The week of April 4-10 was National School Library Week and the district is taking advantage of the opportunity to extend our appreciation to the library staff at each of our HP schools. Librarians contribute to the individual growth and development of each student in our district. They provide leadership and expertise to ensure that the library program is an integral part of the instructional program at each school.
As school librarians, this team of educators guide and encourage reading for every student while teaching the skills needed to locate information through traditional resources and new technologies as students learn critical research and problem-solving skills.
To help honor HP Librarians, we asked HPMS Librarian and incoming School Division Chair of the Texas Association of School Librarians Jill Bellomy a few questions about her role as a school librarian.
What made you decide to be a school librarian?
My favorite part of being a classroom teacher was sharing books with students and fostering a love for reading. I realized that as a librarian I would have the opportunity to work with all the students in the school and strive to create a reading culture throughout the campus. So, I went back to school to earn my Master’s in Library and Information Science. I have since worked as an elementary and middle school librarian for 15 years.
What does it mean to be a librarian?
A librarian is a teacher, a collaborator, a reading advocate, a learner, and an information specialist. A librarian also serves as the literacy leader on the campus and is key to building a reading and learning community. A librarian has the privilege of working with all the students and staff, building meaningful relationships and creating a safe space where all feel welcome. It is one of the best jobs in the world!
What makes HP Libraries so special?
We have an incredible team of librarians who collaborate to provide a strong district program. Our librarians are committed to creating safe, welcoming spaces and furthering literacies of all kinds. We are constantly learning, sharing, and striving to make our libraries the best they can be for HP students and teachers. During this pandemic, our librarians have gone above and beyond to continue to get books into the hands of kids and to keep them reading while striving to provide a safe, healthy environment. I am thankful to work with such talented, dedicated professionals.
The school librarians in Highland Park Independent School District are:
- Armstrong Elementary School – Lori Riley
- Boone Elementary School - Libby Walters
- Bradfield Elementary School - Amy Jent
- Hyer Elementary School – Shannon Lane
- University Park Elementary School – Maddie Wilkins
- McCulloch Intermediate School – Katherine Harrison
- Highland Park Middle School – Jill Bellomy
- Highland Park High School – Jenn Hampton and Liz Bode