Apples displayed on desks, apples given to them by students. West Homer Elementary School librarian also has an apple for her desk. A golden one, awarded to her by the Kenai Peninsula Borough School Board at its regular meeting on Monday.

In presenting her with the apple, board member Liz Downing, who represents Homer on the school board, read from comments made by WHES teacher Lyn Maslow.

“Over the past eleven years, Mrs. Lisa Whip has turned the West Homer Elementary library into the heart and soul of our school, where students flock to find new books to read and sources for research projects, as well as a place to find a supportive ear and safe place to relax,” said Maslow.

“Teachers go to the library to find materials to support curriculum, scour the professional library that Mrs. Whip has developed and find the latest cool book or series that was purchased.”   

Noted were Whip’s support of school programs, including development of a nature trail, a garden, Battle of the Books, the book fair and readathon.

Her implementation of the Scholastic Lexile measure system “Reading Counts” so students are able to read at the appropriate level was recognized, as was her collaboration with the Homer Public Library to increase the technology component of the WHES library. Whip also was commended for her continuing professional development.

The KPB School Board awards Golden Apples to district employees, volunteers and community organizations that take extra measures in the support and advancement of education.

Nominations for the award can be made by district employees, parents, school board members, volunteers and community members.

For the 2014-2015 school year, Golden Apples also have been awarded to:

• James Reinseth, K-1 teacher, Nanwalek School;

• Nadejda Reutov, support staff, Voznesenka School;

• Central Peninsula Hospital, community partner, Soldotna.