{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"John M Smyth Magnet School","outOfStateSupporters":28.2,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8423164,"projectId":10046267,"letterContent":"Thank you for making these hands-on math experiences possible for my students! Since receiving these resources, my students have been actively using rulers, protractors, graph paper, and visual math tools during our lessons. Rather than simply hearing about math concepts, they are now measuring, building, drawing, and discovering concepts through active learning. During one lesson, students used rulers and graph paper to create shapes and compare measurements. It was exciting to watch them make observations, ask questions, and explain their thinking with confidence.","fullyFundedDate":1777927023238,"projectUrl":"project/math-you-can-touch-tools-for-measuring/10046267/","projectTitle":"Math You Can Touch: Tools for Measuring, Graphing, and Thinking","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. ORN","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8423164_orig.jpg?crop=1310,1310,x191,y853&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1748746434273","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/missorn"},{"teacherId":8423164,"projectId":9939397,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our classroom has become a warmer and more welcoming place for my students. The winter coats, boots, gloves, and hoodies have helped students stay comfortable during cold mornings, recess, and outdoor transitions. One special moment was seeing the excitement on my students' faces when they realized they could stay warm while playing outside with their classmates. The snacks have also become an important part of our classroom routine, helping students stay focused and energized throughout the day.\r\n\r\nMy students were thrilled when the materials arrived. They carefully explored each item and immediately began talking about how cozy and warm everything felt. The snacks brought smiles and excitement during our classroom community time, and students felt proud knowing that people cared enough to support them. These resources helped create a sense of comfort, belonging, and joy in our classroom.\r\n\r\nAs we continue through the school year, my students are building important academic and social skills through hands-on learning, collaboration, and daily routines. Having their basic needs supported allows them to participate more confidently in classroom activities and focus on learning goals. Your kindness has made a meaningful difference in helping my students feel safe, cared for, and ready to succeed each day.","fullyFundedDate":1764740672069,"projectUrl":"project/warm-hearts-cozy-coats-and-snack-time/9939397/","projectTitle":"Warm Hearts, Cozy Coats, and Snack Time Smiles!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. ORN","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8423164_orig.jpg?crop=1310,1310,x191,y853&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1748746434273","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/missorn"},{"teacherId":9100822,"projectId":10067049,"letterContent":"This event was truly the highlight, for both student and staff in our school, of the year! The event was so successful and the students had so so much fun, they continued to say that it was the best day ever! We are so lucky to have a supportive admin that made this event possible but it was also thank to your generous donations.\r\nThe decorations that were donated made the room sparkle and look like a real life cafe! All of our customers loved the coffee and hot chocolate you all provided as well, and our workers got to enjoy a fresh cup of hot cocoa after finishing their shift which they loved! It would not have been possible without your help. \r\nWe thank you for giving our students this amazing learning opportunity and allowing us to do another year of our Cluster Cafe!","fullyFundedDate":1775094396249,"projectUrl":"project/cubs-cafe/10067049/","projectTitle":"Cubs Cafe!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. D","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9100822_orig.jpg?crop=1243,1243,x618,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1693324319640","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9100822"},{"teacherId":10360272,"projectId":9958938,"letterContent":"It has been a beautiful month of growth in Room 100, and your generosity has filled our classroom with rhythm and pride. When the students first saw the boxes arrive, their faces lit up with pure joy. They were especially drawn to the colorful egg shakers and the shiny jingle bells, immediately wanting to test the sounds they could make. One student even cheered, \"Now we are a real band!\". Seeing them take ownership of these high-quality tools was a powerful reminder of how much it means to them to have resources that reflect the value of their education.\r\n\r\nCurrently, we are using the rhythm sticks and bells to practice for our upcoming performance at Ravinia. We recently used the instruments to practice \"The Petes Go Marching,\" and it was a magical classroom moment to watch every child, including those who are often quiet or still learning English, confidently tap out the beat together. The new headphones have also transformed our \"calm-down corner\" and independent stations, allowing students to focus on literacy activities and music exploration without distraction. These tools are not just instruments; they are building the students' confidence as performers and as a community.\r\n\r\nLooking ahead, our next big step is preparing for our Final Kindergarten Group Projects and Seasonal Fashion Show. We plan to incorporate our new music skills into the showcase, using the instruments to create a live soundtrack for the runway. The students are already brainstorming which sounds represent different seasons, using their \"Risk-Taker\" and \"Knowledgeable\" learner profiles to guide their creativity. Because of your support, these children have a powerful way to share their voices and celebrate a successful year.","fullyFundedDate":1767479248997,"projectUrl":"project/raising-our-voices-through-music/9958938/","projectTitle":"Raising Our Voices Through Music","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Gutierrez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10360272_orig.jpg?crop=1124,1124,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1763857375131","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10360272"},{"teacherId":9100822,"projectId":9882407,"letterContent":"These materials have been so much more helpful than you can imagine! Not only have these materials been heavily used in our classroom but we have also been given the opportunity to share the love with other classrooms as well! Thanks to your generous donation we have been able to share our headphones with other teachers in our building in need! \r\nThe students were so excited to finally be able to have their own pair of headphones and they have been taking great care of them. We have given them their own bag and color coded them so that students don't get confused as to what set of headphones is theres. Thank you so much for choosing us to donate to, we are so incredibly thankful!","fullyFundedDate":1772218983538,"projectUrl":"project/learning-essentials/9882407/","projectTitle":"Learning Essentials!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. D","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9100822_orig.jpg?crop=1243,1243,x618,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1693324319640","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9100822"},{"teacherId":2247834,"projectId":9764877,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has been able to dive into learning in new and exciting ways!\r\nWhen the new materials first arrived, my students were immediately curious and excited. As we unpacked everything together, there were lots of \"oohs\" and \"wows\" around the room. Many of the students couldn't wait to start using the new resources, and they were eager to explore how the tools would help them learn.\r\nOne of our favorite moments so far has been during a recent project where students used the new materials to work collaboratively in small groups. They were able to experiment, share ideas, and solve problems together. I loved seeing students take ownership of their learning—discussing strategies, testing their ideas, and celebrating when something worked. The materials helped make the lesson more hands-on and engaging, and students who are usually quiet were excited to participate.\r\nYour support has also helped us create a more interactive classroom environment. Instead of simply reading about concepts, students are now able to explore and apply what they're learning in meaningful ways. The resources have encouraged creativity, teamwork, and confidence.","fullyFundedDate":1769363457651,"projectUrl":"project/play-and-take-a-break/9764877/","projectTitle":"Play and Take a Break","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Cipriani","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2247834_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1677582708774","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-cipriani"},{"teacherId":7955101,"projectId":9843474,"letterContent":"Students are also practicing responsibility by assisting with snack distribution and clean-up. These routines promote independence, cooperation, and respect for our shared space. Your support has provided more than just snacks it has helped create a nurturing classroom environment where students feel supported, focused, ready to succeed each day. Thank you for making a meaningful impact on my students' learning and well-being. Snack time has a positive routine that helps students reset, refocus.","fullyFundedDate":1763498198102,"projectUrl":"project/power-snacks/9843474/","projectTitle":"Power Snacks","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Robinson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7955101"},{"teacherId":7955101,"projectId":9800398,"letterContent":"Thanks to you, our next steps involve building on this strong foundation. Students are currently working on applying these social-emotional skills during collaborative academic tasks, such as partner reading and group problemsolving activities. This project encourages independence and self-awareness while reinforcing the lessons they are learning every day. Your support has given my students more than materials it has given them tools they will carry with them beyond the classroom. Your the best","fullyFundedDate":1760705198566,"projectUrl":"project/making-learning-fun/9800398/","projectTitle":"Making Learning Fun","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Robinson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7955101"},{"teacherId":7955101,"projectId":9780661,"letterContent":"Because of your generosity, our students have access to Social and Emotional Learning resources that help them identify and communicate their feelings in healthy ways, build empathy toward their peers, manage emotions and conflicts, creating a safe, supportive classroom environment where students are able to grow emotionally, socially, and academically every day.These tools have helped create a safe, nurturing, allowing them to grow emotionally and socially while strengthening their confidence.","fullyFundedDate":1759890597711,"projectUrl":"project/social-and-emotional-learning/9780661/","projectTitle":"Social and Emotional Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Robinson","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7955101"},{"teacherId":2247834,"projectId":9489426,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has been able to dive into learning in new and exciting ways!\r\nWhen the new materials first arrived, my students were immediately curious and excited. As we unpacked everything together, there were lots of \"oohs\" and \"wows\" around the room. Many of the students couldn't wait to start using the new resources, and they were eager to explore how the tools would help them learn.\r\nAs we move forward, students will continue building on these skills through upcoming lessons and projects. Our next step is to expand the project by having students apply what they've learned to a larger challenge where they can design, create, and present their ideas to the class. This will allow them to reflect on their learning and strengthen their problem-solving and communication skills.\r\nThank you again for supporting our classroom and believing in our students. Your kindness is making a real difference in their learning experiences every day!","fullyFundedDate":1757527428149,"projectUrl":"project/reading-resources/9489426/","projectTitle":"Reading Resources","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Cipriani","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2247834_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1677582708774","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrs-cipriani"},{"teacherId":10071069,"projectId":9580539,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for providing anchor charts for my students. These visual supports have made a meaningful difference in our classroom by helping students understand routines, expectations, and academic concepts. Many of my students learn best when information is presented visually, and the anchor charts give them clear references they can use throughout the day.\r\n\r\nSince introducing the charts, students have become more confident and independent learners. They frequently use visuals to explain their thinking, follow directions, and stay engaged during lessons. The charts also support language development by giving students consistent vocabulary and images to connect ideas. Because of your generosity, our classroom is more inclusive, organized, and supportive of all learning styles. Thank you for investing in tools.","fullyFundedDate":1760297821262,"projectUrl":"project/help-anchor-success-in-our-room/9580539/","projectTitle":"Help Anchor Success In Our Room","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Nettles","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10071069_orig.jpg?crop=3840,3840,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753289847861","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10071069"},{"teacherId":10071069,"projectId":9446713,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our classroom and believing in my students. When the materials arrived, my students were immediately excited and curious to explore them. Their faces lit up as they engaged with the new resources, and they were eager to use them during our daily routines. These materials have enhanced our learning environment by providing hands-on, engaging experiences that support a variety of learning styles in our blended Pre-K classroom.\r\n\r\nSince receiving the resources, students have been using them during whole-group lessons, small groups, and independent exploration. I have seen growth in student engagement, communication, and confidence as they collaborate, take turns, and share ideas. Moving forward, these resources will continue to support meaningful learning experiences and help build strong foundational skills. Thank you for making such a positive and lasting impact on our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1754322463317,"projectUrl":"project/tools-for-tiny-hands-creating-a-welcomi/9446713/","projectTitle":"Tools for Tiny Hands: Creating a Welcoming Preschool Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Nettles","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10071069_orig.jpg?crop=3840,3840,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753289847861","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10071069"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_5828","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":364,"numTeachers":27,"percentFrplEligible":90,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":94,"percentWhite":0,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":3,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":0,"gradesServed":"Pre-K - 8","studentTeacherRatio":"13.5:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":71.8,"schoolId":5828,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about John M Smyth Magnet School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"John M Smyth Magnet School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/illinois/chicago-public-school-district-299/john-n-smyth-magnet-school/5828"}
Join the 478 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
John M Smyth Magnet School is
an urban public school
in Chicago, Illinois that is part of Chicago Public School District 299.
It serves 364 students
in grades Pre-K - 8 with a student/teacher ratio of 13.5:1.
Its teachers have had 245 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Supporting this school will directly impact historically underfunded classrooms.
Public School
Title 1
Data about Title 1 status comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education.
Grades Pre-K - 8
364 Students
27 Teachers
1059 W 13th StContact info is sourced from our partners at MDR Education, and DonorsChoose updates our site ahead of each school year.
Boost support for this school! Share this page with friends, family, alumni, and fellow supporters. Every connection helps teachers get the supplies they need and shows how much your community cares about its students.
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Every donation funds real needs — pencils, books, lab equipment, art supplies, and more — helping students learn and thrive. We ship supplies directly to the school, and you'll see exactly where each dollar goes.
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.
John M Smyth Magnet School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated May 21, 2026
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.
John M Smyth Magnet School
$103,642
raised using DonorsChoose
245
projects
funded
56
teachers
funded
478
donors
18
projects
for
basic supplies
33
projects for
technology
34
projects for
books
9
projects
for
art supplies
John M Smyth Magnet School has received support from
343 individuals from Illinois and
135 individuals out-of-state.