Paul Laurence Dunbar High School. Dunbar HS Athletics powered by SportsMarkit May 1, 1865, the first public school in the District of Columbia for colored children was opened. Since its inception Dunbar has led the District in academic and athletic excellence, producing academic scholars and All-Met athletes and All-Americans stars. Dunbar High School Athletics currently offers the following sports: Boys' Football and Girls' Flag Football, Boys' and Girls' Basketball, Boys' and Girls' Track and Field, Boys' Baseball and Girls' Softball, Boys' and Girls' Soccer, and Cheerleading. History of Dunbar HS: The Commissioners of the District of Columbia on January 17, 1916 renamed the high school in honor of the famous poet Paul Laurence Dunbar. In the years of Dunbar’s existence, our graduates have achieved many outstanding accomplishments. Our objective is to create a learning environment that will empower all of our students to pursue career, technical, and academic excellence. Our guidance and college preparatory program is carefully designed to help students reach high expectations. In all parts of the United States, and even abroad, there are Dunbar graduates making significant contributions to society.