Shannon Baker Honored with Excellence in Literacy Leadership Award

Dr. Shannon Baker, executive director of curriculum and instruction for the San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE), has been presented with the 2024 Excellence in Literacy Leadership Award by the Literacy Council of North America for her work as the director of Project CLEAR.

The prestigious award was presented during the 2025 LitCon conference held in Ohio, celebrating leaders who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to literacy improvement. The Excellence in Literacy Leadership Award is given to individuals who exhibit outstanding partnership, advocacy, and a commitment to building a continuum of literacy success in schools and districts.

“I am grateful to be selected this award on behalf of all the literacy work we are doing in San Diego and across the state,” said Baker. “To be recognized among our peers from across the country is amazing and a testament to our collective efforts to make literacy accessible and equitable for all students.”

With more than 25 years of experience promoting innovation and equity in education, Baker currently oversees curriculum and instruction initiatives at SDCOE. In this role, she collaborates with school districts to implement high-quality instructional practices, drive continuous improvement, and create equitable learning opportunities for all students. Her leadership has been instrumental in shaping effective teaching strategies and promoting literacy excellence on a wide scale.

A recognized authority in curriculum development, Baker has spearheaded the creation of standards-aligned instructional materials, the implementation of standards-based report cards, and the delivery of professional learning programs designed to enhance teaching effectiveness. She has led district-wide literacy initiatives and facilitated instructional walkthroughs to identify areas of growth and success. Baker also guides school districts in developing and implementing Local Control and Accountability Plans and Differentiated Assistance programs, ensuring that strategic educational goals align with measurable outcomes.

Her work extends beyond SDCOE through partnerships with key educational organizations, including the California Collaborative for Educational Excellence and Saint Mary’s College Comprehensive Literacy Center. 

Her dedication to literacy extends beyond recognition and awards—Baker’s work is rooted in a genuine passion for helping educators refine their craft and ensuring that students receive the support they need to become proficient, confident readers. By fostering collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and targeted interventions, Baker has played a pivotal role in closing literacy gaps and creating brighter futures for countless students across California.

Baker’s academic background includes a doctorate in pre-K-12 educational leadership from California State University, Fullerton, as well as advanced degrees and credentials in reading education, leadership, and teaching from the University of San Diego and San Diego State University. Her professional journey includes roles as a literacy program director, site administrator, educational consultant, instructional coach, and teacher.