Scholastic has compiled research from over 30 separate studies demonstrating the integral role librarians play in teaching and supporting student learning. They found that when school librarians are cut, student achievement suffers. View the full report at http://tiny.cc/SPPS_SLW
Libraries don’t just mean print books. Digital resources are essential in a 1:1 iPad environment, and librarians play a crucial role. They curate digital content, support instruction, teach digital citizenship, and educate students about issues such as online safety, privacy, and behavior. Librarians can also act as an in-house technology specialists, assisting students with device questions or issues.
A Licensed School Librarian has a Master’s Degree as well as a state-issued media specialist teaching license. The purpose of a librarian in the school is to work directly with students and staff. A licensed teacher librarian:
Student Standards
Just as all content areas have standards, librarians have information and technology literacy standards to meet for all grade levels. The American Association of School Librarians published new standards in 2019. The standards may be viewed at: https://standards.aasl.org
A fully staffed library program includes a full-time licensed librarian and a paraprofessional. The support staff handles all circulation and clerical duties, while the librarian teaches classes, collaborates with teachers, and provides direct instruction and support to students.
Edina, Osseo, Minnetonka, and Hopkins Public Schools all use this service model. Anoka-Hennepin also has licensed librarians in almost all buildings.
By comparison, SPPS has licensed librarians in 21 out of 57 sites, or 37% of buildings.© Copyright Saint Paul Public Schools. All Rights Reserved.
Saint Paul Public Schools, District 625 | 360 Colborne Street, Saint Paul, MN, 55102 | 651-767-8100
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