Last week, Rockingham County Public Schools (RCPS) librarians were at the Virginia Association of School Librarians' (VAASL) annual conference, earning prestigious honors and sharing their expertise.
Jessica Kitta, the librarian at Elkton Middle School, was recognized as one of Virginia's seven Regional Librarians of the Year. VAASL noted Kitta's exemplary dedication, creativity, professional knowledge, and commitment to her students.
River Bend Elementary School (RBES) was honored at the elementary level as the Virginia Library Program of the Year. VAASL recognized RBES librarian Margaret Alger's leadership, innovation, professionalism, and impactful work statewide.
In addition to individual honors, RCPS librarians took on critical roles in shaping the conference. From John C. Myers and Lacey Spring Elementary Schools, Amy Simmers and Carlene Lantz were sworn in as Shenandoah Regional Directors, responsible for preparing the conference that offers professional development for 15 Virginia counties.
Turner Ashby High School librarian Tim Mumbauer provided conference leadership as the technology director. At the same time, Jessica Kitta, Margaret Alger, and Mary Sonifrank were selected to present concurrent sessions, sharing their expertise with librarians from across the Commonwealth.
The support of a valued community partner, Green Valley Book Fair, highlighted the RCPS contingent's achievements. As a Platinum Sponsor of the VAASL Conference, Green Valley Book Fair demonstrated its commitment to celebrating reading and supporting local educators.
"We are thrilled to see our RCPS librarians receiving the recognition they deserve," said Kimber Tate, Language Arts/Libraries Supervisor for Rockingham County Public Schools. "Their dedication, innovation, and leadership are truly inspiring, and we are proud to have them representing our school division at the state level."
The VAASL Conference provided a platform for RCPS librarians to shine, showcasing the exceptional work happening in school libraries throughout Rockingham County. Celebrating their achievements underscores librarians' vital role in fostering student success and a love of learning.
