3 NPS Library Media Specials Recognized by Connecticut Association of School Librarians

Norwalk Public Schools congratulates three of our exceptional library media specialists who have been recognized by the Connecticut Association of School Librarians (CASL) for their outstanding contributions to student learning. Through innovative programming, engaging lessons, creative use of technology, and a commitment to supporting students and staff, these educators exemplify the vital role school libraries play in fostering curiosity, literacy, and academic success.

Renee Neiger, Cranbury Elementary School

CASL honored Renee Neiger of Cranbury Elementary School with the Bernice "Bunny" Yesner School Library Media Program of the Year (BYSLMPY) Award for 2026. The award honors school library programs that exemplify the principles outlined in the American Association of School Librarians’ National School Library Standards for Learners, School Librarians, and School Libraries.

The award recognizes the recipient's commitment to providing an exceptional library media program that supports student learning and development. Neiger demonstrated outstanding dedication to creating an impactful library media program which empowers students to become critical thinkers, effective researchers, and lifelong learners. As part of the recognition, her winning program also received a $1,000 award.

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Casey Andersen, Concord Magnet School K-8

CASL selected Casey Andersen of Concord Magnet School K-8 as a 2026 TechIT Award winner, which recognizes completed or ongoing projects that make effective use of technology to positively impact student learning and address one or more of the ISTE Standards for Students. The award also came with a $1,000 prize.

Andersen was recognized for his interdisciplinary project, Dimensions of Discovery, that involved students in grades 4–8 using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software and 3D printing technology to move from digital design to physical creation. Students developed problem-solving, spatial reasoning, and engineering skills while engaging in authentic design challenges that showcase technology as a tool for innovation, creativity, and deeper learning.

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Lauren Sweeney, Naramake Elementary School

CASL recognized Lauren Sweeney of Naramake Elementary School as a Southern New England Rosen School Librarian of the Month for April 2026. Sponsored by Rosen Publishing, this award recognizes outstanding school librarians whose lessons, programs, collaborations, and innovative practices empower student learning and demonstrate the transformative role of school libraries in K–12 education.

Sweeney was recognized for a fifth-grade lesson that combines artificial intelligence, digital literacy, and descriptive writing to help students understand the power of clear communication. Using Canva's Magic Media AI tool, students experimented with crafting and revising prompts to generate images, discovering how specific word choices directly affect outcomes. Through peer feedback, reflection, and revision, students strengthened their writing skills while developing a deeper understanding of artificial intelligence and responsible technology use. Designed in collaboration with classroom teachers and district digital learning coaches, the lesson successfully connected emerging technology with core literacy instruction in a meaningful and developmentally appropriate way.

As part of the award, Sweeney will receive a collection of books donated by Rosen Publishing for the Naramake Elementary School library. In addition, a letter of recognition will be sent to her principal, and she will receive a digital signature badge acknowledging this honor.

Click here to read the full press release.

About CASL:

The Connecticut Association of School Librarians (CASL) is a professional organization dedicated to promoting excellence in school library media programs and school libraries throughout Connecticut. CASL advocates for strong school library programs that meet the needs of the entire school community and provide a foundation for lifelong learning.