{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"J Sterling Morton East High School","outOfStateSupporters":38.7,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":4400101,"projectId":10257323,"letterContent":"Thanks to the generosity of our donors, our FSI Employability 2 students have officially begun their hands-on espresso cart training!\r\n\r\nBefore introducing the equipment, we spent time building a foundation of essential employability skills, including communication, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability, self-management, and following directions. We also worked through the necessary safety procedures and obtained parent permission for students to participate.\r\n\r\nNow, we are finally putting those skills into practice, and it has been such an exciting experience!\r\n\r\nStudents have been learning about the different parts of the espresso machine, how the equipment works, and how to safely prepare espresso drinks. We are currently in our trial-and-error phase, allowing students to become comfortable with the machine, practice using the tools, follow step-by-step instructions, and experiment with different drinks. They have especially enjoyed the opportunity to taste their creations and discover what they like!\r\n\r\nOne of the most rewarding parts of this experience has been watching students become more comfortable and confident as they work with equipment they had never used before. What may seem like a simple task, such as preparing a drink, actually involves so many important skills: listening, following directions, communicating, working together, maintaining a clean workspace, practicing safety, and learning from mistakes.\r\n\r\nAnd we're just getting started!\r\n\r\nOur next steps include making our own flavored syrups, experimenting with recipes, developing a menu, and preparing to offer espresso drinks to teachers and staff throughout our school. Eventually, students will take on responsibilities involving customer service, preparing orders, organizing supplies, delivering drinks, navigating the school, locating classrooms, and interacting with staff members.\r\n\r\nThe best part is that these are not just skills for making coffee. **They are transferable skills that students can carry into almost any future workplace.** Whether they pursue careers in food service, retail, hospitality, or another field, they are learning what it means to be responsible, work with others, follow safety procedures, solve problems, and take pride in a job well done.\r\n\r\nAs their teacher, it has been incredibly rewarding to see the excitement and engagement this project has brought into our classroom. My goal has always been to provide students with meaningful, authentic learning opportunities that go beyond worksheets and traditional classroom instruction. This project is allowing us to do exactly that.\r\n\r\nWe are still in the early stages, but the progress and enthusiasm I've already seen have been wonderful. I cannot wait to watch their confidence, independence, and skills continue to grow as we move closer to launching our espresso cart for the Morton East community.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our students and helping make this experience possible. Your generosity has provided so much more than an espresso machine and supplies. You've helped create an opportunity for students to learn, grow, build confidence, and experience what it means to be part of a working team.","fullyFundedDate":1786366994074,"projectUrl":"project/brewing-independence-an-espresso-cart-f/10257323/","projectTitle":"Brewing Independence: An Espresso Cart for Functional Skills Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Radojevich","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4400101_orig.jpg?crop=3000,3000,x0,y580&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1725560840431","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msradojevich"},{"teacherId":10545620,"projectId":10368383,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of snacks to our counseling classroom. Because of your kindness, more than 20 students have already benefited from having access to nutritious snacks throughout the school day. Many students visit the counseling office for academic support, social-emotional learning activities, and small group counseling sessions. Having snacks available has helped create a welcoming environment where students feel comfortable opening up, participating in discussions, and focusing on the skills we are working to build. One student recently shared that having a snack during a lunch support group helped them feel less anxious and more able to engage in conversation with their peers.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the donated snacks, they were incredibly excited and grateful. Several students expressed surprise that there would be snacks available in the counseling office and immediately thanked us for providing them. For some students, a quick snack has helped them return to class feeling more focused and ready to learn, while for others it has simply been a reminder that there are caring adults in the building who support them.\r\n\r\nAs we continue through the school year, these snacks will remain an important resource during counseling groups, college and career planning meetings, conflict resolution sessions, and wellness activities. Our next steps include expanding our small group counseling opportunities and providing additional support for students who may need a safe space to decompress during the school day. Your generosity is helping us meet students' basic needs while also creating meaningful opportunities for connection, growth, and success. Thank you for making a lasting impact on our students' lives.","fullyFundedDate":1783619124126,"projectUrl":"project/healthy-snacks-for-hungry-teens/10368383/","projectTitle":"Healthy Snacks for Hungry Teens!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. McDonald","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10545620"},{"teacherId":4323666,"projectId":9892074,"letterContent":"My students are deeply appreciative of the support your donation has provided. Having access to a snack after a difficult day has made a meaningful difference for many of them. They especially love the squishy fidgets, which help them relax, regulate their emotions, and ease anxiety.\r\n\r\nBecause many of our students come from challenging financial situations, essentials like deodorant and personal care products are in high demand. Being able to come to my office and take what they need gives them a sense of relief and dignity. These items help them get through the day feeling clean, safe, and cared for.\r\n\r\nYour generosity is impacting our students in very real ways, both emotionally and practically. Thank you for helping create a more supportive and comforting environment for them.","fullyFundedDate":1772550498179,"projectUrl":"project/because-every-students-deserves-personal/9892074/","projectTitle":"Because Every Students Deserves Personal Care!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Miranda","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4323666_orig.jpg?crop=1242,1242,x0,y182&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1740501970848","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4323666"},{"teacherId":9725835,"projectId":9441980,"letterContent":"Thank you SO much for your support and generosity! When I originally conceived this project, the goal was to provide snacks for my students, who were in a time of crisis due to heightened ICE activity in our community. Many students had family members or neighbors who had been seized by ICE agents and they were afraid to walk home for fear of their own safety being in jeopardy. They saw school as a safe haven and stayed long after the school day had ended, waiting until they could get a ride home and ensure safe passage.\r\n \r\nAs ICE moved on to other areas and the danger lessened, most students no longer had the need for after-school snacks. However, some students were still hesitant to come to school, either out of fear of what might happen on the way to and from, or because they did not want to leave their parents home alone and vulnerable. Thanks to your generosity, our \"snack pantry\" was still well-stocked, so I decided to repurpose the project. I implemented \"Cafe 272\" and designed an incentive system where students could earn points for attendance, promptness to class, good grades, and good behavior. They could also earn bonus points for going above and beyond in various ways (coming in for extra help, having straight As, showing kindness to others, etc.) The students spent these points every week buying snacks. It was a huge hit. They strove to increase the number of points they earned and several of them engaged in friendly competition to be the week's top earner. I cannot tell you what a huge success this program was, and I am very proud to say that I had four students who were exempt from ALL their final exams this semester due to having straight As and over 90% attendance! Several more were exempt from several of their exams, though not all. My students' grades overwhelmingly increased from 1st semester to 2nd semester, and I am thrilled to say that not one of them earned anything lower than a C in any of their classes! This is in large part due to the incentive program, for which I once again say THANK YOU!\r\n\r\nBased on the success I saw this year, I plan to implement this right from the start of the school year. I hope that you will be able to continue to support my students in any way possible. They deserve it! Again, I thank you for your generosity and compassion for my students. They are very grateful to enjoy the benefits. Have a wonderful summer and thank you once again!","fullyFundedDate":1760659416236,"projectUrl":"project/providing-an-energy-boost-for-growing-mi/9441980/","projectTitle":"Providing an Energy Boost for Growing Minds and Bodies","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Lonergan","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9725835_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754274876822","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9725835"},{"teacherId":9867405,"projectId":9919974,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our counseling office. Your donation truly makes a difference. Something as simple as a snack goes a long way, it brightens my students' day, helps them feel cared for, and creates a more welcoming space for them to open up and connect.\r\n\r\nIt means a lot to see others invest in our students' well-being. Your kindness and support do not go unnoticed, and we are incredibly grateful. Thank you for being part of this village and caring for my students! This is a huge support as a school counselor.","fullyFundedDate":1772550528912,"projectUrl":"project/boost-and-belong-snacks-que-inspiran/9919974/","projectTitle":"Boost and Belong: Snacks Que Inspiran","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Orozco","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9867405_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733540247161","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9867405"},{"teacherId":9733665,"projectId":9800397,"letterContent":"I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for your generous support through our Donors Choose project. Because of your kindness, our students have received snacks and fidgets that are already making a meaningful difference in their daily school experience.\r\n\r\nI work with high school students who have significant social-emotional needs, including students on the autism spectrum. While items like snacks and fidgets may seem small, they play a powerful role in helping our students feel regulated, safe, and ready to learn. These supports provide comfort during challenging moments, help students manage stress, and allow them to stay engaged in their learning environment.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has created moments of calm, focus, and even joy for our students—moments that truly matter. We have already seen students using these tools to self-regulate, re-engage with tasks, and build independence. It is incredible to witness the positive impact these resources have had in such a short time.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in our students and for investing in their success and well-being. Your support is deeply appreciated and will continue to make a lasting difference.","fullyFundedDate":1769177185029,"projectUrl":"project/fidgets-for-focus-snacks-for-strength/9800397/","projectTitle":"Fidgets for Focus, Snacks for Strength","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Cartwright","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9733665"},{"teacherId":9023288,"projectId":10003004,"letterContent":"Thank you very much for your generous donation of snacks to the classroom. Your thoughtfulness is truly appreciated and makes a meaningful difference in our students' day. In a busy learning environment, small acts of kindness like yours go a long way, and your contribution has had a positive impact that extends far beyond the snacks themselves. It shows students that there are people who care about their well-being and are willing to support them in simple but meaningful ways.\r\n\r\nNot only do the snacks help keep everyone focused and energized throughout the day, but they also create a more welcoming and supportive atmosphere in the classroom. When students have access to something as simple as a snack, it can help them stay attentive, participate more actively, and feel more comfortable in their environment. Hunger can be a distraction, and by helping to meet that need, you are directly supporting their ability to learn and succeed.\r\n\r\nIn addition, your generosity brings a sense of excitement and joy to the classroom. Something as small as a shared treat can lift spirits, encourage positive interactions, and even build a stronger sense of community among students. These moments of happiness may seem minor, but they contribute to a more positive and engaging learning experience overall. It reminds everyone that kindness and generosity are values worth practicing and passing on.\r\n\r\nYour kindness has certainly not gone unnoticed. Both students and staff deeply appreciate your support, and your contribution serves as a wonderful example of how thoughtful actions can make a real difference. It is gestures like yours that help create an environment where students feel cared for, motivated, and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nOnce again, thank you for your generosity and for taking the time to support our classroom. Your contribution has made a lasting impression, and we are truly grateful for your kindness and consideration.","fullyFundedDate":1772550235336,"projectUrl":"project/new-year-new-stock/10003004/","projectTitle":"New Year, New Stock","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gutheim","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9023288_orig.jpg?crop=533,533,x152,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1739376702667","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/gutheimclassroom"},{"teacherId":10189827,"projectId":9913953,"letterContent":"Your generosity has made a meaningful difference in our classroom, and I am incredibly grateful for your support of our DonorsChoose project. Because of your kindness, my students will have access to resources that will enrich their learning, spark their curiosity, and help them reach their full potential. Your willingness to invest in their education reminds them that there are people who believe in their success.\r\nThe materials you helped provide will create new opportunities for hands-on learning, creativity, and engagement every day. These resources will not only enhance our lessons but also inspire confidence and excitement as my students explore new ideas and develop important skills. Your contribution has a lasting impact that extends far beyond a single school year.\r\nOn behalf of my students and me, thank you for believing in our classroom and helping make this project a reality. Your generosity, compassion, and commitment to education are deeply appreciated. We are excited to put these new resources to use, and we will think of your kindness each time they help a student learn, grow, and succeed.","fullyFundedDate":1774038063420,"projectUrl":"project/a-quick-boost-for-better-focus/9913953/","projectTitle":"A Quick Boost for Better Focus","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Magaña","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10189827_orig.jpg?crop=571,571,x0,y150&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755629731427","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10189827"},{"teacherId":9867405,"projectId":9915186,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting our calming corner project. Because of your generosity, our students now have access to a variety of fidgets and sensory tools that help them regulate their emotions, refocus, and return to learning with confidence. The calming corner has become a safe space where students can pause, practice self-control, and build healthy coping skills instead of feeling overwhelmed. Your support has strengthened our classroom community by promoting emotional wellness and giving students the tools they need to succeed both academically and personally. We are truly grateful for your kindness and investment in our students.","fullyFundedDate":1769177175972,"projectUrl":"project/a-calming-corner-for-every-student/9915186/","projectTitle":"A Calming Corner for Every Student","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Orozco","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9867405_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733540247161","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9867405"},{"teacherId":9867405,"projectId":9911468,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our project. Because of your generosity, my students now have access to new books, calming fidgets, and snacks that help create a welcoming and supportive environment where they can grow both academically and emotionally. These resources have allowed us to intentionally build skills like empathy, emotional awareness, perspective-taking, and respectful communication—skills that are especially important during challenging times. The fidgets help students stay focused and regulated, and the snacks ensure basic needs don't become barriers to learning. I have already seen students become more open, patient, and engaged with one another, and that growth is directly connected to your generosity. We are truly grateful for your support and the positive impact you've made on our classroom community.","fullyFundedDate":1766507564703,"projectUrl":"project/stand-in-my-shoes-building-belonging-th/9911468/","projectTitle":"Stand in My Shoes: Building Belonging Through Stories","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Orozco","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9867405_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1733540247161","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9867405"},{"teacherId":9023288,"projectId":9828898,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous support in providing drunk goggles, high-impairment goggles, and fatigued goggles for our driver education program. Your donation has made a meaningful impact on our students' learning experience and safety awareness.\r\n\r\nThese tools allow students to safely experience how alcohol, fatigue, and impairment affect vision, reaction time, and decision-making. By participating in these simulations, students gain a deeper understanding of the real-life dangers of impaired driving in a powerful and memorable way.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, our students are better prepared to make responsible choices behind the wheel. We are truly grateful for your commitment to student safety and education. Your support plays a vital role in helping us create informed, responsible drivers.","fullyFundedDate":1760718473364,"projectUrl":"project/safe-sober-drunk-goggles-to-teach-saf/9828898/","projectTitle":"Safe & Sober: Drunk Goggles to Teach Safe Driving","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gutheim","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9023288_orig.jpg?crop=533,533,x152,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1739376702667","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/gutheimclassroom"},{"teacherId":10238409,"projectId":9675752,"letterContent":"Thank you for providing our classroom with these interactive buzzers. We have been using them during game-based learning activities to reinforce content, encourage active listening, and promote quick thinking. One memorable moment was during a review activity where students worked in teams, eagerly waiting their turn to respond. The buzzers transformed the lesson into an engaging experience where students felt motivated to participate and support one another.\r\nWhen students first saw the materials, their reaction was immediate excitement and curiosity. Many of them smiled, asked questions, and were eager to begin using the buzzers right away. What stood out most was how even quieter students felt more confident participating. The buzzers created a low-pressure, inclusive environment where students felt comfortable taking academic risks and learning from mistakes.\r\nAs we move forward, students will continue using the buzzers in collaborative reviews, formative assessments, and language practice activities. These tools are helping us build stronger communication skills, teamwork, and confidence in the classroom. Your support has made learning more interactive and joyful, and it has had a lasting impact on my students' engagement and enthusiasm.","fullyFundedDate":1760109138150,"projectUrl":"project/buzzers-for-spanish-learning-games/9675752/","projectTitle":"Buzzers for Spanish Learning Games","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Leoni","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10238409_orig.png?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1756861068498","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10238409"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_27591","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":3321,"numTeachers":141,"percentFrplEligible":87,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":1,"percentWhite":1,"percentIndigenous":1,"percentLatinx":95,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":0,"gradesServed":"10 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":"23.6:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"SUBURBAN","ncesMetroType":"SUBURB_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":61.3,"schoolId":27591,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about J Sterling Morton East High School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"J Sterling Morton East High School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/illinois/j-sterling-morton-hsd-201/j-sterling-morton-east-high-school/27591"}