Ben Davis High School: A Legacy of Excellence in Indianapolis

Ben Davis High School, located in Indianapolis, Indiana, boasts a rich history and a strong tradition of academic, athletic, and artistic achievement. From its humble beginnings in 1892 to its current status as a leading high school in the Midwest, Ben Davis has consistently strived for excellence, shaping the lives of countless students and contributing significantly to the community.

A Storied Past

Ben Davis High School's history dates back to 1892. The school is named for Benjamin Davis, an 1880s Vandalia Railroad executive. He was instrumental in getting a stop on the railroad for a small community that would come to bear his name. The community members were so appreciative of Davis's efforts that they named the stop after him. The first Ben Davis High School was built in 1892. That school was replaced in the early 20th century by a bigger building at the corner of what is now Morris Street and High School Road. During the Great Depression, a larger school was built just up the road as part of the Works Progress Administration. Ben Davis High School remained in that location until the current building was established in 1965. The current school building was constructed in 1965. The school underwent extensive construction and renovation from 1998 to 2002 and experienced another addition of more classrooms which was completed prior to the 2007/2008 school year.

Academic Prowess

Ben Davis High School provides a comprehensive curriculum designed to meet the diverse needs and interests of its student body. The school emphasizes academic rigor and prepares students for success in college and beyond.

Athletic Achievements

Ben Davis High School has won multiple state championships under the Indiana High School Athletic Association (IHSAA). Ben Davis High School is a member of the Metropolitan Interscholastic Conference, which is known as one of the most competitive conferences in the Midwest. The team's nickname is the Giants. The 2008/2009 Lady Giants basketball team finished the season ranked number one in the nation by USA Today's Top 25 poll and ESPN's Rise Poll. This marks the third team national championship in school history.

Boys Volleyball: Ben Davis Boys Volleyball Tryouts are coming soon! All those interested should make sure you have a current physical complete and turned in. You will need to show up in the MPA March 9, 10 & 11 from 3:45 to 5:30pm.
Unified Track: Unified sports bring together students of all abilities to complete, support one another, and represent our school with pride. If you are interested in joining, OR if you are looking to earn a Varsity Letter, stop by Student Services and see Coach Williams for more information.

A Hub for Arts and Communication

The school also has a speech, debate, journalism, and communications program. Ben Davis is home to WBDG Giant 90.9 FM, a 400-Watt FM radio station operated by students. WBDG went on the air in 1966 and continues to broadcast today 24 hours, 7 days per week. BDHS publishes a student yearbook called Keyhole, Giant Visions, a literary magazine, and a student newspaper, Spotlight.

Read also: Davis v. Monroe: Key Takeaways

The Marching Giants: A National Sensation

The Ben Davis Marching Giants have traveled across the country on invitation to march in various parades and festivals, including the King Kamehameha parade in Honolulu, Hawaii, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California and The Inaugural Parade for President Reagan Jan. 1985 in Washington DC. The band has also won numerous Indiana state titles, finishing first in the Indiana state competition in 1976, 1977, 1982, 1984-88, and 1993. Also, the band has had success on the national level, finishing ninth in the Bands of America National Marching Band Competition in 1981 and second in 1982, and finishing ninth and tenth in the Bands of America Grand National Championships in 2004 and 2008, respectively. In 2012, the Marching Giants traveled to Pasadena to again represent Ben Davis High School in the Tournament of Roses Parade. In 2014, the Ben Davis Winter Guard won the school's first IHSCGA Open Class State Championship.

Choral Excellence

Ben Davis has three competitive choirs. "Purple-Aires" is an advanced concert choir that has been named grand champion at numerous competitions throughout the years. "Premiers" is a mixed show choir which consistently places in the top five at area competitions. In 2010, the "Premiers" attended the ISSMA Choir State Championships where they placed 2nd overall and won the best vocal sound caption award. "Sounds," formerly known as "Soundsations," is a women's show choir. "Sounds" placed second at the 2010 ISSMA State Show Choir State Championships.

Theatre Department

Ben Davis' Theatre Department is expanding, increasing their season to include four shows throughout the year.

Notable Alumni

Ben Davis High School has produced a number of successful individuals in various fields, including:

David R. Oliver Jr.
Kenneth L. Peek Jr.
Morten Andersen

Ben Davis University High School

Ben Davis University High School was formed through a partnership between Vincennes University and the Metropolitan School district of Wayne Township.

Important Reminders for Students

Yearbook: March is the last month you can order a 2026 yearbook. Order online at www.yearbookforever.com or from Mr. Hayes in X109. We are close to selling out.
Detentions and Friday Schools: Students: Please remember that all detentions and Friday Schools must be served if you would like to purchase a prom ticket when it is time.
Senior Cap and Gown: Seniors: this is another reminder to order you cap and gown right away. The total price continues to go up monthly…..right now the cost for cap and gown only along with tax and handling is $72.71.

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