Built in 1958, extensive remodeling is/was being performed at Dunbar in 2001 and 2002. The remodeling includes the addition of five science labs.

The school had prior renovations in the science labs and cafeteria during the 1990's.

Dunbar is the district's science and journalism magnet school.

Because it sits near one of Lubbock's canyon lakes, Dunbar Junior High School is ideally located to use the natural setting as a living, outdoor classroom.

The building has two courtyards and a lake nearby. The surroundings enhance science projects, nature studies and outdoor experiments.

Dunbar is the only junior high school in the Lubbock Independent School District with a functioning darkroom as part of its Journalism program, and the only junior high school in the district with an outdoor track.

Athletic facilities include three gymnasiums and a fully equipped weight room.

Dunbar has Internet-ready computers in every classroom, and 10 Internet-ready IBM computers are in the library.

The school has four computer labs, and provides 21 laptop computers to students and teachers.

Sports programs include football, basketball, tennis, track, swimming, wrestling and volleyball.

The school has an award-winning music program, which includes band, orchestra and choir.

Dunbar is the only junior high school in the district that offers multiple, out-of-town excursions to students as part of the science magnet program.

Annual special assemblies include the National Junior Honor Society Induction Ceremony, the yearly Recognition Assembly, Black History Assembly and a Cinco de Mayo celebration.

Dunbar also hosts an AVID (Advancement via Individual Determination) program. The enriched magnet curriculum includes 90-minute science and social studies classes.