{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Ruggles Elementary Steam School","outOfStateSupporters":47.6,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":8951935,"projectId":8729825,"letterContent":"I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for the mini-grant that enabled me to purchase a MacBook for my middle school students on Chicago's South Side. This invaluable tool has ignited a creative spark and provided a powerful platform for our students to amplify their voices and address critical issues within our school and community.\r\n\r\nThe core of our project revolves around student-created podcasts, a medium that has proven to be incredibly engaging and empowering. The students have embraced this technology with an enthusiasm I haven't seen before. What about the new product is most exciting to your students? The answer is multifaceted. Firstly, the MacBook's user-friendliness and the accessibility of audio editing software have demystified the process of content creation. Students who previously felt intimidated by technology now confidently navigate the interface, record, edit, and produce high-quality audio content. They love the sleek design of the MacBook, it makes them feel like professional creators. Secondly, the ability to share their work with a wider audience through platforms like SoundCloud and school websites has been a significant motivator. They see their voices reaching beyond the classroom, which fosters a sense of purpose and impact. Finally, the podcast format itself is incredibly appealing. It allows for authentic expression, storytelling, and nuanced discussions that traditional assignments often lack. The students are excited about being able to tell their stories in their own way.\r\n\r\nThe initial podcast series focused on pressing student concerns within our school. They tackled the crucial issue of attendance, exploring the underlying reasons for absenteeism and proposing solutions to encourage consistent participation. They also explored the importance of positive teacher-student relationships, highlighting the impact of simple gestures like morning greetings and genuine interactions. The students articulated how feeling safe and valued in the classroom is essential for their academic and emotional well-being. Furthermore, they addressed the pervasive issue of test anxiety, sharing personal experiences and offering coping strategies to their peers. These podcasts have not only raised awareness but also fostered a sense of community and solidarity among students. They have become a catalyst for dialogue and positive change within our school environment.\r\n\r\nDuring Heart Health Month, the students shifted their focus to community outreach. They produced compelling trailers for Public Service Announcements (PSAs) aimed at raising awareness about heart disease, a significant health concern in our neighborhood. They researched risk factors, explored preventative measures, and crafted impactful messages that resonated with their peers and families. This project allowed them to connect their classroom learning to real-world issues and contribute to the well-being of their community.\r\n\r\nAre there particular students who have especially warmed to this new technology, and how so? Absolutely. One student, who previously struggled with verbal expression and often felt marginalized, has blossomed through podcasting. She found her voice in the audio medium, expressing her thoughts and ideas with clarity and confidence. She took on a leadership role in the editing process, meticulously crafting the soundscape of each episode. 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Ruggles Elementary Steam School

Join the 269 supporters who believe in this school.

About this school

Ruggles Elementary Steam School is an urban public school in Chicago, Illinois that is part of Chicago Public School District 299. It serves 311 students in grades Pre-K - 8 with a student/teacher ratio of 15.6:1. Its teachers have had 59 projects funded on DonorsChoose.

Equity Focus School

Support towards this school will directly impact historically underfunded classrooms.

Public School

Title 1

Grades Pre-K - 8

311 Students

20 Teachers

7831 S Prairie Ave

Chicago, IL 60619 View local requests

Evidence-based impact

Inspire teachers to stay in the classroom and boost student achievement.¹

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Ms. Vero, a DonorsChoose teacher for 9 years.

Kindergarten teacher at PS81 - Robert J. Christen School in Bronx, NY

Ruggles Elementary Steam School Teachers on DonorsChoose

Ms. Johnson (Social Worker)

Mrs. Mallory STEAM LAB

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Ruggles Elementary Steam School Demographics

95%

of students receive free or reduced price lunch

Source: the National Center for Education Statistics

99%

of students are Black, Latino, Native American, or Asian

Schools in districts that mainly serve students of color receive substantially less state and local support than similar districts that serve primarily White students. Learn more about this gap, why it exists, and how you can help close it.

Ruggles Elementary Steam School 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.

Ruggles Elementary Steam School

$37,684

raised using DonorsChoose

projects funded

teachers funded

269

donors

projects for basic supplies

projects for technology

projects for books

projects for art supplies

Ruggles Elementary Steam School has received support from 141 individuals from Illinois and 128 individuals out-of-state.

Help teachers & students in your hometown this season! Use code HOME at checkout and your donation will be matched up to $100.

Ruggles Elementary Steam School

About this school

Equity Focus School

Ruggles Elementary Steam School Teachers on DonorsChoose

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DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.

Ruggles Elementary Steam School Demographics

Ruggles Elementary Steam School Support on DonorsChoose Last updated Dec 4, 2025

Ruggles Elementary Steam School

Help teachers & students in your hometown this season!
Use code HOME at checkout and your donation will be matched up to $100.