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1705460004872","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9284947"},{"teacherId":9284947,"projectId":9359616,"letterContent":"On behalf of the students and staff at our school we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for your generous donation of basketballs to our Physical Education (PE) program.\r\nYour contribution has made a meaningful impact on our students. These new basketballs have brought renewed excitement and energy to our PE classes and after-school activities. For many of our students, this opportunity means more than just playing a game—it fosters teamwork, discipline, confidence, and a sense of community.\r\nThe students are thrilled to have quality equipment that allows them to practice their skills, participate in team play, and stay active in a safe and engaging way. Your generosity helps us continue to promote healthy lifestyles and the values of sportsmanship and perseverance.\r\nWe deeply appreciate your support and belief in the power of sports and education to shape young lives. Because of your kindness, our students are not only learning about basketball—they are learning lessons that will last a lifetime.","fullyFundedDate":1749004472552,"projectUrl":"project/small-hands-big-hoops/9359616/","projectTitle":"Small Hands, Big Hoops","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Bates","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9284947_orig.png?crop=1169,1170,x0,y510&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1705460004872","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9284947"},{"teacherId":9284947,"projectId":9366652,"letterContent":"A ball cage is more than storage — it's a tool that supports better learning, safer play, and a more efficient, respectful PE environment. Our new ball cage keeps all the balls neatly stored in one place. No more time wasted searching for missing equipment — students and teachers know exactly where to find what they need, which means more time playing and less time managing. \r\n\r\nIn addition, balls stored properly in a cage are less likely to get damaged, lost, or worn out prematurely. That means the equipment lasts longer, saving money and keeping things in good condition for future classes. Lastly, and most importantly, having a designated place for equipment helps teach students responsibility and respect. They're more likely to take care of gear and return it properly when there's a clear system in place.","fullyFundedDate":1749004473131,"projectUrl":"project/organize-and-optimize/9366652/","projectTitle":"Organize and Optimize","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Bates","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9284947_orig.png?crop=1169,1170,x0,y510&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1705460004872","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9284947"},{"teacherId":9284947,"projectId":9410557,"letterContent":"There's something instantly thrilling about new equipment. These volleyballs are clean, shiny, perfectly round — no scuffs, no deflation, no faded logos. They bounce higher. They feel better in your hands. And most importantly, they represent possibility: better games, sharper serves, maybe even impressing your crush during PE.\r\n\r\nKids rush to grab them, feeling the smooth surface, tossing them in the air, testing their grip. There's playful competition to be the first to serve one over the net. Even students who aren't normally into sports might get swept up in the energy — it's contagious.\r\nIn that moment, the class isn't just holding volleyballs. They're holding potential — of fun, improvement, teamwork, and a break from routine. It's not just PE anymore. It's game time.\r\n\r\nOnce again, thank you so much for your generous donation of new volleyballs to our school. Your support means a lot to our students and has brought a renewed excitement to our physical education classes. The new equipment has already made a big impact — our students are more engaged, energized, and eager to play.","fullyFundedDate":1751656348937,"projectUrl":"project/serve-up-support-help-us-get-new-volley/9410557/","projectTitle":"Serve Up Support: Help Us Get New Volleyballs","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Bates","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9284947_orig.png?crop=1169,1170,x0,y510&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1705460004872","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9284947"},{"teacherId":8638889,"projectId":9161451,"letterContent":"I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to extend my heartfelt thanks for your generous donation to our \"Some Bunny Loves You\" project. Your support brought joy, comfort, and meaningful learning experiences to a very special group of students during their spring break.\r\n\r\nThanks to you, my students—who are on the autism spectrum—received Easter baskets filled with carefully selected learning materials, sensory-friendly surprises, and treats that made them feel seen and celebrated. The baskets weren't just fun; they were part of a larger effort to keep students engaged and connected during a time that can often be challenging for children with unique learning needs.\r\n\r\nWe used the resources to build a themed learning week focused on spring, kindness, and social-emotional skills. One of the standout moments was a simple activity: we used some of the manipulatives and visuals from the baskets to practice turn-taking and communication during a snack-sharing circle. A few of my students, who are typically more reserved, began initiating social interaction—pointing to items they wanted, offering snacks to peers, and using new vocabulary we'd been working on.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the Easter baskets, their eyes lit up with pure excitement and curiosity. One student immediately started exploring the textures of the toys inside, while another hugged his basket and whispered, \"For me?\" The moment was so touching and reminded me of how impactful these small acts of kindness can be.\r\n\r\nYour contribution didn't just provide materials—it created moments of joy, learning, and connection. You reminded my students that they are valued, and that learning can feel like a gift.\r\n\r\nThank you, truly, for being part of our classroom family. Your generosity continues to make a lasting difference.","fullyFundedDate":1743972930397,"projectUrl":"project/some-bunnny-loves-u/9161451/","projectTitle":"Some Bunnny Loves U","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Walker","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8638889_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1701137279528","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8638889"},{"teacherId":8638889,"projectId":9238740,"letterContent":"I want to extend my deepest gratitude to you for supporting our \"Busy Books...Bright Future\" project. Thanks to your generosity, my students now have access to an incredible set of interactive, engaging, and developmentally appropriate busy books that have already made a meaningful impact in our classroom.\r\n\r\nFrom the moment the materials arrived, the students' faces lit up with excitement and curiosity. They crowded around the boxes, eager to see what treasures were inside. As we unpacked the busy books, I heard gasps, joyful laughter, and eager questions: \"Can I try that one?\" \"Is this for me?\" It was truly heartwarming to witness their enthusiasm.\r\n\r\nThe busy books have quickly become a favorite part of our learning centers. They're used daily for building fine motor skills, reinforcing early literacy and math concepts, and encouraging independent exploration. One of my favorite moments so far was watching a group of students work together to complete a matching shapes activity—they were helping each other, talking through their choices, and celebrating their success with high-fives. It wasn't just about learning shapes; it was about collaboration, confidence, and joy.\r\n\r\nFor some of my learners who need extra sensory or hands-on support, the busy books have been especially powerful. One student, who usually struggles to stay focused during whole-group instruction, now eagerly chooses a busy book during independent work time and engages with it for extended periods. It's made a huge difference in helping him feel successful and included.\r\n\r\nThese resources have helped me create a classroom environment that supports active learning, meets diverse needs, and sparks curiosity. Thank you for believing in our students and for investing in their bright futures. Your kindness has brought real and lasting change to our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1746698792329,"projectUrl":"project/busy-booksbright-futures/9238740/","projectTitle":"Busy Books…Bright Futures","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Walker","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8638889_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1701137279528","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8638889"},{"teacherId":9554685,"projectId":9080273,"letterContent":"We are thrilled to share some of the incredible accomplishments your support made possible during this school year. Thanks to your generosity, our 6th–8th grade students engaged in an exciting hands-on learning experience that not only deepened their understanding of science and sustainability but also gave them a sense of ownership and pride in their work.\r\n\r\nOne of the highlights of our year was the successful completion of our indoor vertical garden project. This innovative endeavor allowed students to grow flowers and leafy vegetables right inside our classroom walls. From the initial planning and research stages to the planting, maintenance, and harvesting phases, students were fully involved every step of the way. They learned essential lessons in botany, environmental science, and nutrition while developing collaboration and problem-solving skills.\r\n\r\nWhat made this project particularly special was the opportunity for students to take charge of their own learning. They weren't just following instructions—they were leading. They assembled growing towers, chose the best crops for indoor cultivation, monitored soil and light conditions, and made adjustments based on real-time observations. This level of autonomy fostered a sense of responsibility and purpose that traditional classroom settings often struggle to replicate.\r\n\r\nIn addition to planting, our students **installed and used a student-designed irrigation system**. With guidance from their teachers and support from our STEM program, they explored concepts such as water conservation, fluid dynamics, and automation. The irrigation system was a key component that ensured their plants received consistent moisture, even on weekends and holidays. This engineering challenge taught students how to use technology to solve real-world problems, and their success is a testament to their creativity and dedication.\r\n\r\nThanks to your donations, we were able to purchase essential materials such as grow lights, nutrient-rich soil, seeds, irrigation tubing, and timers. These resources gave our students the tools they needed to bring their ideas to life. We are proud to say that many of the vegetables grown were used in classroom cooking demonstrations and tastings, helping students make a tangible connection between agriculture and healthy eating.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, we are excited to expand our efforts. Our goal for the upcoming school year is to **continue growing fruits and vegetables indoors using sustainable methods**, while introducing more advanced agricultural technologies. We hope to incorporate composting, temperature control systems, and even hydroponics into future projects. With continued support, we can further enrich our students' STEM education and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards and innovators.\r\n\r\nThank you again for your ongoing support and commitment to our school's mission. Your investment in our students not only helps them learn about science and sustainability—it helps them build confidence, develop leadership skills, and see themselves as capable problem solvers. We are grateful to have you as part of our community and look forward to sharing even more progress with you in the future.\r\n\r\nTogether, we are planting the seeds for a brighter tomorrow.","fullyFundedDate":1737845770743,"projectUrl":"project/budding-minds-nurturing-the-next-generat/9080273/","projectTitle":"Budding Minds Nurturing the Next Generation of Urban Growers","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Daugherty","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9554685"},{"teacherId":9870139,"projectId":9085051,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for sponsoring my students with what they needed to help them learn. The students had so much fun using the items and get to keep on using them this year. The students have been learning to code and learning to use the items that you have purchased for them. They were so excited when I showed them the items that they have received. We get to finally compete in tournaments and have other competitions. \r\nWe are also get to show our parents what we are learning while using the robots. We are able to have parent night and parents can interacted with the robots too. Thank you so much again!!","fullyFundedDate":1740421850324,"projectUrl":"project/stem-and-the-youth/9085051/","projectTitle":"STEM and the Youth","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Donegan","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9870139_orig.jpg?crop=1572,1572,x695,y745&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1738346786041","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9870139"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_5721","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":235,"numTeachers":19,"percentFrplEligible":91,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":98,"percentWhite":0,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":1,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"12.4:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":64.7,"schoolId":5721,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Cuffe Math Science Technical Academy on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Cuffe Math Science Technical Academy","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/illinois/chicago-public-school-district-299/cuffe-math-science-tech-acad/5721"}
Join the 207 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Cuffe Math Science Technical Academy is
an urban public school
in Chicago, Illinois that is part of Chicago Public School District 299.
It serves 235 students
in grades Pre-K - 8 with a student/teacher ratio of 12.4:1.
Its teachers have had 71 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Boost support for our school's classrooms. Share this page with friends and family who want to make a difference. If you're a teacher, sign up to get started!
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. Each classroom request for funding was created by a classroom teacher and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
of students receive free or reduced price lunch
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
Source: the National Center for Education Statistics
99%
of students are Black, Latino, Native
American, or Asian
Data about school demographics comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. The numbers in this chart may not add up to 100% because of limitations in the available data.
Cuffe Math Science Technical Academy Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Dec 4, 2025
DonorsChoose makes it easy for anyone to help a teacher in need, moving us closer to a nation where students
in every community have the tools and experiences they need for a great education.
Cuffe Math Science Technical Academy
$41,257
raised using DonorsChoose
71
projects
funded
24
teachers
funded
207
donors
4
projects
for
basic supplies
2
projects for
technology
2
projects for
books
1
project
for
art supplies
Cuffe Math Science Technical Academy has received support from
134 individuals from Illinois and
73 individuals out-of-state.