Redefining Dayton Public Schools: A commitment to student success

How the institution’s “5 Cs” drive innovation and progress. 

Dayton Public Schools, under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. David Lawrence, is on a transformative journey driven by the core principles of customer service, collaboration, culture, commitment and communication. These five guiding tenets, known as the “5 Cs,” ensure that every decision made by the Pre-K–12 school benefits students and the broader community.

“We believe in being student-centered, with all our actions reflecting our deep care for our learners,” says Lawrence, who oversees over 13,000 students in the district’s early learning center, 16 elementary schools, four middle schools and seven high schools.

Dayton Public Schools has made remarkable strides, particularly in Pre-K–3 literacy, jumping from 9th to 4th place among urban districts in Ohio. Furthermore, the school invests in collaborative partnerships with organizations like Omega Child Development Center, Learn to Earn and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. These partnerships help enhance academic offerings, guarantee experiential learning and promote post-secondary education success through a dedicated College and Career Readiness Division.

Dayton Public Schools similarly emphasizes communication to connect with families and the community. It is critical that parents stay engaged and that the district keeps an open dialogue. This transparent approach strengthens the relationship between the school and the local community, ensuring that stakeholders are always aligned.

To further emphasize its customer service orientation, the district is streamlining systems to ensure students and families receive prompt and effective support. This approach guarantees that resources are accessible and issues are addressed efficiently. Its focus on fostering a positive culture within schools empowers educators to model behavior that encourages both student achievement and well-being.

“We’re creating a culture of professionalism and maintaining a laser focus on our goal, which is to forge systems that will thrive long after we’re gone. That’s what truly sets us apart,” says Lawrence, who has nearly 30 years of experience in public education and a doctorate in leadership and change.

Learn more about Dayton Public Schools at dps.k12.oh.us.