|
UESF
Commentary
|
|
Shelving librarians doesn't balance the books
By Terry Heieck Lai
Literacy and improved reading levels for students are supposedly one of the district’s education priorities.
Library media teachers like Laura Yanow at Luther Burbank Middle School, contribute directly to students' academic achievement.Though one reason for instituting the Weighted Student Formula was to give equal access and resources for all students, schools are now farther apart in equity of access and resources than ever. The district is not supporting library programs staffed by credentialed library media teachers (LMTs). Because these positions are not mandated by the district, economically strapped school sites have cut library programs.
Almost all middle schools cut their LMT positions either totally or by half. In some cases paras or library technicians now staff these libraries. They are expected to do a job for which they are not qualified or trained.
Assigning non-credentialed personnel to run school libraries creates other problems. Staff and community observe that the library is “open.” Books circulate. The new person is referred to as “the librarian.” Would the administration assign a non-certificated person to teach an English, history, science or math class?Library media teachers are more than book circulators
A credentialed library media teacher is more than a circulator of books. Library media teachers teach literacy, research skills and techniques. They make students aware of copyright issues. They guide students in book selection, reinforce and expand students’ online search skills, and help students to analyze information.Library media teachers instruct staff and students to use Internet and print resources. They help teachers plan and enhance lessons and meet standards in all curricular areas.
Library programs raise reading levels, test scores
Studies show that strong library programs that are run by credentialed library media teachers raise reading levels and improve test scores.As a result of last spring’s cuts, three middle schools have no library staff; four are run by classified library technicians. Most middle school libraries are open only half time. One of the large high schools has no library staff at all. Some librarians have had to assume other tasks to stay on site full time. Only three elementary and no K-8 nor small necessary schools have credentialed library staff.
If there were a credentialed library media teacher in each school, media literacy would be taught at all grade levels on an ongoing basis. Test scores would rise.Terry Heieck Lai is the library media teacher at both Giannini and Francisco Middle Schools.
