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October 2, 2024
Media Contact
Public and Governmental Affairs
MDE-Communications@michigan.gov
517-241-4395
LANSING – State Superintendent Dr. Michael F. Rice Tuesday visited Godfrey-Lee Public Schools staff and students in celebrating Lee Middle and High School Library earning the state’s 21st Century Model School Library award for the 2024-2025 school year.
Tuesday’s celebration featured remarks from State Rep. Mr. John Fitzgerald, State Librarian Mr. Randy Riley, Godfrey-Lee Superintendent Dr. Arnetta Thompson, and Middle School Principal Ms. Adrianne Rose, along with a beautiful poem written for the occasion read and videotaped by Lee High School sophomore Arianna R. Wheeler.
Rice thanked district library media specialist Mr. Harry Coffill and the rest of the Lee Middle and High School staff for helping make the media center at the school something special.
“Diverse books, well-stocked libraries, and certified librarians all matter, but all schools aren’t fortunate to have them all,” said Dr. Rice. “With Mr. Coffill at the helm of a wonderful school library, students experience a wide range of literature and see themselves—and others—in their reading. The Lee Middle and High School Library is truly a model of which the school and district can be proud.”
Coffill, whose work with the district and school community to create the new space was indispensable, deflected the honor to the Godrey-Lee students during his comments, and thanked students for their input in building the book collection. “You’re the reason we do this every day,” said an emotional Coffill.
“Strong school libraries are the hub of Michigan’s schools. They offer safe places for students to learn and grow,” said State Librarian Riley. “The Model SL21 program is just one way that the Library of Michigan and the Michigan Department of Education recognize the positive impact that school library spaces have on students across the state. The Godfrey-Lee Middle & High School library is a shining example of what school libraries can and should be.”
The 21st Century Model School Library program recognizes high-quality school libraries and library media specialists and promotes developing similar initiatives in other schools. The program is based on the Library of Michigan’s School Library 21st Century benchmarks. The Lee Middle and High School Library holds exemplary status in the program through May 2027.
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