{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Benito Juarez Community Academy","outOfStateSupporters":25.8,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9932617,"projectId":9546455,"letterContent":"My students are actively using the new resources to bring their performance and design concepts to life.\r\n\r\nThe crash mats have been absolutely essential for our stage combat unit. They allow students to safely practice complex choreography, including falls, rolls, and tumbles, greatly increasing their confidence and range of motion. Students are currently using them to rehearse the combat sequence for an upcoming one-act play focusing on historical conflict. The art materials (hot glue guns, paper, tape, paint) have been used to create visually engaging, large-scale educational posters. For example, during our recent unit on Improv , students used the materials to build a poster that modeled the basic rules of improv and helpful suggestions to make a great scene. These poster were all around our space and with just one glance could help start a scene!\r\n\r\nWhen the crash mats arrived, there was a visible sense of relief and excitement. Previously, students had to be extremely cautious, limiting the realism of their movements. Now, seeing the thick, professional mats made them feel respected as performers and allowed them to immediately approach the stage combat unit with enthusiasm and boldness. The art supplies instantly sparked creativity. The moment they saw the hot glue guns and a fresh array of supplies, they began brainstorming design ideas. They treated the materials like a mini design studio, eagerly planning out how to best use color and dimension to make their learning visually appealing and informative.\r\n\r\nThe next major step for my students involves integrating their newfound safety and design skills into our current major project. For the stage combat group, the next step is to transition the choreographed fights from the padded area onto the main stage, using the safety skills they gained on the crash mats to execute the movements on the unpadded surface, while maintaining precision and safety. For the design group, they will now be using the same art materials to move beyond educational posters and into creating small, functional props and scenic elements for their final in-class performance scenes, applying their mastery of color and construction to practical stage design","fullyFundedDate":1754766063931,"projectUrl":"project/school-actors-ready-to-make-a-scene/9546455/","projectTitle":"School Actors Ready to Make a Scene!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Haugen","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9932617"},{"teacherId":6294990,"projectId":9648490,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of a new ball cart to our volleyball program. Your support has made a noticeable difference in the efficiency and quality of our practices.\r\n\r\nWith the new ball cart, our team can set up and transition between drills more quickly, allowing players to spend more time focused on improving their skills and teamwork. It has brought a sense of organization and professionalism to our gym that our athletes truly appreciate.\r\n\r\nBeyond the practical benefits, your contribution reminds our players that their hard work is supported by a community that believes in their potential. Your generosity helps us create a positive, motivated environment where every athlete can thrive.\r\n\r\nWe are so grateful for your continued support of our program and our students.","fullyFundedDate":1758222476439,"projectUrl":"project/rollin-into-the-season/9648490/","projectTitle":"Rollin' Into the Season","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ramos","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6294990_orig.jpg?crop=2639,2640,x0,y325&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1734032782123","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6294990"},{"teacherId":6294990,"projectId":9648512,"letterContent":"We are incredibly grateful for your generous donation of new volleyballs to our program. Your support has made an immediate and meaningful impact on our athletes and the quality of our practices and games.\r\n\r\nWith the new equipment, our players are able to train more effectively, improve their skills, and experience a higher level of play. Having consistent, high-quality volleyballs helps our team focus on technique and teamwork and builds confidence as they prepare for competition.\r\n\r\nYour contribution goes far beyond the court. It shows our student-athletes that their community believes in them and is invested in their growth, both as players and as individuals.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping us continue to build a strong, motivated, and united volleyball program. We truly appreciate your generosity and support.","fullyFundedDate":1756756297155,"projectUrl":"project/help-us-serve-with-brand-new-balls/9648512/","projectTitle":"Help Us Serve With Brand New Balls","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ramos","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6294990_orig.jpg?crop=2639,2640,x0,y325&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1734032782123","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6294990"},{"teacherId":6294990,"projectId":9393711,"letterContent":"On behalf of our entire team, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude for your generous donation of backpacks. Your support means so much more than just providing equipment, it helps our athletes represent our school with pride and unity.\r\n\r\nThese backpacks have brought our team closer together and given our players a sense of belonging and confidence as they walk into games, practices, and tournaments. For many of our students, this gesture reminds them that their hard work and dedication are seen and valued by others.\r\n\r\nYour contribution not only supports our athletic goals but also strengthens our sense of community. Thank you for investing in our students and helping us continue to build a program that inspires teamwork, discipline, and school spirit.","fullyFundedDate":1755738705835,"projectUrl":"project/pack-like-a-pro/9393711/","projectTitle":"Pack like a Pro","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ramos","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6294990_orig.jpg?crop=2639,2640,x0,y325&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1734032782123","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6294990"},{"teacherId":10171526,"projectId":9580352,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous support of our classroom.\r\nWhen my students saw their new supplies, they immediately put them to use. Each student got a binder to keep their work organized and available. The storage unit has improved efficiency in our classroom. Students can access necessary worksheets for daily lessons from the cart. It gives them a feeling of independence and active participation, while encouraging the discipline of organization. \r\n\r\nEveryone has their own markers and erasers, which allows them to write math equations on individual white boards in real time with the lesson being taught. Because of this, they are able to ask questions or have me check their work for comprehension as they learn. Having pencils and rulers for math students is crucial. In the past, students didn't have enough supplies and had to share them. Sharing is part of the learning process but because it is cold and flu season, the tissue and hand sanitizer make it safer for students working in close quarters. The standing fan circulates the air, making our classroom more comfortable.\r\n\r\nWe plan to use the scissors and rulers for future group projects fostering creative learning and productive communication between students. This creates a fun learning environment where students can interact with each other on a level that opens peer understanding of course material. We are grateful for your contribution to making our classroom a place of collaborative learning and growth.","fullyFundedDate":1755487566089,"projectUrl":"project/math-class-essentials-add-up-to-successf/9580352/","projectTitle":"Math Class Essentials Add Up To Successful Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Moy","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10171526_orig.jpg?crop=180,180,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755448489279","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10171526"},{"teacherId":9100986,"projectId":9127713,"letterContent":"This project made an immediate impact on my students during summer school. As soon as the materials were handed out, students were excited, specially about using the dry erase markers to show their thinking. They used them on the whiteboard and even on their desks to solve problems, explain their reasoning to peers, and engage in collaborative work. It transformed the classroom into an interactive, student-centered space where math felt more accessible and fun.\r\n\r\nOne of the most powerful moments was when students created posters to show what they had learned throughout a unit. With the help of the new supplies, they were able to organize their ideas visually and confidently present their work. The posters and markers allowed them to make creative, colorful, and well-structured displays that they were proud to hang up.\r\n\r\nOther essentials from the project were given directly to students to make sure they had everything they needed to succeed. And the snacks? A huge hit. They were used as small rewards during review games, helping students stay motivated and energized. Thanks to your generosity, my students were supported in both their learning and well-being, and that made a huge difference in our classroom community.","fullyFundedDate":1745847020939,"projectUrl":"project/math-class-essentials/9127713/","projectTitle":"Math Class Essentials!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Lee","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9100986"},{"teacherId":2231185,"projectId":9081601,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our project. Your donation of Fuji Instax Mini cameras, film, AirTags, and protective cases is providing our students with a refreshing and meaningful experience in today's fast-paced digital world. These instant cameras allow students to slow down, be more intentional, and truly engage with the moments they choose to capture. With limited film, they're learning to move away from perfectionism and \"click frenzy,\" becoming more thoughtful and present as they create lasting memories.\r\n\r\nThis project has already sparked valuable conversations about privacy, creativity, and mindfulness. Students are discovering the joy of holding a physical photo, sharing it with family and friends, and reflecting on personal moments without the pressure of posting everything online. The AirTags and cases ensure the cameras can be safely shared, giving more students the opportunity to participate. Your kindness is helping create meaningful learning experiences that go beyond the classroom—thank you for making this possible.","fullyFundedDate":1739559493583,"projectUrl":"project/instant-photography-for-mindfulness/9081601/","projectTitle":"Instant Photography: For Mindfulness","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Mendez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2231185_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1626098556302","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/srta-mendez"},{"teacherId":2231185,"projectId":9035130,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation to our Computer Science program. Your support is helping bridge the technology gap for my high-need students, many of whom lack access to their own devices and materials. With your contribution, we can offer a more inclusive and equitable learning environment—one that empowers students, especially minorities and young women, to see themselves as future innovators in the tech field.\r\n\r\nThe Edison Bots are already making a difference by encouraging inquiry-based learning and hands-on exploration of core Computer Science concepts. Students are becoming more engaged, confident, and curious, taking real ownership of their learning. The storage bin, lock, and Ziploc bags have also made organizing and securing our materials much easier, ensuring everything remains accessible and safe. Thank you again for helping inspire the next generation of Computer Scientists.","fullyFundedDate":1738969277217,"projectUrl":"project/cs-in-the-city-computer-science-for/9035130/","projectTitle":"💻CS in the City - Computer Science For All","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Mendez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2231185_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1626098556302","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/srta-mendez"},{"teacherId":2231185,"projectId":8840382,"letterContent":"Thank you for supporting this impactful project. Providing feminine hygiene products, along with essential cleaning items like Clorox wipes and Tide detergent, plays a crucial role in helping students manage their menstrual cycles with dignity. By ensuring easy and discreet access through thoughtfully designed cube bags and laundry solutions, we are taking meaningful steps toward reducing stigma and promoting comfort and confidence within our school communities.\r\n\r\nYour support helps create a more equitable learning environment where students no longer have to choose between managing personal challenges and attending class. With these resources in place, students can focus on their education and participate fully in school life, knowing they have what they need to feel secure and supported. Thank you for being part of this important effort.","fullyFundedDate":1737485044752,"projectUrl":"project/empower-periods-access-to-feminine-hygi/8840382/","projectTitle":"Empower Periods: Access to Feminine Hygiene Products","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Mendez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2231185_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1626098556302","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/srta-mendez"},{"teacherId":5771358,"projectId":9146444,"letterContent":"My students were thrilled to receive the crochet supplies thanks to your kind donations! They learned crochet techniques and challenged themselves to create different projects in our after school crochet club. Students worked at their own pace and many were able to take their crochet projects home, because we had enough supplies for everyone to use. I am shocked at how much they taught themselves in such a short amount of time. Many of these students also joined the crochet club with no knowledge of crochet! We can't wait to see what they can do this Fall when school starts again. We are able to do this thanks to your support, so thank you again!","fullyFundedDate":1746575892225,"projectUrl":"project/yarnpals-engaging-our-freshmen-students/9146444/","projectTitle":"YarnPals: Engaging our Freshmen Students with Crochet","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ambriz","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5771358_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1673650794068","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/5771358"},{"teacherId":9927507,"projectId":9121653,"letterContent":"Kids love coming earlier to class and request to sit in the chairs as well. The bean bag chair has become an incentive for students to participate more and engage with their classmates more. Because this has become so popular, I am working on adding more items to this cozy corner. For example, I plan on adding another bean bag and rug to make this a cozier corner in the classroom. \r\n\r\nThank you for your support and for helping me reach my goals. Once I get more items, i will continue sending updates!","fullyFundedDate":1742582779292,"projectUrl":"project/getting-comfier-with-bean-bags/9121653/","projectTitle":"Getting Comfier with Bean Bags","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Guzman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9927507"},{"teacherId":6294990,"projectId":9003447,"letterContent":"With such gratitude in my heart I am forever grateful for the support my teams receive! We are currently 7-0 in our conference and the confidence boost my athletes recieve from all the generous donations give them a sense determination! They know people believe in them and support their dreams and want to support their new equipment that allows for them to train harder and feel more inspired! Each day my athletes inspire me and show such gratitude for all they have received and worked for this year. The new balls were so exciting to them and they were excited to carry them as team balls to games","fullyFundedDate":1743978714809,"projectUrl":"project/new-volleyballs/9003447/","projectTitle":"New Volleyballs","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ramos","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp6294990_orig.jpg?crop=2639,2640,x0,y325&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1734032782123","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/6294990"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_5716","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":1540,"numTeachers":101,"percentFrplEligible":88,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":2,"percentWhite":1,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":94,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"9 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":"15.2:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":74.2,"schoolId":5716,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Benito Juarez Community Academy on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Benito Juarez Community Academy","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/illinois/chicago-public-school-district-299/juarez-academy/5716"}
Join the 613 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Benito Juarez Community Academy is
an urban public school
in Chicago, Illinois that is part of Chicago Public School District 299.
It serves 1,540 students
in grades 9 - 12 with a student/teacher ratio of 15.2:1.
Its teachers have had 159 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!
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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
96%
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.
Benito Juarez Community Academy 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.
Benito Juarez Community Academy
$119,426
raised using DonorsChoose
159
projects
funded
51
teachers
funded
613
donors
20
projects
for
basic supplies
30
projects for
technology
10
projects for
books
8
projects
for
art supplies
Benito Juarez Community Academy has received support from
455 individuals from Illinois and
158 individuals out-of-state.