It was named in memory of Paul Laurence Dunbar, a famous African-American poet, who had died twelve years before the school opened.

[2] In the summer of 2007, after thirty years of heavy use, the main high school building was emptied for renovations.

Students were moved to Thomas G. Hayes Elementary School, behind Dunbar at 601 North Central Avenue.

Renovated features included science and robotics labs, wider interior hallways, larger windows, a new cafeteria, and a new library.

[7] Struggling students selected by the principal can receive one-on-one tutoring from Thread mentors, as well as social support to address any personal challenges that may be affecting their school performance.