{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"Central High School","outOfStateSupporters":40.1,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":9595162,"projectId":9505241,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting our Classroom Jumpstart / Restock. Because of your generosity, my students walked into a classroom that felt organized, prepared, and ready for learning. When the supplies arrived, students were genuinely excited to see brand new markers, tapes, and materials instead of worn down tools. Even small things like fresh dry erase markers made students more eager to participate and share their thinking.\r\n\r\nWe are already using these materials every day. Students use the markers and colored tape to model math ideas, organize group work, and create visual explanations during lessons. The laminator has been especially helpful, allowing me to make reusable reference sheets, station cards, and practice activities that students can write on throughout the year. The whiteboard supplies and organizational tools help keep our classroom running smoothly so we can focus on learning.\r\n\r\nThese resources will continue to support hands on lessons and collaboration as students move into more challenging content. Thank you for helping create a classroom where students feel supported, prepared, and excited to learn. Your generosity has made a real difference.","fullyFundedDate":1759264770224,"projectUrl":"project/classroom-jumpstart-restock/9505241/","projectTitle":"Classroom Jumpstart / Restock!","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Pena","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9595162_orig.jpg?crop=600,600,x26,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753245617637","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrpena13"},{"teacherId":9595162,"projectId":9505376,"letterContent":"The translators from this project have had an immediate impact on my classroom by helping students access instruction more efficiently and clearly. While I am able to communicate with many students in Spanish when needed, these devices ensure that language support is always available, especially during independent work, group activities, and moments when multiple students need help at once. They have also allowed my co-teacher and me to communicate directions, expectations, and feedback more consistently so students can stay focused on learning math.\r\n\r\nWhat excites students most about the translators is how easy and practical they are to use. Students can quickly clarify directions, math vocabulary, or assignment details without interrupting instruction. This helps lessons run more smoothly and allows students to maintain momentum during problem-solving rather than getting stuck on language barriers.\r\n\r\nOverall, the translators have strengthened communication in our classroom and increased students' access to content. By supporting both teachers and students, this technology helps create a more inclusive learning environment where language differences do not limit understanding or participation. Thank you for providing tools that truly help break language barriers and support student success!","fullyFundedDate":1757777090104,"projectUrl":"project/breaking-language-barriers/9505376/","projectTitle":"Breaking Language Barriers","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Pena","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9595162_orig.jpg?crop=600,600,x26,y0&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1753245617637","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrpena13"},{"teacherId":9239783,"projectId":9921950,"letterContent":"Our hygiene supply project has made a tremendous difference in my students' daily lives and overall confidence. With access to deodorant, pads, tampons, flossers, toothpaste, and other essential items, students are able to take care of their personal needs discreetly and without embarrassment. Many of my students come to school worried about things far beyond academics, and having these supplies readily available has removed a major source of stress for them. . Students are using the items before and after school, during athletics, and whenever unexpected needs arise throughout the day. They appreciate having a clean, organized space where they can grab what they need without having to ask or feel singled out. This project has also helped foster a sense of dignity and respect in our classroom community; students know they are cared for and supported not just academically, but as whole individuals. Thanks to these resources, my students feel more prepared, more confident, and more ready to learn.","fullyFundedDate":1764723404591,"projectUrl":"project/small-essentials-big-impact-supporting/9921950/","projectTitle":"Small Essentials, Big Impact: Supporting Student Well-Being","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Bortle","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrbortle"},{"teacherId":9239783,"projectId":9792248,"letterContent":"Many of my students come to class hungry or worried about when they'll eat next, and having these resources available has removed a major barrier to their learning. Students grab a quick snack before tests, long work sessions, or tutoring, which helps them concentrate and stay engaged. Others rely on these items after school when they stay for clubs, extra help, or sports and may not have access to food until much later. The availability of simple, nourishing options has improved attendance, boosted participation, and created a calmer, more supportive classroom environment.","fullyFundedDate":1763494158856,"projectUrl":"project/energy-to-run-learn-and-lead/9792248/","projectTitle":"Energy to Run, Learn, and Lead","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Bortle","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrbortle"},{"teacherId":9239783,"projectId":9808852,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our cross country team has been able to take their training and recovery to a whole new level. The massage gun, foam rollers, massage balls, and resistance bands are now part of our daily routine, helping athletes warm up properly, recover faster, and reduce soreness after long runs. After workouts, the foam rollers and massage balls help them target tight muscles, increase mobility, and prevent injuries. The massage gun has been especially exciting for the team. These tools have not only improved their physical well-being but also boosted their confidence and morale. They feel cared for, supported, and equipped like true athletes.","fullyFundedDate":1761938237935,"projectUrl":"project/fuel-recover-repeat-wellness-tools-fo/9808852/","projectTitle":"Fuel, Recover, Repeat: Wellness Tools for Our Runners","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Bortle","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrbortle"},{"teacherId":9239783,"projectId":9767397,"letterContent":"This project has made an immediate and meaningful difference for my students. With access to tampons, pads, flossers, hand sanitizer, deodorant, and combs, students can take care of their basic needs discreetly and without embarrassment, allowing them to stay focused and confident throughout the day. We keep these supplies available in a private, accessible area, and students use them before class, after gym, or whenever unexpected needs arise. Having these essentials on hand has reduced stress, prevented students from missing instructional time, and helped create a more supportive, dignified environment. Thank you for giving my students the comfort and confidence they need to be fully present in their learning.","fullyFundedDate":1762266359735,"projectUrl":"project/supporting-student-wellness-with-everyda/9767397/","projectTitle":"Supporting Student Wellness with Everyday Essentials","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Bortle","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrbortle"},{"teacherId":9239783,"projectId":9833166,"letterContent":"Our classroom printer allows students to bring their geometry ideas to life. They can print 3D shapes to better understand volume, area, and spatial reasoning. It makes abstract concepts tangible and sparks creativity in projects and problem-solving. Students are excited to see their designs take physical form, making learning interactive and hands-on. This technology encourages collaboration and experimentation, helping students build confidence and a deeper understanding of math. It's transforming the way we explore geometry every day.","fullyFundedDate":1762266383926,"projectUrl":"project/printing-success-bringing-student-learn/9833166/","projectTitle":"Printing Success: Bringing Student Learning to Life","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Bortle","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrbortle"},{"teacherId":8494602,"projectId":9770061,"letterContent":"Thanks to your generosity, our classroom has been transformed into a space that feels brighter, more welcoming, and more inspiring for every student who walks through the door. The string lights, flexible mirrors, inspirational quotes, and self-adhesive bulletin boards with push pins have all become essential parts of our learning environment—and my students love them.\r\n\r\nOne of my favorite moments happened the morning after we finished setting everything up. As students entered the room, they actually stopped in the doorway, wide-eyed. Several gasped, a few whispered \"Whoa...,\" and one student said, \"It feels like a place that's meant for us.\" They immediately began exploring—checking themselves out in the flexible mirrors, reading the quotes aloud to friends, and pointing out where we should add more student work on the new bulletin boards.\r\n\r\nWe're already using these resources in meaningful ways. The bulletin boards have become rotating showcases for student projects. Our first display was a \"Small Wins Wall,\" where each student pinned up a post-it celebrating something they were proud of—an academic achievement, an art piece, or even a personal milestone. Students now stop at the board during transitions to read encouraging notes from their classmates.\r\n\r\nThe string lights and inspirational quotes have helped create a calm, focused atmosphere during independent work. Students often comment that the room feels safer and more comfortable—something that has noticeably increased their willingness to take academic risks, share ideas, and collaborate.","fullyFundedDate":1762293005519,"projectUrl":"project/bright-minds-inspiring-spaces/9770061/","projectTitle":"Bright Minds, Inspiring Spaces","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Reema","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8494602_orig.jpg?crop=1170,1170,x0,y19&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1661382325842","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8494602"},{"teacherId":9239783,"projectId":9789732,"letterContent":"The gardening project has had an incredible impact on my students, transforming both their learning and their sense of community. It's given them hands-on experience with responsibility, teamwork, and patience as they nurture plants from seed to harvest. Many students who struggle to stay engaged in the classroom have found a sense of pride and calm in caring for the garden. They've learned to problem-solve, observe growth over time, and celebrate small successes. Beyond science and sustainability, the project has taught them the value of hard work, healthy eating, and environmental stewardship—lessons that will stay with them long after the school year.","fullyFundedDate":1760557707391,"projectUrl":"project/growing-stem-minds-through-gardening/9789732/","projectTitle":"Growing Stem Minds Through Gardening","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Bortle","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/mrbortle"},{"teacherId":9925586,"projectId":9366115,"letterContent":"Thank you for your generous support of our classroom library for multilingual students. All of the learners in our classes are English Language Learners who work hard every day to build new language skills. Reading is a powerful tool for their growth. Having books that represent their identities and cultures helps them feel proud of who they are. Your contributions allow students to enjoy stories in which they can recognize. \r\nOur classroom library is thoughtfully organized to make reading feel accessible. Each book is labeled within a system of levels from level 1 to level 4. These levels help students select texts that match their current reading abilities while still encouraging them to stretch into the next level when they feel ready. The system provides a helpful structure for students to understand their progress.\r\n\r\nYour donations supported the purchase of a wide range of genres that appeal to our diverse group of students. Graphic novels have become a favorite choice. Students enjoy the way pictures and dialogue work together to build the story. The visual support helps them understand new vocabulary and follow more complex story elements. Many students who once felt nervous to pick up a chapter book now grab a graphic novel with confidence. \r\n\r\nThank you for believing in the talents and dreams of our English Language Learners. Your donation supports them as they continue becoming strong readers who are ready to participate in academic and personal success. The impact will stretch far beyond this school year.","fullyFundedDate":1758158871342,"projectUrl":"project/stories-that-reflect-us-diverse-books-f/9366115/","projectTitle":"Stories That Reflect Us: Diverse Books for English Learners","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Morgan","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9925586_orig.jpg?crop=845,845,x308,y154&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1739741373996","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msmorgan825"},{"teacherId":8494602,"projectId":9819461,"letterContent":"Thanks to your incredible support, our students at Central High School have been able to take their learning and collaboration to the next level with our new PlayStation 5 accessories — including the PS5 Disc Drive, DualSense Wireless Controller, Vertical Stand, and OIVO Charging Station. These additions have enhanced both the functionality and excitement of our classroom's technology-based learning environment.\r\n\r\nMany people think of gaming systems as just entertainment, but in our classroom, the PS5 has become a powerful educational tool. Students use it to explore digital design, teamwork, and problem-solving through interactive learning experiences. With the new accessories, we can now host multi-player challenges and simulation-based lessons that emphasize strategy, communication, and creativity.\r\n\r\nThe DualSense controllers have been especially exciting for students — the adaptive triggers and haptic feedback let them \"feel\" the game in a whole new way, deepening their understanding of how technology can be used to enhance human experience and engagement. The Vertical Stand keeps our setup organized and accessible for everyone, while the charging dock ensures that the controllers are always ready for use, allowing lessons to flow smoothly without interruptions.\r\n\r\nOne of the most rewarding moments has been seeing students who are typically quiet or reserved come out of their shells during group gaming-based projects. Some have even started leading their peers through game design discussions and problem-solving challenges. Their growing confidence and enthusiasm show just how transformative this technology can be when used creatively in education.\r\n\r\nBecause of your generosity, our classroom has become more interactive, inclusive, and dynamic. These tools have not only made learning fun — they've helped students connect, collaborate, and see technology as a bridge between play and possibility.","fullyFundedDate":1760328595531,"projectUrl":"project/powering-creativity-and-collaboration-t/9819461/","projectTitle":"Powering Creativity, and Collaboration Through Gaming Technology","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Reema","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp8494602_orig.jpg?crop=1170,1170,x0,y19&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1661382325842","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/8494602"},{"teacherId":9925586,"projectId":9621237,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for supporting my project Refueling Success. Your donation has helped me provide students with snacks and water to keep them energized and focused throughout the day. Many of my students receive free lunch, but having access to extra nourishment during class has made a real difference in their ability to stay engaged and participate fully in lessons. \r\nIt has also helped create a caring classroom environment where students know their well-being is valued.\r\nI have seen how something as simple as offering a snack can completely change a student's day. When students are hungry, it can be hard for them to feel confident in their learning. Because of your support, I can meet that need and help them refocus on their studies. Your kindness has made a daily impact, and I am deeply grateful for your support of my students and their success.","fullyFundedDate":1758293715503,"projectUrl":"project/re-fueling-success-supporting-ell-stude/9621237/","projectTitle":"Re-Fueling Success: Supporting ELL Students","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Morgan","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://storage.donorschoose.net/dc_prod/images/teacher/profile/orig/tp9925586_orig.jpg?crop=845,845,x308,y154&width=272&height=272&fit=bounds&auto=webp&t=1739741373996","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/msmorgan825"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_60117","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":1756,"numTeachers":136,"percentFrplEligible":52,"percentAsian":2,"percentBlack":14,"percentWhite":6,"percentIndigenous":5,"percentLatinx":68,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"9 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":"12.9:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":true,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":59.9,"schoolId":60117,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about Central High School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"Central High School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/arizona/phoenix-union-high-school-district/central-high-school/60117"}
Join the 558 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
Central High School is
an urban public school
in Phoenix, Arizona that is part of Phoenix Union High School District.
It serves 1,756 students
in grades 9 - 12 with a student/teacher ratio of 12.9:1.
Its teachers have had 258 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Boost support for this school! Share this page with friends, family, alumni, and fellow supporters. Every connection helps teachers get the supplies they need and shows how much your community cares about its students.
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for public school teachers.
Every donation funds real needs — pencils, books, lab equipment, art supplies, and more — helping students learn and thrive. We ship supplies directly to the school, and you'll see exactly where each dollar goes.
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
89%
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.
Central High School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Dec 19, 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.
Central High School
$140,702
raised using DonorsChoose
258
projects
funded
63
teachers
funded
558
donors
36
projects
for
basic supplies
52
projects for
technology
15
projects for
books
22
projects
for
art supplies
Central High School has received support from
334 individuals from Arizona and
224 individuals out-of-state.