We believe that education is an equalizer.
Our Founder
Dr. Watechia Lawless is the CEO and founder of DLM and Associates, a strategic advisory firm launched in 2022 that empowers K-12 superintendents, principals, charter networks, school boards, and elected officials. DLM pairs rapid instructional diagnostics with leadership coaching, community engagement, and research support to help executive teams prioritize high-leverage changes, track impact, and sustain improvement.
Dr. Lawless is a distinguished executive in business and education, with extensive experience in transforming schools and fostering community partnerships and programs. Skilled at building relationships with government, community, and education leaders to develop and implement innovative solutions for community issues. Her philanthropic efforts include advocating for low-income families, educating on social justice topics, addressing resources in elementary education, and informing the public and educators on diversity, equity, and inclusion. She has also raised over $1M through strategic initiatives and partnerships.
Our Impact
Proven Results – At Napier Elementary School, DLM’s evidence-based strategies turned the state’s lowest-performing school into a Tennessee Reward School and Franklin Covey Lighthouse School within three years. In Hamilton County Schools, a DLM-designed approach yielded a 35% average proficiency gain across five schools, increased graduation rates from 75% to 78%, reduced exclusionary practices by 4%, and reduced chronic absenteeism by 5%.
Cross-Sector Partnerships – DLM has established over 80 community partnerships and raised more than US$1 million for technology, nutrition, and student services. These collaborations foster wrap-around supports and align public, private, and philanthropic resources.
Equity-Centered – From pioneering zero-suspension policies through Harvard’s Public Education Leadership Project to conducting family-engagement research that funds programs addressing poverty and childcare barriers, DLM integrates social-justice principles into every engagement.
Our Team
We have a team of consultants who have expertise and a wealth of experience, offering consultation in the following areas:
Educational Leadership (K-12 / Higher Education)
Executive Coaching
Leadership Development
Strategic Partnerships
Family and Community Engagement
Business Strategy and Development
Strategic Planning & Partnerships
Program Development
Process Improvements
Project Management
Corporate Responsibility
Leadership and Coaching
Executive Coaching
Non-Profit Leadership
Government Relations
Board Governance
Higher Education
Educational Research and Data Analysis
Program Evaluation
Dissertation Coaching
International Practicum Experiences