I am sitting in new library paraprofessional training this morning, where we are welcoming new library staff, getting them up to speed on how we do all of the vital functions related to running a library, and I am struck… Read More ›
#AASLstandards
Learner-Centered Curation
Organization and curation have become educational buzzwords — but as librarians, these concepts have always been near and dear to our hearts! As school librarians, we are accustomed to seeking solutions and tools that meet the needs of an individual… Read More ›
Do You Need Lesson Ideas to Make Global Connections? Try These!
Take a look outside your window. What do you see? Imagine the views from windows around the world. How is the landscape different? How is it the same? Author Linda Ashman transports readers to different parts of the world with her… Read More ›
AASL Standards for Learners: Thinking Outside the Box – Criminal Profiling
One of the best things about the updated AASL National School Library Standards is the great level of flexibility in how to address the standards across the curriculum. The standards allow school librarians to engage students in learning that is well… Read More ›
Geography–A Collaborative Opportunity
Do you remember learning about geography when you were in grade school? I do! My teacher sent me to the school library with a blank map. I found an atlas, flipped through the pages, and located the map I needed…. Read More ›
Writing Historical Fiction: Collaborating to Meet the Standards
Over the past few semesters I have had the pleasure of collaborating with creative writing teachers in my building for weekly “Library Wednesday” lessons. In our school, creative writing is an elective course comprised of students in grades 9-12. We… Read More ›
Inquiry Framework: What Makes Sense?
I’m on a quest to refine my teaching to be both student-centered and relevant. This has evolved over time to mean that I talk a lot less now, and put more effort into the design of the learning experience. How… Read More ›
Aligning Your Practice to the AASL National Standards: Quick Reflection Activities to Get Started
When the AASL National School Library Standards were released in late 2017, I was a little nervous. The release coincided with my first year as my district’s lead librarian, so I knew I would be responsible for helping the librarians… Read More ›
Journalism Fosters Inclusiveness in the Library
Staff writers, editors, and head editors flood the center of my library to produce the Webb Canyon Chronicle, the public record of student voice at The Webb Schools. Although I always valued student-centered and artful approaches to education, I never… Read More ›
Channeling Your Inner School Librarian Superhero through Annual Reports
Faster than a laser barcode scanner, More powerful than a superhero, Able to leap tall shelves in a single bound, Look, over in the library! It’s a teacher! It’s a leader! It’s a learner-ready school librarian! Are you feeling your… Read More ›