Media Program Named “Exemplary” in Georgia

Only one elementary library media program and media specialist in the state is named “exemplary” each year by the Georgia Department of Education. This year’s exemplary award has been given to Peggy James of Crabapple Lane Elementary.

In order to be recognized as exemplary, nominees must prove that they have met at least 14 target indicators in the areas of student achievement and instruction, staffing, facilities, access and resources, administrative support and staff development.

“Peggy James is the reason our students rush to the media center each day. She has transformed our media center into a forest, pirate’s ship, beach in the Bahamas, barnyard with livestock and a wedding chapel,” says Principal Doe Evans. “She involves our students by having them transport themselves to these far away places. She consistently searches for ways to make her teaching more interesting and informative.”

Most elementary schools have an AR (Accelerated Reader) program to encourage students to read and increase their reading levels. According to Evans, Crabapple doesn’t use the program because they have something better.

“When people first visit our school, they often ask if we have AR. We confidently reply that we don’t need AR, we have Ms. James,” Evans explains.

James will be one of six media specialists recognized on June 8 at the Georgia Department of Education Board Meeting. Peer library media specialists and the staff from the department of education select the recipients based on the school’s written application, a letter of support from the principal, a telephone interview and onsite visit. The award program honors one exemplary and exceptional media program at the elementary, middle and high school level.