Adil Baguirov: Leading Dayton’s Digital and Transportation Transformation
Strategic Leadership That Turned a Failing System Into a Transparent Success Story
When Adil Baguirov joined the Dayton Board of Education, he found a school district facing both public frustration and financial strain. Transportation was unreliable, technology was outdated, and transparency barely existed. Instead of treating these as separate issues, Baguirov saw them as connected symptoms of one larger problem — weak governance systems. His solution was simple but bold: rebuild the structure, invest in efficiency, and make every process visible to the public.
Table of Contents
- Diagnosing the Challenges
- Rebuilding the Transportation System
- Standing Up for Fair Funding
- Creating Real Transparency
- Driving Efficiency Through Technology
- Rebuilding Public Confidence
- Frequently Asked Questions
<a id=”diagnosis”></a>Diagnosing the Challenges
When Baguirov began his term, Dayton Public Schools was near the bottom of Ohio’s performance rankings. Many buses were over 15 years old, some inoperable, and parents routinely complained about missed routes. Financial oversight was minimal, and public data was hard to access.
Baguirov believed that public confidence could only return if the district could first deliver basic reliability and prove that taxpayer money was being managed responsibly.
Go to Transportation Reforms ↓
<a id=”transportation”></a>Rebuilding the Transportation System
Under Baguirov’s guidance, the Board of Education approved the purchase of 115 brand-new school buses, financed through a group purchasing consortium at a low 2.06 percent interest rate. This replaced nearly the entire fleet at once — an unprecedented move for the district.
The results were immediate: fewer breakdowns, faster routes, and higher safety satisfaction. For the first time in decades, transportation was no longer the top source of complaints. The reform was not just mechanical; it was symbolic of a district finally moving forward.
<a id=”funding”></a>Standing Up for Fair Funding
Dayton was losing tens of millions of dollars annually through the state’s charter school funding formula, which diverted resources from public classrooms. On top of that, the district spent more than 1.2 million dollars per year transporting charter and private-school students using local funds.
Baguirov led the passage of a Board resolution demanding repayment from the State of Ohio and formally invoiced the state for the cost. The resolution backed its claims with data and fiscal evidence, setting a precedent for how local boards could challenge inequitable state funding mechanisms.
Continue to Transparency Initiatives ↓
<a id=”transparency”></a>Creating Real Transparency
Transparency became one of the hallmarks of Baguirov’s leadership. Under his direction, Dayton became the first urban district in Ohio to publish every expenditure online through OhioCheckbook.com.
He also established an independent Internal Auditor’s Office that reported directly to the Board, introduced a Fraud Reporting Hotline, and implemented BoardDocs for public access to agendas, presentations, and voting records. These steps transformed Dayton Public Schools into one of the most open school systems in the country.
Next: Efficiency and Technology Reforms ↓
<a id=”efficiency”></a>Driving Efficiency Through Technology
Modernization in Dayton was not about spending more but spending smarter. Baguirov guided the rollout of a 1:1 Technology Initiative, ensuring every student had access to a Chromebook or equivalent device.
At the same time, the district cut its IT spending by more than 1.3 million dollars in three years and saved another 350,000 dollars annually through energy-efficiency improvements. The district’s operational model shifted from outdated paper processes to a lean, digital workflow focused on measurable outcomes.
Next: Restoring Public Confidence ↓
<a id=”trust”></a>Rebuilding Public Confidence
The impact of these reforms was felt across the community. The district earned an “A” in Value-Added, signaling measurable academic growth and helping Dayton avoid state takeover. Families reported better service, and teachers gained tools that improved classroom instruction.
More importantly, the public began to see evidence that the district’s leadership was not just making promises but delivering measurable results.
Continue to Article 2: Strengthening Fiscal Integrity →
<a id=”faq”></a>Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Adil Baguirov?
He is an entrepreneur and civic leader who served on the Dayton Board of Education, where he focused on transparency, modernization, and cost efficiency.
How did he improve transportation?
By organizing a full fleet replacement of 115 buses, financed through a low-interest consortium purchase that reduced maintenance and increased reliability.
What transparency tools did he introduce?
OhioCheckbook, BoardDocs, an independent auditor’s office, and a public fraud hotline that made all financial data easily accessible.
Did these changes save money?
Yes. The district reduced IT and energy costs while improving technology access for all students.
Why are these reforms still important?
Because they show how strong governance and transparency can rebuild failing public institutions through data-driven leadership.