{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":true,"callToActionDisplayName":"Pittsburgh Westinghouse Academy","outOfStateSupporters":28.6,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":2834877,"projectId":10145426,"letterContent":"Your generosity has helped my students have access to a classroom library of books that truly invite them into reading. These new titles have allowed us to go beyond simply \"reading a book because it's assigned\" and instead to focus on rediscovering a love of reading again, making connections across texts, and understanding different perspectives. Your support has made it possible to teach reading in a way that is both rigorous and joyful.\r\n\r\nThe new books have helped to really establish a culture where students talk about books, share favorite moments, and see themselves as readers. The variety these books provide means that every student has a chance to find something that hooks them, and that has made a huge difference in both engagement and confidence.\r\n\r\nI've already seen students who \"hate\" reading become really excited to have in class independent reading time. One student who used to struggle to stay focused is now LOCKED IN and talking about their book every day. Moments like these are happening because of you. Thank you for helping create a classroom where students feel excited, capable, and connected through reading.","fullyFundedDate":1774113797769,"projectUrl":"project/books-that-hook-reluctant-readers/10145426/","projectTitle":"Books That Hook Reluctant Readers","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Cable","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2834877_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y301&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1740434703280","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrscable"},{"teacherId":9542911,"projectId":10080521,"letterContent":"The Status of Our Project\r\nWe are thrilled to share that thanks to your incredible generosity, our brand-new laundry center has officially arrived at the school!\r\n\r\nWe are currently in the final preparation phase to get everything up and running. Because installing a commercial-grade washer and dryer in a school setting requires dedicated utility lines, we are currently waiting on the necessary plumbing work to be completed. As soon as the pipes are connected and the station is fully hooked up, we will be ready to open this sanctuary for our students.\r\n\r\nThe Anticipated Impact\r\nEven though the machines aren't spinning just yet, their physical presence in our building has already brought a massive wave of hope and excitement. Knowing that we have a concrete solution on the horizon to combat \"laundry trauma\" has given our staff a powerful tool to support our community.\r\n\r\nOnce the plumbing is complete, this laundry station will immediately begin moving the needle for our bright and capable students by:\r\n\r\nBoosting Attendance: Giving students a reliable, discreet place to wash their clothes so they never have to choose between missing class or facing embarrassment.\r\n\r\nAlleviating Anxiety: Removing the heavy burden of self-consciousness, allowing them to focus entirely on their algebra problems, reading passages, and future goals rather than their appearance.\r\n\r\nRestoring Dignity: Ensuring that every child who walks through our doors feels fresh, confident, secure, and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nA Heartfelt Thank You\r\nYour donation did so much more than purchase a physical appliance; you invested in our students' confidence, dignity, and academic focus. By helping us remove a hidden barrier to education, you are ensuring that our students are defined by their incredible potential rather than their temporary circumstances.\r\n\r\nWe cannot wait to share photos and updates of the very first load of laundry once the plumbing is finalized! Thank you for standing with our school, supporting our families in crisis, and proving to our students that their community cares deeply about their success.","fullyFundedDate":1770316566018,"projectUrl":"project/fresh-clothes-focused-minds-removing-t/10080521/","projectTitle":"Fresh Clothes, Focused Minds: Removing the Barrier of \"Laundry Trauma\"","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. McKenzie","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9542911"},{"teacherId":3363839,"projectId":10172548,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, our classroom was able to add a collection of graphic novels that students specifically requested and were excited to read. These books have already made a huge impact on student engagement, motivation, and participation in reading activities. Students who were previously reluctant readers are now eager to pick up books, discuss stories with peers, and spend more time reading independently.\r\n\r\nThe graphic novels have helped make reading feel more accessible and enjoyable for many of my students, especially those who struggle with traditional texts. The visuals, relatable characters, and high-interest topics have encouraged students to build confidence in their reading skills while also improving comprehension and vocabulary.","fullyFundedDate":1778092578933,"projectUrl":"project/hooked-on-books-graphic-novels-that-eng/10172548/","projectTitle":"Hooked on Books: Graphic Novels That Engage","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hribar","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3363839_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1747676141715","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/hribs"},{"teacherId":3363839,"projectId":10084559,"letterContent":"Poster paper has transformed how my students express their learning. With access to large, high-quality materials, they are able to turn their ideas into something visible and meaningful. Instead of just writing answers, students create projects, visuals, and presentations that help them better understand and remember content.\r\n\r\nFor many of my students, especially those who struggle with traditional assignments, poster paper provides an alternative way to show what they know. It builds confidence, encourages participation, and allows them to take pride in their work. Our classroom walls are now filled with student-created displays that reflect their effort, growth, and voice. Thank you so much for your donation to our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1772825195534,"projectUrl":"project/big-ideas-need-big-paper/10084559/","projectTitle":"Big Ideas Need Big Paper","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hribar","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3363839_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1747676141715","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/hribs"},{"teacherId":2666942,"projectId":10050455,"letterContent":"Thank you for the generous donation for Warmth, Care and Hunger. This winter in Pittsburgh was brutal due to cold temperatures and snow. Being able to provide gloves and hats allowed us the opportunity to take students sled riding this past February. Some of them have never done that before and they had an excellent time. \r\nThe snacks and food items are very helpful to keep students energized and fueled for learning. When students arrive to school tardy and miss breakfast, they know where they can come come for sustenance. Snacks are also valuable motivators in classroom challenges and make great rewards for student achievement.","fullyFundedDate":1769275066994,"projectUrl":"project/warmth-care-and-hunger/10050455/","projectTitle":"Warmth, Care and Hunger","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Krezan","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp2666942_orig.jpg?width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1705603442737","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/2666942"},{"teacherId":5784651,"projectId":9922659,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support in funding our classroom project for laptop chargers and headphones! Your kindness has made an immediate and meaningful impact on our students' daily learning experiences.\r\n\r\nBecause of your support, students now have reliable access to fully charged devices and the ability to use headphones for focused, individualized learning. This has allowed them to engage more deeply with digital lessons, complete assignments without interruption, and build independence and confidence in their work.\r\n\r\nThese resources are especially important in creating an inclusive classroom where every student can learn at their own pace and in a way that meets their needs. Your contribution has helped remove barriers and ensure that all students have the tools they need to succeed!\r\n\r\nWe are truly grateful for your generosity and for believing in our students! Thank you for helping us create a more supportive and effective learning environment!","fullyFundedDate":1774369080913,"projectUrl":"project/charged-up-for-learning/9922659/","projectTitle":"Charged Up for Learning!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gaborek","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5784651_orig.jpg?crop=1324,1324,x0,y75&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1745861095062","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-gaborek"},{"teacherId":3363839,"projectId":10029715,"letterContent":"In my classroom, learning doesn't just depend on motivation—it often depends on whether students have had something to eat. Many of my students come to school hungry or without reliable access to food throughout the day. When basic needs aren't met, it becomes incredibly difficult for them to focus, participate, and fully engage in their learning. This project is about more than snacks—it's about removing a barrier that stands between my students and their success.\r\n\r\nHaving access to simple, consistent snacks in the classroom creates an immediate and noticeable impact. Students are able to settle in more quickly, stay focused longer, and participate more confidently. Something as small as a granola bar or a pack of crackers can completely shift a student's ability to engage. Instead of thinking about hunger, they can think about the lesson, contribute to discussions, and complete their work.","fullyFundedDate":1768687778646,"projectUrl":"project/grab-and-go-snacks-to-motivate-and-suppo/10029715/","projectTitle":"Grab-and-Go Snacks to Motivate and Support My Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hribar","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp3363839_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1747676141715","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/hribs"},{"teacherId":7823512,"projectId":9813530,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for helping us kick start art club with updated supplies, fun experiences, and the opportunity to try new things. Students have been LOVING the fuse beads and new markers. Students have been creating things from keychains and gifts for friends as well as experimenting in their sketch books. Students have also been going home and finding inspiration to come back and create more. Our small club started as 5 students coming after school and we have grown to almost 20 students! Your contribution plays a huge role in that. Thank you again!","fullyFundedDate":1767645160205,"projectUrl":"project/after-school-art-cafe-fun/9813530/","projectTitle":"After School Art Cafe Fun","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Merikas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7823512_orig.png?crop=582,582,x95,y47&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1743551595089","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/hinnebusch"},{"teacherId":7823512,"projectId":9963555,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for donating to help restock out self care cabinet. Students use this cabinet daily to meet their needs, boost their confidence, and feel fresh. I have overhead many students say things like \"you have everything we need\" and \"I know I can come here to find what I need.\" Things like this warm my heart and make me feel like I'm impact more than just student education but also their self confidence. Currently, the biggest hit items include Aquaphor, pimple patches, and period products. These aren't thing the nurse has an ample supply of and I'm happy to bridge that gap.","fullyFundedDate":1768496010989,"projectUrl":"project/self-care-essentials-restock/9963555/","projectTitle":"Self Care Essentials Restock","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Merikas","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7823512_orig.png?crop=582,582,x95,y47&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1743551595089","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/hinnebusch"},{"teacherId":7762042,"projectId":9924802,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation of the molecule kits for my students. Your support has already made a meaningful difference in our classroom, and I'm excited to share the impact with you.\r\n\r\n**How we are using the resources:** \r\nWe are using the molecule kits during our units on chemical bonding and biological macromolecules. One memorable moment came during a lesson on water and polarity—students worked in small groups to build H₂O molecules, then rearranged them to model hydrogen bonding. Being able to physically manipulate the atoms helped students move from memorizing formulas to truly understanding *why* molecules behave the way they do. I've also seen students independently grab the kits during review time to test their own ideas and check their understanding.\r\n\r\n**Student reactions:** \r\nWhen the kits first arrived, the excitement was immediate. Students eagerly opened the boxes, started building molecules on their own, and asked questions like, \"Can we make glucose with these?\" and \"What happens if we change this bond?\" For many of them, this was the first time abstract concepts from the textbook became something tangible they could see and touch. Engagement and confidence noticeably increased, especially for students who typically struggle with abstract science concepts.\r\n\r\n**What's next:** \r\nAs we move forward, students will use the molecule kits to model macromolecules such as proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, connecting chemistry concepts directly to biology. They will also apply these models to explain processes like enzyme-substrate interactions and DNA structure during upcoming projects and assessments. The kits will continue to be a core resource as students build deeper connections between structure and function in living systems.\r\n\r\nThank you again for giving my students this hands-on learning opportunity. Your generosity has helped spark curiosity, deepen understanding, and make science more engaging and accessible for every learner in our classroom.","fullyFundedDate":1765981242960,"projectUrl":"project/modeling-our-molecules/9924802/","projectTitle":"Modeling Our Molecules!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Cichinelli","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7762042_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755723776719","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7762042"},{"teacherId":5784651,"projectId":10081379,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding my project! Many of my students walk to school and do not have adequate winter clothing. Your donation ensures that I can provide each of my students with a scarf. Besides aiding the students that I teach, your gift helps me to aid other students inside our Special Education programs. I was able to offer scarves to other students, and I still have scarves left over. This means that my students next year will also benefit from your generosity. \r\n\r\nThank you for helping my students be warm and know that they are loved!","fullyFundedDate":1772550330509,"projectUrl":"project/warm-neck-warm-hearts-scarves-for-stud/10081379/","projectTitle":"Warm Neck, Warm Hearts: Scarves for Students on the Go","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Gaborek","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp5784651_orig.jpg?crop=1324,1324,x0,y75&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1745861095062","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/ms-gaborek"},{"teacherId":9747672,"projectId":10052337,"letterContent":"My students want to say thank you. Many of my students have never really experienced the outside when it is snowing. We were able to take a group of our star students outside to play in the snow. Many of them, this was their first time sled riding and playing in the snow. The hats and gloves were EXTREMELY beneficial. \r\nI want to say a huge thank you for the snacks; my students as well. The snacks were gone very quickly. Many of my students need this fuel to get through the school day. \r\nThere are no words to describe how much we appreciate you!","fullyFundedDate":1769306571636,"projectUrl":"project/with-warm-clothes-and-snacks-we-will-le/10052337/","projectTitle":"With Warm Clothes and Snacks, We Will Learn!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Tengowski","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9747672_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1726424427450","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9747672"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_88715","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":574,"numTeachers":64,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":91,"percentWhite":2,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":2,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","percentHawaiianImputed":0,"percentMultiracialImputed":2,"gradesServed":"6 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":"9.0:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":71.4,"schoolId":88715,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Pittsburgh Westinghouse Academy on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Pittsburgh Westinghouse Academy","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/pennsylvania/pittsburgh-public-schools/george-westinghouse-high-school/88715"}