Meet the New Staff for the Depot Museum
Michelle Cooper Director
Michelle Cooper is an experienced educator and librarian with thirty years of experience creating engaging learning experiences for diverse audiences. Throughout her career, she has fostered collaboration, community partnerships, and innovative educational programming while promoting lifelong learning.
A recognized leader in education and library services, Michelle has received numerous state and national honors. Michelle is constantly striving to improve her educational practices and create innovative learning opportunities for students and colleagues. She is a co-founder of #TXLchat which provides a forum for Texas librarians to create collaborative connections, share educational resources, and foster lifelong learning. Michelle is the 2016 TCEA Library Media Specialist of the Year, 2017 AASL Advocacy Ambassador Finalist, a Tech & Learning Leader of the Year, a Makey Makey Ambassador, a Common Sense Media Ambassador, 2016 TASL MVP Honorable Award for Excellence, 2016 TLA Branding Iron Award for Social Media, and she has served on several committees for the American Library Association, the American Association of School Librarians, and the Texas Library Association. As Director of the Depot Museum, Michelle combines her passion for education and history.
Amy Turlington Assistant Director
Amy Turlington previously worked in the Rusk County elections office for 15 years. For the last four years, she served as Secretary to the principal at Tatum Middle School.