{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Edward K. Duke Ellington Elementary School","outOfStateSupporters":29.4,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":811173,"projectId":9628178,"letterContent":"Thank you for your donation! Desk Pets have been a huge hit in my classroom! The students are doing better with their behavior and have motivation to do more work. The pets give them time to remember to take care of something and be responsible. The laminator and the paper has helped me to laminate materials so they last longer and are more durable. The storage boxes have helped to house the pets and to house papers so that we can easily find the materials for small groups. The groove writing materials are helping the students to write more legible. Thank you for supporting my class.","fullyFundedDate":1756313719324,"projectUrl":"project/help-my-classroom-thrive/9628178/","projectTitle":"Help My Classroom Thrive","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Polk","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp811173_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1565316586526","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/811173"},{"teacherId":811173,"projectId":9608965,"letterContent":"Thanks for your donations. The portable computer organizer has helped to create organization to the chromebooks in my classroom. The incentive toys, risers, and envelopes have helped to keep students motivated to learn and to have excellent behavior. This has also helped my start to learn to count money. Over time our needs have changed and we had to grab some kleenex and hand sanitizer to help keep germs down and students healthy. The educational apps have my students improve their reading and math skills. Thank you for your continued support of my classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1756313719287,"projectUrl":"project/technology-and-incentive-essentials/9608965/","projectTitle":"Technology and Incentive Essentials","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Polk","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp811173_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1565316586526","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/811173"},{"teacherId":7822901,"projectId":9718908,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity. The technology you provided has made a significant difference in the way I support our diverse learners. It has allowed me to streamline IEP management, progress monitoring, and essential documentation, ensuring every student's needs are accurately reflected. This has been especially valuable in keeping our records organized, accessible, and up to date, which directly impacts the quality of support our students receive.\r\n\r\nOne of the most exciting changes has been the increase in efficiency across our special education workflow. With this new technology, I can gather data more quickly, update information in real time, and communicate smoothly with teachers and service providers. It has also helped me prepare for meetings with greater accuracy and confidence, allowing our team to make informed decisions that truly benefit our students. These improvements have created a ripple effect, strengthening \r\ncollaboration and ensuring that services are delivered in a timely, coordinated manner.\r\n\r\nYour support has had a real, positive impact on the students whose IEPs and services I help manage. By providing tools that enhance our efficiency and organization, you are helping us maintain high-quality, responsive, and student-centered systems. Thank you for investing in resources that help us better serve every learner in our school community.","fullyFundedDate":1758213553463,"projectUrl":"project/printing-possibilities-supporting-every/9718908/","projectTitle":"Printing Possibilities: Supporting Every Student’s IEP","teacherDisplayName":"Dr. Candelaria","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7822901_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y524&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1630500775908","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7822901"},{"teacherId":9865695,"projectId":9196349,"letterContent":"The printer plays an important role in supporting my students' learning. By allowing me to create clear, colorful, and visually engaging materials, the printer helps capture students' attention and increase their motivation during lessons. Many students learn better when information is presented through visuals, so having access to colored charts, graphic organizers, worksheets, and portfolio pages helps them understand concepts more easily.\r\n\r\nPrinted materials also make learning more accessible. Students can hold, highlight, annotate, and revisit printed resources at their own pace, which supports different learning styles and individual needs. For students who struggle with focus, color-coded materials can guide them step-by-step and make tasks easier to follow. In addition, having organized and printed portfolio materials helps students track their progress, build confidence, and take ownership of their learning.","fullyFundedDate":1744032817053,"projectUrl":"project/empower-students-with-a-printer-to-share/9196349/","projectTitle":"Empower Students With a Printer to Share Their Creative Work","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Sabidor","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9865695_orig.jpg?crop=960,960,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1737664833264","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9865695"},{"teacherId":4525316,"projectId":9455748,"letterContent":"Students spend a lot of time in classrooms. Expecting them to daily stay in the traditional classroom furniture of hard, stationary chairs and desks has long been the norm. The reality is that for decades, more ergonomic seating and desk options have been developed and marketed to the adult workplace. The evolution of classroom furniture is much slower to change and grow.\r\n\r\nMy students daily choose to sit on the floor cushions, wobble seats, low backed floor seats and sling chairs. Whether they want to work by themselves or in a group, these flexible seats are a draw. Adding in the wobble seats for desk work has greatly helped those students who like to rock or balance on 2-legs of traditional seats more safely sit in class. I worried that there wouldn't be enough spaces for all, but students are working cooperatively and balancing the use of these flexible seats eagerly.","fullyFundedDate":1754953122552,"projectUrl":"project/incorporating-comfort-seating-that-wor/9455748/","projectTitle":"Incorporating Comfort - Seating that Works","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Smith","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4525316_orig.jpg?crop=1088,1088,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754605443153","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/k-smith-math-civics-chgo"},{"teacherId":4525316,"projectId":9455678,"letterContent":"When the deliveries arrived, each package was an exciting surprise. Opening each game was a new discovery for students. An opportunity to take a break from traditional learning and explore learning through play.\r\n\r\nStudents are able to complete their normal classwork and expand their understanding of math foundations through math play. As the schedule permits, students are able to learn new games that involve logic and strategy that help build their problem solving skills. Offering students variety in their learning opportunities, will help build engagement and interest in learning.\r\n\r\nI am thrilled to be able to enhance math learning through play. This would not be possible without the generous donation that made this project a reality.","fullyFundedDate":1754953122392,"projectUrl":"project/mindful-math-play/9455678/","projectTitle":"Mindful Math Play","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Smith","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp4525316_orig.jpg?crop=1088,1088,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1754605443153","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/k-smith-math-civics-chgo"},{"teacherId":5602112,"projectId":9607453,"letterContent":"When my students walked into the classroom and saw the new headphones, flexible seating cushions, floor chairs, and cozy rug and lamps, their faces absolutely lit up. Several of them got so excited to see a carpet finally in the room and the other teachers in the room commented on how the lamps made a nice cozy environment. The thick rubber bands on the chairs were another huge hit, students who struggled to sit still were bouncing their feet within minutes, finally able to fidget without disrupting their learning.\r\n\r\nWe've already put these materials to great use. During our literacy rotations this week, students used the headphones for independent reading on their tablets. One of my students, who is usually distracted by noise, stayed fully engaged through an entire story because the headphones helped her tune out everything else. During independent work, students chose spots around the room, on floor cushions, in a floor chair by the lamp, or stretched out on the new rug, to work quietly. The flexible seating has given them a sense of ownership and comfort that makes such a big difference in focus and confidence.\r\n\r\nAs for what's next, we are beginning a research and writing project where students will explore a topic of their choice and create a short presentation. The new materials will support them every step of the way, headphones for research, cozy seating for drafting their ideas, and fidget bands to help them stay calm and focused while they plan and collaborate. Thanks to your generosity, our classroom now feels more welcoming, more functional, and more like a place where every learner can thrive.\r\nWe are truly grateful for your support. Your contribution didn't just provide supplies, it transformed our learning environment.","fullyFundedDate":1758805441159,"projectUrl":"project/seats-for-success-building-a-warm-wel/9607453/","projectTitle":"Seats for Success: Building a Warm & Welcoming Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Marquez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp5602112_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1533305073745","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/kyla-kelly"},{"teacherId":4865413,"projectId":9456319,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our \"Staying Up to Date with Scholastic News!\" project! My second graders are absolutely thrilled to have their own Scholastic News magazines in the classroom. Each issue sparks their curiosity and helps them connect what we're learning to the real world.\r\n\r\nIt's amazing to see their excitement as they explore current events, science discoveries, and stories about kids making a difference. These magazines are helping them become stronger readers, better thinkers, and more informed citizens.\r\n\r\nYour generosity means so much to our class. Because of you, my students have access to engaging, age-appropriate news that inspires great discussions and a love for learning. Thank you for investing in their growth and curiosity!","fullyFundedDate":1752887002536,"projectUrl":"project/staying-up-to-date-with-scholastic-news/9456319/","projectTitle":"Staying Up to Date with Scholastic News!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Agyeman_Bugyei","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4865413"},{"teacherId":2035804,"projectId":9263381,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation and continued support of our children. The Fellowes Venus 2 Laminator has given my students access to the latest technology which allows them to connect to and have resources readily available. Having a laminator and laminating pouches will empower me to preserve and enhance the educational resources that we use regularly in the classroom for hands-on learning.\r\nLamination protects our materials from damage and makes them easy to clean for reuse. \r\n\r\nMy students are always excited and grateful to have the most up to date technology and resources in the classroom. I've downloaded and laminated several resources to assist my struggling students, and to aid in providing all students much needed instructional intervention. There are other creative ways that we will be using the laminator in the classroom and my students can't wait to explore them all.\r\n\r\nThe technology has made a significant impact in my classroom. I have been able to enhance my teaching by accessing and preserving instructional materials that benefit all students. Materials that address each student's academic level, as well as, their learning styles. Students continue to increase their knowledge and capacity for learning with new and advanced technology. This donation has made a phenomenal difference for my students and I. We are truly grateful!","fullyFundedDate":1755436208639,"projectUrl":"project/want-to-preserve-it-laminate-it/9263381/","projectTitle":"Want To Preserve It? Laminate It!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Bulluck","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2035804"},{"teacherId":9777495,"projectId":9211873,"letterContent":"Thanks to your support, our classroom now has a peaceful \"Calm Space\" where students can take breaks, use sensory tools, and refocus their minds. When they first saw the area, their faces lit up with excitement. Some eagerly explored the fidget toys, while others relaxed quietly under the soft lights. We now use this space every day to practice calming strategies and mindfulness routines that help students manage their emotions. It has truly transformed our classroom into a more focused, supportive, and positive learning environment. \r\n\r\nThank you for making this possible and for helping my students feel safe, calm, and ready to learn.","fullyFundedDate":1753381101016,"projectUrl":"project/a-calm-space-for-calm-minds/9211873/","projectTitle":"A Calm Space for Calm Minds","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Francisco","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9777495_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1742961681578","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9777495"},{"teacherId":9865695,"projectId":8992396,"letterContent":"This desktop will make a big difference in our classroom. For my students, it means access to digital tools that bring lessons to life—helping them research, practice skills, and collaborate on creative projects. It also gives them the chance to build technology confidence that will serve them well in the future.\r\n\r\nFor me as their teacher, the desktop will be a hub for planning, creating engaging presentations, and tracking student progress. It will help me save valuable time and focus on what matters most: guiding and supporting each learner.\r\n\r\nWith your support, this project will empower both students and teachers to dream bigger, learn deeper, and achieve more together.","fullyFundedDate":1742953662371,"projectUrl":"project/empowering-learning-a-desktop-for-our-c/8992396/","projectTitle":"Empowering Learning: A Desktop for Our Classroom Dreams","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Sabidor","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9865695_orig.jpg?crop=960,960,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1737664833264","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9865695"},{"teacherId":8541597,"projectId":9284187,"letterContent":"Thank you for contributing to my project. I have not given the students the items yet as they will be used in the late spring and early summer. I am sure the children will be excited to have a resource that they are able to take home as well because we usually keep resources in the school. \r\n\r\nThis project is especially important because the children are in a benchmark grade. The children need foundational skills in order to be successful in further grades. I am absolutely sure that the children will also be extremely about the fun summer items. Thank you. Know that these will definitely bring lots of joy.","fullyFundedDate":1746485044331,"projectUrl":"project/summer-break-packet/9284187/","projectTitle":"Summer Break Packet","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. N. Perez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8541597_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1658520453488","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8541597"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_5633","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":495,"numTeachers":37,"percentFrplEligible":92,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":88,"percentWhite":0,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":10,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"13.4:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":70.6,"schoolId":5633,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Edward K. Duke Ellington Elementary School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Edward K. Duke Ellington Elementary School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/illinois/chicago-public-school-district-299/duke-ellington-elementary-school/5633"}
Join the 395 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Edward K. Duke Ellington Elementary School is
an urban public school
in Chicago, Illinois that is part of Chicago Public School District 299.
It serves 495 students
in grades Pre-K - 8 with a student/teacher ratio of 13.4:1.
Its teachers have had 186 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
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Edward K. Duke Ellington Elementary School Demographics
92%
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.
Edward K. Duke Ellington Elementary School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Dec 25, 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.
Edward K. Duke Ellington Elementary School
$143,366
raised using DonorsChoose
186
projects
funded
56
teachers
funded
395
donors
11
projects
for
basic supplies
46
projects for
technology
37
projects for
books
4
projects
for
art supplies
Edward K. Duke Ellington Elementary School has received support from
279 individuals from Illinois and
116 individuals out-of-state.