DLA WHO WE ARE

At Dayton Leadership Academies (DLA), we prepare students to be leaders for today and tomorrow through a culture of joy, rigorous academics, and unwavering support.

As a public charter district serving kindergarten through 8th grade, DLA provides a safe and nurturing environment where students grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

Serving Our Community

At Dayton Leadership Academies, we believe that strong schools build strong communities. Our commitment to academic excellence and character development extends beyond the classroom — preparing students to lead with purpose and contribute meaningfully to the world around them.

We are proud to serve the Dayton community by offering:

  • A strong, standards-aligned curriculum

  • Data-driven instruction and targeted intervention

  • Social-emotional learning woven into every classroom

  • Leadership development through The Leader in Me framework

DLA students learn to be Safe, Respectful, Responsible, and Positive Leaders — our four Core Values that guide our school culture and community.

2024 State Report Card - At a Glance

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K-3 LITERACY
  • A school hallway decorated for an event, with tables, chairs, and students walking around and talking. A large banner hangs from the second floor that reads 'LEAD' with the words 'Preparing,' 'Leadership,' 'For,' 'And,' 'Forever' around it. The corridor has yellow walls, red columns, and framed pictures or posters on the wall.

    Our Results

    Every year, DLA continues to demonstrate strong growth and achievement across all grade levels.

    Our students outperform state averages in multiple academic areas, and our dedicated teachers use data to personalize instruction for every learner.

    Highlights include:

    Consistent academic growth across reading and math

    Targeted small-group instruction and intervention blocks

    Family partnerships that drive student attendance and success

    A commitment to preparing every student for selective high schools and beyond

    These results reflect our shared belief that all students can achieve at high levels when supported by a culture of high expectations, strong relationships, and a belief in every child’s potential.

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    Strategic Plan 2021-2026

    Our five-year strategic plan guides our work and priorities across instruction, culture, and community engagement.

    The plan sets measurable goals for academic growth, staff development, and long-term student success.

    Focus areas include:

    Strengthening core instruction and literacy foundation

    Investing in teacher leadership and professional development

    Expanding family and community partnerships

    Ensuring long-term sustainability and operational excellence

  • Six students working on jigsaw puzzle at a classroom table, with a whiteboard behind them showing the time 07:57, and shelves with books and classroom decorations in the background.

    2024-2025 Results 

    4th-8th Grade growth on ELA state tests exceeded expectations 

    12% increase in Improving K-3 Literacy 

    98% of Third Grade Students Met the Third Grade Reading Guarantee 

    92% Average Daily Student Attendance 

    70% of 8th Grade students were accepted into selective enrollment high schools 

  • A group of children in a classroom making peace signs and smiling at the camera.

    2024 State Report Card 

    DLA's 2024 state report card performance satisfied the criteria to receive three years of Quality Community School Support (QCSS) funds. 

    2024 State Report Card 

    Overall: 3 Stars 

    Achievement: 1 Star 

    Progress: 4 Stars 

    Gap Closing: 4 Stars 

    K-3 Literacy: 1 Star

A group of students and adults gathered in a library or classroom for a training and apprenticeship program. There is a screen in the background that says 'Ohio Laborers Training & Apprenticeship Program.' The group includes diverse individuals, some wearing hard hats and safety vests, and they are posing for a group photo.

What This Means for Students & Families

Our impact is measured not only in test scores, but in confident, capable students who love to learn and lead.

Families choose DLA because they know their children are seen, supported, and challenged to do their best every day.

Together, we’re building a legacy of learning, leadership, and community pride in Dayton.

Join Us

Be part of a school community that believes in every child’s potential to grow, lead, and succeed. At DLA, we nurture not only strong academics but also character, leadership, and a love of learning that lasts a lifetime.

Learn More
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