East Helena School Librarian Wins Teacher of the Year Award
Author: mt43news staff reporter
East Helena School Librarian Wins Teacher of the Year Award
MT43 News Staff Reporter
East Helena High School Library Media Specialist Marne Bender has been honored as the Innovative Teacher Librarian of the Year by the Northwest Council for Computer Education (NCCE). The award recognizes Bender’s long-standing dedication to transforming education through technology and her unique ability to impact students across all grade levels.
A release from NCCE pointed out that Bender serves a special role within the district, spending half her day with kindergarten learners and the remainder as the library media specialist at the high school. She began teaching in 2009 and has been at the forefront of educational technology. She helped with the early implementation of iPads in the classroom. Once famously described as “part robot” for her ability to control a Smart Board from her neck-worn iPad and has since led successful transitions for students to 1:1 Chromebook learning.
Beyond her work at East Helena Schools, Bender has made contributions to the regional educational community. In 2014, she co-founded EdCamp MT-West, an “unconference” to foster collaboration among educators. The camp will celebrate its 13th summer session in 2026. She also serves as coach for East Helena High School’s first Esports team, which she founded in 2019. Under her leadership, the team has secured multiple state titles.
Bender’s recent work with students and staff focuses on navigating the complexities of student data privacy and how to integrate artificial intelligence tools. She launched the Story Squad, a program in which high school students read to elementary school students, bridging the gap between the oldest and youngest learners.
EHPS Superintendent Dan Rispens was thrilled that one of his teacher/librarians received this prestigious award: “Mrs. Bender is a dedicated educator who always seeks new ways to connect with kids and spark their interest. The East Helena Schools are fortunate to have her on our staff. We are all very proud of her accomplishments!”
In an email, Bender wrote, “I am honored and very grateful to NCCE for this award, which is truly a reflection of the EHPS librarians’ collective dedication to our craft. I am so fortunate to be a part of a team that pushes me to do my best work every day. This award has energized me to continue to grow and deliver the high standard of excellence that our kids deserve!”
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