The Maryland Association of School Librarians (MASL) has named Dr. Melaney Michael Sánchez of Mt. Harmony Elementary School in Calvert County as one of three finalists for the 2025-2026 Maryland School Librarian of the Year award.
The award recognizes exemplary service and outstanding achievements in school library media. The final recipient will be announced at the biannual MASL Conference on October 16 in Berlin, Maryland. Ten candidates were evaluated by a selection committee of MASL representatives, University of Maryland College Park faculty, and current and retired library media specialists. Criteria included demonstrated leadership, community impact, and potential to advance school libraries statewide.
Candidates submitted a one-minute video, artifacts and conference proposals for the upcoming MASL event. The top three finalists, listed alphabetically by last name, are:
- Theresa Bruce, KIPP Harmony Academy, Baltimore City
- Heather Green, Elkridge Elementary School, Howard County
- Melaney Sánchez, Mt. Harmony Elementary School, Calvert County
Dr. Sánchez is a civic-minded school librarian who champions inquiry-driven learning and creates experiences blending literacy, history, STEAM and student voice. Guided by the belief that “teaching is heart work,” she ensures equitable access to information while empowering students to become curious researchers, critical thinkers and engaged citizens.
Her work has earned national and local recognition, including the Jack Miller Center Teaching America250 Award, SMECO STEM Teacher honor, AASL National School Library Program of the Year, The Washington Post Teacher of the Year and Calvert County Teacher of the Year. She has presented at numerous conferences and events, including NCSS, the National Park Service at the National Mall, MASL and the Future Ready “Leading from the Library” podcast. She currently serves as a We the Teachers Fellow and a National Geographic Grosvenor Fellow.
The other finalists bring impressive credentials as well. Theresa Bruce champions student voice and educational equity at KIPP Harmony Academy. A Baltimore native and former social studies teacher, she serves on the Baltimore City Mayoral Trauma Informed Care Task Force. Heather Green, a dedicated library media specialist in Howard County with Baltimore experience, is pursuing National Board certification and contributes to curriculum development aligned with AASL standards.
The Maryland School Librarian of the Year award highlights the critical role school librarians play in fostering literacy, critical thinking and lifelong learning. The MASL encourages the education community to celebrate these professionals who make significant contributions both in their schools and beyond.
