Ann M. Martin Scholarship
Note: Quotations from the winner’s application may be used in Foundation publicity.
In Why School Libraries Matter: What Years of Research Tell Us, Keith Curry Lance and Debra E. Kachel state “Since 1992, a growing body of research known as the school library impact studies has consistently shown positive correlations between high-quality library programs and student achievement (Gretes, 2013; Scholastic, 2016). Data from more than 34 statewide studies suggest that students tend to earn better standardized test scores in schools that have strong library programs. Further, when administrators, teachers, and librarians themselves rated the importance and frequency of various library practices associated with student learning, their ratings correlated with student test scores, further substantiating claims of libraries’ benefits. In addition, newer studies, conducted over the last several years, show that strong school libraries are also linked to other important indicators of student success, including graduation rates and mastery of academic standards.”
Citation: Lance, K.C. & Kachel, D.E. (2018). Why school librarians matter: What years of research tell us. Phi Delta Kappan, 99 (7), 15-20.
For complete application and further information, contact:
Your School Librarian, School Counselor, or Henrico Education Foundation
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be a senior planning to pursue further study or training beyond high school.
- Be a U.S. citizen and a resident of Henrico County; documentation may be required.
- Be pursuing a standard or advanced studies diploma.
- Demonstrate a minimum GPA of 2.5.
- Be enrolled in Henrico County Public Schools for at least three years.
- Submit evidence of a commitment to the promotion of libraries and literacy.
"When faced with a large essay orassignment, the librarians came to ourclasses and helped us prepare and createresearch questions of the right scope,making sure we were confident in starting,and reminding us of important deadlines."
-Madeline D.
Application Guidelines
- Complete your application with care and attention to detail. Incomplete or improperly completed applications will not be considered.
- Submit an essay describing your HCPS library experience, including evidence of your commitment to the promotion of libraries and literacy. The essay should be a maximum of 500 words, typed, and double-spaced.
- Include a school transcript.
- Include a letter of recommendation from an HCPS school librarian. Additional letters of recommendation are welcome but not required.
- The scholarship screening committee may request an interview with final candidates.
- Applications should be submitted to the school’s counseling department by the date designated by the school. It is the responsibility of the student to obtain the due date.
- The scholarship winner will be recognized at our School Library Month meeting in the spring. The scholarship will be awarded at the applicant’s senior awards assembly.