Please pass SB 5551 — Concerning school library information and technology programs — out of committee! 60 percent of WA school districts do not currently employ even ONE Certificated Teacher Librarian (CTL) and school libraries see more cuts every year due to inadequate school funding. Research documents that there are benefits to students' literacy success when they have access to a CTL. The need for media literacy instruction and adding media literacy to new (and future) adopted standards means school staff also need the support of CTLs. Extreme inequity in WA's school libraries occur when there is no access to a CTL. Students who experience poverty or who are furthest from educational justice are the least likely to have access. Oversight from OSPI will ensure that school libraries and their impact can be accurately documented and supported. Thank you for your support of this bill and taking action to see that it is passed out of committee.

Please support the passing of SB 5551 (Concerning school library information and technology programs) out of committee! It is concerning that 60 percent of school districts in Washington do not have a single Certificated Teacher Librarian (CTL) in place. School libraries continue to face budget cuts due to insufficient funding, which is impacting student access to critical resources. Research has consistently shown the positive impact of having a CTL on student success. It is essential for all students to have access to these dedicated professionals, especially those who are most vulnerable and marginalized. With the growing importance of media literacy education in today's digital age, the expertise of CTLs is invaluable in providing guidance and instruction to students and staff alike. Oversight from OSPI would ensure that school libraries receive the necessary support and resources they need to thrive and make a meaningful impact on student learning. Let's work together to address these disparities and provide equal opportunities for all students in Washington. Thank you for supporting the important work of Teacher Librarians!

Thank you for supporting passage of SB 5551 out of committee — it is an essential bill for school library information and technology programs! Did you know that in Washington, 60% of school districts do not have even a single Certificated Teacher Librarian (CTL) due to ongoing cuts in school library funding? This lack of access to CTLs has a direct impact on students' literacy success. Research shows that students benefit greatly from having a CTL present in their school libraries, especially in today's media-driven world where media literacy is becoming increasingly important. By passing this bill and ensuring oversight from OSPI, we can support school libraries across the state and address the extreme inequities that exist in access to critical library resources. It's crucial that all students, especially those facing challenges such as poverty, have equal opportunities to benefit from having a CTL at their school. Your support for SB 5551 for its passage out of committee are greatly appreciated. Let's work together to create a more equitable and enriching learning environment for all students in Washington. Thank you!