It is with great excitement and deep gratitude that I welcome you to another outstanding school year at Paul Laurence Dunbar High School! As we embark on this journey together, I am humbled and honored to serve as your principal. Whether you are a returning member of our community or joining us for the first time, know that you are now part of a proud tradition of excellence, resilience, and achievement. Roll Tide!
At Dunbar, we believe that every student has limitless
potential. Our mission is clear: to ensure that every student reaches their full potential through rigorous and joyful learning experiences, all within a nurturing environment. We believe that our Afrofuturistic approach, which emphasizes that education is the key to unlocking doors of opportunity, and that every one of our students will leave Dunbar equipped to achieve their personal goals, thrive in college and careers, and contribute meaningfully to our community and society.
This year, we will continue to focus on three key redesign priorities:
- Prestige: Excellence in Teaching and Learning – ensuring that every classroom experience challenges students with rigorous content and supports them as independent thinkers and problem-solvers.
- Purpose: Strong Relationships and School Culture – fostering a welcoming, safe, and supportive community where every student feels valued, seen, and celebrated.
- Promise: Preparing Students for Life Beyond Dunbar – expanding opportunities for college, career, and civic readiness so that our Crimson Tide scholars are ready to compete and succeed in today’s world.
As we move forward, let us remember that success is not built in a day; it is built day by day. So, I encourage every student, staff member, and family to adopt our Dunbar mantra: Keep Pluggin’ Away! Every lesson learned, every challenge overcome, and every act of kindness brings us closer to excellence.
Parents, community members, and partners, we need you! Dunbar is, and has always been, an integral part of the Washington, D.C. community. Your support, voice, and partnership are essential as we work to ensure that every student thrives.
Thank you for your trust, your commitment, and your belief in Dunbar. Together, we will continue to build on our legacy of excellence while preparing our students to lead, achieve, and inspire.
Here’s to a fantastic year ahead, Roll Tide, and let’s keep pluggin’ away!
With pride and purpose,
Latisha Coleman
Principal
Dunbar is the premier high school for all students, offering exceptional academies:
Charles R. Drew Engineering Academy
James Pittman Information Technology Academy
Anthony Wash Sports Management Academy
Carter G. Woodson Black Studies Academy
Eleanor Holmes Norton Academy For Law and Public Policy
Dunbar High School International Academy
Vincent Gray Ninth Grade Leadership Academy
Our students also thrive in athletics, with over 26 programs boasting state championships in football and track, as well as city titles in girls' basketball and girls' track.
Warm regards,
Principal, Paul Laurence Dunbar High School