Lynwood Unified Deputy Superintendent of Educational Services Shawna Dinkins, Ed.D., has been recognized as the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) Region 14 Curriculum and Instruction Administrator of the Year, an award that honors exceptional leadership across 24 school districts, college districts and universities in Los Angeles County.
“Shawna Dinkins exemplifies the very best in educational leadership,” Lynwood Unified Superintendent Gudiel R. Crosthwaite, Ph.D., said. “Her vision, dedication and relentless pursuit of equity and excellence have profoundly transformed the District, and her impact resonates across our community.”
Dinkins’ unwavering commitment to student success and years of leadership have elevated Lynwood Unified to new heights, establishing it as a model for equity and excellence. Her achievements include:
- Vista High School was named a Model Continuation School; Cesar Chavez and Hosler Middle Schools were recognized as Schools to Watch.
- Expanded dual enrollment opportunities.
- Lynwood High School earned a spot on the College Board AP Honor Roll, with 70% of its Class of 2024 taking AP courses.
- Leading the first L.A. County school district where every school earned Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) recognition.
- Securing a $24.4 million grant to transform all schools into Community Schools.
- Establishing the African American Parent Advisory Council and Pacific Islander Advisory Councils.
- Increasing FAFSA completion rates by over 30%, with over 90% of eligible students attending college.
- Boosting Special Education and English Learner graduation rates by 6%.
- Launching the Lynwood Job Opportunities for Youth (LJOY) program to provide foster youth with career experience.
- Implementing a Social-Emotional Framework with dedicated specialists.
Lynwood Unified is dedicated to recognizing leaders who create meaningful opportunities for students and families. Through her leadership, Dinkins has made a lasting impact, ensuring every student has the support and resources to succeed. She will be recognized during the ACSA Administrator Awards Dinner on May 1.