{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Townsend Harris High School","outOfStateSupporters":36.1,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":1546582,"projectId":9707218,"letterContent":"Thanks to your incredible generosity, my students are discovering chemistry in the most delicious way possible! The addition of the new XY Knives has completely elevated our cooking labs, giving students a professional tool to experience precision, safety, and real-world culinary techniques. Instead of simply reading about chemical reactions, students now slice, dice, and chiffonade their way through lessons that show how chemistry transforms food. One of our first big moments was during our roux and gumbo lab students carefully prepped vegetables with their new knives and immediately noticed how consistent cuts affected heat transfer and flavor development. Several exclaimed, \"These are amazing!\" as they realized that chemistry isn't just about equations, it's about creativity, precision, and teamwork.\r\n\r\nWhen the knives first arrived, the excitement was instant. Students unpacked them with wide eyes and genuine enthusiasm, marveling at their balance and sharpness. Many had never used high-quality kitchen tools before, and this was their first time feeling what professional chefs experience. The knives have given students confidence and pride in their work from cutting onions for caramelization experiments to preparing potatoes for the Maillard reaction lab, every step now feels purposeful and professional.\r\n\r\nThank you for helping bring this joyful, hands-on learning experience to life. You've given my students the chance to see chemistry not only as a science but as an art they can taste, share, and take pride in.","fullyFundedDate":1758202873909,"projectUrl":"project/the-art-of-cooking-through-chemistry/9707218/","projectTitle":"The Art of Cooking Through Chemistry","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Heitman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1546582_orig.jpg?crop=2181,2181,x1674,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1635975547582","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mr-heitman"},{"teacherId":1546582,"projectId":9710103,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has transformed into a dynamic space where curiosity, collaboration, and creativity thrive. Many people use technology every day without seeing how powerful it can be as a learning tool, here is some of the impact these iPads have already had on my students.\r\n\r\nFrom the moment the iPads arrived, students began applying concepts in deeper and more meaningful ways. They now take handwritten notes digitally, reinforcing retention while keeping information organized, searchable, and easily revisited before tests. Instead of passively reading about chemistry reactions or engineering principles, they interact with models, run simulations, annotate diagrams, and apply their learning instantly.\r\n\r\nStudents are thrilled by the opportunity to create. They have built digital presentations that demonstrate chemical solutions, and even collaborated in real time from across the room. They love that they can personalize their learning; color-code notes, sketch molecules, record explanations in their own voice, and explore enrichment resources that spark curiosity beyond the curriculum.\r\n\r\nSome students who previously felt anxious about keeping up with class have found a new sense of confidence. One student who struggled with organization now proudly shares perfectly structured notes with classmates who ask for help. Another has used drawing apps to visualize complex chemical structures; something that was once overwhelming, but now feels achievable and even fun.\r\n\r\nYour support has not only provided technology, it has opened doors.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students, for fueling their curiosity, and for helping them grow into confident problem-solvers who are excited to learn every day.","fullyFundedDate":1758958051936,"projectUrl":"project/creating-collaboration-with-digital-note/9710103/","projectTitle":"Creating Collaboration with Digital Note Taking","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Heitman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1546582_orig.jpg?crop=2181,2181,x1674,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1635975547582","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mr-heitman"},{"teacherId":1546582,"projectId":9744719,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has transformed into a dynamic space where curiosity, collaboration, and creativity thrive. Many people use technology every day without seeing how powerful it can be as a learning tool, here is some of the impact these iPads have already had on my students.\r\n\r\nFrom the moment the iPads arrived, students began applying concepts in deeper and more meaningful ways. They now take handwritten notes digitally, reinforcing retention while keeping information organized, searchable, and easily revisited before tests. Instead of passively reading about chemistry reactions or engineering principles, they interact with models, run simulations, annotate diagrams, and apply their learning instantly.\r\n\r\nStudents are thrilled by the opportunity to create. They have built digital presentations that demonstrate chemical solutions, and even collaborated in real time from across the room. They love that they can personalize their learning; color-code notes, sketch molecules, record explanations in their own voice, and explore enrichment resources that spark curiosity beyond the curriculum.\r\n\r\nSome students who previously felt anxious about keeping up with class have found a new sense of confidence. One student who struggled with organization now proudly shares perfectly structured notes with classmates who ask for help. Another has used drawing apps to visualize complex chemical structures; something that was once overwhelming, but now feels achievable and even fun.\r\n\r\nYour support has not only provided technology, it has opened doors.\r\n\r\nThank you for believing in my students, for fueling their curiosity, and for helping them grow into confident problem-solvers who are excited to learn every day.","fullyFundedDate":1760639386685,"projectUrl":"project/part-ii-of-creating-collaboration-with-d/9744719/","projectTitle":"Part II of Creating Collaboration with Digital Note Taking","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Heitman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1546582_orig.jpg?crop=2181,2181,x1674,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1635975547582","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mr-heitman"},{"teacherId":1546582,"projectId":8739120,"letterContent":"When the new science notebooks arrived, the energy in my classroom shifted immediately. My students were excited to have a space that was truly theirs—some even started decorating the covers before we began! The very first time we used them, we launched into an inquiry-based lab where students measured and recorded their own data. For the first time, I saw every student carefully documenting their observations, drawing diagrams, and asking questions right on the page.\r\n\r\nOne moment that stood out was when a student flipped back to their earlier notes and proudly showed me how their understanding had grown in just a few lessons. That connection—the ability to see their own progress—was powerful.\r\n\r\nThe notebooks have already become a central tool in our science classroom. Students use them daily to record lab results, reflect on experiments, and even create models to explain chemical reactions. Our next steps are to build on this habit of scientific thinking by teaching students how to write full lab reports and analyze their results using evidence from their own notes.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, my students aren't just learning science—they're becoming scientists. Thank you for making that possible.","fullyFundedDate":1734099004503,"projectUrl":"project/science-for-all-empowering-immigrant-an/8739120/","projectTitle":"Science for All: Empowering Immigrant and Ell Students","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Heitman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1546582_orig.jpg?crop=2181,2181,x1674,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1635975547582","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mr-heitman"},{"teacherId":9269714,"projectId":8874261,"letterContent":"I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for your incredibly generous donation toward our 3D printer project. Your support has made an invaluable impact, and we are truly grateful for your contribution.\r\nThanks to your generosity, our students have been able to embark on an exciting journey of creativity and discovery. With the Anycubic 3D printer and the accompanying supplies, they were able to bring their 3D models to life, transforming their ideas into tangible creations. This hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology like computer-assisted design software has provided them with a unique opportunity to develop both their technical and problem-solving skills.\r\nYour contribution enabled my students to engage in the full process of art restoration, from researching ancient artifacts to recreating them in 3D. They were not only able to explore history in a meaningful and interactive way but also gained a deeper understanding of the connection between design, research, and creation.\r\nBecause of your support, these students have been empowered to take their learning to new heights. The skills they have acquired through this project will undoubtedly stay with them for years to come, shaping their academic journeys and inspiring their future careers.\r\nOn behalf of my students and myself, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for your remarkable gift. Your donation has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of these young learners, and we are incredibly grateful for your generosity.","fullyFundedDate":1734542403193,"projectUrl":"project/3d-design-class-making-the-intangible-t/8874261/","projectTitle":"3D Design Class Making the Intangible, Tangible","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Montalvo","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-8_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9269714"},{"teacherId":40589,"projectId":7400218,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our student garden project. Thanks to your donation, we've been able to create a beautiful garden that has made a big impact on our students and school.\r\n\r\nThe garden is a hands-on learning space where students can explore nature, learn about plants and sustainability, and practice valuable skills like teamwork and responsibility. It's also sparked conversations about healthy eating and the environment, inspiring students to make better choices both in and out of school.\r\n\r\nYour donation has helped create a space where students can grow and learn in ways that go beyond the classroom. We are so grateful for your support in bringing this project to life.\r\n\r\nThank you again for making a difference in our school community!","fullyFundedDate":1688590656473,"projectUrl":"project/stop-and-smell-the-roses/7400218/","projectTitle":"Stop and Smell the Roses!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Laverde","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp40589_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1464734877379","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/40589"},{"teacherId":40589,"projectId":8708467,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of menstruation products to our school library. Your support has made a difference in the lives of our students.\r\n\r\nAs you know, periods can happen at any time and in any place, often catching students off guard. Many of students face challenges in accessing basic menstruation products, which can affect their ability to focus in class or even attend school. With your donation, we've been able to provide these products for free, ensuring that students don't have to worry about missing school or feeling uncomfortable during their period.\r\nThe products are available in our school library, creating a safe, private space for students to get what they need when they need it. \r\n\r\nYour generosity has not only provided essential items, but it has also shown our students that they are valued and supported. We are so grateful for your kindness and the positive impact you've made in our school community.\r\n\r\nThank you again for your support!","fullyFundedDate":1734992967618,"projectUrl":"project/menstruation-is-normal/8708467/","projectTitle":"Menstruation is Normal","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Laverde","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/272x272/tp40589_272x272.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1464734877379","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/40589"},{"teacherId":9739057,"projectId":8788636,"letterContent":"Thank you so much again for your generous donation! Because of you we were able to get lab notebooks for my students to use during every lab activity to record their observations, which they refer back to when writing their lab reports. This has contributed to their improved organization and science literacy. They were very excited to hear that donors like you were responsible for getting them these materials. Currently in class, students have been learning about classifying different types of chemical reactions, and we are soon going to be moving on to chemical bonding. These books will continue to be an asset as we move on to more challenging topics. I hope you know how much your donation meant to me and to my students!","fullyFundedDate":1726753702916,"projectUrl":"project/carbonless-lab-notebooks/8788636/","projectTitle":"Carbonless Lab Notebooks","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Comer","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-9_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9739057"},{"teacherId":1546582,"projectId":8719299,"letterContent":"The new resources have completely transformed our Chemistry of Cooking class, bringing science and culinary arts to life in ways my students and I could have only dreamed of. In one recent project, students used the materials to explore the science of emulsions by creating their own mayonnaise and testing its stability under different conditions. This hands-on approach not only deepened their understanding of chemical principles like polarity and intermolecular forces but also connected them to practical, everyday applications.\r\n\r\nWhen we first unpacked the materials, the excitement was palpable. Students were eager to dive in, with one enthusiastically declaring, \"We're going to cook AND do science? This is amazing!\" That initial spark of joy has carried through every activity, as the class experiments with recipes and techniques, blending culinary creativity with scientific rigor.\r\n\r\nCurrently, students are working on a project to analyze the chemistry behind caramelization and how sugar structures change under heat. With these new tools, they're conducting precise experiments to perfect their caramel recipes, while documenting the science behind the process. Their next steps include presenting their findings and offering their creations for a class tasting session, combining technical skills with communication and collaboration.\r\n\r\nYour contribution has allowed my students to see the connections between science and their everyday lives, inspiring curiosity, innovation, and a love for learning. Thank you for being such an essential part of our classroom journey!","fullyFundedDate":1725412290944,"projectUrl":"project/chemistry-of-cooking/8719299/","projectTitle":"Chemistry of Cooking","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Heitman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp1546582_orig.jpg?crop=2181,2181,x1674,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1635975547582","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mr-heitman"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_1127","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":1342,"numTeachers":56,"percentFrplEligible":74,"percentAsian":57,"percentBlack":5,"percentWhite":16,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":15,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"9 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":"24.0:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":63.9,"schoolId":1127,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Townsend Harris High School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Townsend Harris High School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/new-york/new-york-city-dept-of-ed/townsend-harris-high-school/1127"}
Join the 380 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Townsend Harris High School is
an urban public school
in Flushing, New York that is part of New York City Dept Of Ed.
It serves 1,342 students
in grades 9 - 12 with a student/teacher ratio of 24.0:1.
Its teachers have had 80 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
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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
77%
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.
Townsend Harris High 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.
Townsend Harris High School
$91,934
raised using DonorsChoose
80
projects
funded
18
teachers
funded
380
donors
19
projects for
technology
7
projects for
books
4
projects
for
art supplies
Townsend Harris High School has received support from
243 individuals from New York and
137 individuals out-of-state.