Highly Effective School Library Program

Highly Effective Recognition

The" Highly Effective School Library" Program consists of several components: access to an Evaluation Tool, a Professional Development component, and the Recognition Award.

• Evaluation Rubric (PDF) -- revised on 7/29/13
  This rubric provides school librarians, teachers and principals a means for evaluating all aspects of a Highly Effective School Library Program. See 2-3 minute video clips embedded in 5 of the competencies.
• Growth Plan (DOC)
• Growth Plan (PDF)
• Growth Plan Example, courtesy of Erika Arias, BVSD (PDF)
• 2013/2014 HESL Recognition Application (PDF)
• Suggested Principal Talking Points (PDF)
• Benefits of HESL Recognition (PDF)
• 2013 Recognition Recipients (PDF)
• 2012 HESL Recognition Recipients (PDF)
• Highly Effective School Library wiki - See great growth plans, best practice ideas, and more

• 2014 HESL Recognition Recipients (PDF)
• 22 Schools Earn Prestigious Highly Effective School Library Program Recognition (PDF)

Mission and Vision Statements

The mission of the Highly Effective School Library Program is to recognize outstanding school library programs while supporting all schools as they strive to improve student achievement and prepare students for 21st century success by using the Highly Effective model to improve their library program .

The vision of the Highly Effective School Library Program is that all schools have a certified teacher-librarian who uses the Highly Effective model for continuous improvement. Parents, students, administrators, and fellow educators understand that high levels of student achievement and 21st century success require an exemplary library program and are advocates for their school's library program.

More Information

• CDE School Libraries page
• School Library Hotline email list

Social Media

CASL blog
CASL Facebook

Contact Information

For more information about the Highly Effective School Library Program, contact:

Judy Barnett
Highly Effective School Library Coordinator
E-mail: jbarnett@coloradostatelibrary.org 
Cell: 719-964-5352

Becky Russell
School Library / Digital Literacy Content Specialist
E-mail: russell_b@cde.state.co.us
Office: 303-866-6772