School History

Paul Laurence DunbarPaul L. Dunbar Vocational Career Academy, named in honor of the noted black poet Paul Laurence Dunbar, is a Chicago public school serving students throughout the city. Established as a trade school in 1942, the current campus is an attractive, modern facility situated on 12 acres in the lakefront Bronzeville community.
The school houses 17 vocational shops, four science labs, tutorial and journalism labs, a media and computer resource center, and a distance learning lab. In their sophomore year, students enroll in the Career Technical Education (CTE) program selecting one of 12diverse vocational programs including architectural drafting, auto mechanics, culinary arts, hospitality management, carpentry, cosmetology, instrumental music, medical technology, nursing, plumbing and broadcast technology, Our curriculum combines academics and real world experiences. Advanced Placement (AP) classes are offered in English, biology, math and social studies.
Where Academic and Athletic Excellence is the Standard
The DVCA motto: "Excellence since 1942" is embraced by students, teachers and administrators who work together as a TEAM. Our curriculum emphasizes preparation in all core subjects as well as all career shop disciplines. The school encourages the growth and development of the whole student with a array of afterschool programs and activities.
DVCA has an outstanding 100-member full-time Faculty team: 50% of the faculty hold degrees beyond the bachelor's degree.
DVCA students work closely with their Post-secondary Coach and Guidance Counselors to identify, select and apply to colleges where they will be challenged, flourish, and go on to successful careers.
School of Champions
Every year, Dunbar student-athletes perform outstandingly in interscholastic team and individual competitions. A brief history of our athletic accomplishments include:
1997 Prep Bowl Champions
2013 City Championship Runner-Up (football)
The school houses 17 vocational shops, four science labs, tutorial and journalism labs, a media and computer resource center, and a distance learning lab. In their sophomore year, students enroll in the Career Technical Education (CTE) program selecting one of 12diverse vocational programs including architectural drafting, auto mechanics, culinary arts, hospitality management, carpentry, cosmetology, instrumental music, medical technology, nursing, plumbing and broadcast technology, Our curriculum combines academics and real world experiences. Advanced Placement (AP) classes are offered in English, biology, math and social studies.
Where Academic and Athletic Excellence is the Standard
The DVCA motto: "Excellence since 1942" is embraced by students, teachers and administrators who work together as a TEAM. Our curriculum emphasizes preparation in all core subjects as well as all career shop disciplines. The school encourages the growth and development of the whole student with a array of afterschool programs and activities.
DVCA has an outstanding 100-member full-time Faculty team: 50% of the faculty hold degrees beyond the bachelor's degree.
DVCA students work closely with their Post-secondary Coach and Guidance Counselors to identify, select and apply to colleges where they will be challenged, flourish, and go on to successful careers.
School of Champions
Every year, Dunbar student-athletes perform outstandingly in interscholastic team and individual competitions. A brief history of our athletic accomplishments include:
1997 Prep Bowl Champions
2013 City Championship Runner-Up (football)

Dunbar Vocational Career Academy
3000 S. King Drive, Chicago IL 60616
773.534.9000 | Fax: 773.534.9250
School Hours: 8:00 - 3:15 |
Office Hours 8:00 - 3:15
3000 S. King Drive, Chicago IL 60616
773.534.9000 | Fax: 773.534.9250
School Hours: 8:00 - 3:15 |
Office Hours 8:00 - 3:15