Our History

Carl Ball, a horticulture business owner (Burpee Seed Company) from Glen Ellyn, Illinois, established the Ball Foundation in 1975. Mr. Ball was extremely interested in helping schools be more productive. Mr. Ball approached the Springfield School District in 1993 about being a partner district for the School Design Collaborative. The framework for the SDC focused on student achievement using a systems approach, partnering, research and development and productivity models.

In 1998, Ball Charter Schools became one of the first charter organizations in Arizona.

Today, Ball Charter Schools encompasses three campuses within Arizona: Dobson Academy, Hearn Academy, and Val Vista Academy.

“Make no little plans; they have no magic to stir men’s blood...Make big plans, aim high in hope and work.”

Visit Val Vista Academy today!