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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.

High School clear filter
Wednesday, November 6
 

1:00pm EST

Best Books for High School
Wednesday November 6, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Want to hear about what's new? Learn about the titles getting all of the buzz in 2024, with a particular emphasis on audiobooks. A great narrator can make a great book even better!
Speakers
avatar for Allison Taylor

Allison Taylor

Librarian, LCPS
After working as an EL teacher ten years, Allison transitioned to the library in 2019. She graduated from GMU with a BA in Communication. She also holds an MEd in Secondary Education (ESL) from George Washington University and an MEd in School Librarianship from Longwood University... Read More →
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 →
Wednesday November 6, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Piedmont A

1:00pm EST

Critical Thinkers are Mini-Makers
Wednesday November 6, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Learn to utilize mini-maker projects with written story problems that require students to analyze a situation and decide on a solution. Then, each student creates the Mini-Maker solution with the provided materials. After completing the project, students reflect on the solution and project. BYOD for this hands-on session.
Speakers
avatar for Taryn Barlow

Taryn Barlow

Librarian, Chickahominy Middle School
Wednesday November 6, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Piedmont B

2:00pm EST

Using Picture Books to Enhance and Enrich the SSGS Curriculum
Wednesday November 6, 2024 2:00pm - 2:45pm EST
Librarians will learn about a collaboration between middle school library staff and 7th grade social studies teachers who explored different ways to use fiction and nonfiction picture books within daily social studies lessons. Librarians will walk away with a list of picture books and corresponding activities/lessons. Includes ideas for using picture books with all areas of secondary SSGS curriculum.
Speakers
avatar for Melissa Larson

Melissa Larson

Librarian, BRAMBLETON MIDDLE SCHOOL
Wednesday November 6, 2024 2:00pm - 2:45pm EST
Piedmont A

2:00pm EST

Curricular Connections with YALSA's 2024 Outstanding Books for the College Board
Wednesday November 6, 2024 2:00pm - 2:45pm EST
Explore how selections from YALSA's 2024 Outstanding Books for the College-Bound enrich curricular content. From literature to science to history and more, these books offer diverse perspectives and themes aligning with high school academic subjects. Presented by a member of the selection committee!
Speakers
avatar for Lisa Castellano

Lisa Castellano

School Librarian, Norfolk Collegiate Upper School
This is my 14th year as a school librarian. I worked 10.5 years as a public middle school librarian and am now a librarian for a grades 6-12 independent school.
Wednesday November 6, 2024 2:00pm - 2:45pm EST
Liberty AB

2:00pm EST

I Will Survive...the Weeding and Genrefying
Wednesday November 6, 2024 2:00pm - 2:45pm EST
Come learn how to weed your collection with the goal of genrefying by hearing our tales of what worked and what didn't. We will explore genrefying fiction and nonfiction sections and can be applied to all levels.
Speakers
avatar for Elyse DeQuoy

Elyse DeQuoy

School Librarian, James Wood High School
avatar for Melissa Payne

Melissa Payne

librarian, James Wood High School
Wednesday November 6, 2024 2:00pm - 2:45pm EST
Piedmont B

2:00pm EST

Powerful Programming and Resourceful Funding
Wednesday November 6, 2024 2:00pm - 2:45pm EST
Discover how to transform your library programming into something exceptional and, most importantly, learn effective strategies to secure funding for these programs.
Speakers
avatar for Desiree Hopkins

Desiree Hopkins

Librarian, Moody Middle School
Originally from San Francisco, I've lived most of my life in South Florida before I more to RVA with my husband and three kids almost 12 years ago. My favorite part of the day is reading or designing projects on the couch with my two Havanese dogs. I discovered my passion for 3D printing... Read More →
Wednesday November 6, 2024 2:00pm - 2:45pm EST
Tidewater C

3:00pm EST

Transform Learning Through Creativity with Adobe Express
Wednesday November 6, 2024 3:00pm - 3:45pm EST
Unleash student creativity in your library. Explore Adobe Express for Education, a free design platform for educators and students. Craft graphics, videows, presentations, and more. Discover cutting-edge AI tools and ways to integrate Adobe Express into your teaching. Boost engagement and learning. Leave with fresh ideas and the confidence to ignite your students' (and staff's) creative spark! BYOD
Speakers
avatar for Sherry Gick

Sherry Gick

Senior Director of Professional Development Programs, Five Star
Sherry is the Senior Director of Professional Development Programs for Five Star Technology Solutions. A former teacher-librarian and special education teacher with 20 years of experience with students K-12, she now enjoys working with educators across the nation on effective technology... Read More →
Wednesday November 6, 2024 3:00pm - 3:45pm EST
Piedmont C
 
Thursday, November 7
 

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

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

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

All About Podcasting!
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
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 →
Thursday November 7, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Piedmont C

12:00pm EST

100 (or more) NEW Books for Middle and High School Readers!
Thursday November 7, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
This session will be full of booktalks for MG and YA literature to be added to your middle and HS libraries. All books discussed have been published within the last year, and personally read by the presenters, so come hear about some great new and upcoming titles! Favorites will be discussed and questions about any titles on the list are encouraged. We'll give you the lowdown - highlights and dirt!
Speakers
avatar for Jenny Ashby

Jenny Ashby

Librarian, Drew Middle School
When I was thinking about applying for my first library job my dad said "Any literate person can be a librarian!" and that seemed like good advice to me. I didn't know what I was getting into 32 years ago but now I know it's the best job in the school! I read a lot, take a lot of... Read More →
avatar for Janice Raspen

Janice Raspen

Acquisitions Librarian, Chesterfield County Public Schools
I love books and reading and libraries. Looking forward to sharing some thoughts about MG and YA books with you.
Thursday November 7, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Colony ABC

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

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

1:00pm EST

Achievement Unlocked: Cracking the Code to Collaboration
Thursday November 7, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
In this session, we will discuss the challenges to establishing and maintaining a collaborative relationship between teachers and school librarians. It wouldn't be much of a session if we didn't offer solutions for those challenges, so we'll do that, too. We've got two librarians, a teacher, and a bunch of ideas. Join us in cracking the code to collaboration!
Speakers
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 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Allegheny C

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

1:00pm EST

Adventures in AI
Thursday November 7, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Let's talk about our adventures with AI for library planning and instruction! This session will present lessons learned with using AI over the past school year, highlight different types of AI tools for planning and instruction and discuss ways to support student learning about and with AI.
Thursday November 7, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Colony ABC

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
 
Friday, November 8
 

8:00am EST

Using Constructivist Media Decoding to Empower Students and Improve Media Literacy
Friday November 8, 2024 8:00am - 8:45am EST
In this session, you will learn the basics of Constructivist Media Decoding as developed by Project Look Sharp, an outreach program of Ithaca College that works with K-16 educators to enhance critical thinking, civic engagement, and metacognition through media literacy and professional development.
Speakers
avatar for Dale Harter

Dale Harter

Librarian, Albert Hill Middle School
After spending five years in High School Land in Chesterfield County, I decided I needed to be rejuvenated and became the librarian at Albert Hill Middle School, in Richmond. I'm a journalist and a public historian who likes to bring people with interesting occupations and interests... Read More →
Friday November 8, 2024 8:00am - 8:45am EST
Tidewater AB

8:00am EST

Bring History to Life Using Interactive Social Studies Centers
Friday November 8, 2024 8:00am - 8:45am EST
Learn how collaboration between the library and social studies departments can bring history alive by creating interactive social studies centers. We have used a variety of activities like art, dancing, writing, and games/Break Out Boxes to engage students while reviewing Virginia Social Studies Standards of Learning.
Speakers
avatar for Colleen Lee

Colleen Lee

Librarian, Swift Creek Middle School
Friday November 8, 2024 8:00am - 8:45am EST
Piedmont B

8:00am EST

Beyond Books: Tech Initiatives in the Library
Friday November 8, 2024 8:00am - 8:45am EST
Beyond Books demonstrates how technology initiatives in the library transform learning by harnessing communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity to engage students in lessons and community outreach. Session leaders will showcase uses of technology such as 3D printers, sublimation printers, Cricut machines, and iRobots to enhance learning across the curriculum. Sample websites: Tinkercad, Thingiverse, and Canva.
Speakers
avatar for Debra Forbes

Debra Forbes

Librarian, Louisa County Public Schools
I have dedicated 23 years to the field of education, serving as both a teacher and librarian. I have been enriched by the lives of students across five school divisions, teaching a diverse range of learners from elementary to college level. The library has always been one of my happy... Read More →
avatar for Nikki Wagoner

Nikki Wagoner

Technology Coach/ITRT
My educational background offers a variety of experiences from the grade levels of 5th-12th grade as Career and Technology Classes!During my time as a Technology Coach at LCHS, I have had the privilege of witnessing the transformative power of technology in education. It has been... Read More →
Friday November 8, 2024 8:00am - 8:45am EST
Allegheny AB

8:00am EST

Meet the Authors - Secondary
Friday November 8, 2024 8:00am - 8:45am EST
Five Virginia and DC Authors who write for Middle School and High School 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 Erin Teagan

Erin Teagan

author
Erin Teagan is the author of the Luciana series, American Girl’s 2018 Girl of the Year, The Friendship Experiment (HMH), and Survivor Girl (Clarion, 2019). She has a background in science and worked in drug research for more than ten years. She uses many of her experiences from... Read More →
avatar for Terry Jennings

Terry Jennings

Author
I am a Cuban American author of children's books. I am the author of The Little House of Hope, a book about an immigrant family who shares their home with other immigrants to give them a leg up in their new country. The Definitely Dominguita series is a chapter book series about a... Read More →
avatar for Edie Hemingway

Edie Hemingway

Author
I am co-author of two Civil War novels, both licensed by Scholastic Book Fairs and optioned for films. My middle grade novel, Road to Tater Hill (Delacorte Press), won a Parents’ Choice Gold Award and was listed on Bank Street College’s Best Books List and several state lists... Read More →
avatar for Jen Furlong

Jen Furlong

Author, MPC Publishing
Author of award-winning YA series The Unimaginables: Hidden City, Tattooed Angel, Magick Squared. Meredith’s World Series (middle-grade humorous adventures) Meredith at The Met, Meredith for Congress. Children’s picture book: Mrs. Cheesely Loves Cheese. Co-Author of Antagonists... Read More →
avatar for Heather Murphy Capps

Heather Murphy Capps

Author, SCBWI Mid-Atlantic
I’m an award-winning author of upper middle-grade books. I write historical fiction and use magical realism—topics I love to talk about, especially with young readers and educators.
Friday November 8, 2024 8:00am - 8:45am EST
Tidewater CD

11:00am EST

Building Bridges through Books: High School Librarians Transforming Learning Experiences for All Abilities
Friday November 8, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
This session is for secondary librarians ready to design and deliver interactive lessons tailored to the unique needs of students in low-incidence and multiple disabilities classrooms within the high school setting. Librarians will leave the session with a toolkit of activities and resources that can be readily integrated into their library programs to engage and support these exceptional students.
Speakers
avatar for Shelby Decker

Shelby Decker

Librarian, Massaponax High School
avatar for Nicole Hagermann

Nicole Hagermann

Librarian, Riverbend High School
I have been a high school librarian for 8 years and am passionate about creating a library space that offers something for everyone!
Friday November 8, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Liberty AB

11:00am EST

History in the Making: The Power of Library-Social Studies Collaboration
Friday November 8, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Dive into the benefits and importance of collaboration between librarians and social studies teachers. Receive resources and lesson ideas to enhance student learning with a variety of interactive and engaging teaching strategies that are classroom-tested. From research and stations to historical artifact footlockers, come share ideas of how the library can engage in history!
Speakers
avatar for Laura Channing

Laura Channing

Librarian, Stone Bridge High School
avatar for Erin Curry

Erin Curry

Librarian
Friday November 8, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Tidewater AB

11:00am EST

Mission Spies! Using Ciphers and Codes to Engage Students
Friday November 8, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Need a breakout or lesson boost? Try using ciphers/codes to get students moving and thinking. I will share examples of different ciphers and how we used them to get students collaborating, inquiring, and engaging in a Cold War Unit. Ciphers can be used for any lesson at any level.
Speakers
avatar for Wendy Knox

Wendy Knox

Librarian, Frederick County Public Schools
Friday November 8, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Allegheny AB

11:00am EST

Multiply Math Collaboration
Friday November 8, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Multiply math collaboration in the high school library! Virginia’s 2025 Teacher of the Year and her Librarian and Instructional Technology Coach will share how they made the powerful connection between mathematics, information literacy, and technology and worked together to create meaningful learning for students.
Friday November 8, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Patriot AB

11:00am EST

Beyond the Pages
Friday November 8, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
A selection of themed book club activities to do when you are short on time or if no one has read the book.Trying a different approach to our book club meetings has had a positive impact on student engagement. Instead of relying solely on discussion questions, we've started organizing thematic club activities. By tying the discussion topics to the themes of the books, we've seen a significant increase in participation and interest in the club overall. We will share ready to use examples, and allow time to brainstorm together.
Speakers
avatar for Amanda Minter

Amanda Minter

Librarian, Spotsylvania High School
avatar for Hillary Moyer

Hillary Moyer

LIBRARIAN, Spotsylvania High School

Friday November 8, 2024 11:00am - 11:45am EST
Allegheny C

12:00pm EST

Intentionally Accessible: Designing Welcoming Spaces for Everyone
Friday November 8, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Let's make your library a place everyone can enjoy! Come explore easy ways to make your space more accessible for all students. From simple tweaks to bigger changes, let's share ideas to try right away. You'll leave with new strategies for evaluating and improving your library to be even better!
Speakers
avatar for Rachel Grover

Rachel Grover

Librarian, Fairfax County Public Schools, Rocky Run Middle School
I'm passionate about making the library a welcoming, safe space for the school community to thrive and learn. Talk to me about makerspaces, accessibility, student ownership, best practices for instruction and collaboration with staff, and literally anything else library related. (Oh... Read More →
Friday November 8, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Allegheny C

12:00pm EST

Let's Talk about Intellectual Property: Plagiarism vs. Copyright
Friday November 8, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Have you ever had a student say they are going to jail for plagiarism? This session will discuss the differences between plagiarism and copyright as well as provide participants with examples of lessons that support empowering students as ethical users of ideas and information.
Friday November 8, 2024 12:00pm - 12:45pm EST
Piedmont A

1:00pm EST

VRC High School Titles for 2024-2025
Friday November 8, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Come learn about the new VRC high school titles for this year as well as how to join the committee, and nominate titles. Come with some of your favorite reads of the year to share with others!
Speakers
avatar for Elyse DeQuoy

Elyse DeQuoy

School Librarian, James Wood High School
avatar for Megan Watson

Megan Watson

English Teacher, LCPS
Friday November 8, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Tidewater CD

1:00pm EST

From Epic Tales to Everyday Heroes: High School Students Shaping Young Citizens
Friday November 8, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
In this session, attendees will discover how high school students were able to transform their knowledge of epic and tragic heroes to create citizenship lessons for elementary school students fostering a sense of responsibility and positive community values for all that were involved in this project.
Speakers
avatar for Valerie Lamberton

Valerie Lamberton

Librarian, SPOTSYLVANIA
avatar for Amy Stevens

Amy Stevens

Teacher, Spotsylvania
Friday November 8, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Piedmont B

1:00pm EST

Saying Yes: Making Space for Student Service in Your Library
Friday November 8, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Ready to engage students and grow your library program in new and unexpected ways? Want to build a service-centered community, with all stakeholders? Come to our collaborative session and leave with new ideas on how to create a student service program that goes beyond shelving!
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 →
Friday November 8, 2024 1:00pm - 1:45pm EST
Tidewater AB
 
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