Introduction
Dayton Public Schools is actively reconfiguring its school structures and enhancing its technology infrastructure across instructional environments. This includes consolidating preschool sites, adjusting grade levels in elementary and middle schools, and maintaining a robust 1:1 device program. The district also continues to modernize its campus Wi-Fi and network systems to support digital learning.
These initiatives create operational pressure on existing systems, requiring careful coordination of student transitions and seamless technology integration. Systems for student information, device management, and network stability become operationally critical. Vendors can support Dayton Public Schools by providing solutions that address these integration challenges, ensure network reliability, and facilitate effective instructional technology use across reconfigured campuses.
Dayton Public Schools Snapshot
Location: Dayton, Ohio
School District: Dayton Public Schools
Grades Served: Pre-kindergarten through high school
Technology Environment: 1:1 Chromebook program, 19,000 Chromebooks, 9,000 Windows devices, 1,300 iPads
Key Initiative: School reconfiguration for the 2026-2027 school year and ongoing technology infrastructure modernization
Website: https://www.dps.k12.oh.us/
Recent Funding and Procurement Activity
| Funding Activity | Amount | Operational Area | Current School-Level Relevance |
|---|---|---|---|
| IT Services Contract with Sentinel Technologies | $2.97 million annually | Information Technology Management, Network Operations, Device Support | Covers internet management and device fixes for schools, actively impacting operations from early 2024 through 2026. |
| RFP for IT Consultant for ERP Solution | Undisclosed (RFP-RFP 26-006) | Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) | Procurement activity for evaluating solutions to modernize district-wide administrative systems, due December 2025. |
| RFSQ for Architectural and Engineering Services | Undisclosed (RFSQ-26-004) | Facilities Planning and Development | Procurement activity for professional services related to potential future facility modernization projects, due October 2025. |
Leadership and Key Buying Personas
| Name | Role | Department | Public Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. David Lawrence | Superintendent | District Administration | - |
| Hiwot Abraha | Treasurer | Finance | - |
| Terri Allen | Director of Purchasing | Procurement | tallen@daytonpublic.com |
| Dr. Stacey Benson Taylor | Associate Business Manager | Transportation | - |
| William Bailey | Board President | Board of Education | - |
| Joseph Lacey | Board Vice-President | Board of Education | - |
| Eric Walker | Board Member, Parliamentarian | Board of Education | - |
| Chrisondra Goodwine | Board Member | Board of Education | - |
| Jamica Garrison | Board Member | Board of Education | - |
| Jocelyn Spencer Rhynard | Board Member | Board of Education | - |
| Will Smith | Board Member | Board of Education | - |
| IT Help Desk | Information Technology | 937-542-3184, hacsupport@daytonpublic.com |
Key Initiatives at a Glance
- Reconfiguring school grade levels and consolidating preschool sites for the 2026-2027 school year.
- Maintaining and expanding a 1:1 student device program across all grades.
- Modernizing campus Wi-Fi and network infrastructure to support digital learning environments.
- Implementing an academy model within high schools to offer diverse educational pathways.
- Optimizing student transportation routing through advanced AI platforms.
- Developing student community and sensory gardens at multiple elementary school sites.
What Companies Can Sell to Dayton Public Schools
| Who Can Sell Here | Current Initiative | Operational Pressure | Seller Positioning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Student Device Management & Support | Expanding 1:1 Chromebook program (19,000 Chromebooks, 9,000 Windows devices, 1,300 iPads) | Managing device deployment, maintenance, and troubleshooting across diverse platforms. | Offer device lifecycle management, repair services, and help desk integration. |
| New IT services contract for device fixes (Sentinel Technologies) | Ensuring consistent and rapid resolution for device issues in classrooms. | Position as a specialized repair vendor or a provider of certified parts and support. | |
| Network Infrastructure & Cybersecurity | Modernizing campus Wi-Fi and network infrastructure | Maintaining reliable high-speed internet access across multiple buildings and device types. | Provide network upgrades, performance monitoring, and cybersecurity solutions for school networks. |
| Reconfiguring school buildings for 2026-2027 | Ensuring seamless network connectivity during school transitions and new building layouts. | Offer network planning, installation, and optimization services for reconfigured spaces. | |
| Transportation Management Systems | Optimizing student transportation routing with AI (RouteWise AI) | Maximizing route efficiency and ensuring student safety and timely arrivals. | Provide integration services, data analytics, or fleet management tools complementary to AI systems. |
| Academic & Learning Platforms | Implementing an academy model in high schools | Delivering specialized curriculum and engaging learning experiences tailored to career pathways. | Offer career-focused digital curricula, specialized subject software, or experiential learning platforms. |
| Maintaining instructional technology for 1:1 devices | Ensuring educational software integrates with diverse device types and supports curriculum delivery. | Provide software licenses, educational apps, and content management systems compatible with Chromebooks and Windows devices. | |
| Facilities & Operations Support | Developing community and sensory gardens at elementary schools | Managing outdoor educational spaces and integrating them into school operations. | Offer landscaping services, garden supplies, and outdoor classroom equipment. |
| Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Solutions | Evaluating IT consultant for ERP solution (RFP 26-006) | Streamlining administrative and financial processes across the district. | Position as ERP implementation consultants, integration specialists, or training providers for new systems. |
| Project Management & Transition Services | Reconfiguring school grade levels and consolidating preschool sites | Coordinating complex logistical changes involving students, staff, and resources. | Offer change management consulting, logistical planning tools, or communication platforms for transitions. |
Need help selling to U.S. Schools?
Identify school buying signals like grants, contract renewals, and more, find key decision-maker contacts, and reach out to the right schools at the right time with Pintel.ai.
Why Companies Should Consider Selling to Dayton Public Schools
- Dayton Public Schools operates active 1:1 technology environments across all schools.
- The district is undergoing significant school reconfiguration, creating needs for new operational systems and transitions.
- Ongoing investment in network infrastructure upgrades supports high-speed connectivity.
- Dayton Public Schools utilizes external partners for IT services and transportation optimization.
- The district is actively exploring new enterprise resource planning solutions.
- Curriculum initiatives include specialized high school academy models requiring diverse educational tools.
1. School Reconfiguration and Grade Level Adjustments
What Dayton Public Schools Is Doing
Dayton Public Schools is reconfiguring its educational structure for the 2026-2027 school year. This involves reducing the number of preschool sites, changing grade levels offered at several elementary schools, and adding 6th grade to the three standalone middle schools. The district is also consolidating alternative programming into a single location and implementing a feeder model for student transitions.
Buyer Personas
- Superintendent
- Chief of Elementary Schools
- Director of Student Enrollment
- Director of Facilities
- Director of Operations
Operational Challenges
- Coordinating student and staff transitions between different buildings and grade configurations.
- Managing facility use and space allocation changes across schools.
- Communicating changes effectively with families and the community.
- Adjusting transportation routes and logistics for the reconfigured system.
Relevant Company Categories for Dayton Public Schools
- Student Information System Providers
- Logistics and Relocation Services
- Communication Platforms
- Facility Management Software
- Architectural and Planning Consultants
Companies That Can Sell to Dayton Public Schools
PowerSchool — Provides comprehensive student information system (SIS) and enrollment management solutions.
Why relevant: Supports student data management and enrollment processes during transitions.
Transfinder — Offers intelligent transportation management systems and routing software.
Why relevant: Assists in optimizing bus routes and managing student transportation logistics for new configurations.
Eppstein Uhen Architects (EUA) — Offers architectural and planning services for educational facilities.
Why relevant: Provides expertise in space planning and facility adaptation for school reconfigurations.
Sample Outbound Angle
"Noticed Dayton Public Schools is implementing significant school reconfiguration for the 2026-2027 school year, including grade level adjustments.
Districts undertaking similar transitions often encounter challenges with consistent student data migration and enrollment tracking across new grade structures.
We've seen other school systems leverage integrated student data platforms early in the planning phases to ensure seamless student records continuity. Could be worth exploring how that impacts future operational stability."
2. 1:1 Technology and Infrastructure Modernization
What Dayton Public Schools Is Doing
Dayton Public Schools currently deploys 19,000 Chromebooks, 9,000 Windows devices, and 1,300 iPads to students and staff. The district continues to update campus Wi-Fi networks and internet speeds. An external IT services provider, Sentinel Technologies, manages internet and device fixes, complementing internal IT staff.
Buyer Personas
- Director of Information Technology
- Network Infrastructure Manager
- Instructional Technology Coordinator
- Director of Purchasing
- School Principals
Operational Challenges
- Ensuring consistent Wi-Fi coverage and reliable internet access in all learning spaces.
- Managing device repairs and technical support requests efficiently for a large device fleet.
- Integrating new software and digital tools with diverse operating systems and devices.
- Maintaining network security against evolving cyber threats with varied device types.
Relevant Company Categories for Dayton Public Schools
- Device Management Software
- Network Hardware Providers
- Cybersecurity Solutions
- Technical Support Services
- Educational Software Providers
Companies That Can Sell to Dayton Public Schools
Jamf — Specializes in Apple device management for educational institutions.
Why relevant: Provides tools to manage and secure the district's iPads effectively.
Cisco Meraki — Offers cloud-managed networking solutions, including Wi-Fi access points and security appliances.
Why relevant: Supports reliable and scalable wireless infrastructure across school campuses.
Sentinel Technologies — Provides IT services including internet management and device fixes to the district.
Why relevant: Offers managed IT support and solutions for ongoing technology maintenance.
Sample Outbound Angle
"It's clear Dayton Public Schools maintains a robust 1:1 device program with diverse Chromebook, Windows, and iPad deployments.
Organizations managing mixed device environments often face operational hurdles around consistent software delivery and patch management, leading to instructional disruptions.
Many districts are implementing unified endpoint management platforms to streamline these processes and ensure instructional uptime. Could share some approaches if helpful."
3. High School Academy Model Implementation
What Dayton Public Schools Is Doing
Dayton Public Schools is rolling out a new wave of educational programming, including an academy model in high schools. This initiative aims to provide students with more opportunities and specialized pathways, preparing them for college, careers, military, and entrepreneurship. This change focuses on setting up students for future success through targeted experiences.
Buyer Personas
- Superintendent
- Director of Curriculum and Instruction
- High School Principals
- Career-Technical Education Director
- Community Partnerships Coordinator
Operational Challenges
- Developing and sourcing specialized curriculum content for diverse academies.
- Coordinating partnerships with local businesses and higher education institutions.
- Equipping classrooms and labs with necessary tools and technology for specific academy pathways.
- Providing professional development for teachers to deliver specialized instruction.
Relevant Company Categories for Dayton Public Schools
- Career & Technical Education (CTE) Program Providers
- Experiential Learning Platforms
- Curriculum Development Services
- Lab Equipment Suppliers
- Partnership Management Software
Companies That Can Sell to Dayton Public Schools
Project Lead The Way (PLTW) — Provides transformative learning experiences for K-12 students through activity-, project-, and problem-based curriculum.
Why relevant: Offers structured pathways for STEM and career-focused academies.
Hands-On Technology Education (HOT) — Supplies equipment and curriculum for career and technical education programs.
Why relevant: Equips specialized academy labs with relevant tools and training.
YouScience — Offers aptitude and interest assessments to help students discover personalized education and career pathways.
Why relevant: Supports student placement and guidance within various high school academies.
Sample Outbound Angle
"Recognized Dayton Public Schools is introducing an academy model in high schools to provide students with specialized educational pathways.
Implementing new academy structures often creates operational gaps in ensuring seamless alignment between specific curriculum offerings and required digital learning resources.
Forward-thinking districts are adopting comprehensive digital content platforms that can scale with diverse academy needs, minimizing content fragmentation. Happy to share what those integrations look like."
4. Student Transportation Optimization
What Dayton Public Schools Is Doing
Dayton Public Schools utilizes the RouteWise AI platform to optimize student transportation. This system aims to reduce operating costs and improve efficiency by "right-sizing" school bus fleets and matching vehicles to student needs. The goal is to ensure students arrive at school safely and on time while managing budget constraints and driver shortages.
Buyer Personas
- Associate Business Manager
- Director of Transportation
- Director of Operations
- Fleet Manager
Operational Challenges
- Integrating AI-driven routing data with existing fleet management and scheduling systems.
- Adapting to changes in student populations or school schedules that impact routes.
- Managing communication with drivers and parents regarding route adjustments or delays.
- Optimizing vehicle maintenance and fuel consumption for a diversified fleet.
Relevant Company Categories for Dayton Public Schools
- Fleet Management Software
- GPS Tracking & Telematics
- Student Tracking & Safety Solutions
- Communication Platforms for Transportation
- Vehicle Maintenance & Supply Vendors
Companies That Can Sell to Dayton Public Schools
Remind — Provides a communication platform for schools to quickly send messages to students, parents, and staff.
Why relevant: Facilitates immediate communication regarding transportation updates and delays.
Zonar Systems — Offers fleet management solutions including GPS tracking, inspection tools, and telematics for school buses.
Why relevant: Enhances operational oversight and maintenance of the district's bus fleet.
BusBoss — Provides school bus routing software designed to create efficient routes and schedules.
Why relevant: Complements AI optimization with tools for managing complex route data and student assignments.
Sample Outbound Angle
"Understood Dayton Public Schools is leveraging RouteWise AI for student transportation optimization, focusing on efficient routing and fleet management.
Districts adopting advanced routing platforms often find operational pressure emerges around integrating real-time route data with existing parent communication systems, causing delays in updates.
Many transportation departments are centralizing real-time data feeds into unified parent notification systems to enhance transparency and coordination. Can share how this improves operational responsiveness."
Final Take
Dayton Public Schools is deeply engaged in a comprehensive operational transformation, driven by school reconfiguration and continued investment in technology. These efforts create distinct operational pressures related to managing complex student transitions, maintaining seamless technology environments, and optimizing logistical services. Vendors offering solutions in areas like student information systems, network infrastructure, device management, specialized curriculum tools, and transportation support can effectively position their offerings. The district's proactive approach to modernization and efficiency presents clear opportunities for partners who can help address these current and evolving operational needs.
Need help selling to U.S. Schools?
Identify school buying signals like grants, contract renewals, and more, find key decision-maker contacts, and reach out to the right schools at the right time with Pintel.ai.
Explore More School Initiatives and Vendor Opportunities
- Eagles Nest Academy Initiatives and Sales Opportunities
- Arthur Ashe Jr Elementary Initiatives and Sales Opportunities
- Jim Thorpe Area Sd Initiatives and Sales Opportunities
- Paterson Arts And Science Charter School Initiatives and Sales Opportunities
- Bronx Charter School For Excellence Initiatives and Sales Opportunities
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Dayton Public Schools' main technology investments in 2026? Dayton Public Schools focuses on its 1:1 device program, maintaining 19,000 Chromebooks, 9,000 Windows devices, and 1,300 iPads, alongside modernizing campus Wi-Fi.
How does Dayton Public Schools manage its IT support? The district uses an external provider, Sentinel Technologies, for internet management and device fixes, working in partnership with internal IT staff.
Is Dayton Public Schools undergoing any major facility changes? Yes, the district is reconfiguring school grade levels, consolidating preschools, and adjusting campus layouts for the 2026-2027 school year.
What new educational programs are active in Dayton Public Schools' high schools? Dayton Public Schools is implementing an academy model in high schools to provide specialized pathways for student success.
How is Dayton Public Schools addressing student transportation efficiency? The district utilizes the RouteWise AI platform to optimize student bus routing, aiming to reduce costs and improve safety and timeliness.