Aldine ISD Names 2025–2026 Information Literacy Specialists of the Year

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Lucille Barnes, ILS at Goodman Elementary School, and Ninfa Jiménez Segura, ILS at Aldine High School, pose (center, l-r) wearing their sashes as ILSs of the School Year. They are joined by several colleagues, including William Schaller, ILS at Hoffman Middle School (back row, far left); Jessica Jackson (back row, center), Aldine ISD program manager of Library Services; and Elizabeth Gilbert (in red), ILS at Eisenhower Ninth Grade School.

For students, the library is often where curiosity begins. It is the place where a child discovers a favorite author, a teen finds a quiet place to think, and a campus builds a culture of reading that fuels every subject. In Aldine ISD, reading is a top priority because it is the foundation for all learning — and this year, two campus leaders are being recognized for bringing that mission to life.

The district proudly announces the 2025–2026 Elementary and Secondary Information Literacy Specialists of the Year: Lucille Barnes of Goodman Elementary School and Ninfa Jiménez Segura of Aldine High School.

These honors celebrate school librarians who transform libraries into welcoming, high-impact learning hubs that support students, staff, and families across the district.

A Library That Feels Like Home

At Goodman Elementary, Barnes has created a library that serves as a cornerstone of academic and emotional growth for the entire campus community. From family engagement nights to engaging reading contests, she has built a space where students feel safe, inspired, and excited to read.

Her passion for literacy is visible in carefully curated book displays and campuswide reading challenges that encourage students to explore new stories and ideas. Barnes also works closely with teachers to align library resources with classroom instruction, ensuring students have the tools they need to succeed.

Beyond her campus, Barnes mentors peers and supports specialized strategies that help every learner thrive. Her leadership and dedication have helped turn the Goodman library into a vibrant center of learning and belonging.

A Sanctuary for Belonging and Curiosity

At Aldine High School, Jiménez Segura has transformed the library into a cozy, inclusive, and nurturing sanctuary, as colleagues describe it. Her recognition was especially meaningful — she received 30 nominations from 30 campus coworkers.

Students are greeted by name, diverse collections reflect the world around them, and energetic lunch book clubs create excitement around reading. Her enthusiasm for literacy has helped cultivate a culture where students feel seen, valued, and eager to learn.

Jiménez Segura also serves as a strong instructional partner, co-planning lessons with teachers and aligning library resources with campus curriculum. From mentoring new staff to advocating for equitable access, she ensures the library remains a vital resource hub that supports the whole child.

Building a Districtwide Culture of Literacy

Jessica Jackson, Aldine ISD Program Manager of Library Services, said the honorees exemplify the district’s commitment to literacy and student success.

“These Information Literacy Specialists show how powerful a school library can be, in the #AldineStory” Jackson said. “They create welcoming spaces, inspire a love of reading, and partner with teachers to strengthen learning across every subject. Their work helps ensure students see themselves as readers, thinkers, and lifelong learners.”

As Aldine ISD continues to prioritize reading as the key to opportunity, Barnes and Jiménez Segura represent the heart of that mission — proving that when libraries thrive, students do too.