Fostering Exploration at Kingston Middle School

Sparking Imagination and Growth: Lynn Atherton, Library Media Specialist

Lynn Atherton is the Library Media Specialist at Kingston Middle School. She joined the North Kitsap School District in 1997 and started working at KMS library in 2017. Lynn is a passionate individual with a wealth of experience in literature and learning. She has devoted herself to enriching students' lives through engaging library programming. As a proud parent of a 2010 KHS graduate, Lynn brings her love for meeting authors and integrating signed books into the collection, inspired by her travels and studies abroad, to the KMS library.

A World of Resources and Creativity

Ms. Atherton goes above and beyond the traditional teaching role by deeply investing herself in supporting student discovery and achievement through diverse and innovative initiatives. She has made notable contributions, including:

• Genre Personality Reading Lists: Atherton helps students navigate the vast world of literature, matching them with books that align with their personalities and interests.
• Hands-On Makerspace Challenges: Ms. Atherton initiated a program for low-tech Makerspace challenges at the library, which includes obtaining a grant from the NK Schools Foundation. These challenges involve hands-on creation and problem-solving using Keva Planks, Strawbees, Make-Do (cardboard), and sticker mosaics. The Keva Planks collection was significantly expanded thanks to the grant, allowing more students to engage in creating intricate designs.
• Collaborative Learning Opportunities: In partnership with the Kingston KRL Library and Youth Services Librarian Tori Ogawa, Ms. Atherton ensures that the library provides students access to a wide range of resources and engaging activities to facilitate collaborative learning opportunities.
• Student-Driven Events: The Library Teen Advisory Board, under Atherton's guidance, plans diverse weekly activities that enrich the student experience and build a sense of community.

Building Connections Through Stories

Atherton's approach to library management goes beyond books and resources; it's about building a bridge between students' personal and academic lives. Her initiatives encourage reading and creativity and foster a sense of belonging and community among students. By creating a library that reflects the interests and needs of the students, Atherton plays a crucial role in their development as engaged, thoughtful individuals.

Vision for the Future

Lynn Atherton's dedication to enriching the Kingston Middle School library with diverse programs and resources ensures it remains a cornerstone of student growth and exploration. Her passion for literature and commitment to student success exemplify educators' profound impact on shaping learning environments where every student can thrive.