Education News: Shanine Coats Takes the Helm as Executive Director of Sacramento County School of Education

Shanine Coats has been appointed the executive director of the School of Education for the Sacramento County Office of Education. In this role, she will oversee countywide initiatives dedicated to enhancing student achievement and supporting educator development.Coats succeeds Steve Windlock, who retired in late August, bringing over 25 years of educational experience to the position. "We are at a critical juncture regarding the needs of our students. It’s vital to first support our educators and leaders to meet these challenges," Coats remarked. "I am honored to engage in this meaningful work and committed to improving our educational system while addressing systemic barriers."After earning her degree from Sacramento State, Coats began as an elementary teacher at St. HOPE before moving to Westlake Charter School. She then served in various administrative roles, notably at the California Department of Education, where she worked on significant programs, including the California School Dashboard. Coats aims to enhance the mental behavioral health pipeline, introduce educational programs, and advocate for Black students' experiences in county schools. "This is a time to stand firm in designing an educational system that supports every student,” she emphasized.