Kent District Library is pleased to award Kim Blovits and West Michigan Asian American Association (WMAAA) with the 2026 Literacy Champion Awards. Blovits, a fourth-grade teacher at Caledonia Elementary, received the individual award and West Michigan Asian American Association received the organization award. They each received a $1,000 cash prize to further their literacy efforts and a crystal trophy.
KDL offers the Literacy Champion Award for outstanding leadership and advocacy of literacy. The award goes to an individual and an organization who does or has done something exceptional to promote literacy. This year, KDL received 21 nominations, which were reviewed by its Board of Trustees and Leadership Team to select the winners.
Blovits has displayed an exceptional dedication to literacy and student success throughout her 32-year teaching career. A passionate fourth-grade teacher and advocate for reading, she has inspired generations of students through engaging read-alouds, after-school tutoring groups and advanced study opportunities that ensure every child is challenged and supported. Known for her outstanding classroom management and ability to turn reluctant readers into enthusiastic book lovers, she creates a classroom environment where students eagerly dive into chapter book series and build confidence in their reading skills. Her patience, leadership and unwavering commitment to her students have made a lasting impact on countless children, families and fellow educators.
West Michigan Asian American Association is recognized for its outstanding commitment to advancing literacy, language access and community connection across West Michigan’s Asian American communities. For the past 16 years, WMAAA has provided bilingual support and culturally responsive programming that helps children, families, immigrants and refugees overcome barriers to education and essential services. Through ESL and citizenship classes, youth financial literacy programs, multilingual outreach and partnerships with organizations such as Kent District Library, WMAAA has empowered hundreds of community members to build confidence, strengthen literacy skills and access valuable resources. Under the leadership of Executive Director Yilin Wendland Liu, whose background includes leading adult literacy and English language learning initiatives, the organization continues to serve as a trusted cultural bridge and champion for lifelong learning.
The Literacy Champion Awards were given out at KDL’s Board Meeting on Thursday, June 18. Public nominations for Literacy Champions are received throughout the year at kdl.org/literacychampion.