McClure Health Science High School library media specialist Laura Sly has been selected as the 2024 GCPS Library Media Specialist of the Year. The award honors a K-12 library media specialist whose program is exemplary in collaborative partnerships, developing research skills, incorporating technology, and promoting reading.

     Nicole Mosely, the principal of McClure Health Science High, says Sly’s love for her students and the school is on display every day. She says, “Under Laura’s guidance, our library media center is a vital hub, celebrating our school’s culture and fostering a profound sense of belonging for students and staff.” 

     As a library media specialist, Sly demonstrates exemplary leadership, innovation, and passion. She has developed the school’s media center into a unique, welcoming space. It features areas for project collaboration with flexible seating interspersed among the books. Students often work on group projects in glass-enclosed study rooms while others pedal individually on stationary study bikes. Sly promotes diversity and inclusion through programming and by ensuring the collection has a variety of books that embrace multiple cultures, abilities, and perspectives.

     Julie Saunders, GCPS director of Library Media Services, says Sly’s work is impactful. “Laura strives to expand access to information, cultivate a love of reading, and foster inclusivity for all students and staff at McClure.” Sly will now compete for the Metro Area Library Media Specialist of the Year, sponsored by the Georgia Library Media Association.