A profession at the tipping point: Time to change the game plan.

ASLA 2011. Karen Bonanno, Keynote speaker: A profession at the tipping point: Time to change the game plan.
Karen Bonanno, Australian School Library Association

slideshare.net/​ASLAonline/​profession-at-tipping-point

Abstract: The nationalisation of K-12 education in Australia has the potential to have a Jupiter Effect (prediction that an alignment of the planets would create a number of catastrophes) on school libraries and the profession. Government-driven initiatives and projects herald an education 'two-speed economy' for teacher librarians - boom or bust. The report, School libraries and teacher librarians in 21st century Australia, and data from 386 submissions and 13 public hearings provide sufficient evidence that school libraries and teacher librarianship are at a tipping point. This address will present a view on the impact of the nationalisation of K-12 education and explore strategic directions for the profession and school libraries. What will be the future if you do not take charge of your own siesmic shift?

Since January 2002 Karen has been the contracted Executive Officer for the Australian School Library Association (ASLA). She has worked as a secondary teacher, teacher librarian, head of department, acting deputy principal, regional adviser and education officer in the public education sector. Karen co-authored the ASLA submission for the House of Representatives Inquiry into school libraries and teacher librarians in Australian schools, attended all the public hearings and appeared three times before the Committee as a witness in her capacity as Executive Officer. In 2001, she was awarded the Australian School Library Association Citation in recognition of her contribution to teacher librarianship in Australia. Her ongoing contribution to the profession demonstrates a high level of dedication and professionalism.

Karen contributes to the professional learning of colleagues through the website schoollibrarymanagement.com/​index.html