Homer Brink Principal Honored as Administrator of the Year
Homer Brink Elementary School Principal Kara Mallery has been named Administrator of the Year by the Broome-Tioga School Library System.
Sarena Eaton · 2026-06-05
A local school leader is being recognized for her outstanding support of libraries and literacy. Homer Brink Elementary School Principal Kara Mallery has been named Administrator of the Year by the Broome-Tioga School Library System, an honor recognizing administrators who have made significant contributions to the field of school librarianship.
The award recognizes leaders who demonstrate a deep understanding of library issues and practices, support the advancement of school libraries, champion literacy and technology initiatives, foster collaboration between librarians and classroom teachers, and exhibit outstanding educational leadership.
Mallery was nominated by Homer Brink librarian Carrie Randall, who praised her collaborative leadership style and unwavering support of the school's library program. In her nomination, Randall — who has more than 25 years of experience in school libraries — wrote that Mallery stood out as the best administrator she had ever worked with or for, noting that the distinction between those two words made all the difference.
According to Randall, Mallery views the library as an essential part of the educational experience and values the librarian's role as a teacher and instructional partner. She regularly seeks input from faculty, supports collaboration, and works to ensure the library remains a space for learning, opportunity, and resources.
Randall also highlighted the principal's impact on the broader school community. She noted improvements in student behavior and discipline that allow teachers and support staff to better serve students, and pointed to small but meaningful gestures — such as handwritten notes to staff on birthdays and at the start of the school year — as a reflection of the care Mallery shows for her colleagues.
Mallery received the recognition during the annual Administrators-Librarian Breakfast, which also featured a student panel discussion with participation from schools across the region. Homer Brink Elementary was represented by student Elodie, who was invited to serve on the panel.
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