David Ayala is the managing partner of School Leader Lab.

He joined the small and mighty team in 2018. Since then, School Leader Lab has served over 500 leaders, including executives, principals, assistant principals, and teacher leaders in DC-area public schools and beyond. As head of the program team, he ensures offerings are high-quality, impactful, and continually evolving to meet the needs of both existing and new audiences.

SLL exists to develop and empower public school leaders, particularly those serving predominantly Black and Brown students or those deeply committed to achieving equitable outcomes and eliminating race-based disparities in their schools.

Before SLL, David spent over fifteen years as a teacher, vice principal, principal, and head of school. He has been recognized with awards for excellence in teaching and leadership and led his school to outstanding results, including earning a National Blue Ribbon and Reward and Tier One status from OSSE. He is also an ICF Professional Certified Coach. Outside of work, David enjoys spending time with his wife (an amazing educator with over 20 years in the classroom), their three children, and their dog, Star.