First Day of School Jitters

Today is the first day of school at Pine Road. Each year there are jitters for students, teachers, and parents alike. Last year was my first year teaching classes in the library setting. I had taught for years prior in both first grade and kindergarten. But teaching in the library is a different animal. Many people asked me if I liked teaching in the library more, if it was "easier", or if I missed the classroom. I can say with absolute certainty that being a school library media specialist is definitely not easier. But it is different. There are different responsibilities and learning a new role is never easy. But I am not complaining because I love it. I LOVE teaching in the library, getting to see EVERY kid in the school, and watching their eyes light up when they find a "just right" book. I love helping kids learn to search in a way that is safe and effective, and learn to give credit where credit is due. I love helping students find creative ways to express themselves. I love connecting with and supporting staff in their different curricular areas, class research projects, read-aloud needs, unit development, and technology integration. Our library is not just a library. It is a media center, a living, breathing place. It is growing and changing as technology and the way we as a society embrace new ways of reading evolve. The library media center is alive. Alive with learning! Can you tell I'm passionate about my job? So, do I miss the classroom? Do I like teaching in the library more? All of the above. I miss the classroom, but I feel like teaching in the library is, for me, the best of both worlds. It's not for everyone, but it's "just right" for me!

And, First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg is a great read aloud for teachers on the first day!




So, this year, as students enter the hallways, classrooms, and library of our school, I have jitters, but mostly the excited ones. I'm excited to share some awesome lessons, books, and technology with students this year. And I'm excited to share what we do with all of you. Thank you for joining me on the journey this year.