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VAASL 2024 Annual Conference
                                                                                                       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

Literature and Primary Sources: The Perfect Pairing for Student Learning
Thursday November 7, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am EST
Tidewater AB
Based on our book, "Literature and Primary Sources: The Perfect Pairing for Student Learning" we will explore ways for librarians to pair literature with primary sources in the library or in collaboration with language arts, English, and ELL classes. We will include ideas for selecting literature as well as finding and choosing primary sources.
Speakers
avatar for Rebecca Newland

Rebecca Newland

Librarian, Oakton High School
I spent the 2013-14 and 2014-15 school years as the Teacher in Residence at the Library of Congress. Before that I was a middle school librarian in Virginia Beach City Public Schools. I am currently a librarian at Oakton High School in the Fairfax County Public Schools.
avatar for Tom Bober

Tom Bober

Librarian-Author Keynote
Tom Bober is a school librarian at Captain Elementary in St. Louis, MO. He is a Library Journal Mover and Shaker, former Teacher in Residence at the Library of Congress, and author of the books Building News Literacy, Elementary Educator's Guide to Primary Sources, as well as his... Read More →
Thursday November 7, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am EST
Tidewater AB
  Instruction   Literature

10:00am EST

Meet the Authors - Elementary
Thursday November 7, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am EST
Tidewater CD
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
  Instruction   Literature   Programming

10:00am EST

Passive Programming = Massive Engagement
Thursday November 7, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am EST
Piedmont A
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 →
avatar for Jessica Kitta
Thursday November 7, 2024 10:00am - 10:45am EST
Piedmont A
  Programming

11:00am EST

Telling Your Story
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Allegheny AB
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
  Collection Development   Instruction   Literature

11:00am EST

New Choices for Virginia Libraries: New Circulation System, Fundraising Options, and More with Mackin!
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Piedmont B
No matter what your school library goals and budget are, Mackin is here to support you! In this session, you’ll learn about a couple of brand-new options from Mackin. MackinVISION is our new, state-of-the art whole school-library management system. Come see an alternative to your current system with the tools and reporting your library needs without all the additional fees. We will also discuss Love My Library, a new fund-raising option where 100% of the funds raised benefit your school community. Bob and Todd will also answer any Mackin questions you may have.
Speakers
avatar for Todd Harold

Todd Harold

Mackin
For over 37 years, Mackin has provided library and classroom materials for grades PK-12. Known the world over for exemplary service and a stringent attention to detail, we have access to over 18,000 publishers and an available collection of more than 3 million printed titles.The development... Read More →
avatar for Bob Stapf

Bob Stapf

Educational Sales Consultant, Mackin
For over 40 years, Mackin has provided PK-12 libraries and classrooms with access to over 4.2 million print and digital titles. The 23-time, multi-award-winning digital content management system, MackinVIA, along with divisions Mackin Classroom, MackinMaker, Mackin Learning, and the... Read More →
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Piedmont B
  Collection Development   Literature   Programming

11:00am EST

Chronicles of a Rookie Librarian: Lessons Learned in Year One
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Patriot AB
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
avatar for Sarah Kindler
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Patriot AB
  Instruction   Professional Growth   Programming

11:00am EST

Easy Advocacy for Elementary Librarians
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Tidewater CD
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!
HG
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Tidewater CD
  Instruction   Programming

11:00am EST

All About Podcasting!
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Piedmont C
Learn how to bring podcasting to your school as we share about equipment, funding, publishing, and marketing. We will teach you to use podcasting to promote your library, build relationships in your school community, and collaborate with colleagues from all departments. This session is for new and experienced podcasters!
Speakers
avatar for Jenna Lombardo

Jenna Lombardo

Librarian, Lightridge High School, Loudoun County Public Schools
I am one of two librarians in a large suburban high school serving approximately 2,100 students.  I believe the most powerful thing we can do is share and recognize each other's stories.  I'm naturally introverted, but will always - and happily - talk about books!  :)
avatar for Amy Ivory

Amy Ivory

Librarian
I am a high school librarian for LCPS at Lightridge High School in Aldie, VA. I opened Lightridge as a new building in Fall 2020. Previously I opened Colgan High School in PWCS in 2016 and worked at Parkside Middle. In 2018 I earned my National Board Teacher Certification and renewed... Read More →
JS
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Piedmont C
  Technology

12:00pm EST

Telling the Library Story with Topics and Trends
Thursday November 7, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Colony DE
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
  Collection Development   Instruction   Professional Growth   Technology

1:00pm EST

Diverse Literature: VA READS in the Library
Thursday November 7, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Piedmont B
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
  Collection Development   Instruction   Literature

1:00pm EST

Transforming Your Library for Any Budget
Thursday November 7, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Tidewater AB
Ready to update your space, but unsure of where to start? Want to connect with stakeholders to make data driven decisions? Feeling daunted by the work and cost? Come to this interactive session to gather ideas, get a toolkit for feedback and planning and connect with other librarians working through similar challenges!
Speakers
avatar for Lisa Koch

Lisa Koch

Librarian, Lee High School, Fairfax County Public Schools
I am enthusiastically curious and love going on inquiry journeys with my students. Before discovering my passion for students and school libraries I worked in archives and special collections. Now, I happily work as a librarian at Lee High School in Springfield, VA. In 2018... Read More →
SP
Thursday November 7, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Tidewater AB
  Collection Development   Programming   Technology

1:00pm EST

Our Story in Code
Thursday November 7, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Liberty AB
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
  Instruction   Literature   Technology

1:00pm EST

Designing Learning for Adults: The Elements of Effective Professional Development
Thursday November 7, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Piedmont C
Want to provide effective professional development for the staff in your school? Interested in presenting at a conference but wonder how to convey your experience to colleagues? Come to this session to learn the tenets of adult learning theory and some practical ideas to make your PD lasting and effective.
Speakers
avatar for Stacy Gilbert

Stacy Gilbert

Librarian, Hayfield Secondary School
I am a middle- and high-school librarian (grades 7-12) in Fairfax County who previously taught secondary math. Find me to talk about: library services to underserved groups and content areas, makerspaces, books for teens, LGBTQ+ joy, 90s teen movies, that time I babysat Miley Cyrus... Read More →
Thursday November 7, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Piedmont C
  Instruction   Professional Growth

2:30pm EST

Dynamic Diverse Books for Your Library
Thursday November 7, 2024 2:30pm - 3:15pm EST
Tidewater CD
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
  Collection Development   Literature

2:30pm EST

Game Changers for the Elementary Library
Thursday November 7, 2024 2:30pm - 3:15pm EST
Allegheny C
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 →
MT
Thursday November 7, 2024 2:30pm - 3:15pm EST
Allegheny C
  Instruction   Programming

2:30pm EST

Simple Ways to Promote Reading Everyday
Thursday November 7, 2024 2:30pm - 3:15pm EST
Piedmont B
As librarians, one of our most important jobs is to promote a love of reading. In this session, we will discuss a variety of simple and effective ways that you can promote reading in your library. We will also learn ideas that you can share with your teachers to encourage them to promote a love of reading with their individual students. Please bring your devices (BYOD) so we can explore some links and websites.
Speakers
LT
Thursday November 7, 2024 2:30pm - 3:15pm EST
Piedmont B
  Instruction   Programming

2:30pm EST

Club Connections
Thursday November 7, 2024 2:30pm - 3:15pm EST
Liberty AB
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
  Programming
 
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