Dayton ISD is starting the 2025–2026 school year with a strong lineup of campus principals, including some familiar faces and others stepping into new leadership roles. These educators bring decades of experience and a shared commitment to student success across the district’s elementary, junior high, high school, and alternative education campuses.
At Dayton High School, Shayann Johnson is stepping into the role of principal after nearly a decade of service within the district. Johnson, who began her teaching career in 2014, joined the DHS staff in 2015 as the dance teacher. What was originally meant to be a short stop in her career turned into a deep-rooted commitment to the Dayton community. Over 6.5 years in the classroom, she became a fixture in the school and decided to forgo opportunities elsewhere in order to stay. Johnson and her husband, Cory, have two sons who also attend Dayton ISD schools. A proud Bronco through and through, Johnson is focused on ensuring graduates are prepared for college, careers, or military service, and prepared to thrive as productive, responsible members of society.
Ross Cullins Jr. returns as principal of Woodrow Wilson Junior High, entering his third year in the position and his 22nd year in education. Cullins has a diverse background in teaching math, business, and technology courses, which he brings to his role. He is also the founder of How to Be a Man, Inc., a character-building program originally started in Houston ISD that he plans to expand to middle school students this year. The mentorship program aims to equip young men with life skills, and he plans to expand it to include junior high students this year. Cullins is a hands-on leader who often participates in student vs. teacher games such as volleyball and dodgeball. He chose “Legacy Builders” as the school’s theme this year and emphasizes the importance of students leaving a lasting, positive impact on others.
Leona McCord continues as principal of Kimmie M. Brown Elementary, where she is now in her third year of campus leadership and her seventh year with the district. With two decades in education, McCord has a strong belief that all students can learn when given the right tools, support, and expectations. Her educational philosophy centers on equity and access, and she champions the idea that learning should be a guarantee, not a privilege. McCord’s personal life reflects the same values — she and her husband, a longtime police sergeant, have raised two children. Their daughter works as a police dispatcher, and their son recently graduated from Mississippi State University and joined the U.S. Air Force.
Ashley Hobbs is entering her sixth year as principal of Richter Elementary, continuing a 16-year career in education. Known for her dedication to building strong school-family partnerships, Hobbs leads a campus that focuses on nurturing the whole child. She is deeply invested in creating a school culture where relationships, academic growth, and a love of learning go hand-in-hand.
Atiya Wortham continues to lead Stephen F. Austin Elementary, serving kindergarten through fifth grade students. Now in her 16th year in education—and ninth year with Dayton ISD — Wortham brings a deep commitment to student growth and staff empowerment. At SFA, she emphasizes leadership development, both in and out of the classroom, and supports a culture that fosters character, confidence, and community.
Jennifer Little is beginning her second year as principal of Colbert Elementary, which serves early childhood and pre-kindergarten students. A 2002 graduate of Dayton High School, Little is raising the next generation of Broncos alongside her husband, a DHS teacher and coach. Their two children also attend Dayton schools. With 15 years of experience in Dayton ISD in roles ranging from classroom teacher to instructional coach, Little is passionate about helping the district’s youngest learners thrive through play-based learning, curiosity, and joyful exploration.
Bridgette Bean continues to lead Nottingham Alternative Education Center, bringing 26 years of experience — all with Dayton ISD. As principal of the district’s alternative campus, Bean is focused on providing second chances and helping students grow through mindfulness, reflection, and encouragement. Outside of school, she is the mother of three boys and enjoys camping and fishing with her family. Her leadership style blends compassion with accountability, creating a space where both students and educators can build resilience and find purpose.