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Kirkwood schools celebrate state, regional library awards as students outline program benefits
Summary
Kirkwood School District highlighted awards for its library media programs and student-led examples of how libraries support learning, citing digital resources, makerspaces and tutoring as key supports for academic and social-emotional development.
The Kirkwood Board of Education opened its May 18 business meeting with a spotlight on the district's library media centers, where officials and students celebrated two high-profile recognitions and described how library programs support instruction and student well-being.
Dr. Granite said North Kirkwood Middle School and Kirkwood High School earned the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education's 2026 Exemplary School Library Program designation, noting the award recognizes excellence in instruction, leadership, management and staffing. He also said Kirkwood High received the Missouri Association of School Librarians' Outstanding Program of the Year award.
Ms. Leatherbury, introduced as a high school librarian, and Jen Barton, a nationally board-certified librarian, described how library spaces combine flexible seating, collaborative learning areas and subscriptions to databases and national publications. "Our libraries incorporate classroom and teaching areas, casual seating areas, collaborative spaces, and areas for independent learning to ensure that our libraries are dynamic, adaptable spaces," Jen Barton said.
Students gave specific examples of how the libraries support learning. Abigail, a KHS junior, said a calmer environment helps her complete assignments and reduces stress. Mason Tiffany, a recent graduate, said the flexible schedule allowed him to work around family and work obligations, and Ella Campbell discussed peer tutoring arranged by librarians. Student Emily described using the makerspace to pursue creative projects and school homeroom events.
Presenters emphasized programming that builds literacy and community: recurring activities such as Battle of the Books, author visits, peer tutoring and news-literacy lessons. Librarians also described collection-management practices and budget supplements from community donations and book fairs that keep resources current.
Board members thanked the librarians and student speakers for the presentation. Chair closed the segment by saying the spotlight was "fantastic" and expressed gratitude for the librarians' work on behalf of students.
The presentation did not include any formal board action; it was framed by presenters as a recognition of staff and student work and an invitation to consider similar spotlights in future meetings.
