{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"University of Chicago Charter School - Woodlawn","outOfStateSupporters":41.2,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":2259005,"projectId":9506133,"letterContent":"The amount of reading joy and love my students are now experiencing because of your generous donation is something that I would love for you to see. I have students who have never read a book before who are now on their second or third one of the school year. \r\n\r\nStudents are setting reading goals for themselves, not because I have asked them but because they want to read as many books as they can this school year. Without your donation, this would be impossible. They are truly enjoying the different genres, different topics, and characters who look like them.\r\n\r\nThank you so very much.","fullyFundedDate":1755606031872,"projectUrl":"project/back-to-school-book-bonanza/9506133/","projectTitle":"Back to School Book Bonanza!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Steele-Pfeiffer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp2259005_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1473472833209","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ksteelepfeiffer"},{"teacherId":3089241,"projectId":9126648,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our students had an unforgettable experience exploring the rich history and resilience of Chicago's South Side through a live, interactive Zoom tour led by the incredible Sherman \"Dilla\" Thomas. The virtual format allowed four different classrooms to participate on separate days, each engaging in a powerful lesson that brought together geography, history, and equity in a way that felt personal and relevant.\r\n\r\nOne of the highlights was when students learned about the life and activism of Mamie Till, the mother of Emmett Till. Many were deeply moved by her strength and the impact she had on the civil rights movement—especially after hearing how close these events were to their own neighborhoods. Students also lit up learning about iconic figures like Nat King Cole, realizing that greatness has roots in the same streets they walk every day.\r\n\r\nBack in the classroom, the learning continued. Students reflected on what they saw, connected it to redlining maps and zoning practices we had studied, and even began creating their own \"equity maps,\" comparing access to green space, grocery stores, and transit in different neighborhoods. This project built perfectly on our previous work with Tonika Johnson's Folded Map project and inspired students to think critically about the structures that shape their communities—and how they can be part of changing them.\r\n\r\nYour donation didn't just fund a one-time event; it sparked dialogue, pride, and curiosity that will carry on in our Earth Science class and beyond. Thank you for making this transformative experience possible!","fullyFundedDate":1743090574862,"projectUrl":"project/mapping-equity-virtually-exploring-chic/9126648/","projectTitle":"Mapping Equity: Virtually Exploring Chicago's South Side With 'Dilla' Thomas","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Chandler","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3089241_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1457218066780","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/chanclan"},{"teacherId":3089241,"projectId":9236689,"letterContent":"My students are excited to receive a new book every day—each one representing a fresh opportunity to dedicate time and thought to changing their community through science. These books aren't just stories or facts on pages; they are doorways into understanding environmental injustice, systemic racism, and how science can be used as a tool for truth and transformation. Every book allows them to think more critically about the air they breathe, the water they drink, and the neighborhoods they call home.\r\n\r\nReading in our classroom is interactive, reflective, and full of curiosity. Students annotate, journal, and discuss how what they're reading connects to their lives. We're not just building comprehension—we're building consciousness. Whether it's a text about climate change or pollution in underserved areas, we stop and ask: \"Who's affected?\" \"Why?\" \"What can be done?\" These questions lead to powerful, personal responses from students who are realizing they can be both scientists and changemakers.\r\n\r\nSeveral students who previously struggled to find purpose in reading are now leading discussions and referencing data and facts they've learned from these books. They're not just reading to pass time—they're reading to take action. Your support has helped transform our literacy block into a time of deep purpose, political awareness, and real empowerment.","fullyFundedDate":1747212260655,"projectUrl":"project/justice-by-nature/9236689/","projectTitle":"Justice by Nature","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Chandler","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3089241_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1457218066780","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/chanclan"},{"teacherId":3089241,"projectId":9284207,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our students were able to enjoy a fresh, healthy meal from Ain't She Sweet Café—a beloved Black-owned restaurant just 15 minutes from our school. Although this café is a staple in the Bronzeville community, most of our students had never eaten there before. Your gift changed that.\r\n\r\nThe boxed lunches and smoothies were delivered directly to the school and served during regular lunch periods. The moment our students saw the beautifully packed meals, their eyes lit up. They felt seen, special, and celebrated. Some were even surprised to find that salmon could taste that good!\r\n\r\nBut this project was about more than food—it was a living lesson in economic empowerment and cultural pride. As part of our ongoing work around community cycles and financial literacy, we discussed how every dollar spent at a local Black-owned business recirculates and uplifts the neighborhood. Your donation helped make that lesson real and meaningful.\r\n\r\nNext Steps:\r\nWe're building on this momentum by continuing our lessons on community economics, entrepreneurship, and cultural heritage. Students are now researching other local businesses, tracking how money moves, and exploring ways they can be changemakers in their own neighborhoods. They're also excited for the next phase—custom Dilla T-shirts that remind them they have excellence in their DNA.\r\n\r\nYour support created a powerful moment—and planted a lasting seed.\r\n\r\nWith overflowing gratitude,","fullyFundedDate":1746557917361,"projectUrl":"project/tastes-of-bronzeville-a-healthy-meal-fr/9284207/","projectTitle":"Tastes of Bronzeville: A Healthy Meal From a Black-Owned Business","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Chandler","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3089241_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1457218066780","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/chanclan"},{"teacherId":2259005,"projectId":9345213,"letterContent":"I am so excited to share that my future AP Literature students have gotten to choose what book they want to read. Normally, we just read whatever is available and go from there. This summer, though, students have chosen their reading fun! \r\n\r\nAfter school, students got to examine the books and their summaries. They read the first paragraph (some even read the first chapter) to ensure that is THEIR book. Not only did they choose their book, they also get to keep it which inspires them to build their own library at home. \r\n\r\nI cannot thank you enough for giving my students this opportunity.","fullyFundedDate":1747321923977,"projectUrl":"project/summer-reading-bonanza/9345213/","projectTitle":"Summer Reading Bonanza!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Steele-Pfeiffer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp2259005_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1473472833209","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ksteelepfeiffer"},{"teacherId":3089241,"projectId":9218938,"letterContent":"Thanks to your incredible support, we successfully completed our lab on porosity and permeability this week—and it was a powerful learning experience!\r\n\r\nUsing the materials you helped provide, my students investigated how different substances affect water flow and retention. From timing how long water passed through sand, soil, and kitty litter to analyzing which materials held water the longest, they developed a real-world understanding of key Earth science concepts like filtration, absorption, and permeability.\r\n\r\nThe lab was filled with excitement, questions, and \"aha\" moments. Students recorded data, made claims, supported their reasoning, and even debated which materials would be best for designing sustainable filtration systems. Your generosity gave them the tools to explore science hands-on—something many of them don't often get to experience.\r\n\r\nMore than just a lab, this was a moment of confidence-building, collaboration, and true discovery. You helped bring science to life and empowered students to think like scientists and engineers.\r\n\r\nOn behalf of my entire class: thank you for believing in our potential and helping us grow. Your impact is felt deeply and appreciated fully.\r\n\r\nWith gratitude,\r\nMs. Chandler & the Future Scientists","fullyFundedDate":1744911746356,"projectUrl":"project/exploring-earth-science-oil-spills-and/9218938/","projectTitle":"Exploring Earth Science: Oil Spills and Conservation Labs","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Chandler","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3089241_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1457218066780","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/chanclan"},{"teacherId":3089241,"projectId":9126649,"letterContent":"We are so grateful for your support of our \"Ooooh Ladies First\" project. Thanks to your generosity, we were able to provide essential feminine hygiene products to students in both the middle school and high school—creating a real sense of comfort, confidence, and care throughout our school community.\r\n\r\nThe girls were eager to help. They took great pride in assembling care packages for their classmates and were thrilled to earn community service hours in the process. It was heartwarming to see them actively participating in a project that made a direct and immediate impact. Through this experience, they were able to see kindness in cycles—giving and receiving—and understand how small actions can uplift others in powerful ways.\r\n\r\nStudents across campus have been quietly and gratefully receiving these care packages. The nurse and counselor were excited to replenish their supplies, and students who needed support knew exactly where to turn. This project has created a lasting resource and a spirit of community we're proud to continue nurturing.\r\n\r\nThank you for thinking of our students and for making this act of love possible. Your support has planted seeds of care, confidence, and connection that will keep growing all year long.\r\n\r\nWith deep appreciation,","fullyFundedDate":1742601726301,"projectUrl":"project/oooohh-ladies-first/9126649/","projectTitle":"Oooohh, Ladies First","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Chandler","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3089241_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1457218066780","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/chanclan"},{"teacherId":3089241,"projectId":9080858,"letterContent":"From Our Hearts to Yours – Thank You! 💖\r\n\r\nWe've had an amazing time receiving the generous items from DonorsChoose and turning them into thoughtful care packages for both our middle school and high school students. Thanks to you, we've been able to bridge the gap in health and equity from 5th through 12th grade—and the impact has been powerful.\r\n\r\nOur school nurse and counselor were ecstatic to refill their supply closets with essential feminine products. Even more moving, students I don't regularly see—some I've never even met—have come to my classroom just to ask for the care packages we've created from your donations.\r\n\r\n\"Period, boo\" has become our uplifting slogan, thanks to my spirited 12-year-old daughter who wanted to help make the school day a little less frightening when accidents happen. With your support, we've been able to provide care, comfort, and confidence to our students—because of you, they know someone is thinking of them and rooting for their well-being.\r\n\r\nWe are more than grateful. Your kindness is not just appreciated—it is felt deeply by every young person who benefits from these packages. Thank you for being part of our village.\r\n\r\nWith endless gratitude,\r\nMs. Zaria Chandler","fullyFundedDate":1738477499824,"projectUrl":"project/teen-tidy-titans/9080858/","projectTitle":"Teen Tidy Titans","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Chandler","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3089241_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1457218066780","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/chanclan"},{"teacherId":3089241,"projectId":9046908,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has transformed into a more focused, energized, and supportive learning space! The silent headphones have made the biggest impact—students who once struggled to concentrate in a noisy environment are now locked in, fully engaged in our Social Emotional Learning (SEL) activities and our hip-hop-infused lessons. Music is a core part of our classroom culture, and the headphones allow us to feel the beat without disturbing others. It's been a game-changer for my students who need a little more focus to thrive.\r\n\r\nThe excitement on their faces when the supplies arrived was priceless. Students immediately put the pencils and pens to use in math and science, and those mid-morning snack breaks? Total lifesaver! Our juniors, who start school before 8 a.m. and don't eat lunch until 1 p.m., are so grateful for the fuel that helps them stay sharp. The coat hooks have made my advisory feel more like a home base—they can finally hang up their winter gear with pride. And yes, my new chair has truly improved my day-to-day teaching comfort!\r\n\r\nOne student in particular, who's been shy and easily distracted, has really connected with the headphones. With fewer distractions, he's participating more and even helping others. Your support didn't just provide items—it built confidence, community, and care. Thank you for pouring into our future and making kindness a classroom culture.\r\n\r\nWith deep appreciation,\r\nMs. Zaria Chandler\r\nUniversity of Chicago Charter School","fullyFundedDate":1738791481165,"projectUrl":"project/supporting-focus-organization-and-cult/9046908/","projectTitle":"Supporting Focus, Organization, and Cultural Growth","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Chandler","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3089241_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1457218066780","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/chanclan"},{"teacherId":6761982,"projectId":8655415,"letterContent":"Thanks to the generosity of our donors, my classroom has truly become a space that feels like home for my students. The snacks, mints, writing utensils, and comforting scents have made a world of difference in creating a warm, welcoming environment where they can thrive.\r\n\r\nOne of the most memorable moments was when the students first saw the new additions. The look on their faces when they noticed the mints and snacks on hand was priceless! They immediately felt more relaxed and energized, ready to dive into their group projects. Having the mints available during these moments really helped keep their energy up, especially when we were working through longer assignments. The fresh scents in the room also brought a sense of calm, which helped them focus during study sessions and class discussions.\r\n\r\nSince then, the impact has been clear. My students now have access to simple, yet thoughtful resources that help them stay engaged and comfortable. Whether it's grabbing a mint for a quick energy boost or using the new pens and pencils to complete their assignments, these small but meaningful changes have made a big difference in their day-to-day experience.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, the next step is to continue creating a space where my students feel fully supported. We'll keep focusing on making the room a place where they can take breaks, refuel, and return to their work with a fresh mindset. The goal is for them to feel like they truly belong in this space—just for them—and with your help, that dream is becoming a reality.\r\n\r\nThank you so much for making this possible. The impact of your donation is felt every day, and I'm excited to see how this classroom continues to be a place of growth and comfort for my students!","fullyFundedDate":1729170810841,"projectUrl":"project/ms-joofs-class-feels-like-home/8655415/","projectTitle":"Ms. Joof's Class Feels Like Home","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Joof","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6761982_orig.jpg?crop=2753,2753,x322,y161&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754527568007","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6761982"},{"teacherId":2259005,"projectId":8930956,"letterContent":"The amount of reading joy and love my students are now experiencing because of your generous donation is something that I would love for you to see. I have students who have never read a book before who are now on their second or third one of the school year. \r\n\r\nStudents are setting reading goals for themselves, not because I have asked them but because they want to read as many books as they can this school year. Without your donation, this would be impossible. They are truly enjoying the different genres, different topics, and characters who look like them.\r\n\r\nThank you so very much.","fullyFundedDate":1731882912631,"projectUrl":"project/book-it/8930956/","projectTitle":"Book It!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Steele-Pfeiffer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp2259005_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1473472833209","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ksteelepfeiffer"},{"teacherId":3089241,"projectId":8978452,"letterContent":"We haven't received all our items yet, but the resources that have arrived are already making a big impact on our classroom. The students are truly excited—they look forward to each new delivery, and they love the snacks that help keep them energized during our lessons.\r\n\r\nLast week, we put our new pencils to good use as we calculated distance using the Pythagorean theorem and distance formula, checking our work for accuracy. It was a relief not to scramble for supplies, which meant more time focused on math rather than searching for materials. We also dove into Tonika Johnson's \"Folded Map Project,\" creating art that highlights the reality of redlining and \"map twins\" in Chicago. Having the right tools made it easier for students to experiment with their designs and share ideas comfortably.\r\n\r\nWe also received a step stool, creating a much safer environment since we no longer rely solely on a 12-foot ladder—which is necessary, but risky to keep out for long stretches. One of my students, who is left-handed, was eager to help with class decor, but we didn't have left-handed scissors before—now we do, and he's thrilled to contribute! Laminating paper has been a wonderful addition as well, allowing us to preserve student crafts, keep bulletin boards fresh, and protect important documents. And you can never have too many napkins or tissues in a room of teenagers; they've already come in handy countless times.\r\n\r\nNext, we're tackling logarithmic functions to calculate the amplitude and magnitude of real earthquakes—an exciting way to connect math to real-world scenarios. While we still await the remaining items, the comfort and confidence students already feel is noticeable. Not having to worry about missing supplies or a relaxing space has brought more focus to our room. Thank you for making all of this possible!","fullyFundedDate":1734214941400,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-comfort-and-necessities/8978452/","projectTitle":"Classroom Comfort and Necessities","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Chandler","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp3089241_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1457218066780","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/chanclan"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_30178","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":599,"numTeachers":null,"percentFrplEligible":72,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":97,"percentWhite":0,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":1,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"6 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":null,"demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":58.8,"schoolId":30178,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about University of Chicago Charter School - Woodlawn on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"University of Chicago Charter School - Woodlawn","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/illinois/chicago-public-school-district-299/univ-of-chicago-charter-school-woodlawn/30178"}
Join the 536 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
University of Chicago Charter School - Woodlawn is
an urban public school
in Chicago, Illinois that is part of Chicago Public School District 299.
It serves 599 students
in grades 6 - 12.
Its teachers have had 128 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
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University of Chicago Charter School - Woodlawn Demographics
72%
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
98%
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.
University of Chicago Charter School - Woodlawn 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.
University of Chicago Charter School - Woodlawn
$85,554
raised using DonorsChoose
128
projects
funded
42
teachers
funded
536
donors
2
projects
for
basic supplies
7
projects for
technology
51
projects for
books
5
projects
for
art supplies
University of Chicago Charter School - Woodlawn has received support from
315 individuals from Illinois and
221 individuals out-of-state.