Gardiner Teacher-Librarian honored in Legislature

Rep. Grant, Rep. Kinney, Debra Butterfield, Ellen Butterfield, Sen. Bellows, Gerald Butterfield and Richard Mozeleski

The Maine Legislature honored Debra Butterfield, Teacher-Librarian at Gardiner Area High School with a Legislative Sentiment in recognition of her being named the Walter J. Taranko School Librarian of the Year by the Maine Association of School Libraries for excelling at the local, state and national levels.

“Debra Butterfield is an integral member of our school community, not only in her collaboration with faculty and the programs she oversees but in the mentorship she provides our students,” said Rep. Gay Grant, D-Gardiner. “Our future as a state rests with our students, so there is, I would argue, no more important work to be done than to help our youth become citizens who realize their highest potential.”

“Debra is a exactly the sort of person you want teaching your kids or as your coworker,” said Sen. Shenna Bellows, D-Manchester. “We’re so lucky that she works in the Gardiner community.”

Butterfield visited the State House on September 13, along with her parents and husband, to receive the Sentiment before the House of Representatives. During the day’s legislative session, Rep. Grant, and Butterfield’s neighbor, Rep. MaryAnne Kinney, R-Knox, spoke about Butterfield’s contributions to her students and fellow teachers.

A Legislative Sentiment is a significant expression by the Legislature in recognition of civic and public achievements.