{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Southside Occupational Academy - Dearborn Campus","outOfStateSupporters":43.5,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":10225355,"projectId":9652667,"letterContent":"\"Thank you\" isn't enough to express how much we appreciate you choosing to fund our technology project for students with disabilities in a transition program. Because of your contribution we have been able to give students access to greater self-expression, differentiation, and learning opportunities. \r\n\r\nThe headphones with microphone access are such good quality. They easily pick up on student speech and translate this into text. This is a big help especially for students who struggle with typing, spelling, and grammar. Students can also use the headphones to listen to media on their computers all without disturbing others in class. The iPad has been useful not only in the classroom, but in community learning settings as well. Students have used the iPad for functions including the camera, navigation, and information-seeking purposes as well. \r\n\r\nSimply put, the students and I appreciate you funding our project. We know this was funded on behalf of Al Salvino. We hope that in his memory our students can continue to grow and become independent members of society.","fullyFundedDate":1757941826536,"projectUrl":"project/portable-tech-for-special-needs/9652667/","projectTitle":"Portable Tech for Special Needs","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Cozzi","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10225355"},{"teacherId":4920205,"projectId":9404121,"letterContent":"We are so incredibly grateful for your generosity, our new laminator has already become an integral part of our classroom! As soon as it arrived, my students jumped right in to help unbox it, set it up, and put it to work. The photos show just how excited and engaged they were, and how meaningful this tool is to our daily learning.\r\n\r\nWhat makes this laminator truly special is that our students use it themselves as part of their office-skills practice. They learn how to retrieve laminating sheets, align pages, safely feed them into the machine, and organize finished products. This hands-on experience builds real workplace confidence and independence.\r\n\r\nOur previous laminator served us well for years but simply couldn't keep up with our constant use. Your gift arrived at the perfect time, allowing us to continue creating durable, accessible resources that support every student—both in the classroom and out in the community.\r\n\r\nFrom the bottom of our hearts, thank you for believing in our students and helping them shine. Your support makes an impact every single day, and we are so grateful. Happy Holidays!","fullyFundedDate":1752671677729,"projectUrl":"project/pressed-for-progress-help-replace-our-c/9404121/","projectTitle":"Pressed for Progress: Help Replace Our Classroom Laminator","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Harris","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4920205_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1672260385337","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/l-harrishatfield"},{"teacherId":4920205,"projectId":9317056,"letterContent":"I cannot thank you enough for your generosity and thoughtfulness. When I created this project, I was thinking about the very real, everyday moments my students experience, moments where something as simple as staying dry on a rainy walk or having tissues during allergy season can make all the difference. Seeing your donation come through felt like a genuine act of kindness my students who deserve the absolute best.\r\n\r\nMy students are incredible young adults who show up every day ready for learning, adventure, and growth. Whether we are traveling through the community for CBI lessons, heading to our internships at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, or navigating the highs and lows of the school day, they approach everything with curiosity and heart.\r\n\r\nThe items you helped us purchase have already become part of our daily routine.\r\nThe reusable ponchos were put to use almost immediately, our students proudly wore them as they continued their community travel lessons in the rain, determined to stay on track. Watching them stay dry, comfortable, and confident while walking through the neighborhood was a powerful reminder of how meaningful your support truly is.\r\n\r\nThe tissue have filled another important need inside our classroom. Cold and allergy season hits our students hard, and having this essential item has helped us keep our environment healthy, clean, and focused. The students appreciate having what they need without having to ask or feel embarrassed, something that matters so much in a special education setting.\r\n\r\nThese photos represent more than supplies, they capture real moments of independence, comfort, and care. Moments my students get to experience because someone like you believed that they mattered. Thank you for not only donating, but for seeing my students and supporting their journeys. Your generosity directly impacts their dignity, their confidence, and their ability to participate fully in both classroom learning and community experiences.\r\n\r\nOn behalf of my entire class - Thank You, Thank You, Thank You and Happy Holidays.","fullyFundedDate":1746526683263,"projectUrl":"project/ponchos-tissues-keeping-our-class-cov/9317056/","projectTitle":"Ponchos & Tissues: Keeping Our Class Covered and Cared For!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Harris","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4920205_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1672260385337","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/l-harrishatfield"},{"teacherId":9313828,"projectId":9707859,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your kind donation. These items go to our school store where students use school \"bucks\" they earn based on positive behaviors. Setting up a cafe has helped keep students motivated to respect themselves, others, and the environment, while also providing valuable life skills like purchasing and budgeting. Students have been so excited to earn time in the cafe and work with each other to make it a warm and welcoming space. This has been such a meaningful addition to our school program and we couldn't have done it without you. \r\n\r\nThank you!","fullyFundedDate":1757941820225,"projectUrl":"project/snacks-for-our-cafe/9707859/","projectTitle":"Snacks for our Cafe","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Aird","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9313828_orig.jpg?crop=640,640,x0,y81&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1702401319769","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9313828"},{"teacherId":9313828,"projectId":9123065,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous donation. Your support has made an incredible difference in the lives of my students, many of whom have intellectual disabilities and face daily challenges in literacy, comprehension, and engagement with traditional learning materials. \r\nI believed that graphic novels, with their engaging visuals and accessible storytelling, would offer a bridge between words and understanding. Thanks to your kindness, that vision has come to life in ways I never imagined.The graphic novels support our school store and fly off the shelves! The books represent students with disabilities, sports, popular figures, and super heroes- all themes that the students can relate to. \r\nThank you for giving our students the tools to engage with literacy in a way that makes sense for them.","fullyFundedDate":1744239457844,"projectUrl":"project/graphic-novels/9123065/","projectTitle":"Graphic Novels","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Aird","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9313828_orig.jpg?crop=640,640,x0,y81&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1702401319769","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9313828"},{"teacherId":4920205,"projectId":8086123,"letterContent":"I am beyond grateful to share that, thanks to your generosity, we have received and implemented the 3D pen and filament in our computer lab! These incredible resources have had a profound impact on our classroom, inspiring our students to engage with technology and STEM in new, exciting ways.\r\n\r\nOur lab has always been a safe space where students can explore, learn, and express themselves through technology. With the 3D pen, they now have a hands-on tool that allows them to bring their ideas to life in ways that were previously out of reach. Watching their faces light up as they create, build, and problem-solve together has been nothing short of inspiring. This tool has enhanced their learning experience, reinforcing essential skills like creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. \r\n\r\nThe additional colors of filament have permitted them to expand their creativity and create objects that they merely imagined. Thanks to your support, our students are diving deeper into their curiosity, exploring 3D design, and expanding their understanding of how technology shapes the world. This experience will stay with them, empowering them to think like innovators and builders. \r\n\r\nYour kindness has truly enriched our classroom, and we are so grateful to have supporters like you who believe in the potential of every student. 🫶🏼","fullyFundedDate":1712291904480,"projectUrl":"project/stem-creativity-increased-student-ou/8086123/","projectTitle":"STEM + Creativity = Increased Student Outcomes","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Harris","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4920205_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1672260385337","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/l-harrishatfield"},{"teacherId":4920205,"projectId":8378264,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support in providing walkie-talkies for our students! I am thrilled to share that we have received and implemented these devices, and they have already made an incredible impact on our students' daily experiences, independence, and sense of security.\r\n\r\nWith these walkie-talkies, our students now have a reliable and immediate way to communicate while interning at the museum and community-based instructional trips. This resource has given them a newfound confidence in navigating different environments, knowing they can quickly reach out if they need assistance or have questions. It has eased the challenges of staying connected while they work, helping them feel safe and supported.\r\n\r\nMore than just a tool for communication, the walkie-talkies have encouraged collaboration, social interaction, and responsibility. Our students are learning to manage these devices independently, using them to coordinate tasks, ask questions, and work together as a team. Each call on the walkie-talkie reinforces valuable social and teamwork skills, fostering a deeper sense of belonging and inclusion that empowers them every day.\r\n\r\nThank you for making such a meaningful difference in our classroom environment. Your kindness and support have opened up new opportunities for these young adults, allowing them to take bigger steps toward independence and success. We are deeply grateful for your generosity and belief in our students' potential.\r\nWith heartfelt appreciation 🫶🏼","fullyFundedDate":1720573779859,"projectUrl":"project/enhancing-student-communication-walkie/8378264/","projectTitle":"Enhancing Student Communication: Walkie Talkies for Vocational Readiness","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Harris","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4920205_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1672260385337","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/l-harrishatfield"},{"teacherId":9313828,"projectId":8834592,"letterContent":"Thank you for your thoughtful donation of hygiene and menstrual care products to our students. These items made such an impact in our students lives. We have a hygiene station in our classroom so students know they will always have access to pads, tampons, deodorant, wipes, and clean underwear. \r\nStudents have access to these items, so they are able to independently take care of their hygiene needs. This helps students not only look great, but feel great too! Your support helps me personally, as I would typically provide these items for the students out of my own money. So thank you for supporting my class!","fullyFundedDate":1729170938887,"projectUrl":"project/hygiene-and-menstrual-care-products/8834592/","projectTitle":"Hygiene and Menstrual Care Products","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Aird","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9313828_orig.jpg?crop=640,640,x0,y81&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1702401319769","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9313828"},{"teacherId":9313828,"projectId":8304205,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation. These chargers support students with intellectual disabilities. Our vocational and life skills program teaches students how to travel on the bus and within the community. Having a charged phone is essential for safety purposes. Travel training teaches students skills like crossing the street safely, finding the correct bus stop, identifying the correct route, and getting off at the correct stop. \r\nThe students were so excited to see these items in our school store. Our students earn \"store bucks\" based on the behavior expectations of respecting themselves, respecting others, and respecting the environment. These highly sought after items help encourage our students to work hard.","fullyFundedDate":1722992431833,"projectUrl":"project/portable-chargers-for-travel-training/8304205/","projectTitle":"Portable Chargers for Travel Training","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Aird","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9313828_orig.jpg?crop=640,640,x0,y81&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1702401319769","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9313828"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_128142","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":null,"numTeachers":null,"percentFrplEligible":75,"percentAsian":4,"percentBlack":34,"percentWhite":10,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":46,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Not specified","studentTeacherRatio":null,"demographicsDataSource":"MDR District Record","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"UNCLASSIFIED","ncesMetroType":null},"inStateSupporters":56.5,"schoolId":128142,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Southside Occupational Academy - Dearborn Campus on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Southside Occupational Academy - Dearborn Campus","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/illinois/chicago-public-school-district-299/southside-occupational-academy-dearborn-campus/128142"}
Join the 62 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Southside Occupational Academy - Dearborn Campus is
a public school
in Chicago, Illinois that is part of Chicago Public School District 299.
Its teachers have had 44 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
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Southside Occupational Academy - Dearborn Campus Demographics
75%
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
84%
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.
Southside Occupational Academy - Dearborn Campus 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.
Southside Occupational Academy - Dearborn Campus
$16,677
raised using DonorsChoose
44
projects
funded
7
teachers
funded
62
donors
1
project
for
basic supplies
21
projects for
technology
3
projects for
books
1
project
for
art supplies
Southside Occupational Academy - Dearborn Campus has received support from
35 individuals from Illinois and
27 individuals out-of-state.