Licensure in Wisconsin

Wisconsin Library Media Specialist Licensure Program Content Guidelines

The Department of Public Instruction delegates preparation for licensure to institutions around the state. It authorizes, reviews, evaluates and approves each program for earning the license. Each varies slightly. For state programs in school librarianship, see Wisconsin Library Preparation Programs.

The Cooperative offers a consistent program across each of the participating institutions that is designed especially for working teachers who seek the license.

Standards

Wisconsin Standards for Information and Technology Literacy

Wisconsin Standards for English Language Arts

Framework for 21st Century Learning by Partnerships for 21st Century Skills

American Association of School Librarians Standards Framework

International Society for Technology in Education Student Standards

InTASC Standards

Questions

• How are school library information specialists licensed? Teachers holding a license in another area of education can add on 1902 certification. Those without an existing teaching license can obtain the 1902 certification as an initial teaching license.

• Can an educator work as a school library information specialist without having completed the 1902 certification? Yes, DPI Licensing will grant a one-year license with stipulations to work as a school library information specialist. The request must be made by the school district administrator who must provide evidence that a certified candidate was not available for the position. The person holding the one-year license with stipulations must enroll in a certified school library education program in order to renew the one-year license each year.

• Where can an individual receive training to become a school library information specialist? There are many educational options, in-state and online, for those interested in becoming school library information specialists. Wisconsin-based programs and contacts are listed at Wisconsin Library Preparation Programs.

• Must all school districts employ a school library information specialist? Yes, according to Wis. Statute 121.02(1)(h), commonly referred to as “Standard h.” To be in compliance with Standard h, all school district students in grades 7-12 must receive services from a certified library media specialist; students in grades K-6 must either receive services from a certified library media specialist or, at minimum, from someone under the direction of a certified library media specialist. Refer to the DPI School Libraries Home Page for complete information, or contact the DPI School Library Media Consultant, Monica Treptow: monica.treptow@dpi.wi.gov / (608) 575-6065

• Can a library aide provide services to students? Library aides may not provide any instructional services to students, but a library aide can provide basic services, such as circulation, location, technology, or basic reference assistance.