School Library Journal (SLJ) and Scholastic are excited to announce the 2024 School Librarian of the Year winner and finalists. Each year, the School Librarian of the Year Award honors the work of K–12 library professionals, recognizing them for outstanding achievement and the exemplary use of 21st-century tools to engage students toward fostering multiple literacies.
The 2024 winner and finalists are:
- Winner: Amanda Chacon, HM Carroll Elementary School, Houston, TX
- Finalists: Jessie Lynn Storrs, El Centro Jr./Sr. High School, Sacramento Youth Detention Facility, Sacramento, CA; Tamara Cox, Wren High School, Piedmont, SC
These educators come from vastly different backgrounds, but have one key characteristic in common: a steadfast passion for bringing a love of learning and literature to their students. Amanda, Jessie, and Tamara have made their respective school libraries a joyful place for students and staff alike. They foster a strong sense of community and ensure diverse book collections are available so each and every student can see themselves reflected within the pages.
This year’s submissions were judged by Julie Stivers, the 2023 School Librarian of the Year, and Dr. Kevin M. Washburn, Director, Library Programs, DC Public Schools; a Scholastic representative; and SLJ editors.
“At SLJ, we look forward to honoring exemplary educators with the School Librarian of the Year Award, who roll up their sleeves and tackle the crucially important work each day of instilling a love of learning and literacy in the next generation,” Kathy Ishizuka, Editor in Chief, SLJ said. “Amanda Chacon, Jessie Lynn Storrs, and Tamara Cox are shining examples of the type of strong leadership and creativity needed in school libraries these days to engage kids of all ages in their classrooms and communities.”
Keep reading to learn more about Amanda, Jessie, and Tamara!