Dayton ISD is thrilled to announce the appointment of two new principals for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year. Mrs. Shayann Johnson will take the helm at Dayton High School, and Mrs. Jennifer Little will lead Colbert Elementary.
Mrs. Shayann Johnson, a familiar face within the district, has been with Dayton ISD for the past nine years and has spent the last four years in administration at Dayton High School (DHS). Outside of her professional life, she enjoys spending time with her family, running, and fishing.
Reflecting on her influences, Mrs. Johnson shared, “Growing up, I was fortunate to have several exceptional educators who cultivated my passion for education. Among the most influential were my former High School Drill Team Director, Technology instructor, and Biology teacher. Melanie Gray, Julie Myers Seaton, and Sharon Moyer not only inspired me to pursue my aspirations of becoming a teacher but also imparted invaluable teaching skills and attributes that have shaped my approach to education today.”
For the upcoming school year, Mrs. Johnson’s primary goal is to enhance the academic strength of Dayton High School students and foster positive, respectful relationships among staff and students. She expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “I am looking forward to the opportunity to positively influence a greater number of students and staff at Dayton High School. I will strive to create a learning environment that is a safe haven both physically and emotionally, along with strong academics for all students.”
Joining the Colbert Elementary team as principal is Mrs. Jennifer Little, another familiar face within the Dayton community. Born and raised in Dayton and a DHS graduate, Mrs. Little has spent the last three years as an Assistant Principal at Richter Elementary. Her background includes eight years of classroom teaching experience and three years as a Math Instructional Coach.
Mrs. Little credits her mother, Carolyn Land, a retired Dayton ISD educator of 40 years, for inspiring her to pursue a career in education. She also fondly remembers her 5th grade teacher, Ms. Jean White, who sparked her passion for teaching.
In her personal time, Mrs. Little enjoys spending time with her family and friends and loves being near water, whether it’s a pool, lake, or river. Her family also enjoys cheering for the Bronco football team on Friday nights.
Regarding her goals for Colbert Elementary, Mrs. Little stated, “Since Colbert is where the educational journey begins, my hope is that all of the students will truly love coming to school every day.” She is eager to meet the students and their families and watch them grow throughout the school year.
Dayton ISD is excited to welcome Mrs. Shayann Johnson and Mrs. Jennifer Little to their new roles and looks forward to a successful school year under their leadership.
I wish someone would replace the JR High Principal. Last school year my daughter was getting bullied and she finally stud up to this boy and she was the one that ended up in ISS. My little girl is doing very well in school gets all A’s and don’t bother no one. Bullying is very serious and the Dayton JR staff don’t seem to care.