Congratulations Rachael Fryman, December Rosen Publishing Ohio School Librarian of the Month!

Congratulations, Rachael Fryman, school library media specialist at Edgewood Middle School, Edgewood City Schools (Trenton). Rachael is the Rosen Publishing Ohio School Librarian of the Month - December.

Rachael’s project is a student and staff “Readerboard.”  Students and staff can earn points by reviewing books, completing reading logs (20 minutes a day), completing reading Quests (40 Book Quest, Alan Gratz Quest, Amulet Quest, etc.), and participating in other activities held in the library (NaNoWrimo for November).  The top 10 students and top teachers get various privileges and prizes throughout the quarter such as first pick of new books, special, invitations to events (upcoming: Library Bingo in December), free books, and student’s favorite: candy.

The goal with the Readerboard was to increase library usage and engagement among students and staff members. Rachael hoped to see increased checkout numbers, more conversations about books between students and also between students and staff members, and she wanted to share student successes in reading and writing.

By the end of November, circulation numbers doubled from the previous year.  Edgewood Middle School’s library walls are covered with book reviews from staff and students which has also helped readers find new books to try out themselves.  The literacy committee at EMS has added the Readerboard program to the list of official activities that our school would like to continue to do to support literacy building with students.

Assistant Principal Josh Stapleton enjoys the reviews hanging up around the space and the growth of activity in the library from individual student and classroom visits.  “Anecdotally,” says Rachael, “I’ve seen a huge growth with students wanting to discuss books with me and other staff members, wanting to recommend books to their classmates and teachers, and students sharing their creativity with me to display in the library.”

The Rosen Publishing Ohio School Librarian of the Month recognizes one school librarian a month who designs, develops, and implements a collaborative lesson plan and/or programming that empowers student learning. This award spotlights the importance of both the school library community and librarian and the pivotal role each plays in transforming learning throughout students’ K-12 education.

Consider nominating yourself or another OELMA Library Media Specialist to be considered for Rosen Ohio School Librarian of the month!  The Rosen award nomination form can be accessedunder the Professional Recognition tab. Contact Susan Yutzey (oelma.awards@gmail.com) with any questions.

Congratulations Rachael!