Each year USLA proudly recognizes 3 outstanding Utah school employees who have contributed significant time and effort to their school libraries. Nominations open a few months before our annual conference and the award winners are recognized during the Conference.
Teacher librarian of the year: This is an award that recognizes exceptional school librarians that have made a difference at their school, fostering the growth and literacy of students. Certified applicants are required to meet state requirements for certification and must be currently employed as media specialists, teacher librarians, or an equivalent role. This teacher can be nominated from a public or private school at a site level.
Michelle Miles
Riverton High School, Jordan School District
Michelle’s passion for reading and dedication to students have transformed the library into a true hub of learning and belonging. She goes above and beyond—teaching classes, managing the school website, supporting teachers, and always advocating for the needs of her faculty and students.
Through creative reading initiatives and monthly activities, she makes the library a place where every student—reader or not—can feel connected. She’s approachable, collaborative, and always finding new ways to integrate the library into the life of the school.
Her leadership also extends beyond Riverton, where she contributes to district committees and local outreach, championing the vital role of libraries in education.
Michelle’s impact is felt every day in the joy of her students and the respect of her colleagues. Please join me in celebrating Michelle Miles, a true cornerstone of Riverton High School and the library community.
Library Paraprofessional of the Year: This award can be given to any honors paraprofessionals currently working in school libraries. They must be employed as assistants, media clerks, or equivalent roles. Nominees for this award are not required to be certified with the State Endorsement of Library Media.
Chalyce Johnson, Davis Elementary, Uintah School District
In her nearly five years serving a Title I elementary school, Chalyce has transformed the library into a welcoming, engaging, and student-centered space. From genrefying the collection to help students discover books they love, to running creative reading programs like Beanstack and the Book Vending Machine, she is always finding new ways to inspire young readers.
Her colleagues know her as someone who goes above and beyond—whether it’s stepping in to substitute teach, organizing district projects, or supporting staff with resources. With kindness, humor, and tireless effort, Chalyce has built strong relationships across her school and community.
She is truly an invaluable asset, a champion of literacy, and a model of what it means to serve students with heart and purpose. Please join me in celebrating Chalyce for her extraordinary contributions to school libraries.
Administrator of the year: This award honors administrators such as principals or district level supervisors that have responsibilities for a school or group of schools. These administrators are selected based on their unique and sustained contributions to effective school library programs, helping students, teachers, and librarians flourish.
Dr. Rick Robins, Superintendent, Canyons School District
Dr. Robins has shown extraordinary leadership in championing school libraries as essential partners in literacy and learning. Under his guidance, the district launched the Great Library Update, dedicating more than $1..2 million to strengthen and modernize library collections for students across 43 Campuses.
He has also stood firmly in support of The Adoption of Library policies that honor intellectual freedom, protect student well-being, and reflect industry best practices, ensuring Canyons’ school libraries remain vibrant, trusted, and equitable spaces for all learners.
With 29 years of service in education, from classroom teacher to superintendent,—Dr. Robins has never lost sight of what matters most: empowering students to READ, think, Learn, and grow. His vision and advocacy have set a powerful example for educational leaders across Utah. Please join US in congratulating Dr. Rick L. Robins, a champion for school libraries and student success.