new media coordinator

[cara delia]

Hi everyone, I fell into a media coordinator position by luck, and haven't started MLS classes, so I am a bit lost on how to begin my school year! I hace taught for 5 years, including a reading interventionist, so the literacy aspect is a given, I'm looking for more advice on how to start the year, and maybe a list of "must do" that you often use to begin in August. Thanks so much!

[Anita L. Vance]

Your beginning depends on the grades you will be teaching. Look for the library curriculum guidelines that have been approved for your district. If you can't find those, find the ones for your state to give you an outline. Once you have some idea of your overall goals, you can set up your lessons toward those goals. The first year is usually finding the rhythm flow of your fit within the faculty and administration. Have you had to do anything with budget? Will you have discretionary funds? You may want to get an idea of supplies, if you expect to involve students in interactive lessons. I'm not sure what grades you have, hence the general overview. Anita Vance, newly retired HS librarian

[cara delia]

Thanks, yes my state guidelines are WONDERFUL, they basically outline a lesson plan for every goal and break it into k-2/3-5. I have devoured these resources, but I'm wondering more about the little things. I will be working with grades k-5 about 500+ students. Just a bit intimidating! I was wondering, how do you introduce respect for the book with 3-5? They should have an overview of how to take care of the books, but it shouldn't be overkill. Can't seem to find too many resources on the internet for Media Coordinators. What types of procedures do you use? Those sorts of things.

[Anita L. Vance]

One of the easiest ways to review or set the bar and get all your students on the same page at the beginning of the year is to allow them to let them create a skit to illustrate the idea. If they are allowed to get a little silly or go overboard, just for one period, your point is made, without becoming dry and boring. This is especially true for student perception of library rules. Groups of three four, with a main rule or review to be demonstrated, and 7 minutes to create it.....with time to share your major rules for the rest of the period. Your first class may be a little chaotic, but it sets the tone for a lively, interactive library. If you prefer another setting, this may not work for you....

[cara delia]

Absolutely IN LOVE!!! With this idea! Oh you have set my mind at ease for the first week! I was planning on the k-2 kids showing them a book with a diaper on it (another great idea from this forum) and discussing how a book is like a baby (can't be left outside, shouldn't be thrown or stepped on, should not be lost etc.), but I knew this approach was far too patronizing for the 3-5 kids! I am soooooo thankful for your expertise!!

[Anita L. Vance]

Glad it sounds like it will work for you - be careful about adhering to prep time, and all groups paying attention - this can quickly get chaotic. best wishes for your new year!
Anita

[cara delia]

Thanks, and thanks for replying, I am begining to notice that many of the posts are older and no one seems to respond very often.

[Anita L. Vance]

This will get some steam once school starts again.