Concurrent Session Speakers
Instructional Design
Topic: Developing Inquiry-Based Schools & School Libraries
Presenters: Barbara Stripling, Darryl Toerien, and Jenny Toerien
Description: When learners develop an inquiry stance, they learn to follow their own sense of wonder into new discoveries and insights about themselves, others, and the way the world works. Through inquiry, learners develop the skills and attitudes of independent learning, a strong self-identity, cultural responsiveness, social and emotional health, voice and agency, and a growth mindset. In this session, we will explore teaching these whole-child skills and attitudes to learners throughout their years of schooling through collaboratively planned, inquiry-based curricular units and direct instruction. By teaching these life skills, school librarians can empower all students to flourish both in school and beyond.
Bio: Barbara Stripling is a former school librarian, library administrator, library educator. Creator of Stripling Model of Inquiry; Developer of Empire State Information Fluency Continuum.
Bio: Darryl Toerien is the Head of Inquiry-Based Learning, Blanchelande College, Guernsey. Creator of FOSIL, an Inquiry Model and Framework of Skills, adapted from Stripling Model of Inquiry. Head of Inquiry-Based Learning, Blanchelande College, Guernsey.
Bio: Jenny Toerien is the College librarian and Project Qualifications Coordinator, Blanchelande College, Guernsey. Co-Developer of FOSIL, an Inquiry Model and Framework of Skills, adapted from Stripling Model of Inquiry.
Topic: Collaboration, Concepts, and the Human Side: Illuminations from over a decade of GID implementation
Presenters: Leslie Maniotes
Description: Description: In 2007 a team of Educators along with Dr. Carol Kuhlthau (prof emerita Rutgers University) came together and created a framework for inquiry-based learning that was a direct derivative of the body of research on the Information Search Process. As a team, we took all the lessons from the ISP research and addressed the blindspots and pitfalls common in research projects and created a new way learning in the library. As a result, our training and the process of Guided Inquiry Design has transformed the instructional role of the school librarian. After implementation in many and diverse settings over the last decade, we have learned a tremendous amount about its benefits. In this session Dr. Leslie Maniotes will share the updates on Guided Inquiry Design, 1. how it is improving teacher and librarian collaborations, 2. how teaching information literacy concepts increases lasting learning in the library, and 3. how GID is proving to be a powerful way to guide learners for the future times when faced with increasing amount of Artificial Intelligence.
Bio: Leslie Maniotes, PhD is author and co-author of the Guided Inquiry Design series collaborator of Dr. Carol Kuhlthau. As owner of BLV Consulting, Leslie works with educational leaders worldwide to create systems of support for inquiry learning in P-20 schools. As Guided Inquiry Design’s professional developer she facilitates professional learning for educators through GID courses, online training, workshops and provides virtual coaching to teams from her base in the foothills of Colorado.
Leslie began her career as a go-getter teacher, earned National Board Certification and has more than a decade of classroom experience. Leslie enjoyed gaining expertise in the area of literacy and even visited New Zealand in a teacher exchange program early in her career. She served as a K-12 literacy specialist always working in Title 1 schools and has experiences as a school administrator in an urban setting and teacher effectiveness coach in the Denver Public Schools. She holds a master’s degree in Reading K-12 from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and a doctorate in instructional curriculum in the content areas from the University of Colorado, Boulder. Leslie has provided keynotes for conferences and shares her knowledge in international conferences, local and national conferences on social studies, literacy, and learning in the library. She loves spreading her love for learning and mostly enjoying making a big impact on the students of the future with Guided Inquiry Design. LinkedIn
Topic: ML3: Librarians as Leaders for Media Literacy
Presenters: Cyndy Scheibe and Christopher Sperry, Project Look Sharp, Ithaca College
Description: Constructivist media decoding (CMD) engages students at all grade levels through participatory learning, inquiry, and reflection. Librarians are in an ideal position to take the lead for media literacy in their schools by sharing resources and modeling CMD practices for their teachers.
Bio: Cyndy Scheibe is the founder and Executive Director of Project Look Sharp. She is the co-author of the book The Teacher's Guide to Media Literacy: Critical Thinking in a Multimedia World (2012, Sage/Corwin) and the reference guide Media Literacy in Every Classroom (2017, ASCD) with Faith Rogow, and Teaching Students to Decode the World (2022, ASCD) with Chris Sperry. She is also Dana Professor of Psychology at Ithaca College where she has taught courses in developmental psychology, media research, and media literacy for more than 35 years. Cyndy was a founding board member of the National Association for Media Literacy Education and is a contributing editor to Project Look Sharp curricula. She received her Ph.D. in Human Development (1987) from Cornell University.
Bio: Chris Sperry is the co-director of Project Look Sharp, overseeing lesson creation and professional development work with educators in the U.S. and across the world. He taught middle and high school social studies, English and media studies for over 40 years at the Lehman Alternative Community School in Ithaca, NY, where he developed the methodology of Constructivist Media Decoding that is core to the PLS approach to media literacy integration. Chris currently directs Project Look Sharp’s Librarians as Leaders for Media Literacy (ML3) initiatives. He is the author of numerous curriculum kits related to global studies and U.S. history and co-author of Teaching Students to Decode the World: Media Literacy Across the Curriculum (2022, ASCD). He is the recipient of the National Council for the Social Studies 2008 Award for Global Understanding, and the 2005 National PTA and Cable Leaders in Learning Award for Media Literacy. He has a B.A. in planned studies from Ithaca College (focused on media literacy) and an Ed.M. in human development from Harvard University School of Education.
Topic: Bloom Where You Are Planted: Supporting Science and Mathematical Inquiry Learning Through the Library Program
Presenter: Brian Johnson, NBCT, EdD
Description: Have you ever wondered about how to implement best practices to promote inquiry and collaborate with teachers through the Library? This session will describe the process of designing a series of innovative extension learning activities to help students to continue to grow and develop as learners. It will focus on practical suggestions for how to support your teachers and collaborate with them to design inquiry based learning opportunities and how to make inquiry based learning a reality for all students.
Bio: Dr. Brian T. Johnson has served in education for over 25 years. He has 15 years of teaching experience in middle and high school settings. His classroom teaching career started in Billings, Montana. Since then, he has taught in Chicago, Raleigh, North Carolina, and most recently in Northwest Arkansas. Since 2009, he has served as a school library/media specialist in Northwest Arkansas. In 2012, he earned National Board Certification in Library/Media.
He is a member of the Arkansas Association of Instructional Media (AAIM), the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT), and the Arkansas Society for Technology in Education (ARKSTE). He has written articles for the Arkansas Association of Instructional Media Journal, School Library Connection, Educational Research Technology & Development and presented at the AECT and EMints National Conferences. In 2021, he completed an EdD in Instructional Design/Technology through the University of Memphis. Dr. Johnson is passionate about instruction and collaboration. His research interests include information literacy instruction, makerspaces in K-12 education and professional development for adult learners.
Topic: Working with Life Skills Special Education Reading Classes
Presenter: Courtney Pentland
Description: Courtney Pentland is a high school librarian in Lincoln, Nebraska. She is adjunct faculty for the University of Nebraska-Omaha School Library program and has served on the Nebraska School Librarians Association board as board member at large, president, and chapter delegate to AASL. She is the 2023-2024 American Association of School Librarians President.
Bio: Working with our Life Skills Special Education Reading Classes is the best part of my week. In this session, I share how this partnership has developed over time, the structure of the lessons we do each week, and many examples of the lessons we have done including the books we read and the hands-on activities that accompany them. These lessons can easily be taught at the elementary, middle school, or high school level.
Topic: Creation Literacy in the School Library
Presenters: Meggan Ford
Description: Libraries are at the heart of their communities, and have the opportunity to foster a culture of creativity and innovation. As the role of the school library evolves to meet the changing needs of students and educators, it is important to consider the value of creation literacy in the school setting. By providing students with the skills and resources to create and share their own content, we can empower them to be active participants in the own learning and to make a positive impact.
Bio: Meggan Ford is a high school librarian living in the Metro Atlanta area. She is a national speaker and currently serves as the President Elect of the Georgia Library Media Association. Meggan is deeply committed to integrating sustainability, creativity, and SEL into her library programming. She is also an ISTE certified educator, Adobe Certified Education Innovator, and Microsoft Innovative Education Expert. In her spare time, Meggan can be found snuggled up on her couch with her cat, indulging in a good read.
International
Topic: Digital Curation
Presenters: Madison Dearnaley & Colin Bell
Description: We live in a digital world and students need help learning digital literacy skills. When it comes to research, we know students turn to Google or even chatbots for answers. So, where does the school library fit in all of this? Digital curation. Bringing together our skills of curation and knowledge of information and digital literacy, digital curation is the key to move the school library into the online world, support students in their research and learning, teach the skills staff and students need to navigate an online world safely, and promote all the things the school library is and does. In this session, attendees will learn what digital curation is, why it is so powerful for school librarians, and how to curate digital resources effectively and in response to a wide range of needs.
Bio: Madison Dearnaley is passionate about school libraries. She is the Head of Library Services at St Paul’s School, Queensland, Australia, with a focus on supporting innovation, creativity, and wellbeing. Madison also writes about children’s and YA literature and all things school libraries on her website madisonslibrary.com, where she particularly enjoys curating and creating professional learning for school library professionals.
Bio: Colin Bell is the founder and CEO of Concord Australia and a founding partner of Concord USA Inc. For more than 35 years Concord has been focused on providing schools with innovative and engaging solutions that support and enhance the educational journey of K-12 students, while simultaneously reducing the workload of librarians and teachers.
Topic: Foundations for School Library Learning Commons in Canada: A Framework for Success
Presenters: Anita Brooks Kirkland, BMus, BEd, MM, MLIS, OCT and Joseph Jeffery, BSc, BEd, MEd
Description: Why is it important to have national standards for school libraries, and what should these standards look like? In the Canadian context, with so many disparities in programs existing between jurisdictions across the country, arbitrary benchmarks for excellence are unachievable in many schools. That reality inspired the creation of CSL’s very successful Leading Learning: Standards of Practice for School Library Learning Commons in Canada (2014 - 2023), which is focused on program and presented as a framework for growth. Recently there has been a growing call for standards for policy and funding, and practical guidelines for things like infrastructure, staffing, management and accountability – necessary prerequisites for the successful implementation of Leading Learning. Taking our inspiration from IFLA’s School Library Guidelines, 2nd revised edition (2015), CSL recently published Foundations for School Library Learning Commons in Canada: A Framework for Success in response to this call. We believe that Foundations and Frameworks has found the balance, describing solid expectations to support program growth rather than setting unachievable and discouraging benchmarks. Join us as we present the Foundations and Frameworks approach.
Bio: Anita is the chair of the national organization, Canadian School Libraries (CSL), where she also co-edits its online publication, CSL Journal. She is a past president of both the Ontario School Library Association and the Ontario Library Association. Recent CSL projects include development of the Collection Diversity Toolkit, managing the Teaching Through Books project, and development of the new guideline document, Foundations for School Library Learning Commons in Canada: A Framework for Success. As a writer and presenter, Anita draws on her extensive previous experience as an instructor in teacher-librarianship for the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE), University of Toronto, and as the Consultant for K-12 Libraries at the Waterloo Region District School Board in Ontario, Canada.
Bio: Joseph is the District Learning Commons Teacher-Librarian for British Columbia School District 57 – Prince George. He is also on the board of directors for Canadian School Libraries (CSL) and has contributed to the CSL Journal, Foundations for School Library Learning Commons in Canada: A Framework for Success, the Collection Diversity Toolkit, and recent updates to Leading Learning: Standards for School Library Learning Commons in Canada.
Topic: Building a BRIDGE for Information & Digital Literacy for 8-11 Year Olds - a European Erasmus Project
Presenter: Sarah Pavey, MSc, FCLIP, FRSA, Education Consultant and Trainer
Description: In 2022 I was invited to join a team of European university librarians bidding for a research project to create an open source database of transmedia products to support critical thinking and information and digital literacy for librarians and teachers in primary education. We were successful in our bid and secured funding to reflect on the current situation regarding information and digital literacy in our countries before developing our product which is now live and completely free to use.
The countries participating in the project are England, Spain, Italy, Turkey, Greece and Finland. The database we have created is multilingual although all resources are translated into English which is the working language for the project. We have all selected over 50 picture books (most of which are silent with few words) that fit with our criteria of being
inclusive and diverse. The books have also been chosen because they can be used for discursive topics to encourage critical thinking and so we have searchable labels for topics
such as the environment, refugees, body image etc as well as for digital competencies such as media bias or misinformation. The picture book element is supported by a booklet which gives sound pedagogical advice on how to use the books in practice.
Our database also includes websites, again chosen by all the individual countries and translated into English where necessary. These are predominantly focused on digital skills and include some well known resources such as Newswise and Google’s Interland. They have all been evaluated for suitability for the age group we targeted. This presentation will introduce the background and development of this exciting project and show how you will be able to take advantage of its contents.
Bio: Sarah Pavey has worked as a school librarian for over 20 years and is founder of education training company and consultancy SP4IL. She holds degrees in biochemistry and information science and is an established author and regular speaker at conferences for school libraries as well as wider education issues. Sarah is a Fellow of CILIP and the Royal Society of Arts and works with the Electronic Platform for Adult Learning in Europe (EPALE) in the field of adult education. Her training courses, both home and abroad, on a range of topics including playful learning, are practical and acclaimed for being rooted in theory.
Topic: Developing Inquiry-Based Schools & School Libraries
Presenters: Barbara Stripling, Darryl Toerien, and Jenny Toerien
Description: When learners develop an inquiry stance, they learn to follow their own sense of wonder into new discoveries and insights about themselves, others, and the way the world works. Through inquiry, learners develop the skills and attitudes of independent learning, a strong self-identity, cultural responsiveness, social and emotional health, voice and agency, and a growth mindset. In this session, we will explore teaching these whole-child skills and attitudes to learners throughout their years of schooling through collaboratively planned, inquiry-based curricular units and direct instruction. By teaching these life skills, school librarians can empower all students to flourish both in school and beyond.
Bio: Barbara Stripling is a former school librarian, library administrator, library educator. Creator of Stripling Model of Inquiry; Developer of Empire State Information Fluency Continuum.
Bio: Darryl Toerien is the Head of Inquiry-Based Learning, Blanchelande College, Guernsey. Creator of FOSIL, an Inquiry Model and Framework of Skills, adapted from Stripling Model of Inquiry. Head of Inquiry-Based Learning, Blanchelande College, Guernsey.
Bio: Jenny Toerien is the College librarian and Project Qualifications Coordinator, Blanchelande College, Guernsey. Co-Developer of FOSIL, an Inquiry Model and Framework of Skills, adapted from Stripling Model of Inquiry.
Community
Topic: Developing Student Agency Through Partnership
Presenter: Morgan Keohane
Description: For the past ten years I have worked as a school librarian in a neighborhood not only identified by its level of economic and racial diversity, but also a history of a large immigrant population. I want my students to develop not just a love for reading but a commitment to lifelong learning, and for many of my students this means finding alternative methods for demonstrating confidence in their own reading capabilities. In this presentation I will focus on how to create meaningful partnerships, teaching both students and families foundational literacy skills. I will also highlight how to establish the library as a collaborative, inclusive environment so that students establish agency and find comfort developing their own personal interests.
Bio: Morgan Keohane has worked as an elementary school librarian for Boston Public Schools since 2013. She holds a BA from the University of Kentucky, an MSLIS from Simmons University, and a certificate in Early Childhood Technology from Tufts University. She has built her school’s library program from the ground up and is passionate about providing underserved students with resources that will put them on a level playing field in the future. In 2018 she was the winner of the Massachusetts School Library Association President’s Award. In 2023 she was the winner of Wondermore’s Pat Keough Award, which recognizes a librarian who has gone above and beyond in their efforts to plan author visits for their students.
Topic: Community and Collaboration: Leveraging Partnerships to Grow Powerful Libraries -The Administrator Perspective
Presenter: Dr. Joseph Meloche, Superintendent, Rose Tree Media School District
Description: This session spotlights best practices and models for building powerful and lasting partnerships for your library and developing robust school library programs. Participants will come away with a set of tools, models and resources for cultivating strong partnerships within their school community, their district and the wider community. This session is for anyone who wants their library to go beyond the status quo and really shine. We will provide both quick and easy tips and present long-term plans for developing meaningful and lasting partnerships we can build within our schools, districts and communities. This session was developed by school library media specialist Skye Silverstein and superintendent Dr. Joseph Meloche and is split into two sessions– we encourage you to attend both to make the most of our collaborative work.
Bio: After serving as the superintendent of the Cherry Hill Public Schools, in Camden County, NJ for eight years, and serving the regional educational community of South Jersey for 30 years, Dr. Joseph Meloche was appointed superintendent of the Rose Tree Media School District, in Delaware County, PA, in March 2023. His educational background includes teaching Humanities and English at the middle school level, serving as an elementary school, middle school, and high school principal, a director of curriculum, and an assistant superintendent. Dr. Meloche earned a bachelor’s degree at DeSales University, and masters’ degrees at Holy Family University and Widener University, as well as a doctorate from Widener University.
Dr. Meloche provides the critically essential leadership for an environment that nurtures child development and academic achievement, while motivating and engaging students to share their voices as scholars and as people. Identified by Education Week as a “Leader to Learn From,” and as the NJ PTA Superintendent of the Year, the New Jersey Association of School Librarians Outstanding Administrator of the Year, and the 2021 New Jersey Superintendent of the Year, he has been dedicated to serving as a collaborative and approachable leader. Dr. Meloche believes that school librarians are “essential” to successful schools and that they are “difference makers” in the education of children.
He and his wife, Ann, have four adult daughters.
Topic: Community and Collaboration: Leveraging Partnerships to Grow Powerful Libraries -The School Librarian Perspective
Presenter: Skye Silverstein
Description: This session spotlights best practices and models for building powerful and lasting partnerships for your library and developing robust school library programs. Participants will come away with a set of tools, models and resources for cultivating strong partnerships within their school community, their district and the wider community. This session is for anyone who wants their library to go beyond the status quo and really shine. We will provide both quick and easy tips and present long-term plans for developing meaningful and lasting partnerships we can build within our schools, districts and communities. This session was developed by school library media specialist Skye Silverstein and superintendent Dr. Joseph Meloche and is split into two sessions– we encourage you to attend both to make the most of our collaborative work.
Bio: Skye Silverstein is the school library media specialist at Rosa Internaional Middle School of Cherry Hill, New Jersey. She has been a school librarian for eight years and before that taught high school English for fifteen years. Her areas of specialty include SEL in the library, Project Lit programming, creativity in the library, sustainability, makerspaces, graphic novels, information literacy and AI, and school library advocacy. Her current favorite tech tools are Canva and Padlet, which encourage creativity and sharing ideas. When she has a free minute, she loves to read ebooks, cook vegetarian foods, and hang out with her kids and puppy.
Topic: Connect! School Library Partnerships for Literacy & Community Engagement
Presenter: Valerie Tagoe
Description: It is time for school libraries and school librarians to connect! Connect with organizations in the community to advance student achievement, educate and inform school communities. When librarians walk away from this presentation, they will be able to leverage existing partnerships and build new ones, and incorporate them into library instruction and programming.
Bio: Valerie Tagoe has been a school librarian for 14 years and a part-time public librarian for one year. Cuts in school librarian positions in her district spurred her involvement with the Dallas Association of School Librarians and the Texas Library Association Legislative Committee. She wants to put her Policy Corps knowledge into immediate action in her hometown and throughout Texas. Valerie is also the coauthor of the book, Liven Up Your Library: Design Engaging and Inclusive Programs for Tweens and Teens.
Topic: Making School Librarians Essential
Presenters: Janet Wile
Description: Very few districts in California have Teacher Librarians. Even fewer have them at the middle school level. This session focuses on the Central Unified School District in Fresno, CA which added three middle school TLs in the fall of 2014 who joined the two already in place at the high schools. When our new high school opened in the fall of 2021, a Teacher Librarian position was included there as well. This session focuses on the impact of these middle school teacher librarians and how they earned their place on their school campus and are now an integral part of the staff. Two of the middle school teacher librarians, along with their district librarian, share their focus and intention of how they changed the perception of TLs and their importance on a middle school campus.
Bio: Janet Wile is the Supervisor of Library Services for Central Unified School District located in Fresno, CA. She was the Teacher Librarian at Central East High School for thirteen years where she created long lasting programs, Athletes as Readers and Leaders (now in its 15th year), Slammin’ in Your Library (now in its 18th year) and was well regarded for her collaborative lessons in all subject areas. In 2014 Janet moved to the district office to oversee twenty two school libraries as well as Instructional Materials. Janet was fortunate to be a participant in the Lilead Fellows Program, an intensive professional development program which brought together district library supervisors from all over the country to equip and empower them to be effective leaders for change in their districts. Her work in Lilead altered her advocacy including the role of Teacher Librarians in her district as well as expanded library hours for all sites.
Janet is also an instructor in the Teacher Librarian Credential Program at Fresno Pacific University, as well as a member of the California Recommended Literature List Committee. Janet served for five years on the California Young Reader Medal Committee and then served as Co-Administrator of the committee for five years. Janet lives with her two beloved dogs and according to her co-workers, has more library t-shirts than anyone else they know.
Technology
Topic: Front and Centre: AI, Education & School Libraries, Why Action is Important Now...
Presenter: Elizabeth Hutchinson, MSc, FCLIP, BEM
Description: This talk explores the dynamic intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and school libraries, inspiring school librarians to embrace AI in their educational settings. I will share insights into my ongoing research and training efforts, emphasizing the potential transformative impact of AI on school libraries. This presentation will delve into how AI can be leveraged to initiate meaningful conversations (podcasting and conferences) thereby increasing the profile of school libraries within the broader education landscape. Lastly, I will offer a personal perspective on integrating AI within my own business, illustrating practical applications and highlighting the potential for innovation within the realm of school libraries.
Bio: Elizabeth Hutchinson is a Chartered Fellow of CILIP. She worked for the Guernsey Schools’ Library Service from 2003 and was appointed Head of Service in 2014. She is now a trainer and Adviser for school libraries and an advocate for FOSIL- Inquiry based Learning. She was awarded the BEM for services to libraries in 2020, is an international speaker, podcaster, blogger, and author of several published articles. She runs a membership for school librarians and teachers called Engaging and Empowering School Libraries. Elizabeth is a CILIP mentor and an assessor for CILIP Professional Registration. You can find out more from her website https://www.elizabethahutchinson.com/
Topic: Virtual Storytelling for All Ages
Presenter: Sarah Pavey, MSc, FCLIP, FRSA, Education Consultant and Trainer
Description: Working for over 20 years as a school librarian in England in the public and private sector as well as in a UK international school I have spent time innovating and creating lessons to engage students, to motivate them and to help them retain knowledge. The advent of VR was a blessing and I experimented in many ways in how I could reap the best from this technology. I began with simple apps such as Aurasma (now EyeJack is probably the closest equivalent) learning to bring presentations to life. The first time I used it linking students reading poetry to a picture my headmaster told everyone that there was real magic happening in the library! This technology has so much potential and is very easy to use.
This session will concentrate on using VR, AR and Mixed reality apps such as Figment, Drawmatic AR and MergeCube in the context of storytelling - whether that is for non-fiction or fiction topics. I firmly believe that immersing yourself and interacting in another world helps develop vocabulary - and we know modern students often have limitations in the words they use. The session will not only consider how these products are used but also delve into the psychology and pedagogy of how taking this approach to learning can affect motivation and retention. I will cover how we can best ensure that what we choose to use is not just a one off gimmick but has legacy for learning.
Over the COVID lockdown I was asked to write a book about game-based learning and gamification in school libraries and in my research for this I gathered case studies from 35 countries some of which were about the use of VR and I will be using some of these examples in this presentation.
Bio: Sarah Pavey has worked as a school librarian for over 20 years and is founder of education training company and consultancy SP4IL. She holds degrees in biochemistry and information science and is an established author and regular speaker at conferences for school libraries as well as wider education issues. Sarah is a Fellow of CILIP and the Royal Society of Arts and works with the Electronic Platform for Adult Learning in Europe (EPALE) in the field of adult education. Her training courses, both home and abroad, on a range of topics including playful learning, are practical and acclaimed for being rooted in theory
Topic: Bloom Where You are Planted: Supporting Science and Mathematical Inquiry Learning Through the Library Program
Presenter: Brian Johnson, NBCT, EdD
Description: Have you ever wondered about how to implement best practices to promote inquiry and collaborate with teachers through the Library? This session will describe the process of designing a series of innovative extension learning activities to help students to continue to grow and develop as learners. It will focus on practical suggestions for how to support your teachers and collaborate with them to design inquiry based learning opportunities and how to make inquiry based learning a reality for all students.
Bio: Dr. Brian T. Johnson has served in education for over 25 years. He has 15 years of teaching experience in middle and high school settings. His classroom teaching career started in Billings, Montana. Since then, he has taught in Chicago, Raleigh, North Carolina, and most recently in Northwest Arkansas. Since 2009, he has served as a school library/media specialist in Northwest Arkansas. In 2012, he earned National Board Certification in Library/Media.
He is a member of the Arkansas Association of Instructional Media (AAIM), the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT), and the Arkansas Society for Technology in Education (ARKSTE). He has written articles for the Arkansas Association of Instructional Media Journal, School Library Connection, Educational Research Technology & Development and presented at the AECT and EMints National Conferences. In 2021, he completed an EdD in Instructional Design/Technology through the University of Memphis. Dr. Johnson is passionate about instruction and collaboration. His research interests include information literacy instruction, makerspaces in K-12 education and professional development for adult learners.
Management
Topic: Fielding International - The Global Learning Commons
Presenter: Janet Jefferson
Description: What is the Global Learning Commons? What are its goals? A Global Learning Commons is an important network for everyone. There are many ways in which school librarians can contribute and benefit from the space.
Bio: Janet has been a Learning Designer at Fielding International for 2 years. She has helped schools and districts hone their vision of teaching then create and implement a plan for the future. Janet is the coordinator of the Global Learning Commons, a network of school leaders that meets regularly to discuss, learn, and grow around learner-centered education. Her background in place-based pedagogy, project-based learning, and experiential education informs her approach to design and facilitation. Janet believes listening, questioning, and engaging people is the key to successful school change.
Before Fielding International, Janet worked in PreK-12 schools and museums. Most recently she worked at Live It Learn It, an organization focused on implementing experiential education for Washington DC title I elementary schools. Prior to that, she taught at The Howard Gardner School, in Alexandria, VA and the Logan School in Denver, CO. Janet has served as Education Director for The Nature Museum in Grafton, VT, and the After School Program Director for Wardsboro Elementary School in Wardsboro, VT.
Janet is a Graduate of the Teton Science Schools Graduate Program in Jackson, WY, and earned her MS in Environmental Science with a concentration in Environmental Education from Antioch University New England.
Topic: Fixed/Flex Schedule in the School Library: The Solution
Presenter: Professor David Loertscher & Michelle Young
Description: After sixty years of arguing over whether children should visit the school library for a library lesson and checkout vs. a flexible schedule of interaction by the librarian with classes on demand, this presentation offers a proposed solution. If you as a child come to the library on a flex schedule, then this time becomes "My Time" and you have many choices of what to learn during your visit. You do not need adult supervision for the most part. Meanwhile the librarian and teacher are working with a class on a learning experience. Thus, the solution becomes not an either or, but a both and. Impossible? listen to this presentation and read the book and open your mind to possibilities that will move the library from something going on down the hall to a library learning commons that is at the heart of teaching and learning throughout the school.
Bio: Professor David Loertscher was a Pied Piper elementary school librarian in the era of high tech sound filmstrips along side 10,000 print books that were worn out in three years. Add to this, his high tech high school library stint in a high school where the library was the textbook for all classes. Then on to a doctoral dissertation that resulted from a visit to every grade ten through twelve in the state of Indiana. Teaching and professing in four universities and a decade as head of the editorial department of Libraries Unlimited. Add the presidency of AASL where the Count on Reading initiative resulted in 68 million books read during his presidential term. Old as dirt. Still loving school libraries. See davidloertscherlibrary.org and you can download all the books and articles written over half a century that no one need care about.
Bio: Michelle Young has been working in education since 2005. She has enjoyed a variety of positions, including Library Technician, Behavior Specialist, Assistive Technology Specialist, Education Specialist and is currently in her first year as a Teacher Librarian. She is working to complete her CA Teacher Librarian Credential concurrently with her Master's of Library and Information Science Degree. It is her goal to work in the heart of the school, the Library, to create a library program that supports inclusion and accessibility, creating a space where students' can follow their passions and develop a love for lifelong learning.
Topic: Amplifying Student Leadership Through the Library
Presenter: Sue Kowalski
Description: Sue Kowalski’s presentation will show exemplars of how authentic student leadership is embedded in and through the school library at Pine Grove Middle School. She will share big concepts, program logistics, and student perspectives of their experiences being a part of iStaff.
Bio: Sue Kowalski, a librarian at Pine Grove Middle School in the East Syracuse Minoa School District. Kowalski advocates for the role of libraries and takes on leadership roles through writing, speaking, and active involvement at the local, state, and national level.
Kowalski received “I Love My Librarian” honors from ALA/Carnegie Foundation in 2012. She was recognized as a “Mover & Shaker” by Library Journal in 2016. In 2016, Syracuse University awarded her an Alumni Impact Award.
Pine Grove MS Library received the AASL National School Library Program of the Year in 2012. Kowalski. Sue sees the power of student leadership and community connections and the impact they have on increasing awareness of the role of strong school library programs.
Topic: ALiVE! Library Initiative
Presenter: Professor David Loertscher & Charlene Peterson
Description: An overview of the ALiVE! Library Initiative's roots in school library advocacy.
Bio: Professor David Loertscher was a Pied Piper elementary school librarian in the era of high tech sound filmstrips along side 10,000 print books that were worn out in three years. Add to this, his high tech high school library stint in a high school where the library was the textbook for all classes. Then on to a doctoral dissertation that resulted from a visit to every grade ten through twelve in the state of Indiana. Teaching and professing in four universities and a decade as head of the editorial department of Libraries Unlimited were all a joy. Add the presidency of AASL where the Count on Reading initiative resulted in 68 million books read during his presidential term. Old as dirt. Still loving school libraries. See davidloertscherlibrary.org and you can download all the books and articles written over half a century that no one need care about.
Bio: Charlene Peterson is a former high school language arts teacher and has taught in New Mexico, Virginia, and Colorado from 1993 to 2023. While working her way through a Master of Education and Principal Licensure program at Colorado State University, she fell in love with school librarianship and had the good fortune to serve as a school librarian for the past seven years. Serving as a school librarian prompted her to enroll in the Master of Library and Information Science Program at San Jose State University where she serves as the ALiVE! Library Initiative coordinator, graduate assistant to Dr. David Loertscher, president of the iSchool's Library Advocacy Group, and project manager of the Reading Nation Waterfall - Sunrise Project. She will graduate from San Jose State University's Master of Library and Information Science program in the spring of 2024.
Topic: ALiVE! Library Research
Presenter: Rachel Fleming, MLIS
Description: Abstract: This study explores the multifaceted roles of celebrated K-12 Teacher Librarians (TLs) and aggregates a list of characteristics exhibited through qualitative thematic analysis of recorded interviews open to view on Youtube with prominent and celebrated TLs, the research identifies key personality traits and actions that define their work and looks for similar trends among the participants. The results of the analysis showed, these individuals possess higher education, certifications, and a strategic mindset, serving as information specialists, curriculum collaborators, and cultural advocates. Their roles encompass leadership, communication, technology integration, advocacy, fundraising and more. TLs are vital catalysts for student success, elevating and promoting information literacy, faculty and community collaboration and educational equity. The discussion and implications drawn: in the digital era, rife with misinformation, libraries are crucial, yet the advocacy and marketing efforts of librarians for their profession, particularly outside the library sector, lag behind. This is evident in the reduced role and funding of TLs in California and nationwide. Often, librarians are employed just to fulfill accreditation requirements, overlooking their broader potential contributions. Conclusion drawn: despite budget challenges in some states, TL’s contributions are indispensable and evident, and there is an unfortunate discrepancy in how these roles are nationally perceived, funded, and understood compared to the exceptional work they do.
Bio: Rachel L. Fleming currently serves as the OER Librarian at WHCCD Coalinga, California. With strong leadership, teaching, and communication skills, Rachel brings a holistic approach to library services with a diverse work history. Her background includes 12 years in fine art, graphic design, UX, IA, and editorial photography, complemented by her reference, teaching, and information literacy instruction experience. Rachel was honored with the Director's Award for Excellence in Building Community from SJSU in April 2023 and worked with Dr. Loertscher at SJSU for a year and a half at the School of Information.
Topic: VITAL Library Project & School Library Sustainability
Presenter: Melissa Jacobs
Description: The VITAL Libraries program is dedicated to fostering sustainability within NYC public school library programs, making them indispensable resources for their school communities. VITAL, which stands for Vital, Instructional, Transformative, Accessible, Learning, offers a one-time grant of up to $50,000 to existing public school library programs. This funding not only rejuvenates physical spaces but also establishes a sustainable model for long-term success. By creating a Library Advisory Committee, the program ensures that stakeholders are actively engaged and committed to its success. Join the NYC Public Schools Office of Library Services and VITAL Librarians to discover how this transformative initiative has revitalized their programs and to understand the key messages they wish to convey to every administration.
Bio: Melissa Jacobs is the Director of Library Services for the NYC Public Schools and the New York City School Library System. Melissa started her career as an elementary school librarian and then spent 14 years as the Coordinator for Library Services. Melissa has been named a 2022 EdWeek Leader to Learn From, Library Journal Mover and Shaker, and has contributed to School Library Journal, Knowledge Quest, Teacher Librarian, and School Library Connection. In her spare time, she enjoys relaxing with her husband, two daughters, step-son, two orange cats, and Chiweenie.