[LM_NET] K-12 Perception of libraries/librarians

[Long <along@HOMERCENTER.ORG>]

Dear Friends,
I have been reading the posts as of late discussing the research linking us to 
increased test scores. Everybody has an opinion whether these studies are valid or 
not. However, the crux of the issue is how our staff, students, etc. perceive us.  
To that end, there needs to be a nationally based "push" for us to get into the 
teacher education programs, the superintendent's meetings, the PTA meetings, the 
principal certification programs, etc.  For too long we have sat by and watched our 
profession be denigrated.   Just think:  what if AASL created a presentation that 
could be used universally to talk to school boards, teacher education programs, 
superintendent's meetings, etc. It could be placed on their web site, downloaded, 
and used by all of us all over the US and the world. 

I know this is asking a lot.  I also can hear many of you saying, "Great idea but 
when do I have time?"  and "What does she know?  Has she done this?"   Time is 
always an issue and all of us have differing situations.  Maybe you could start off 
talking to your own principal or talk to your student teachers in your building.  
As to, "have I done this?"  the answer is yes.  I decided last year to really push 
this issue.  I finally was asked to lecture education students about 
libraries/studies, etc. at our local college after trying for 3 years!  It did take 
some preparation but it was worth it.  I spoke for about 45 minutes.  My next step 
is to find a principal certification program that will be willing to have me speak. 
 I speak to our PTA next week.  

I appreciate all of this community and the help you have given me over the years.  
Please read this post and think about it.  We are all in this together and our jobs 
are at stake.

Regards,

Angela

Angela Long
MSLS
Librarian
Homer-Center Ele.
Homer City, PA 15759
along@homercenter.org
Shattering librarian stereotypes every day!

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