Thanks to Glen Arden Elementary’s (GAE) media specialist Lee Ann Smith and the Buncombe County Schools Foundation (BCSF), GAE students had the opportunity to help choose this year’s NC Children’s Books Award winners. Students were thrilled to learn that adults don't get to vote in this election— only kids have the power to choose.
“The students demonstrated so much excitement and enthusiasm for the nominated books,” said Ms. Smith. “They loved reading these titles, and knowing adults weren’t allowed to vote in this election only sweetened the pages.”
Ms. Smith made this incredible opportunity happen for the students by using a grant from BCSF to purchase 24 books, 12 in the Picture category, and 12 in the Junior category. Students had the privilege of reading the books and voting on their favorite ones.
“It's amazing to see what our teachers and media specialists use our grants for,” said BCSF Director Christy Cheek. “We are so thrilled to see how our grants impact student lives. This grant not only brought excitement to reading but also gave the students a sense of pride teaching them that their voice, and vote, matters.”
Ms. Smith collected the school’s ballots during National Library Week and turned them in to the NC School Library Media Association (NCSLMA), who will announce the state-wide winners soon.
Thank you to Lee Ann Smith and Glen Arden Elementary for these awesome photos!