Meet our Teacher of the Year - Mrs. Lisa Casey

What is your position at the Jamestown Schools? Library Media Specialist K-8

Where did you go to school? Stony Brook University, New York B.A.; University of RI Masters in Library & Information Science

What do you like most about being a Library Media Specialist? Educating hearts and minds for the future. Inspiring students to read, think, analyze, create, and care for each other, and for the planet. Working with teachers in both schools. Reading to the students. Watching them grow from Kindergartners to young adults and being with them on that journey. There is no better job than mine!

Why do you enjoy teaching in Jamestown? It doesn't feel or function like a typical school. There are so many opportunities for my colleagues and myself to grow and try ideas out, and we are encouraged to do so. There's always room for experimentation and growth, and you always feel supported by everyone in the school, and I mean the entire school. We all work together, from the custodial staff to the Superintendent. They're my work family.

I still marvel at how much community involvement there is and how much parents are willing to do for their children. And we have the most wonderful students; that's the best part - they lift your spirits and make you laugh, and are what gets you out of bed in the morning.

What are you passionate about? Books and Libraries, obviously, and Information, Travel, Food, Architecture., Museums, Photography, Film, People & Life.

What is something exciting the students can expect for this year? Yes! I am hoping to bring the creator of the 90 Second Newbery to inspire students at both schools to create short films either at school or at home with their families. A skype with an Newbery Honor author. And...some things I'd rather keep as a surprise!

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