{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Ruben Salazar Bilingual Center","outOfStateSupporters":29.5,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8778646,"projectId":9468071,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of classroom supplies, including the headphone bags, stapler, and other materials. Your support makes a big difference for our class of third graders. These supplies help us stay organized, take care of our materials, and create a learning environment where students can focus and thrive. Your kindness shows our students that their learning matters and that they are supported by a caring community. We are incredibly grateful for your generosity and the positive impact you are helping to make in our classroom every day.","fullyFundedDate":1753909815596,"projectUrl":"project/supplied-for-success/9468071/","projectTitle":"Supplied for Success","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Alvear","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8778646_orig.png?crop=398,398,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1665947533861","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-alvear"},{"teacherId":9124358,"projectId":9600723,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding our project, \"Setting the Stage: Flexible Seating for Our Aspiring Performers!\" The resources you provided have dramatically increased the organization and efficiency of our small, modular music classroom, allowing our students to focus entirely on their musical development.\r\n\r\nThe stools have become an indispensable part of our instructional setup. They are primarily used as flexible seating at the teacher's station, providing a comfortable and dedicated spot for students when I work with them in small groups, or during one-on-one assessments. We love that they are color-coded! I can quickly assign a student to a specific stool color, which helps with quick transitions and classroom management. The stools also double as a listening station where small groups can gather to listen to new pieces, complete listening maps, and review theory assignments. In a small space where furniture moves constantly, the ease of stacking and moving these stools is a true game-changer.\r\n\r\nThe gaffers tape has also proved invaluable for maintaining order and professionalism. We immediately used it to place lines on the floor that clearly mark where students need to line up, which is a helpful visual cue for our younger students. Next, we are going to use the tape to mark the precise placement of chairs for our guitar students during class. This will help them efficiently set up and manage their space, mimicking the professional markings used in event planning and concert production. The next step for my students is to use these professional tools to help \"stage\" our live shows, utilizing the tape for their performance positions.","fullyFundedDate":1755446289641,"projectUrl":"project/setting-the-stage-flexible-seating-for/9600723/","projectTitle":"Setting the Stage: Flexible Seating for Our Aspiring Performers","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ortega","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9124358_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754859430434","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/bilingual-beats"},{"teacherId":9124358,"projectId":9056834,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your incredible generosity in funding our project, \"Tablet Tub: Locking in Learning with our Tech Tub!\"\r\n\r\nThe impact of the Tech Tub has been immediate and transformative for our music classroom. When the tub first arrived, my students were instantly curious about the sleek, locking cart. Now, the tablets are always ready to go—fully charged and organized—eliminating the frustration that used to start our lessons. We no longer waste valuable instructional time troubleshooting batteries or hunting for chargers. This efficiency has allowed us to dive deeper into our musical studies. For example, we recently used the tablets, so that students could watch instrument instructional videos, a task that would've required me to teach one instrument at a time. This allowed students to choose the instrument they want to learn and continue to receive one on one support from me as I was free to assist whomever needed me. Our newcomer and immigrant students especially benefit, as the tablets provide visual and auditory tools that help bridge the language barrier, allowing them to participate fully and showcase their creativity with confidence.\r\n\r\nHaving a reliable charging and storage system has truly revolutionized how we integrate technology into our music education. Our next steps involve utilizing the consistently charged tablets for daily rhythmic reading practice. The Tech Tub ensures that every single student has equal, reliable access to the digital resources needed for this skill, empowering them to share their unique musical talents with the class.","fullyFundedDate":1746785604559,"projectUrl":"project/tablet-tub-locking-in-learning-with-our/9056834/","projectTitle":"Tablet Tub: Locking in Learning with our Tech Tub","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ortega","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9124358_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754859430434","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/bilingual-beats"},{"teacherId":8664786,"projectId":9627009,"letterContent":"I would like to extend my sincere gratitude for your generous donation of board games to our fourth and fifth-grade diverse learners. Your contribution will create a fantastic opportunity for our students to engage in fun learning and build essential social skills. The games will serve as a valuable tool for fostering community and creating a positive and inclusive environment in our classrooms.\r\n\r\nYour support helps us provide our students with engaging and enriching activities that go beyond traditional academics. The board games will not only be a source of entertainment but also a means to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills.\r\n\r\nThank you again for your kindness and for helping to make a difference in the lives of our students.","fullyFundedDate":1758217825203,"projectUrl":"project/get-in-the-game/9627009/","projectTitle":"Get in the Game!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Fernandez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8664786_orig.jpg?crop=914,914,x0,y182&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1724347513158","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8664786"},{"teacherId":8664786,"projectId":9333470,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous donations to support diverse learners in our kindergarten program. Your donation has made a significant impact on our students' early literacy development, providing them with the tools they need to succeed in reading and writing in Spanish.\r\n\r\nWith your support, we have been able to implement a unique and effective learning model that combines focused workbook activities with engaging, toy-based learning. This approach caters to different learning styles and keeps our young students motivated and excited to learn.\r\n\r\nThe workbooks provide a structured foundation, helping students practice letter formation, phonics, and basic sentence structure. The toy-based learning, such as letter-matching games and storytelling puppets, brings these concepts to life, making learning a playful and memorable experience.\r\n\r\nWe are already seeing incredible progress in our students. They are building confidence in their abilities, and their enthusiasm for reading and writing is infectious. By investing in these young learners, you are not directly helping them, you are also empowering them to become confident and capable bilingual individuals.\r\n\r\nYour commitment to our diverse learners is truly appreciated. Thank you again for being a vital part of their educational journey.","fullyFundedDate":1750417294469,"projectUrl":"project/little-learners-big-discoveries/9333470/","projectTitle":"Little Learners, Big Discoveries!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Fernandez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8664786_orig.jpg?crop=914,914,x0,y182&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1724347513158","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8664786"},{"teacherId":7043914,"projectId":9140017,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your support of our \"Reading-March Madness Tournament!\" The tournament was a huge success, and it wouldn't have been possible without your contributions. The students were incredibly motivated by the prizes you helped provide, which included gold medals, small prizes, and snacks. Seeing their excitement as they earned these rewards for their reading accomplishments on Amira, our online reading platform, was truly inspiring. Your generosity directly impacted their enthusiasm for reading, and we are so grateful for your belief in our students' potential.","fullyFundedDate":1746698812891,"projectUrl":"project/reading-march-madness-tournament/9140017/","projectTitle":"Reading-March Madness Tournament!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Echeverria","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7043914_orig.png?crop=467,467,x0,y9&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1676647438113","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7043914"},{"teacherId":8778646,"projectId":9297119,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of headphones to our 3rd grade classroom! Your kindness is making a big difference in our students' learning experience.With these headphones, our students can focus better during lessons, enjoy educational videos, and participate in interactive activities with greater ease. Your support helps create a more engaging and inclusive environment where every child can thrive. We truly appreciate your generosity and belief in our class. Thank you for helping us make learning fun and effective!","fullyFundedDate":1746490989257,"projectUrl":"project/headphones-for-all/9297119/","projectTitle":"Headphones for All!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Alvear","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8778646_orig.png?crop=398,398,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1665947533861","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-alvear"},{"teacherId":9877123,"projectId":9293228,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, my students now have access to high-quality headphones with built-in microphones, and the impact has been truly incredible. In our classroom, this technology is helping students focus during independent reading and complete assignments without being distracted by the usual classroom noise. The microphones allow them to record themselves reading aloud, which gives them a chance to hear their own progress and track their fluency over time. It's been especially helpful in strengthening their decoding skills and reading comprehension, as they can listen, reflect, and improve with immediate feedback.\r\n\r\nWhat's most exciting for my students is the interactive nature of the programs they're using. These platforms adapt to each learner's needs, offering just the right balance of challenge and support. One student who used to be very hesitant to read aloud has completely transformed since we started using the headphones and microphones. Now, she eagerly records herself every day and listens back with pride, excited to hear how much better she sounds. These tools have done more than support academics they've helped my students build confidence, stay engaged, and develop a true love for reading.","fullyFundedDate":1745969761292,"projectUrl":"project/tune-in-to-reading-headphones-that-help/9293228/","projectTitle":"Tune In to Reading: Headphones That Help Us Shine!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Aviles","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9877123_orig.png?crop=1241,1241,x175,y344&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1734563693741","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9877123"},{"teacherId":8664786,"projectId":9266383,"letterContent":"We are writing to express our deepest gratitude for your incredibly generous donation of Pre-K and Kindergarten books for our beginning readers in special education. Your support makes a tangible difference in the lives of our youngest learners, providing them with the foundational tools they need to embark on their reading journeys with confidence.\r\n\r\nThese aren't just books; they are gateways to new worlds for children who are just beginning to unlock the magic of literacy. For our students in special education, having access to these beginning reader books is especially crucial. They offer developmentally appropriate content and accessible formats that are vital for building essential pre-reading skills, fostering early phonological awareness, and developing a love for stories. Your contribution directly supports their unique learning needs, helping them build the critical literacy foundation that will benefit them throughout their academic careers.\r\n\r\nBecause of your kindness, our special education students will have more opportunities to engage with stories, practice emergent reading skills, and experience the joy of holding their very own books. You are helping to build a classroom environment where every child feels empowered to learn and grow.\r\n\r\nThank you again for your commitment to our students and for investing in their future. Your generosity truly illuminates their path to becoming lifelong readers.","fullyFundedDate":1746456442400,"projectUrl":"project/little-readers-big-ideas-1/9266383/","projectTitle":"Little Readers, Big Ideas! (1)","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Fernandez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8664786_orig.jpg?crop=914,914,x0,y182&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1724347513158","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8664786"},{"teacherId":8778646,"projectId":9038677,"letterContent":"Once again, thank you for helping contribute new recess toys for this winter. Students are often indoors if it is below 30 degrees and having new items, helps bring them joy during these cold days. One of the biggest hits, were the drawing pads! My students have loved drawing and sharing their images with each other. There are also enough for all students to play at the same time. \r\n\r\nIn addition, the new play dohs and magnetic tiles were also big hits in the classroom! Students love to be creative and make new art pieces, each time they play with them. Thank you!","fullyFundedDate":1738272398449,"projectUrl":"project/indoor-recess-toys-for-surviving-chicago/9038677/","projectTitle":"Indoor Recess Toys for Surviving Chicago Winters! #2","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Alvear","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8778646_orig.png?crop=398,398,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1665947533861","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-alvear"},{"teacherId":8664786,"projectId":9129986,"letterContent":"I would like to extend extend my deepest gratitude for your incredibly generous donations of the trampoline and spinning chair. Your kindness has made a profound and tangible difference in the lives of our students with special needs.\r\n\r\nThese sensory tools are more than just toys; they are essential resources that provide crucial support for students who experience sensory processing differences. The trampoline allows them to release excess energy, improve their balance and coordination, and regulate their sensory input in a fun and engaging way. The spinning chair offers a calming and organizing experience, helping students to focus, manage anxiety, and develop their vestibular system.\r\n\r\nWe have already witnessed the positive impact of your gifts. Students who previously struggled with self-regulation are now able to participate more fully in classroom activities. We've seen smiles and laughter as they experience the joy of movement, and we've observed a noticeable improvement in their ability to focus and learn.\r\n\r\nYour generosity has created a more inclusive and supportive learning environment for our students. You have empowered them to thrive, not just survive. You have given them the tools to access their full potential.\r\n\r\nWe are truly grateful for your compassion and commitment to our students. Your donation has made a lasting impact that will be felt for years to come. Thank you for making a difference.","fullyFundedDate":1741099900216,"projectUrl":"project/sensory-wonders/9129986/","projectTitle":"Sensory Wonders!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Fernandez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8664786_orig.jpg?crop=914,914,x0,y182&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1724347513158","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8664786"},{"teacherId":268439,"projectId":8777943,"letterContent":"Since the start of the new year, my students have used the translation pens you so generously donated to our classroom. My students have received math instruction in a second language for the past five months. While this experience has been challenging to a large degree, it has also made them persevere in many ways. Their learning has become less stressful with the translator pens. Students are better able to tackle word problems in math, overcoming barriers that hindered a large portion of their learning. The ability to instantly translate word problems has opened new avenues for comprehension. These pens have become unique tools for communication. Students are better able to access assignment translations and enjoy a deeper understanding of the instruction.\r\n\r\nI have witnessed firsthand the positive effects of your donation. Your support has empowered our students to overcome language challenges and thrive in their studies. On behalf of the students and staff of Salazar School, we extend our deepest gratitude for your donation.","fullyFundedDate":1735363749300,"projectUrl":"project/lets-talk-math/8777943/","projectTitle":"Let's Talk Math","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Contreras","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp268439_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1696749728220","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/268439"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_5474","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":366,"numTeachers":17,"percentFrplEligible":91,"percentAsian":1,"percentBlack":15,"percentWhite":0,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":80,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"21.5:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":70.5,"schoolId":5474,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Ruben Salazar Bilingual Center on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Ruben Salazar Bilingual Center","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/illinois/chicago-public-school-district-299/ruben-salazar-bilingual-center/5474"}
Join the 867 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Ruben Salazar Bilingual Center is
an urban public school
in Chicago, Illinois that is part of Chicago Public School District 299.
It serves 366 students
in grades Pre-K - 8 with a student/teacher ratio of 21.5:1.
Its teachers have had 380 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
96%
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.
Ruben Salazar Bilingual Center Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Dec 5, 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.
Ruben Salazar Bilingual Center
$176,770
raised using DonorsChoose
380
projects
funded
47
teachers
funded
867
donors
26
projects
for
basic supplies
37
projects for
technology
72
projects for
books
8
projects
for
art supplies
Ruben Salazar Bilingual Center has received support from
611 individuals from Illinois and
256 individuals out-of-state.