Shantel Dixon’s deep understanding of AVID is grounded in lived experience—having been an AVID student, tutor, teacher, site coordinator, site administrator, and Staff Developer. This comprehensive journey has shaped a holistic perspective on AVID’s mission to close opportunity gaps and elevate both student voice and potential. Her career in education spans Pre-K through 12th grade, where she has served as both a teacher and administrator, bringing extensive experience in instructional leadership, school systems development, and the integration of AVID structures across campuses. She has supported schools in sustaining AVID practices, guiding transitions to full implementation, and leading initiatives that strengthen professional learning systems and amplify student voice.

Shantel holds a Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education and English from New Mexico State University, a Master’s in Educational Leadership and Administration from the University of New Mexico, and a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from New Mexico Highlands University. She is currently a Ph.D. candidate in Curriculum and Instruction at New Mexico State University and a Golden Apple Educators Fellow for the state of New Mexico. Shantel is driven by a deep commitment to equity and sustainability in education and believes in the power of educators to change lives and create lasting impact in their communities. 

Shantel Dixon

SPECIAL ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT AND CEO