Ron Dyste

Ron Dyste's work in developing student support services and programs is rooted in the inequities he witnessed and experienced in underserved communities as a young man growing up in Sacramento, California. His early experiences inspired him to earn a Bachelor's Degree in Social Sciences and a Master's Degree in Administrative Leadership with an emphasis in restorative practices from San Diego State University and National University. As a former Peace Corps Volunteer, Ron was the founding member of a community school in the country of Jamaica. His work then carried him to New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, where he was a founding member of a successful charter school with FirstLine Schools. Ron's journey as an educator later led him to continue supporting new schools as a founding member in the development of KIPP San Francisco College Preparatory High School in Hunter's Point, a socio-economic disadvantaged community in San Francisco. In 2013 he moved back to San Diego and was a part of the team that helped to build Bayfront Charter High School in Chula Vista, California. At each of the educational programs listed above he also developed the athletic programs while also coaching boys and girls varsity basketball for 25 years. His passion for addressing issues around equity, incorporating student and community voice is at the center of the programs he helps to build. Recently, Ron has joined the Urban Discovery Academy administrative team as the Principal and in partnership with his students, families, and community partners, he hopes to help lead one of the most innovative educational programs in the country.