2025 Leadership Award Recipient | Shannon Peterson

Shannon has built collaborative structures that empower staff and elevate leadership throughout their school buildings. As a co-founder of the school in 2004, and having asked: “How hard could it be to start a charter school?” Shannon has shaped LILA into a thriving, multilingual IB World School for pre-K through high school students. Her bold, student-centered leadership has propelled LILA forward, and they now boast a 95% graduation rate, have received national and state awards recognition, and most graduates complete their education at LILA with bilingual seals. Shannon’s vision for LILA has united the community around a shared mission and supportive workplace culture. Her partnership with LILA’s board is rooted in trust, shared values, and a strategic vision. With their authorizer, Shannon ensures professional, mission-aligned governance where each meeting reflects LILA’s commitment toward excellence and belonging. She empowers her staff through PLCs, mentorship programs, and creating strategic roles that support professional growth. Shannon’s successful grant writing and work on LILA’s Quality Compensation Program have provided meaningful support and has boosted retention. With nearly half of LILA’s staff now of BIPOC or international backgrounds, the school is a genuine reflection of Shannon’s commitment to building an inclusive, globally-minded community. And – as many in Minnesota's chartered public school sector know – Shannon is a tenacious advocate for chartered public schools in Minnesota, having facilitated over 40 legislator visits thanks to the LILA Advocates group, which she created.

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