Riverside Middle’s Natalie Ingle Named SC Library Paraprofessional of the Year

Riverside Middle Library Media Clerk Natalie Ingle has been named the South Carolina Library Paraprofessional of the Year by the SC Association of School Librarians (SCASL). The surprise announcement was made today by SCASL Award Committee representatives Lindsay Beaman and Susan Dicey. In addition, Robert Mackey, representative from Follett School Solutions, presented Mrs. Ingle with a check.

The Paraprofessional of the Year Award recognizes the exemplary performance of a paraprofessional who directly supports the media profession.

“Meaningful experiences in middle school are created by people like Natalie who genuinely care about students and staff, who meet them where they are, and who take a genuine interest in them,” said Kate Malone, principal of Riverside Middle. “Natalie makes our library and our school a better place, every day.” 

“Natalie received shining letters of recommendation from the school administration. They told us that students seek her out to work with them and that she is a team player, always willing to work to meet the vision of not only the library, but also the school,” said Lindsay Beaman, SCASL Award Committee representative.

Mrs. Ingle’s kindness and tireless work create a space that is welcoming and inclusive for all members of the school community. Students quickly realize how much she cares about them, and they return often for book recommendations or just to chat for a minute about shared interests. Natalie is integral to the library program: helping run the book clubs, creating displays, circulating and repairing materials, preparing materials for teachers, and even discovering and organizing an opportunity for a free virtual author visit with a popular author earlier this year.