The Bucktown community is coming together to support someone who has always shown up for us and, most importantly, our children--Ms. Phyllis. For years, Ms. Phyllis has poured her heart into her teaching. She has brought her love of hip hop music, art, and dance into her classroom and created countless b-boys and b-girls who have a lifelong love for the arts, education, and the power of community. She has inspired a whole generation of students (and their families) with her energy and compassion and consistently goes above and beyond to make sure that every child, whether or not they are still in her classroom, is seen and valued. She is truly a pillar of our community and our school and has impacted so many people's lives with her heart and dedication.

Recently, Ms. Phyllis was diagnosed with overlapping liver diseases - PBC liver disease and autoimmune hepatitis - and now lives with chronic, daily pain. Despite the seriousness of her condition, she has returned to work after a short-term disability leave in order to afford the medical care she needs. During her leave, she tapped into her summer savings in order to support her medical care.

As Ms. Phyllis works to maintain her health, we are raising money to cover:

Every donation — no matter the size — will help ease the overwhelming burden she’s carrying and allow her to focus on her health. Please donate if you can, and share this with others who might be willing to help. Thank you for standing with Ms. Phyllis and for being part of the community she’s given so much to.