{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Ben Davis High School","outOfStateSupporters":36.4,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":7355877,"projectId":9432832,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generous support, my students have been diving into the fascinating world of zoology through exciting, hands-on experiences! With the markers, labels, and stuffed animals you helped provide, students have been practicing body directions and learning the language of anatomy in an engaging, interactive way. The poster paper has become a staple in our classroom—students use it for collaborative projects, creative displays, and sharing their discoveries with one another.\r\n\r\nOne of the biggest highlights has been working with the planaria. Armed with petri dishes and markers, students carefully observed as the tiny flatworms began regenerating after being cut in half. This real-life demonstration of regeneration has sparked countless questions and incredible discussions—students are absolutely captivated by the process! Their excitement and curiosity have transformed our classroom into a true science lab filled with wonder and exploration.\r\n\r\nYour contribution has made it possible for my students to move beyond the textbook and experience science in a meaningful way. Thank you for helping them see that learning is not just about reading facts—it's about discovery, creativity, and curiosity. Because of you, the next generation of scientists is already on the path to exploring the mysteries of life!","fullyFundedDate":1756052280316,"projectUrl":"project/unleashing-the-animal-kingdom-hands-on/9432832/","projectTitle":"Unleashing the Animal Kingdom: Hands-On Zoology Explorations!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Rigdon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7355877_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y470&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1745943595168","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/rigdon-science"},{"teacherId":10197070,"projectId":9630876,"letterContent":"Thank you for your contribution to my project! \r\nThese materials have been a game changer. The minute the boxes arrived to my classroom, my students were excited just to see what they had in them. When I showed them the new leg bands for the desks and wobble cushions for the chairs, I had students every day asking to borrow one or impatiently asking when their desk would have a leg band. \r\nAfter I finally got around to putting a band on every desk, I noticed an immediate difference in their behavior and focus. Far fewer students were getting up to wander the room. Instead, they were seated and bouncing to their hearts content. Some students opt to use the cushions during class, and have even made arrangements to trade with other students on certain days so that everyone gets a chance to use them. Even other teachers have come in the room and said, \"Wow! I need to get some of these, too!\"\r\n\r\nThe increase in focus has been amazing. It is great to see kids able to move and self-regulate with these tools during class. Creating a system for borrowing fidget tools is a work in progress, but I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have these tools at my disposal and have a reason to make a system in the first place. \r\n\r\nHaving the opportunity to give students peace of mind when they come into my room because they know they will be able to fidget and release some of their pent up energy has made my classroom all the more focused and productive. I have already seen an uptick in assignment completion and submission, improved focus, and even some of my more \"active\" students are self-regulating their behavior better than ever!\r\n\r\nThank you again, donors, for making this project successful and making my classroom more focused. I could not have accomplished this without you, and I look forward to the amazing outcomes that these tools will provide.","fullyFundedDate":1758823448671,"projectUrl":"project/improving-focus-and-productivity-in-ms/9630876/","projectTitle":"Improving Focus and Productivity in Ms. Minnick's Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Minnick","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp10197070_orig.jpg?crop=3024,3024,x0,y504&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1755718849468","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10197070"},{"teacherId":8903021,"projectId":9360471,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous donation to our Classroom Care Closet project. Your kindness is making a real difference in our students' daily lives. Because of you, our classroom will have essential items that help students feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.\r\nMany of our students face challenges outside of school, and knowing that they have a place where their needs can be met—with dignity and without judgment—means more than words can express. Your contribution helps create a learning environment where every child can focus on their education, confidence, and well-being.\r\nWe are truly grateful for your compassion and belief in our classroom community. Thank you for investing in our students and for helping us build a space rooted in care, equity, and opportunity.","fullyFundedDate":1756073270775,"projectUrl":"project/comfort-confidence-and-care/9360471/","projectTitle":"Comfort, Confidence, and Care","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Jones","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8903021_orig.jpg?crop=272,272,x32,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1671474071958","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8903021"},{"teacherId":8137001,"projectId":9418898,"letterContent":"I am happy to report that our Long Way Down Unit is not only complete, but was a huge hit thanks to your generosity. \r\n\r\nWith these graphic novels, I was able to show my students how words can be brought to life through art and understanding. We would often read parts of our novel and then look at the graphic novel for a deeper analysis or for clarifying information. This was extremely helpful for my students who have IEPs or don't have English as their first language. I also had many students read the full novel and then reread the graphic novel to make sure they understood what was going on and had a good grasp of key concepts. \r\n\r\nOverall, the graphic novel was a vital supplement to a powerful social justice unit that truly left an impact on the kids.","fullyFundedDate":1754498153301,"projectUrl":"project/bringing-to-life-a-long-way-down/9418898/","projectTitle":"Bringing to Life A Long Way Down","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Amick","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8137001_orig.jpg?crop=1500,1500,x0,y175&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1727803695079","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/lessonswithmsa"},{"teacherId":8903021,"projectId":9381579,"letterContent":"I want to sincerely thank you for your generosity in supporting my project. Because of your kindness, my students will have access to the materials that we needed to continue our end of the year cultural project, which will make a real difference in their learning and daily classroom experience.\r\nYour support shows my students that there are people who believe in them and their future. That encouragement is powerful, and it inspires both me and my students to keep reaching higher.\r\nWe are so grateful that you chose to invest in our classroom. Thank you supporting my students","fullyFundedDate":1753472669981,"projectUrl":"project/cuadro-cultural-painting-our-heritage-o/9381579/","projectTitle":"Cuadro Cultural: Painting Our Heritage on Canvas","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Jones","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8903021_orig.jpg?crop=272,272,x32,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1671474071958","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8903021"},{"teacherId":8137001,"projectId":8849075,"letterContent":"Your donations were put to good use the moment they arrived. My students were so happy to see that I had, yet again, come through for them in ways that would allow them to succeed academically. \r\n\r\nAs mentioned in my original post, many of my students live in poverty. Being able to come to school in the first place is a huge endeavor for them, one that sometimes requires them to not take care of themselves correctly. Being able to give them a snack, a bottle of water, a bag of chips, or some deodorant goes such a long way. \r\n\r\nI truly appreciate your donation - it always matters!","fullyFundedDate":1733250191764,"projectUrl":"project/restocking-ms-amicks-care-closet/8849075/","projectTitle":"(Re)Stocking Ms. Amick's Care Closet","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Amick","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8137001_orig.jpg?crop=1500,1500,x0,y175&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1727803695079","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/lessonswithmsa"},{"teacherId":8137001,"projectId":9003021,"letterContent":"What can I say about the books provided for this project? Truly life changing. Students report that the new and improved Ethnic Lit class is one of their favorite English classes they have ever taken. Not only did students get to read these amazing books, but they got to see their culture and beliefs manifested fantastically, which they really got into. \r\n\r\nWith this book content, they created engaging and powerful art literacy projects describing themes, plots, characters, and their daily lives. We were also fortunate enough to be able to have the author visit for one of these novels, which took the impact above and beyond anything I've ever experienced before. \r\n\r\nMy favorite part was that my kiddos who didn't like writing didn't mind writing about this book, and my kids who wanted to be writers were even more inspired to pursue their dreams. Thank you so much for these amazing donations - please know they are being put to the best use!","fullyFundedDate":1734712996914,"projectUrl":"project/exploring-the-diverse-world-of-fantasy-i/9003021/","projectTitle":"Exploring the Diverse World of Fantasy in Ethnic Literature","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Amick","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8137001_orig.jpg?crop=1500,1500,x0,y175&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1727803695079","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/lessonswithmsa"},{"teacherId":8137001,"projectId":9003087,"letterContent":"What can I say about the books provided for this project? Truly life changing. Students report that the new and improved Ethnic Lit class is one of their favorite English classes they have ever taken. Not only did students get to read these amazing books, but they got to see their culture and beliefs manifested fantastically, which they really got into. \r\n\r\nWith this book content, they created engaging and powerful art literacy projects describing themes, plots, characters, and their daily lives. We were also fortunate enough to be able to have the author visit for one of these novels, which took the impact above and beyond anything I've ever experienced before. \r\n\r\nMy favorite part was that my kiddos who didn't like writing didn't mind writing about this book, and my kids who wanted to be writers were even more inspired to pursue their dreams. Thank you so much for these amazing donations - please know they are being put to the best use!","fullyFundedDate":1734712996502,"projectUrl":"project/exploring-the-diverse-world-of-fantasy-i/9003087/","projectTitle":"Exploring the Diverse World of Fantasy in Ethnic Literature","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Amick","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8137001_orig.jpg?crop=1500,1500,x0,y175&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1727803695079","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/lessonswithmsa"},{"teacherId":8137001,"projectId":9003131,"letterContent":"What can I say about the books provided for this project? Truly life changing. Students report that the new and improved Ethnic Lit class is one of their favorite English classes they have ever taken. Not only did students get to read these amazing books, but they got to see their culture and beliefs manifested fantastically, which they really got into. \r\n\r\nWith this book content, they created engaging and powerful art literacy projects describing themes, plots, characters, and their daily lives. We were also fortunate enough to be able to have the author visit for one of these novels, which took the impact above and beyond anything I've ever experienced before. \r\n\r\nMy favorite part was that my kiddos who didn't like writing didn't mind writing about this book, and my kids who wanted to be writers were even more inspired to pursue their dreams. Thank you so much for these amazing donations - please know they are being put to the best use!","fullyFundedDate":1734712996709,"projectUrl":"project/exploring-the-diverse-world-of-fantasy-i/9003131/","projectTitle":"Exploring the Diverse World of Fantasy in Ethnic Literature","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Amick","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8137001_orig.jpg?crop=1500,1500,x0,y175&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1727803695079","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/lessonswithmsa"},{"teacherId":8903021,"projectId":8807552,"letterContent":"I hope this message finds you well! I am writing to extend my heartfelt thanks for your generous donation of bean bags for our classroom. Your thoughtful contribution has greatly enhanced our learning environment.\r\n\r\nThe bean bags provide our students with a comfortable and inviting space to engage in reading, group discussions, and collaborative activities. They create a cozy atmosphere that encourages creativity and helps foster a love for learning. It's truly wonderful to see the students excited about using their new seating!\r\n\r\nThank you once again for your generosity and support. Your contribution makes a significant difference in our classroom, and we are incredibly grateful to have you as a part of our educational community.","fullyFundedDate":1734713005598,"projectUrl":"project/beanbag-bounty/8807552/","projectTitle":"Beanbag Bounty","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Jones","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8903021_orig.jpg?crop=272,272,x32,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1671474071958","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8903021"},{"teacherId":8903021,"projectId":8991149,"letterContent":"I hope this message finds you well! On behalf of our department, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for your generous donations of tissues. Your support plays a vital role in creating a healthy and comfortable environment for our students and staff.\r\nThey are not just a simple supply; they are a reminder of the kindness and generosity of people like you. Your contribution helps us ensure that we have the necessary resources to support the well-being of our students, especially during allergy seasons and colds.\r\nThank you once again for your generosity.\r\nSincerely,\r\nJulia Jones","fullyFundedDate":1734713006916,"projectUrl":"project/keep-our-classrooms-healthy-essential/8991149/","projectTitle":"\"Keep Our Classrooms Healthy: Essential Tissues for Students!\"","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Jones","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8903021_orig.jpg?crop=272,272,x32,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1671474071958","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8903021"},{"teacherId":8978444,"projectId":8643832,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your incredible support in helping my students gain access to essential technology tools like Chromebook chargers, headphones, and extension cords. These additions have greatly impacted our classroom, ensuring that students can fully engage with their digital learning experiences without interruptions. With reliable access to technology, my students can complete research projects, participate in interactive lessons, and collaborate with their peers. Many of them, especially those who struggle with focus, have found the headphones particularly helpful in creating a distraction-free learning environment. It has been rewarding to see their excitement and increased confidence as they take ownership of their learning. Your generosity has truly made a difference, and we are deeply grateful!","fullyFundedDate":1724774009863,"projectUrl":"project/headphones-extensions-and-chargers-oh/8643832/","projectTitle":"Headphones, Extensions, and Chargers, Oh My!","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Leon","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8978444_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y200&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1723524883758","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8978444"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_20620","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":3315,"numTeachers":192,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":0,"percentBlack":39,"percentWhite":18,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":36,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"9 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":"17.3:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":63.6,"schoolId":20620,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Ben Davis High School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Ben Davis High School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/indiana/msd-of-wayne-township/ben-davis-high-school/20620"}
Join the 638 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Ben Davis High School is
an urban public school
in Indianapolis, Indiana that is part of MSD of Wayne Township.
It serves 3,315 students
in grades 9 - 12 with a student/teacher ratio of 17.3:1.
Its teachers have had 236 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Boost support for our school's classrooms. Share this page with friends and family who want to make a difference. If you're a teacher, sign up to get started!
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. Each classroom request for funding was created by a classroom teacher and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
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
75%
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.
Ben Davis High School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Dec 5, 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.
Ben Davis High School
$138,044
raised using DonorsChoose
236
projects
funded
112
teachers
funded
638
donors
10
projects
for
basic supplies
36
projects for
technology
15
projects for
books
15
projects
for
art supplies
Ben Davis High School has received support from
406 individuals from Indiana and
232 individuals out-of-state.