Congratulations, Rachael Fryman, library media specialist at Edgewood Middle School, Edgewood City School District. Rachael is the Rosen Publishing Ohio School Librarian of the Month for January.

What is the goal of Kaleidoscope, the school literary and arts magazine?  The goal of the literary and arts magazine is to give the Edgewood Middle School students an opportunity to experience publishing as well as inspiring them to continue to learn and grow in their art.  Kaleidoscope’s focus for its first issue was themes in nature.

Throughout the year, the school library offered several contests around the theme of nature.  The nineteen-member EMS Student Media Team as well as the  EMS school staff selected the winners from each contest. The winners of each contest was then featured in the magazine. Students created bookmarks, stories, poems, and pieces of art. Digital copies of Kaleidoscope were emailed to students, shared through social media, newsletters, and the district website. 

Why do you feel the program is a success? Fryman explained that students enjoyed the individual contests and the opportunities to excel.  “It was especially wonderful to see students who otherwise might not join in school activities reach out and participate.  Several students and adults reached out to share how they enjoyed being able to experience some of the best products from our students this year in a magazine format.” The link to the digital magazine created in Canva.

Is there any other information you would like to share? Students are excited to participate in this year’s digital magazine.  The theme is “space.” The anticipated timeline for contests is:

• January 2025 - bookmarks

• April 2025 - poetry

• September 2025 - stories

• November 2025 - art

• Release date is December 2025

The Rosen Publishing Ohio School Librarian of the Month recognizes one school librarian a month who designs, develops, and implements a collaborative lesson plan and/or programming that empowers student learning. This award spotlights the importance of both the school library community and librarian and the pivotal role each plays in transforming learning throughout students’ K-12 education.

Consider nominating yourself or another OELMA Library Media Specialist to be considered for Rosen Ohio School Librarian of the month!  The Rosen award nomination form can be accessedunder the Professional Recognition tab. Contact Susan Yutzey (oelma.awards@gmail.com) with any questions.

Congratulations, Rachael!