About Our School
Welcome to Dana Gray Elementary School
At Dana Gray Elementary School, we believe every child has the potential to shine. Whether you are a parent enrolling your child for the first time, a community member, or an educator looking to join our team, we invite you to learn more about who we are, what we value, and why Dana Gray is a special place to learn and grow.
Our Mission
The mission of Dana Gray Elementary School is to have highly qualified staff who encourage and nurture students to be creative, caring, and socially responsible. Students will increase their academic standards, enabling them to develop their strengths to become productive individuals. Students will use critical thinking and problem-solving strategies in individual and group situations.
The staff at Dana Gray Elementary School work in collaboration with parents and the community to ensure a safe and positive learning environment using a diverse and challenging curriculum.
Our School at a Glance
- Location: Fort Bragg, California — Mendocino County
- Grades Served: 3rd through 5th Grade
- Enrollment: Approximately 310 students
- School Colors: Blue and Gray
- Mascot: The Dolphins
- Campus: 15 acres
What Makes Dana Gray Special
A Culture of Arts and Expression
Dana Gray has long celebrated creativity as a cornerstone of education. Since 1995, our beloved Fine Arts Evening has brought families and community members together to experience the talent of our students firsthand. This annual showcase features student artwork alongside a variety of live performances — a cherished tradition that reflects our belief that the arts are essential to a well-rounded education.
Technology-Ready Learning
With a 1:1 Chromebook program, our students have the digital tools they need to research, create, collaborate, and think critically — skills that prepare them for middle school and beyond.
A Safe and Positive Environment
We are committed to maintaining a school where every student feels safe, respected, and supported. Our staff works in close partnership with families and community members to create a welcoming environment where children can focus on learning and developing the social-emotional skills they need to thrive.
Collaboration at the Core
At Dana Gray, no one succeeds alone. Our teachers collaborate with one another and with families to support each child's individual growth. We view parents and guardians as essential partners in education, and we actively encourage your involvement in your child's school experience.
Our Staff
Dana Gray is staffed by a dedicated team of highly qualified educators and support professionals who bring passion, expertise, and care to their work each day. Our teachers are committed to meeting students where they are and challenging them to reach new heights — academically, creatively, and socially.
Interested in joining our team? We welcome educators who share our commitment to student success and community partnership. Please visit our Employment page to learn about current opportunities.
Our History
Dana Gray Elementary School has deep roots in the Fort Bragg community. The school was established in 1956 and has grown alongside the city it serves for nearly 70 years.
The Name Behind Our School
Our school is named in honor of Mr. Dana Gray II, a man whose life exemplified dedication to both his profession and his community. Mr. Gray spent 45 years at the Union Lumber Company, rising through the ranks to become Vice President of the business. Beyond his professional achievements, he was a devoted public servant — serving 20 years on the Fort Bragg City Council, nine of those years as Mayor, and 18 years on the Fort Bragg School Board. He is remembered and celebrated locally as someone who truly "gave back to the community." It is a legacy we are proud to carry forward every day.
Growing with Our Community
In 1984, Dana Gray transitioned from a 4th–6th grade school to its current configuration serving 3rd through 5th graders, allowing us to better meet the developmental needs of upper elementary students.
Our campus has continued to evolve with the times. A major remodel in 2009 modernized our facilities, and in 2011 we added solar panels, reflecting our commitment to environmental responsibility. Our library, which once held 6,623 books, 842 slides, and 166 records in 1973, now houses over 10,000 books. And where once students shared limited resources, today every one of our approximately 375 students has access to their own Chromebook computer — over 400 devices in total — supporting a 21st-century learning experience.