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 ›
leadership
Teamwork: Advocating for School Librarians & School Libraries
There seems to be an ever-increasing movement across the nation to do one or more of the following: Reframe the school librarian position as something less than a teacher. Do away with credentialed school librarians. Do away with school libraries…. Read More ›
Lead Like a Librarian
School librarians are uniquely positioned to be leaders. We see all of our students. (And — shh, don’t say this too loudly to our classroom teacher friends — but nothing that we teach is on a standardized test, so our… Read More ›
On a Mission: Students with Exceptional Abilities Coding Music
Libraries Ready to Code (RtC) is an initiative of ALA that is sponsored by Google. This initiative focuses on the role of school and public libraries in providing opportunities for youth to develop computational thinking skills through coding activities and… Read More ›
Interview with an emerging education leader
Do administrators know what we do? Have you had one of those days when you wondered “Does my principal even know what I do?” If you have, you are not alone. It is hard to find a way to let… Read More ›
Three Ways to Extend Your Library Digitally
School libraries often extend their resources beyond a brick and mortar room. Digital resources are collected, curated, and shared. Many school librarians use Pinterest, Padlet, and hyper docs to curate resources. Yet, there are many more ways to collect, curate,… Read More ›
15-Minute PD: You Get What You Give
There is a lot one can accomplish in just 15 minutes. You can update your resume, grab takeout dinner, take a shower, or even explore a new educational technology or library service. That’s right, in 15 minutes, school libraries can… Read More ›
Growing Capacity through Collaboration
I have always considered myself fortunate to work in an evolving profession where no two days, classes, or units of study are the same. The needs of the students are constantly changing and so am I. My growth is compounded… Read More ›
Membership Makes a Mark
In my state of Virginia, I am very fortunate to be a member of the state librarian’s association—the Virginia Association of School Librarians (VAASL). As the old American Express commercial used to say, “Membership has its privileges.” Possibly the most… Read More ›
Invite Your Legislator to School Day!
“They make all of the decisions, but they have no idea what’s really going on in our schools.” How often have you heard fellow educators make statements like these, in reference to superintendents, school board members, or legislators? I usually… Read More ›