$1.25 Million Contribution to Fund STEM projects through DonorsChoose Organization

United Airlines has pledged to donate $1.25 million through the DonorsChoose charity to help fund K–12 aviation and STEM projects in classrooms across its seven hub markets of Chicago; Denver; Washington, D.C.; New York; Houston; San Francisco; and Los Angeles; as well as Phoenix and across Hawaii.

This funding will cover currently posted projects in these markets to provide supplies, classroom resources, and program expenses. Remaining funds will be paired with a matching fund campaign in the near future to support new aviation and STEM projects, the airline said.

DonorsChoose said all requests are vetted — the organization itself purchases the items and shipping materials and sends them to verified teachers.

Teachers can learn more and apply for funds at this page.

"Whether it's using model planes to teach middle schoolers the dynamics of flight or taking a field trip to see how a simulator works, we're proud to help teachers get the resources to inspire the next generation of aviators," said Josh Earnest, United's senior vice president and chief communications officer. "We're proud to team up with DonorsChoose to support teachers who are doing incredible work and changing the lives of students around the country."

The airline said its growth plan over the next 10 years includes 700 new aircraft, on order. This year alone it plans to hire 15,000 employees, it said.

"United Airlines is helping classrooms launch into the new school year, with resources that will help aviation and STEM students thrive," said Alix Guerrier, CEO of DonorsChoose. "Through this campaign, United Airlines is empowering youth who are tomorrow's scientists, aviators, and engineers. This partnership will foster the beginnings of future careers."

Donors Choose was founded in 2000 by a public high school teacher in the Bronx, NY, to help teachers pay for school supplies and other resources to help their students.

About the Author

Kate Lucariello is a former newspaper editor, EAST Lab high school teacher and college English teacher.

Featured

  • silhouetted student stands before the White House, surrounded by abstract digital graphics of brains, circuits, and AI elements

    White House Sets Sights on AI Education

    A new executive order from President Donald Trump aims to advance America's position in artificial intelligence technology by incorporating AI into education and providing AI training for educators.

  • repeating abstract pattern featuring cloud icons, neural network shapes, data streams, and circuit-like elements in muted tones

    Report: Infrastructure Is the Missing Piece in Gen AI Strategy

    While generative AI has become central to digital transformation strategies, a new report from Google Cloud reveals most organizations aren't yet equipped to support it at scale.

  • abstract pattern of cybersecurity, ai and cloud imagery

    Report Identifies Malicious Use of AI in Cloud-Based Cyber Threats

    A recent report from OpenAI identifies the misuse of artificial intelligence in cybercrime, social engineering, and influence operations, particularly those targeting or operating through cloud infrastructure. In "Disrupting Malicious Uses of AI: June 2025," the company outlines how threat actors are weaponizing large language models for malicious ends — and how OpenAI is pushing back.

  • brass balance scale with a black rotary telephone on one side and a stack of gold coins on the other

    Supreme Court Upholds Universal Service Fund

    In a 6-3 decision, the United States Supreme Court has upheld the constitutionality of the Universal Service Fund, the primary funding source behind the E-Rate program.