Barrow County School System Announces 2024 Library Media Specialist of the Year!

Apalachee High School’s Media Specialist, Todd Cates, has been announced as Barrow County School System’s 2024 Library Media Specialist of the Year.

“Todd is a leader at the school and among his library media specialist peers. In his application, Todd stated, ‘My mission as the media specialist is to provide support to my teachers and students in their endeavors as learners.’ His efforts do not go unnoticed.” said Jennie Persinger, BCSS Director of Data, Assessment, and Accountability.

“I strive to meet their needs in both the classroom and beyond as they work to develop lifelong learning habits,” said Cates.

This is Todd’s third time receiving System Library Media Specialist of the Year. He has also earned this award in 2022 and 2020.

“Having had the pleasure of working closely with Mr. Cates during my time at Apalachee High School, I can attest to his unwavering dedication, exceptional skills, and remarkable contributions to our school, within and beyond the Media Center,” said AHS Principal Jessica Rehberg.

Georgia Library Media Association (GLMA) sponsors the Georgia School Library Media Specialist of the Year award to recognize K-12 library media specialists with dynamic, innovative programs and whose instructional collaborations foster student engagement and achievement.

Congratulations on this well-deserved award, Mr. Cates!