Layne Dillard

Background

About Layne Dillard

For nearly three decades, I've dedicated my career to creating spaces where every student, teacher, and leader can feel seen, valued, and empowered to rise. Currently, I serve as an Education Administrator in the Office of School Improvement at the Alabama State Department of Education, following 19 years of school and district-level leadership experience, including turnaround work as a principal and director. Before joining ALSDE, I led one of the most improved schools in Alabama, increasing our state report card score by 30 points — from an F to a B — through a student-centered culture of high expectations, innovative instruction, and relentless belief in every learner. I hold a Doctorate in Learning Organizations and Strategic Change from Lipscomb University, along with degrees in Secondary Education and Educational Leadership from the University of North Alabama. But my real education has come from standing shoulder-to-shoulder with educators, families, and students — especially those facing the steepest challenges. My passion is rooted in helping high-poverty, high-potential schools realize their full strength. I have spent more than half my career working with at-risk youth, leading alternative education programs, and speaking at state conferences, including being honored by Alabama’s Governor to present at his Dropout Prevention Summit. At my core, I believe change happens when we honor the work others do, meet them where they are, and walk alongside them with fierce belief and practical action. Titles don’t transform schools — people do. I lead with heart, energy, humility, humor, and hope — and I’m passionate about helping others discover the extraordinary impact they are capable of making, often in the places that need it most.