As New York City educators prepare for the 2026-2027 school year, teachers in the Bronx and Brooklyn have an opportunity to receive additional funding for classroom projects through a partnership between Optimum and education nonprofit DonorsChoose.
Optimum announced it will match donations to eligible classroom projects on DonorsChoose, committing up to $25,000 in matching funds in each borough for a total of up to $50,000.
The initiative is designed to support technology and engineering projects submitted by public-school teachers serving students in grades 6 through 12. The funding can help educators obtain classroom resources, tools and learning experiences that may otherwise be difficult to secure through traditional school budgets.
Bronx and Brooklyn public-school teachers are encouraged to submit eligible classroom projects through DonorsChoose. Community members can then contribute directly to qualifying projects, with Optimum matching eligible donations until the company’s commitment is reached.
The program provides an opportunity for local residents to play a direct role in supporting educators and students in their communities. By contributing to classroom projects, donors can help teachers bring additional materials and educational experiences into their classrooms ahead of the new school year.
The initiative is part of Optimum’s broader efforts to support education, technology access and community engagement throughout the communities it serves.
The company says its community initiatives include expanding access to high-quality internet for people who need it, supporting programs focused on STEM and education, and creating opportunities designed to inspire the next generation of innovators.
For teachers, DonorsChoose provides a platform to identify specific classroom needs and seek support from individual donors and organizations. The Optimum matching program adds an additional incentive for community members considering contributions to eligible projects.
The focus on technology and engineering projects also reflects the growing importance of STEM education and access to technology in preparing students for future academic and career opportunities.
With the 2026-2027 school year approaching, the matching program offers teachers in the Bronx and Brooklyn another potential source of support as they prepare their classrooms and develop projects for their students.
Community members interested in supporting participating classrooms can view eligible projects through DonorsChoose and make contributions that qualify for Optimum’s matching commitment.
Optimum’s initiative is part of its continued investment in the communities where its customers and employees live and work. Through the partnership, the company aims to help educators access resources while giving community members an opportunity to contribute directly to local classrooms.
Teachers and donors can find the list of eligible Bronx and Brooklyn classroom projects on DonorsChoose. The company will match eligible donations up to $25,000 in each borough, for a combined commitment of $50,000.