{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Howe School of Excellence","outOfStateSupporters":42.3,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8306339,"projectId":6451455,"letterContent":"want to extend my deepest gratitude for the incredible support you have provided. Your dedication, professionalism, and willingness to go above and beyond have made a tremendous difference in our classroom experience. This level of support not only made the process smooth for me as an educator, but it also created a meaningful impact on my students.\r\nOne of the most remarkable outcomes of this collaboration has been the genuine excitement and joy my students have expressed while learning with their new supplies. It is not often that young learners respond so positively and immediately to changes in instructional materials, but this transition has been nothing short of impressive. Seeing my students fully engaged, motivated, and eager to explore new concepts has been incredibly rewarding.","fullyFundedDate":1655950327054,"projectUrl":"project/lets-become-reading-math-experts/6451455/","projectTitle":"Let’s Become Reading & Math Experts!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Jackson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8306339_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1655388199596","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8306339"},{"teacherId":10197384,"projectId":9632108,"letterContent":"Greetings From Howe School of Excellence. I just wanted to extend a warm thank you for your generous donations. Our flag football teams don't start their season until the spring but are excited for their new equipment. Both teams look to improve their records from last year. Our players will use the new footballs to enhance their practices and improve their teamwork. One of my favorite moments was seeing our players' reactions to having brand new nice equipment. Through their practices and games they will learn not only about proper throwing and catching techniques and skills, but also about communication, sportsmanship, and perseverance. The students were absolutely thrilled when they saw the brand-new footballs! Many of them immediately started discussing drills and couldn't wait to test out their skills. It was wonderful to see their enthusiasm and eagerness to participate.\r\nOur next step is to continue developing our football skills through structured drills and friendly matches. Our boys have been able to continue improving their skill levels and have also transferred these skills and knowledge to their physical education classes. This has helped them become leaders off of the court and in the classroom. This will help reinforce teamwork, coordination, and strategy. Eventually, we hope to host a small inter-class tournament to showcase their progress and celebrate how much they've learned thanks to these new basketballs.","fullyFundedDate":1755878071259,"projectUrl":"project/touchdown-howe-school-of-excellence-fla/9632108/","projectTitle":"Touchdown: Howe School of Excellence Flag Football Team","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Faughn","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10197384"},{"teacherId":10197384,"projectId":9630998,"letterContent":"Greetings From Howe School of Excellence. I just wanted to extend a warm thank you for your generous donations. Our volleyball teams just finished their season. Both teams improved their records from last year. Our players used the new volleyballs to enhance their practices and improve their teamwork. One of my favorite moments was seeing our players' reactions to having brand new nice equipment. TThrough their practices and games they've learned not only about proper volleyball techniques but also about communication, sportsmanship, and perseverance. The students were absolutely thrilled when they saw the brand-new volleyballs! Many of them immediately started organizing drills and couldn't wait to test out their skills. It was wonderful to see their enthusiasm and eagerness to participate.\r\nOur next step is to continue developing our volleyball skills through structured drills and friendly matches. Our girls have been able to continue improving their skill levels and have also transferred these skills and knowledge to their physical education classes. This has helped them become leaders off of the court and in the classroom. This will help reinforce teamwork, coordination, and strategy. Eventually, we hope to host a small inter-class tournament to showcase their progress and celebrate how much they've learned thanks to these new volleyballs.","fullyFundedDate":1755980401830,"projectUrl":"project/bump-set-spike-help-our-school-volle/9630998/","projectTitle":"Bump, Set, Spike: Help Our School Volleyball Team","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Faughn","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10197384"},{"teacherId":10197384,"projectId":9631491,"letterContent":"Greetings From Howe School of Excellence. I just wanted to extend a warm thank you for your generous donations. Our basketball teams are about to start their seasons. Both teams look to improve their records from last year. Our players used the new basketballs to enhance their practices and improve their teamwork. One of my favorite moments was seeing our players' reactions to having brand new nice equipment. Through their practices and games, they've learned not only about proper basketball techniques and skills, but also about communication, sportsmanship, and perseverance. The students were absolutely thrilled when they saw the brand-new basketballs! Many of them immediately started organizing drills and couldn't wait to test out their skills. It was wonderful to see their enthusiasm and eagerness to participate.\r\nOur next step is to continue developing our basketball skills through structured drills and friendly matches. Our boys have been able to continue improving their skill levels and have also transferred these skills and knowledge to their physical education classes. This has helped them become leaders off of the court and in the classroom. This will help reinforce teamwork, coordination, and strategy. Eventually, we hope to host a small inter-class tournament to showcase their progress and celebrate how much they've learned thanks to these new basketballs.\r\n\r\nOnce again, thank you so much for your generosity to help us purchase new basketballs for our program.","fullyFundedDate":1755883936098,"projectUrl":"project/from-downtown-our-school-of-excellence/9631491/","projectTitle":"From Downtown: Our School of Excellence Basketball Team","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Faughn","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10197384"},{"teacherId":4498116,"projectId":9409766,"letterContent":"I am thrilled to let you know that thanks to your generosity, our classroom has received a full set of Chromebooks for our students! I wanted to personally thank you for your support for this cause. We have been busy preparing the devices for student use and the students are excited to use them.\r\n\r\nThese devices are a gateway to transforming our instruction. Imagine the possibilities: personalized learning paths that meet every student exactly where they are, collaborative projects that bring history to life, and instant access to virtual labs and global perspectives. This is an opportunity to empower our students, foster their curiosity, and equip them with the digital literacy skills they absolutely must have to succeed.\r\n\r\nI am incredibly excited to see the innovative ways we can use these tools to inspire our scholars.","fullyFundedDate":1758856057485,"projectUrl":"project/chromebooks-for-curious-minds-empowerin/9409766/","projectTitle":"Chromebooks for Curious Minds: Empowering Digital Learners - Part 3","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Armstrong","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4498116_272x272.png?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1498594497031","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mr-armstrong-howe"},{"teacherId":4498116,"projectId":9409764,"letterContent":"We have wonderful news to share! Our classroom has been equipped with a new set of Chromebooks, one for every student to use during the school day. This is a major step forward in preparing your child for a successful future.\r\n\r\nThis is more than just access to a computer; it is access to a brighter future. We are committed to teaching our children to be responsible digital citizens, and we are so excited to partner with you in their learning journey. \r\n\r\nThank you for your support we are truly grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1758856058340,"projectUrl":"project/chromebooks-for-curious-minds-empowerin/9409764/","projectTitle":"Chromebooks for Curious Minds: Empowering Digital Learners - Part 2","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Armstrong","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4498116_272x272.png?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1498594497031","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mr-armstrong-howe"},{"teacherId":4498116,"projectId":9409794,"letterContent":"In our community, talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. For many of our students, the world of digital information and 21st-century learning remains out of reach once they leave the school building. A classroom set of Chromebooks is not simply a gift of technology; it is a direct investment in equity and a tangible tool for closing the achievement gap.\r\n\r\nWith these devices, our students will learn to research, collaborate, and create in ways that are essential for college and future careers. They will move from being passive consumers of information to active creators of their own knowledge. Your support would do more than put a device in a student's hands—it would unlock a world of potential, level the playing field, and send a powerful message to our students that their future is worth investing in.\r\n\r\nThank you for considering a gift that will reshape the educational experience for an entire classroom of deserving young minds.","fullyFundedDate":1758856058640,"projectUrl":"project/chromebooks-for-curious-minds-empowerin/9409794/","projectTitle":"Chromebooks for Curious Minds: Empowering Digital Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Armstrong","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4498116_272x272.png?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1498594497031","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mr-armstrong-howe"},{"teacherId":4498116,"projectId":9409763,"letterContent":"New Tools for Teaching\r\nBecause of your generosity, I have been able to elevate my teaching and better meet the diverse needs of my students. These digital tools have allowed me to:\r\n\r\nCreate Dynamic and Adaptable Lessons: I can now create learning resources that are flexible and responsive. If students are struggling with a concept, I can instantly modify the chart, add new examples, or pull up a helpful resource on the spot.\r\n\r\nBuild a Lasting Digital Library: We are creating a digital library of all our anchor charts. This growing resource will serve not only my current students but future classes as well, creating a sustainable and powerful tool for learning for years to come.\r\n\r\nYou have given us more than just technology; you have given us a new, more effective way to explore, understand, and connect with the world. We are so grateful for your investment in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1757611089455,"projectUrl":"project/anchor-charts-that-shine-going-digital/9409763/","projectTitle":"Anchor Charts That Shine: Going Digital for Visual Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Armstrong","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4498116_272x272.png?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1498594497031","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mr-armstrong-howe"},{"teacherId":4498116,"projectId":9378527,"letterContent":"On behalf of my wonderful students, I am writing to share the incredible impact of your generous gift: our very own classroom popcorn maker! It's hard to put into words how much joy this simple machine has brought into our room, but I'm going to try. Thank you for making our \"Popping Into Better Days\" project a delicious reality.\r\n\r\nMore Than Just a Snack\r\nThe moment we unboxed the popcorn maker, the excitement was electric. Now, the sound of kernels popping and the warm, delicious aroma that fills our classroom have become signals of celebration, comfort, and community.\r\n\r\nYour gift has become a powerful tool for learning and growth in ways I hadn't even imagined:\r\n\r\nA Motivator for Success: We've implemented \"Popcorn Fridays\" as a reward for a week of hard work, good behavior, and kindness. Students are more motivated than ever to meet their goals, knowing a fun, shared treat is waiting for them. You've given us a tangible and exciting way to celebrate their achievements.\r\n\r\nBuilding Community and Social Skills: Making and sharing popcorn has become a community activity. Students learn about taking turns, patience, responsibility, and the joy of sharing with their classmates. It has fostered a wonderful sense of togetherness and has helped strengthen friendships.\r\n\r\nA Tool for Comfort and Connection: For some of my students, a warm bag of popcorn can turn a tough day around. It's a simple comfort that makes them feel cared for and seen. Just last week, a student who was feeling sad shared, \"The popcorn makes me feel happy.\" Your donation is directly contributing to a positive, nurturing, and happy classroom environment.\r\n\r\nYou didn't just donate an appliance; you donated smiles, a sense of community, and a tool that makes learning more engaging and fun. Every time we plug it in, we are reminded of your kindness and belief in our classroom.\r\n\r\nThank you for investing in our students' happiness and success. We are popping with gratitude!\r\n\r\nWith heartfelt thanks,","fullyFundedDate":1757517978065,"projectUrl":"project/popping-into-better-days-with-a-classroo/9378527/","projectTitle":"Popping Into Better Days With a Classroom Popcorn Maker","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Armstrong","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4498116_272x272.png?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1498594497031","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mr-armstrong-howe"},{"teacherId":4498116,"projectId":9502889,"letterContent":"The impact of your donation to our \"Strength in School\" program has been immediate and profound. The new equipment you funded is more than just metal and machinery; it's a catalyst for building healthier bodies, stronger minds, and a more confident student community.\r\n\r\nThanks to your generosity, our students now have access to a safe and modern facility to improve their physical fitness. This equipment allows them to develop foundational strength, enhance cardiovascular health, and learn proper lifting techniques that will prevent injuries on and off the field. You've provided a crucial resource for them to build lifelong healthy habits.","fullyFundedDate":1757517977106,"projectUrl":"project/strength-in-school-launching-our-first-/9502889/","projectTitle":"Strength in School: Launching Our First-Ever Weight Training Program","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Armstrong","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4498116_272x272.png?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1498594497031","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mr-armstrong-howe"},{"teacherId":4498116,"projectId":9375353,"letterContent":"We are deeply grateful for your generous support of our \"Translation Earbuds: Empowering Every Voice\" project on DonorsChoose. Your dedication to our students is truly inspiring, and we are excited about the impact your contribution will have. These Translation Earbuds are a powerful tool for our diverse classroom. They will help break down language barriers for students new to English and their families, allowing for fuller participation and better understanding. Imagine students confidently taking part in discussions and lessons, no longer held back by language differences. These earbuds will enable our English Language Learners (ELLs) to succeed academically and socially, and will also help parents connect more deeply with their child's education. Your donation is a valuable investment in inclusion, academic achievement, and the personal growth of every student. It demonstrates that every voice matters, and we are committed to providing the resources needed for all students to succeed. Thank you once again for supporting our project and our students. We are sincerely grateful for your partnership in creating a truly inclusive learning environment.","fullyFundedDate":1748369676339,"projectUrl":"project/translation-earbuds/9375353/","projectTitle":"Translation Earbuds","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Armstrong","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4498116_272x272.png?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1498594497031","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mr-armstrong-howe"},{"teacherId":4498116,"projectId":9149941,"letterContent":"Let the Fun Begin: Picnic Games for Our Students! is more than just a chance for students to play it's an opportunity to build community, encourage teamwork, and promote physical activity in a joyful, inclusive way. Organized picnic games offer students a break from their daily routines and a chance to develop important social-emotional skills such as cooperation, communication, and resilience through play. These activities foster a sense of school spirit and belonging while also supporting mental wellness and healthy movement. By providing structured yet fun outdoor games, we create a positive, memorable experience that strengthens peer relationships and school culture. With just a small investment in materials and planning, we can deliver big benefits for student morale, connection, and engagement.","fullyFundedDate":1746464259242,"projectUrl":"project/let-the-fun-begin-picnic-games-for-our/9149941/","projectTitle":"Let the Fun Begin: Picnic Games for Our Students!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Armstrong","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp4498116_272x272.png?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1498594497031","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mr-armstrong-howe"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_5783","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":353,"numTeachers":25,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":85,"percentWhite":1,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":12,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"14.1:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":57.7,"schoolId":5783,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Howe School of Excellence on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Howe School of Excellence","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/illinois/chicago-public-school-district-299/howe-elementary-school/5783"}
Join the 821 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Howe School of Excellence is
an urban public school
in Chicago, Illinois that is part of Chicago Public School District 299.
It serves 353 students
in grades Pre-K - 8 with a student/teacher ratio of 14.1:1.
Its teachers have had 280 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!
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
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
97%
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.
Howe School of Excellence 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.
Howe School of Excellence
$244,247
raised using DonorsChoose
280
projects
funded
77
teachers
funded
821
donors
19
projects
for
basic supplies
64
projects for
technology
21
projects for
books
5
projects
for
art supplies
Howe School of Excellence has received support from
474 individuals from Illinois and
347 individuals out-of-state.