First, I feel blessed to work at a school where my Christian faith is encouraged. As a state certified, experienced K-12 reading specialist and classroom teacher, I am convinced that every child has unique potential, is innately curious, and craves literacy of one kind or another. I studied and trained to be a school librarian because I am passionate about literacy. According to Standards for the 21st-Century Learner, there are "multiple literacies" which include digital, visual, textual, and technological. I believe that the library media center, as the heart of the school, must be the place where students, their teachers, and their families can successfully explore those multiple literacies. Creating an environment where that quest is ongoing, ever-evolving, and interesting is my challenge as the school library media specialist. To do this well, I must be each and all of the following:
A leader in literacy and innovation. I must be a life-long learner and advocate for all things literacy-related, prepared to teach a teacher or a student.
An instructional partner with fellow teachers. I must develop healthy, professional relationships that garner trust in order to initiate successful collaboration that offers real benefits for students.
An information specialist with current skills and knowledge. It is incumbent upon me to explore and evaluate relevant topics and technologies to spearhead their incorporation within the school community at large and to advocate for fluent and respectful digital citizenship.
A teacher for each grade level. I must have a thorough understanding of learning targets and curricula to offer library lessons that foster critical and creative thinking as well as support, inspire, and enhance classroom instruction.
A program administrator managing budgets and resources. Through careful record-keeping and grant-writing, I must keep current resources coming in to the library, repair & weed outdated materials, inventory supplies, and work closely with the school's bookkeeper.