The district is proud to announce that elementary library media specialist Brittany LaValle was honored with the ASSET Bright Light Award by the Association of Suffolk Supervisors for Educational Technologies during the organization’s annual Bright Light Awards Luncheon on Jan. 23.

ASSET annually recognizes educators, administrators, and district personnel who help make the integration of technology into the classroom a seamless process while enhancing student learning experiences. Ms. LaValle was selected as a “Bright Light” in recognition of her exceptional ability to bring stories to life through innovative and purposeful use of technology.

Ms. LaValle has done outstanding work integrating technology and STEM into literacy instruction within the elementary library. Her creativity and passion are evident in hands-on learning experiences such as challenging students to code Ozobots through storytelling or guiding kindergarten students as they design, build and test their own versions of the houses in “The Three Little Pigs” to determine which materials create the strongest structure. Through these experiences, students actively engage with literature while developing critical thinking, problem-solving and collaboration skills.

Ms. LaValle’s forward-thinking initiatives, including the creation of a SchoolAI space that helps students discover their next great read, exemplify instructional excellence and reflect a deep commitment to enriching learning across the district. Ms. LaValle’s work continues to inspire students and educators alike, making her a truly deserving recipient of the ASSET Bright Light Award.