At 10 years old, David Gonzalez Toto was diagnosed with a learning disability. As a result, he endured ridicule and bullying from his peers, which led to low self-confidence and a reluctance to engage socially. 

As a sophomore, David joined Indianapolis Metropolitan High School – Goodwill’s best-fit school for students who may experience barriers to education. He found a school where his struggles were understood. The personalized teaching and support model provided David with an environment to begin his journey of growth.

“In the three years I've known David, I've seen him really grow into himself,” said Halle Shine, David’s math instructor at Indianapolis Metropolitan High School. “I’ve seen him be more independent and take more risks socially.”

As David gained confidence in himself, he began to emerge as a leader, overcoming obstacles that he never imagined. 

“David is a role model for other students because of all the things he's achieved, despite identifying as someone with a learning disability,” Shine said. “His peers have seen him win awards, attend spring break trips, earn money through a job and drive his own car, showing them that they can do the same things.”

In addition to balancing school and activities, David also works up to 36 hours a week. He remains determined to achieve his dream of attending Ivy Tech Community College and studying construction management, driven by his desire to create a better future for himself and his loved ones.

“I’ll be the first in my family to graduate, and it feels amazing,” David said. “It shows I can do anything if I put my mind to it.”

Congratulations to all of Indianapolis Metropolitan High School's 2024 graduates!

To learn more about Indy Met or to enroll, visit our website.