{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"James Whitcomb Riley School 43","outOfStateSupporters":20.7,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9122374,"projectId":9710139,"letterContent":"We are using the new hygiene resources as part of our daily routines and health lessons to help students build responsibility and confidence. One meaningful moment was when students created a simple \"clean habits\" chart, practicing handwashing, using tissues properly, and taking care of personal needs throughout the school day. These products have helped students stay focused on learning instead of worrying about discomfort or hygiene needs.\r\n\r\nWhen the students first saw the materials, they were excited and curious. Many were eager to talk about why hygiene is important and proudly shared what they already knew about staying clean and healthy. The availability of these products immediately made them feel supported and cared for, which positively impacted classroom morale.","fullyFundedDate":1757951602531,"projectUrl":"project/fresh-start-for-learning/9710139/","projectTitle":"Fresh Start for Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Law","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9122374_orig.jpg?crop=1170,1170,x0,y35&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1737729841080","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9122374"},{"teacherId":9122374,"projectId":9655885,"letterContent":"For my second-grade students, personal headphones have help reduce distractions and improve focus during quiet, independent activities like reading or listening to educational programs. They can also support students who need extra help with attention, sensory sensitivity, or language learning by creating a calmer learning experience. They have allowed my students to better concentrate on reading, writing, or listening activities without being easily distracted. Headphones can support students with sensory sensitivities by creating a comfortable learning environment. They also help young learners follow along with educational videos or audio instructions at their own pace. Using headphones can increase confidence, as students are less likely to feel overwhelmed by classroom noise. Overall, when used appropriately, headphones can make learning more enjoyable and supportive for second graders.","fullyFundedDate":1757180604686,"projectUrl":"project/plugged-into-possibilities/9655885/","projectTitle":"Plugged Into Possibilities","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Law","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9122374_orig.jpg?crop=1170,1170,x0,y35&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1737729841080","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9122374"},{"teacherId":9122374,"projectId":9656500,"letterContent":"Having a mailbox in the classroom helps students stay organized and take responsibility for their work. It teaches them how to receive and manage papers, notes, and messages independently. Classroom mailboxes also build routines, patience, and respect for others' belongings while making daily tasks run more smoothly. It also encourages communication between teachers and students in a simple, familiar way. Using a mailbox helps students practice real-world skills like following directions and checking important information regularly.","fullyFundedDate":1757554409569,"projectUrl":"project/youve-got-mail/9656500/","projectTitle":"You've Got Mail!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Law","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9122374_orig.jpg?crop=1170,1170,x0,y35&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1737729841080","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9122374"},{"teacherId":10044592,"projectId":9708701,"letterContent":"Thank you so very much for your generous donation of headphones for our classroom. Your donation has made a meaningful and immediate impact on my students' daily learning.\r\n\r\nStudents have been able to focus more intently, pace their learning, and fully engage with online content. Whether they are listening to reading passages, practicing phonics, using interactive learning programs, or taking a test, the headphones help eliminate distractions and allow students to concentrate fully on their individual assignments.\r\n\r\n Most exciting for me is how these headphones support all learners. Students who need extra practice can replay lessons or portions of lessons privately, while those who don't have that need can move forward. The headphones give all students a sense of confidence and independence. Thank you again for your generous donation!","fullyFundedDate":1757984169659,"projectUrl":"project/headphone-zone/9708701/","projectTitle":"Headphone Zone","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Potter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-7_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10044592"},{"teacherId":8298697,"projectId":9839319,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generosity and support of our project. Because of your donation, our Pre-K classroom is now fully stocked with essential sanitation supplies that help keep our learning environment clean, safe, and healthy.\r\n\r\nYour kindness has made an immediate impact. Our young learners are able to explore, create, and learn comfortably each day, and your contribution ensures that we can maintain the high standards of care they deserve. These supplies help us teach not only academics, but also important habits like responsibility, hygiene, and caring for our shared space.\r\n\r\nWe are truly grateful for your investment in our students. Your support reminds us that our classroom is part of a larger community that believes in giving children the best possible start.\r\n\r\nThank you again for making a difference.","fullyFundedDate":1764103221107,"projectUrl":"project/germs-be-gone-pre-k-learning-continues/9839319/","projectTitle":"Germs Be Gone! Pre-K Learning Continues On!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Smith","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8298697_orig.png?crop=960,960,x0,y160&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1657289951786","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8298697"},{"teacherId":9123670,"projectId":9661075,"letterContent":"When our TIME for Kids magazines arrived each week, my students treated them like treasures. They eagerly flipped through the pages, pointing out bold headlines, surprising photographs, and topics they \"had never heard about before.\" During our first read, students were amazed that the articles were about real events happening in the world right now. This sense of authenticity has sparked rich discussions, thoughtful questions, and genuine curiosity. Many students who don't always gravitate toward reading have become some of the most enthusiastic participants, proudly sharing interesting facts they learned from their latest issue.\r\n\r\nThese magazines have already strengthened our nonfiction literacy routine. Students use each issue to practice close reading, text-feature analysis, and vocabulary building, all while diving into content that aligns beautifully with our science and social studies standards. The digital version and Teacher's Guides have helped me differentiate lessons, assign quizzes through Google Classroom, and support readers at different levels. As a result, students are becoming more confident navigating real-world information and more skilled at thinking critically about what they read.\r\n\r\nThanks to TIME for Kids, my classroom feels more connected to the world beyond our walls. Students are beginning to see themselves as informed thinkers and problem-solvers, and many have started taking issues home to teach their families what they learned. This project has truly enriched our learning environment and given my students meaningful access to high-quality nonfiction—something that will benefit them far beyond this school year.","fullyFundedDate":1757529208562,"projectUrl":"project/exploring-the-world-time-for-kids-bring/9661075/","projectTitle":"Exploring the World: TIME for Kids Brings Learning to Life","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Law","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9123670_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1722375660323","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9123670"},{"teacherId":9123670,"projectId":9660239,"letterContent":"When our new headphones arrived, my students were immediately excited to see the colorful sets neatly labeled and ready for use. They eagerly plugged them into their devices, amazed at how clearly they could hear directions, stories, and interactive lessons. Students who often struggled to focus during digital activities were suddenly more engaged, nodding along as they completed reading tasks or practiced skills independently. The built-in microphones have also opened the door for meaningful speaking and listening activities, students love recording their responses and hearing their own voices played back with clarity.\r\n\r\nThis technology has already transformed the way we learn in our classroom. With reliable headphones, students can participate in personalized learning stations without disrupting their peers, and I can run small groups more effectively while others work independently. The headphones have been especially helpful during IREAD preparation and other online assessments, giving students the quiet, focused environment they need to do their best. Even students who were hesitant to use digital tools before have grown more confident, often asking, \"Can we use the headphones today?\" Their excitement and independence have noticeably increased.\r\n\r\nThe organization tools funded by this project, our Bluetooth label maker, label tape, and batteries, have made a tremendous difference as well. Because every pair is clearly labeled, students can quickly find their own headphones and keep them in great condition. This has helped build responsibility, pride, and a shared sense of ownership in the classroom. Thank you for giving my students access to the technology they need to learn effectively and confidently. Your generosity has created a more focused, organized, and joyful learning environment.","fullyFundedDate":1757528889286,"projectUrl":"project/sound-on-headphones-that-power-our-lear/9660239/","projectTitle":"Sound On! Headphones That Power Our Learning","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Law","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9123670_orig.jpg?crop=1:1,smart&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1722375660323","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9123670"},{"teacherId":10107347,"projectId":9751549,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your incredible generosity and support of our classroom. Because of your kindness, my students now have access to materials that make learning more comfortable, engaging, and meaningful each day. The cozy bean bag chair has been a wonderful addition to our calming area—students now have a safe, comforting space where they can independently regulate their emotions using the various coping manipulatives available to them. This simple addition has made a remarkable difference in helping them feel grounded and ready to learn.\r\n\r\nThe whiteboard on wheels has also transformed the way we approach lessons. With easier access to manipulatives and hands-on tools, my students are finding math more fun, interactive, and accessible. Since our school is departmentalized, the chair pockets have been extremely useful as well. They help students keep track of their daily learning materials, something many of them have struggled with in the past.\r\n\r\nYour donation of art supplies has sparked creativity in our classroom, allowing students to bring their ideas to life with vibrant colors. The box of pencils has been equally impactful—many students come to school without writing utensils, and now they are able to fully participate in classwork and complete homework with confidence.\r\n\r\nYour kindness has touched our classroom in so many ways, and we are truly grateful. Thank you for believing in our students and supporting their growth.\r\n\r\nWith appreciation,","fullyFundedDate":1761936643843,"projectUrl":"project/creating-a-calm-and-creative-space-for-f/9751549/","projectTitle":"Creating a Calm and Creative Space for First Graders","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. King","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10107347"},{"teacherId":10107347,"projectId":9526410,"letterContent":"I would first like to thank each and every donor for your generosity and support. This project would not have been possible without you, and I am truly grateful. The small crates have become a vital tool in our first-grade classroom. They provide students with a designated space to store their learning materials, making it easy for them to access what they need throughout the day. This organization has been especially helpful during instruction, as students are able to stay focused and transition smoothly between activities. Having a specific place for materials has also helped build responsibility and independence among students.\r\n\r\nAlthough we have not yet received the carpet, we are making it work by assigning individual carpet spots to ensure proper spacing and structure. Your support has made a meaningful difference in creating a more organized, functional, and positive learning environment, and our students benefit from it every day.","fullyFundedDate":1755708310346,"projectUrl":"project/cozy-classroom/9526410/","projectTitle":"Cozy Classroom","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. King","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10107347"},{"teacherId":10093287,"projectId":9499839,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for funding my DonorsChoose project! Your generosity has brought joy, creativity, and opportunity into my classroom. At our school, many of my students are experiencing the arts for the very first time, and your support has made it possible for them to explore dance and movement in meaningful, exciting ways.\r\n\r\nEach day, I see my students grow more confident—using their bodies to express ideas, tell stories, and connect with one another. They are learning to take risks, collaborate, and celebrate their individuality through the arts. The books you helped provide have transformed our space into a place where movement and imagination come alive.\r\n\r\nFrom the bottom of our hearts, thank you for believing in the power of the arts and in the potential of young learners. Your kindness has left a lasting impression on our classroom community—we are dancing with gratitude!","fullyFundedDate":1754150611343,"projectUrl":"project/building-a-library-that-moves/9499839/","projectTitle":"Building a Library That Moves!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Ingram","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/10093287"},{"teacherId":7510786,"projectId":9028366,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous gift of learning! My students have fallen in love with the Scholastic News and engage in rich discussion about the articles. They allow all students to read and talk about the magazines. I enjoy my multi-lingual students discussing the Roblox article and then sharing their personal lives with me about what they do at home.\r\nIt truly has built connections with my students, and it also has impacted the home connection. On Wednesdays, they take home the magazine and have to read to someone at home. Once they read to a guardian, they can get a signature and use it to receive a raffle ticket from me. Its a great way to tell parents this weekly habit is something they should be involved in, and is not intimidating.\r\nTime Magazine online is used as a station activity for students to report as a news anchor on Fridays. I love how my students are gaining practice reading online and also increasing their nonfiction reading. Thank you!","fullyFundedDate":1746455814708,"projectUrl":"project/we-need-to-read-to-lead/9028366/","projectTitle":"We Need to Read to Lead","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Freeman","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp7510786_orig.jpg?crop=2316,2316,x0,y69&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1620441339561","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/7510786"},{"teacherId":9122374,"projectId":9079201,"letterContent":"Since adding the dramatic play materials to our classroom, my second graders have been able to explore new roles and express themselves in creative ways. The career vests have been especially powerful—students love stepping into jobs like doctor, firefighter, chef, or teacher, and this has made their play feel more realistic and meaningful.\r\n\r\nThese materials have helped them build stronger social skills by encouraging teamwork, sharing, and communication. They've learned how to negotiate roles, collaborate on ideas, and solve problems together while staying engaged and excited. I've also noticed their confidence grow—shy students are speaking up more, and others are showing leadership as they guide their peers through different scenarios.","fullyFundedDate":1746785641294,"projectUrl":"project/two-tiny-tastebuds-cafe-/9079201/","projectTitle":"Two Tiny Tastebuds Cafe !","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Law","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9122374_orig.jpg?crop=1170,1170,x0,y35&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1737729841080","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9122374"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_19188","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":240,"numTeachers":38,"percentFrplEligible":95,"percentAsian":2,"percentBlack":75,"percentWhite":5,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":8,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"Pre-K - 5","studentTeacherRatio":"6.3:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":79.3,"schoolId":19188,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about James Whitcomb Riley School 43 on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"James Whitcomb Riley School 43","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/indiana/indianapolis-public-school-district/james-whitcomb-riley-school-43/19188"}
Join the 358 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
James Whitcomb Riley School 43 is
an urban public school
in Indianapolis, Indiana that is part of Indianapolis Public School District.
It serves 240 students
in grades Pre-K - 5 with a student/teacher ratio of 6.3:1.
Its teachers have had 148 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Share and help support James Whitcomb Riley School 43
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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
85%
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.
James Whitcomb Riley School 43 Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Jan 16, 2026
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.
James Whitcomb Riley School 43
$81,183
raised using DonorsChoose
148
projects
funded
54
teachers
funded
358
donors
7
projects
for
basic supplies
39
projects for
technology
17
projects for
books
4
projects
for
art supplies
James Whitcomb Riley School 43 has received support from
284 individuals from Indiana and
74 individuals out-of-state.