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VAASL 2024 Annual Conference
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                                                                                                       Welcome to the VAASL 2024 Fall Conference App! 
                                                                                       Telling Our Story through an incredible program of sessions and events.

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Thursday, November 7
 

10:00am EST

Empowering Growth: Bridging High School and Middle School Libraries
Thursday November 7, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am EST
This session explores strategies for seamless vertical alignment, enhancing student literacy, research skills, and a love for reading. This session delves into collaborative approaches, shared resources, and curriculum integration, fostering a cohesive learning journey from middle to high school.
Speakers
avatar for Beth Ebenstein Mulch

Beth Ebenstein Mulch

Librarian, Alexandria City High School Library
@KingSt_Library
avatar for Khris Hutson

Khris Hutson

Library Media Specialist, Alexandria City Public Schools
I am a library media specialist at Francis C. Hammond Middle School in Alexandria, VA.  I was fortunate enough to trade one best job in the world (middle school ELA teacher) for this best job in the world.  My areas of focus include shenanigans and attracting new and reluctant readers... Read More →
Thursday November 7, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am EST
Liberty AB

10:00am EST

Unlocking Student Voice Through Poetry and Play
Thursday November 7, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am EST
Poetry can feel intimidating to students, yet it's the perfect medium to express their feelings. The key is getting over the fear of the blank page. Hear about how we've used found poetry and other text manipulatives in a workshop setting to get students writing, and loving, poetry.
Speakers
avatar for Jeannine Everett

Jeannine Everett

Librarian, LCPS
I'm a middle school librarian who loves "we can't do this, can we?" ideas. WeVideo Education Ambassador, Newsela Certified Educator and Future Ready Librarian. I'm passionate about media and news literacy, building student research skills and using technology tools to foster student... Read More →
Thursday November 7, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am EST
Allegheny AB

10:00am EST

Reading Makes Cents: Featuring STEM Focused Library Lessons
Thursday November 7, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am EST
Reading Makes Cents is a K-8 financial literacy program sponsored by VA529 and the Virginia Council on Economic Education that provides free books and student recognition. New titles include “Water Day”, “Pa, Me, and Our Sidewalk Pantry”, and “The Fabulous Fannie Farmer.” Featuring lesson plans, an annotated bibliography, and door prizes.
Speakers
avatar for Lynne Stover

Lynne Stover

Teacher Consultant, JMU Center for Economic Education
Lynne Farrell Stover is currently a Teacher Consultant at the James Madison University Center for Economic Education.  Prior to this, she spent thirty-three years in public education where she enjoyed various teaching assignments including classroom teacher, gifted education specialist... Read More →
Thursday November 7, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am EST
Piedmont C

10:00am EST

Meet the Authors - Elementary
Thursday November 7, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am EST
Ten Virginia and DC Authors who write for Elementary Readers will present information about their Author Visits and answer questions. One participant will win a free virtual author visit from one of the presenting authors.
Speakers
avatar for Laura Murray

Laura Murray

Author
I am very excited to be connecting with the wonderful librarians at VAASL this year! I am the author of the VRC award-winning – THE GINGERBREAD MAN LOOSE IN THE SCHOOL picture book series and the BRAND NEW GINGERBREAD MAN GRAPHIC NOVELS for YOUNG READERS series. The Gingerbread... Read More →
avatar for Tracey Kyle

Tracey Kyle

Picture Book Author
Tracey Kyle is the author of six rhyming picture books, including PEPE AND THE PARADE and THE LUCKY GRAPES: A NEW YEAR'S EVE STORY.  She taught Spanish for 30 years at the secondary level and enjoys sharing her love of the Spanish language and culture with kids. Her next book, PEPE... Read More →
avatar for Laura Renauld

Laura Renauld

Children's Author
avatar for Debra Shumaker

Debra Shumaker

Author, MidAtlantic SCBWI
I write fiction and nonfiction picture books with both heart and humor. Two of my books, FREAKY, FUNKY FISH: ODD FACTS ABOUT FASCINATING FISH and PECULIAR PRIMATES: FASCINATING FACTS ABOUT THESE CURIOUS CREATURES are rhyming nonfiction with lots of back matter. They are published... Read More →
avatar for Cynthia Cliff

Cynthia Cliff

Author/Illustrator, SCBWI Mid-Atlantic
I am a self-taught illustrator and author who grew up in a tiny historic village in rural Virginia surrounded by farms and woodlands. This upbringing provided me with a love of history, nature, and folklore—themes that find their way into my whimsical, folk-art inspired story telling... Read More →
avatar for Alyssa Colman

Alyssa Colman

Author
Alyssa Colman is the author of Where Only Storms Grow (2025), The Tarnished Garden, and The Gilded Girl, which won the 2021 Northern Lights Book Award for middle grade fantasy and was a Bank Street Best Book of the Year. Publishers Weekly called the story “a thoughtful and imaginative... Read More →
avatar for Dionna Mann

Dionna Mann

Author, SCBWI
Salutations!My name is Dionna L. Mann. I'm an independent researcher and children’s book author who loves uncovering inspiring human-interest stories hidden within African American history. As a work for hire author, I've written 20 children's books, both fiction and nonfiction... Read More →
avatar for Leah Moser

Leah Moser

Author
Leah Moser is a children’s book author living in Northern Virginia. With degrees in Elementary Education and Psychology, Leah has spent years as a classroom teacher. She loves sharing her passion for picture books with her husband, three daughters, dog, and readers of all ages... Read More →
avatar for Kim Norman

Kim Norman

With nearly 20 years experience, Kim Norman has spoken to more than a quarter of a million students across the U.S. all of whom now know that dogs are her favorite pets. She’s the author of more than 20 children's books published by Penguin/RandomHouse, Macmillan, Candlewick, Scholastic... Read More →
avatar for Erica Perl

Erica Perl

Author, Erica S. Perl
I am the author of more than forty books for young readers, including middle grade novels (White Bird: A Novel, with R.J. Palacio), picture books (How Carrot Met Cookie, The Three Little Guinea Pigs), chapter books (Craftily Ever After series, Arnold and Louise series), and early... Read More →
Thursday November 7, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am EST
Tidewater CD

10:00am EST

Free Place-based, Experiential PD!
Thursday November 7, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am EST
Each summer, the National Endowment for the Humanities offers one-week workshops held across the country on different historical topics. The Landmarks of American History & Culture workshops focus on “place-based” approaches to teaching history and the humanities. They offer a stipend to cover travel, food, and lodging. Come hear about my experiences in New York, Chicago, LA, Boston, Philadelphia, the Mississippi Delta and more. Get ready to prep for applying for workshops that will take place in the summer of 2025!
Speakers
avatar for Jen Spisak

Jen Spisak

Assistant Professor, LONGWOOD UNIVERSITY
Jen Spisak, a school librarian from 2004-2016, received a Ph.D. in Educational Research & Evaluation from Virginia Commonwealth University. She is an Associate Professor of School Librarianship at Longwood University. She has published two books and multiple articles in professional... Read More →
Thursday November 7, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am EST
Piedmont B

10:00am EST

Passive Programming = Massive Engagement
Thursday November 7, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am EST
This interactive session is designed to inspire and equip school librarians with innovative ideas to foster student engagement within the library space. We’ll aim to showcase a variety of activities that can be seamlessly integrated into the school library, creating an inviting and stimulating environment for students. You will leave this session with templates to make many of these programs unique to your library space, and activities that will encourage participation amongst even the most reluctant readers. BYOD
Speakers
avatar for Mary Sonifrank

Mary Sonifrank

Librarian, J. Frank Hillyard Middle School
This is my twenty-sixth year of teaching and my tenth year as a middle school librarian. Before becoming a librarian I was a special education teacher for seventeen years. I love inspiring the love of reading and making students feel accepted in a safe place. I am passionate about... Read More →
Thursday November 7, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am EST
Piedmont A

11:00am EST

Telling Your Story
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Award-winning author Larry Issa, a Virginia native, shares his insights on self-expression and indie publishing, highlighting the innovative picture books he's crafting. Discover how his engaging author visits, and interactive classroom activities, bring his stories to life, inspiring young minds and fostering creativity.
Speakers
avatar for Larry Issa

Larry Issa

Author/Book Designer, Get Back in the Book!
This extraordinary tale, written by Larry Issa, features stunning illustrations by Emma Chadwick. More than transporting young readers to faraway places, Get Back in the Book! shows them the powerful and positive impact of books and storytelling.Come say hello to Larry Issa, a multi... Read More →
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Allegheny AB

11:00am EST

Science Review Rotation Stations
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Learn how two librarians, one department head, three science teachers and an instructional aide worked together to review and remediate over 300 students before each unit test and the SOL. The focus will be on the review stations created by the librarians, and participants will win prizes!

Speakers
avatar for Angela Smith

Angela Smith

Librarian, HCPS
avatar for Adrienne Coffey

Adrienne Coffey

Librarian, HCPS
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Piedmont A

11:00am EST

Chronicles of a Rookie Librarian: Lessons Learned in Year One
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Being a first year librarian can be exciting and overwhelming! One elementary and one high school librarian will recount their first year in the library, what they wish they knew, and what they are glad to know now. Walk away with ideas and strategies for navigating your first year in the library.
Speakers
avatar for Sara Kauffman

Sara Kauffman

Librarian, Loudoun County Public Schools
Elementary Librarian in Loudoun County
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Patriot AB

11:00am EST

Easy Advocacy for Elementary Librarians
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Already overwhelmed by all the roles a librarian has to fill and think you never have time for advocacy? Think again! Easy Advocacy for Elementary Librarians will leave you feeling empowered and with easy, integrated ideas you can begin in your libraries next week!
Speakers
MB

Michelle Bergstresser

School Librarian, Albemarle County Public Schools
I'm an elementary school librarian at a beautifully diverse dual immersion (Spanish & English) Title I school. Let's chat about diverse books, easy advocacy, and positive relationship as the key to your library being the heart of your school!
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Tidewater CD

11:00am EST

AI Tools for Librarians, Teachers, and Students
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
This session will include a variety of AI driven tools and strategies.
Speakers
avatar for IdaMae Craddock

IdaMae Craddock

Librarian, Albemarle County Public Schools
Mae Craddock is the librarian at the Lab School for Albemarle County Public Schools.  Her research interests include AI, maker pedagogy, and source reliability. 
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Colony ABC

11:00am EST

When Creativity Met Collaboration
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
The author and illustrator of The When Pencil Met series will hold a session about creativity and collaboration, discussing the creation process behind When Pencil Met Eraser, When Pencil Met the Markers, and When Glitter Met Glue. They will also share some fun activities and lessons that extend the themes of the books to the library and classroom!
Speakers
avatar for Germán Blanco

Germán Blanco

Germán Blanco is a self-taught illustrator/graphic designer who resides in South Florida. As a child, he always enjoyed doodling, which he didn't know could eventually turn into a career. His work has a fun and quirky style derived from years of watching cartoons and reading comic... Read More →
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Allegheny C

12:00pm EST

Telling the Library Story with Topics and Trends
Thursday November 7, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
During this fast-paced, information-filled session we will unpack ten current trends in school librarianship including from building relationships to community engagement to futurecasting to librarians as digital leaders. For each trend we’ll explore at least three resources—journal articles, videos, podcasts, etc.
Speakers
avatar for Audrey Church

Audrey Church

Professor of School Librarianship, LONGWOOD UNIVERSITY
Dr. Audrey Church is Professor of School Librarianship and Chair of the Department of Education and Counseling at Longwood University. Prior to coming to Longwood, she worked as a primary school and high school librarian in Virginia public schools for 20 years.  A frequent presenter... Read More →
Thursday November 7, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Colony DE

12:00pm EST

How Can Your Librarian Help You
Thursday November 7, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
In this fast-paced session, we will discuss specific ways that librarians can help teachers and students with curriculum resources (Ex. Resource Lists, Websites, Activity ideas), and will demonstrate how a teacher and a librarian collaborate to develop lessons. Finally, we will have designated Q&A time with time to discuss how this can look different or be modified for all libraries. BYOD
Speakers
avatar for Jen Smith

Jen Smith

Teacher, William Monroe High School
I dabbled in law and school administration before making my way to a classroom.  I have now been teaching at William Monroe High School for around 20 years.  Over that time, I have taught a variety of social science courses and levels of said classes from small group special education... Read More →
Thursday November 7, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Tidewater AB

12:00pm EST

Elemental Cross-Curricular Connections: Overlapping Lesson Music and Children's Literature
Thursday November 7, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Come to hear a veteran music teacher who is an Orff-Schulwerk specialist and a librarian who is a former classroom teacher, share the myriad ways that children's literature and music lesson an and should overlap to enhance student understanding in multiple content areas. Participants will leave with specific lesson idea, books lists, and activities to take back to their learning spaces.
Speakers
avatar for Michelle O'Hara

Michelle O'Hara

Lower School Teaching Librarian, The Potomac School
I am an elementary school librarian, former classroom teacher, and lover of all things cozy, reading-related, and dark chocolaty.
Thursday November 7, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Allegheny AB

12:00pm EST

Creating Collaboration
Thursday November 7, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Today’s school libraries are for more than just English classes. But how to get those other departments into your library? Collaboration! By communicating with all departments and collaborating on curriculum-based lessons, you will see your library grow to be the heart and hub of your school. (BYOD)
Speakers
RS

Rebecca Sharpley

Librarian, Louisa County Public Schools
Thursday November 7, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Allegheny C

12:00pm EST

Rural School Library Advocacy
Thursday November 7, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Small districts can be wonderful places of close knit communities, but it can also be a place where advocacy can be put on the back burner. Explore ways to make engaging videos and community outreach projects to have your voices heard and show all the hard work you do in your rural library! 
Speakers
avatar for Emily Preuss-Anderson

Emily Preuss-Anderson

School Librarian/ITRT
Thursday November 7, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Piedmont C

12:00pm EST

Interactive Timelines: Merging Research Skills with Artistic Expression
Thursday November 7, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Transform student research into a dynamic showcase! This cross-curricular timeline project integrates research, language arts, social studies, art, and technology. Learn how to guide students in developing research skills, crafting informative slideshows, and creating artistic portraits. Showcase their work on a hallway timeline with QR codes for interactive exploration the whole school can enjoy! Perfect for meeting standards while fostering creativity!
Speakers
avatar for Maria Lamb

Maria Lamb

Library Media Specialist, Christopher Farms ES
avatar for Erin Nye

Erin Nye

Library Media Specialist, KINGSTON ELEMENTARY
Library Media Specialist at Kingston ES
Thursday November 7, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Liberty AB

12:00pm EST

Middle School Collaboration
Thursday November 7, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
James Region Librarian of the Year, Crystal Hamlin, shares her favorite collaborative lessons from middle school. This session includes 13 ready to go lessons for Math, Science, History, English, Spanish, and Art. Will feature use of Book Creator, Google My Maps, Amazon Future Engineers, Canva, and plenty of makerspace goodness!

Canva presentation link
Speakers
avatar for Crystal Hamlin

Crystal Hamlin

MS/US Librarian, Steward school
Thursday November 7, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Piedmont B

12:00pm EST

Blank Brain? AI to the Rescue! (Utilizing AI as an Elementary Librarian)
Thursday November 7, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Are you navigating the complexities of using AI as a Librarian? Get a practical guide to understanding and integrating AI in your work. Explore how to leverage AI tools to enhance teacher efficacy, save valuable time and prevent teacher burnout, all while reducing your anxiety about this new technology. We will explore the basics of ChatGPT, Magic School AI, Diffit and Gemini. (BYOD)
Speakers
avatar for Jacquelyn McGuire-Day

Jacquelyn McGuire-Day

Library Media Specialist, VBCPS
avatar for Erin Berens

Erin Berens

Library Media Specialist, Virginia Beach City Public Schools
Thursday November 7, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Tidewater CD

1:00pm EST

Diverse Literature: VA READS in the Library
Thursday November 7, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Come explore VA READS. Learn about our diverse picture books while we share activity suggestions and provide recommended book pairings. You will walk away ready to share these books with your K-6 students.

Speakers
avatar for Ami Schroder

Ami Schroder

Librarian, Fairfax County Public Schools
In addition to being a school librarian, I am the co-founder of VA READS and love to talk about diverse books for all ages!#VAREADSTwitter: @anilawc Insta: schroderrific
avatar for Amy Hurley

Amy Hurley

Librarian, Fairfax County Public Schools
I have been a librarian in Fairfax County for ten years. I am currently the chair of the VA READS picture book committee. Insta: librarylitlady
Thursday November 7, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Piedmont B

1:00pm EST

A Book for Every Reader: How One District Succeeds with Digital
Thursday November 7, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Learn everything you didn’t know you needed to know about district-wide implementation of a digital reading platform. From curating content to managing budget, training staff and promoting across the district, you’ll get an inside look at successful strategies to get students reading ebooks and audiobooks at every grade level.
Speakers
avatar for Amy Hailey

Amy Hailey

Supervisor, Arlington Public Schools
avatar for Jody Brookshire

Jody Brookshire

Strategic Account Executive, Sora
Jody Brookshire is a dedicated e-learning and digital content Educational Account Executive with more than 23 years in the industry. Her background includes supporting districts with digital content, 21st Century technology initiatives, STEM & Robotics, and full implementation of... Read More →
Thursday November 7, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Patriot AB

1:00pm EST

Our Story in Code
Thursday November 7, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
This session will focus on how Librarian Jamie Symons and Katie Novinger Instructional Technology Specialist collaborate to bring coding and computer science alive in the Elementary School Library. They will share their story and model and give participants a hands-on opportunity to explore the tools and resources they use with students.
Speakers
avatar for Jamie Symons

Jamie Symons

Librarian, Manassas City Public Schools
avatar for Katie Novinger

Katie Novinger

Instructional Technology Specialist, Manassas City Public Schools
This is my third year serving as the Instructional Technology Training Specialist (ITTS) for Round Elementary School.  Prior to transitioning into my current role, I spent eight years as a classroom teacher.  I'm passionate about incorporating coding and computer science into the... Read More →
Thursday November 7, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Liberty AB

1:00pm EST

Championing Computer Science in the Library: Practical Integration Strategies
Thursday November 7, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
As the demand for computer science (CS) skills grows, integrating CS into core content areas becomes increasingly essential. This session will provide practical strategies, tools, and lessons for school librarians to support CS integration into their programs, and how to incorporate computational thinking, coding, and interactive storytelling. The session will include hands-on activities with platforms like Scratch and Twine, lesson plans, learning resources, and collaborative discussions.
Speakers
avatar for Tiffany Cobbs

Tiffany Cobbs

Facilitator, CodeVA
Tiffany Cobbs has served as an educator since 2010 and has a passion for computer science, digital citizenship, and STEM. Currently, she is a Learning Designer for AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination), creating and facilitating professional learning opportunities for educators... Read More →

Thursday November 7, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Allegheny AB

2:30pm EST

Dynamic Diverse Books for Your Library
Thursday November 7, 2024 2:30pm - 3:15pm EST
Step into the world of diverse books with the founders of VA READS! Join us and walk away with a wish list of over 75 book titles! We will share all the amazing diverse middle grade (upper elementary and middle school) titles we read over the past year. We'll share our faves as well as those that miss the mark.
Speakers
avatar for Ami Schroder

Ami Schroder

Librarian, Fairfax County Public Schools
In addition to being a school librarian, I am the co-founder of VA READS and love to talk about diverse books for all ages!#VAREADSTwitter: @anilawc Insta: schroderrific
avatar for Katie Bruechert

Katie Bruechert

Middle School Librarian, Fairfax County Public Schools-Thoreau Middle
I have twenty-three years of experience as an educator, including twelve years as an elementary school librarian. Currently, I'm in my second year as a middle school librarian. I've served on the 2024 John Newbery Award Committee, co-founded VAREADS, and I'm currently the VAREADS... Read More →
Thursday November 7, 2024 2:30pm - 3:15pm EST
Tidewater CD

2:30pm EST

Everyone Belongs @ Our Book Club (Teachers Too!)
Thursday November 7, 2024 2:30pm - 3:15pm EST
Our book clubs (both student & staff clubs) have been continuously improving over the last decade+ and we would love to share our strategies with you! Please come to the session to learn about forming a student and/or staff book club AND get new ideas to increase participation, acquire books and engage your readers!
Speakers
avatar for Kristi Patton

Kristi Patton

LMS
Technology loving Library Media Specialist, enthusiastic learner
Thursday November 7, 2024 2:30pm - 3:15pm EST
Piedmont C

2:30pm EST

Game Changers for the Elementary Library
Thursday November 7, 2024 2:30pm - 3:15pm EST
Working daily to create the best library program that supports students, staff, and caregivers? Dynamic programming is Active, Beneficial, Captivating...Xhausting! Join together to discuss these ABC's of an exciting library along with game changing strategies and methods to keep stakeholders engaged. Examples and ideas from our elementary school program will be presented with opportunities for experienced colleagues to share successful ideas.
Speakers
avatar for Margaret Alger

Margaret Alger

Librarian, River Bend Elementary
I am an elementary librarian who is involved in many things around the school besides teaching great students and finding wonderful books for them to read. My special interests are engaging books for kids, letting students have ownership of the library space, creating an exciting... Read More →
Thursday November 7, 2024 2:30pm - 3:15pm EST
Allegheny C

2:30pm EST

Club Connections
Thursday November 7, 2024 2:30pm - 3:15pm EST
I will share how before school clubs have impacted attendance at our school, how we have connected them to literacy, and also how to collaborate with teachers in new ways to share your passions with students!
Speakers
avatar for Amy Coward

Amy Coward

Librarian, Greenwood Elementary School
Thursday November 7, 2024 2:30pm - 3:15pm EST
Liberty AB
 
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