This Week's "The Horns: Library tech tips & resources"

Introducing "The Horns: Library tech tips and resources"

In my new position in a middle school, I have decided to start a weekly newsletter.  I hope to offer some quick tips, an insight on what is happening in the library, and a weekly website or app.  This hopefully will help me cut down on extra emails as I'm always tempted to send every cool thing that comes my way out to everyone.  My last school complained of too many emails even when I did cut back....so....time to try something new! :-)

I am using Smore.com, although I'm debating whether the $59/year is worth it.  I do enjoy how simple it is to set up, but there are a few features I would like to control.  I have 2 more weeks to decide if I'm going to commit!  (By the way, if you are new to Smore newsletters, there is an educator sale for newbies!!  Only $39/year...ends soon!)

Here are the first couple of newsletters for your reading pleasure:

Week of September 28
Week of September 21
Week of September 14

Powerpoint to Video....Where have I been?!?

Just a quick post as my mind has been blown!  I just learned that you can do a "save as" when in PowerPoint and select "Windows Media Video" or an "MPEG-4 Video".  I won't even tell you that crazy/strange work-around I have done in the past to turn a PowerPoint into a video.  Hoping this saves someone else all that extra work! :-)

*Note: I was using Microsoft PowerPoint 2013.  I was told that 2007 should have the same option.
** Note 2: You can also save your slides as pictures (JPEG).

The Adventures of eLearning

My district has implemented eLearning for canceled days.  Indiana allows us to make up all our days using eLearning because we are an "A" district.  So far we have had 3 eLearning days taking place the day of a cancellation and a 4th happening tomorrow.  In addition, students will be having an eLearning day on Presidents' Day as it was a planned make-up day.  Tomorrow will be the first time we all know school is cancelled before bed.  The other days were either somewhat of a surprise (called after a 2 hour delay) to a complete surprise.  

The guidelines are pretty simple.  Teachers are supposed to have their eLearning lessons posted on My Big Campus by 9am.  The lesson should reflect what could be done in class on a delay schedule, so that means the assignment should take approximately 30 minutes at most.  Teachers must be available through email and My Big Campus from 9am-3pm for questions.  Students have up to 5 school days to complete the assignment.  This part is a little confusing as they do not actually get classroom time for the assignment but instead have access to computer labs and help before/after school for an hour those 5 school days.  Teachers are not supposed to introduce new material.  

I should add that my district is 1:1 iPads 7-12th grade (take home).  I am not clear on what our K-6th students are doing as 4th-6th have 1:1 but iPads aren't supposed to go home, and K-3 only have a few iPads for classroom use only.

eLearning has definitely been an interesting experience.  First, even though we are in our 3rd year of 1:1 iPad implementation, I do not think we have hit our stride yet with iPads being used as a learning tool.  Many students push back, not bringing their iPads to class.  Because students do not have iPads in class, teachers rely on them less for the day-to-day instruction.  

eLearning has changed things as the students must complete their assignment online. (some exceptions)  A full semester under out belts, and I had students asking for the first time how to download their school apps such as Pages, Keynote, and Numbers.  Students who left their iPads someplace dead are now charging up and using them.  Teachers are finally feeling that they can plan lessons using iPads in the classroom because more students are coming to class prepared.  

My Big Campus is our learning platform of choice.  Teachers must post their assignments on their class group announcements.  The actual assignments might be completed through MBC's Schoolwork or discussion tab, or the assignment might actually be located on another site or app, such as Showbie.  

Are things perfect?  Nope.  Are we learning and doing better with each assignment, I believe so! Here's what I have learned so far:

• Students do not want to login to My Big Campus.  They want to be told in person what they are to do and be handed the work.  This obviously doesn't apply to all, but it is surprising how many resist going to the one resource that will have everything they need.  I am standing firm that they must login and go read the directions and information provided.  Once they have made that effort, they can ask clarifying questions and get help.
• Auditory learners may struggle with directions typed out, especially considering some formats of eLearning are new to them.  The first assignment I typed out the directions.  I thought it was pretty straight forward, but one student struggled with what to do.  The next assignment was trickier as it was a discussion.  For this assignment I typed out the directions and how points could be earned.  I then recorded myself explaining it all.  
• This generation of students will struggle with eLearning. Why?  They are used to having a free day to sleep away and do as they please.  Some are having a hard time adjusting to the fact that they should be getting up and begin their assignments.  These students put it off only to find themselves overwhelmed on the final day as they have regular school work plus the eLearning to complete.  With each assignment it gets a little better, and I am sure after a year or two of doing this, students will adjust.
• Note: A district near us expects the eLearning to be completed the next school day. While giving a week to complete the work leads to procrastination, my district recognized that there will be students and staff without power or even without internet at home to complete the assignments.
• My Big Campus has made a lot of improvements!  Because of my position, I do not have a lot of opportunities to use it.  With eLearning, I have had my news crew watch videos and answer a few questions that were automatically graded.  Another assignment they completed an assignment with a rubric set up in MBC.  I was able to quickly click through the rubric to give them their scores.  This past assignment I tried a discussion.  I was able to track their comments and update their scores as the discussion progressed.  Even better, I can open up the gradebook and see all their scores in one place!

I'm positive there is still much to learn as we continue with eLearning.  For now, it is time for me to go upload tomorrow's lesson and plan ahead for other possible cancellations! :-)

Getting my Conference Game-Face On!! ILF 2014

The time is finally here for the Indiana Library Federation's annual conference!!  As always, I am excited to see my school library friends, spending time catching up and finding out what amazing things they are doing in their libraries.  I am also excited to check out some of these sessions!

As I prepare for ILF, I am getting my game face on (positive attitude) and forming my IEP (individual exploration plan).  

In order to have a successful experience at any conference, we need to have a positive attitude.  I have been super pumped about a session only to realize that it is a sales pitch.  I have been in sessions where the description and what was actually presented were not lined up at all.  There are also those sessions that you hope to learn something new but find out it is more of an intro level while you are ready for the advanced options.  Here's the thing: you can either sit in that session and be annoyed about your time being wasted, or you can take control.  

First, there are your two feet.  My personal rule before I even heard of edCamps: if a session is not offering what I need to improve myself, my library, etc., then I use my two feet to quietly walk out and find another session that might better suit my needs.  It is nothing personal.  Precious time and money were sacrificed for this conference, so it is my duty to make sure I get as much as possible from it.

Second, there is that positive attitude I mentioned.  Maybe I don't have a back-up plan for another session or cannot make an easy exit.  I don't have to sit there and be annoyed.  Instead, I can hit the internet, looking up the topic I was wanting to learn about.  I've done this before and found that by the end of the session, I may have picked up a few great ideas from the presenter while also a handful of websites, blogs, tweets, and more that put me ahead of where I was when I walked in.

The real key to setting yourself up for a successful conference trip is having a plan in place.  This summer at ISTE14, I had the pleasure of hearing Jennie Magiera give an ignite talk.  She shared how she creates an IEP, individual exploration plan, to ensure her PD experiences are a success.  

I used to attend ILF and similar conferences with basically no plan.  I would go to any session that popped out to me.  In short, I was ALL OVER THE PLACE.  By the end of the conference, I was excited with lots of amazing ideas but no idea where to start.  Now I approach my conferences with a plan.  

When I attended ICE this past October, I decided MakerSpaces was my first day focus and iPads as learning tools was my second day focus.  When there was a breakout period with no session in my particular focus area, I chose to go to the hall where I could connect with others and/or read some of the many websites and articles I had saved up on that particular focus area.  In short, it was one of my best conference experiences as I left feeling focused and ready to implement some of my ideas almost immediately!

For ILF this year, I noticed there are several sessions on engaging teen readers.  It just so happens that the third focus area for my library this year is exactly that.  I am trying to find ways to affect the reading culture, or the lack thereof, at my high school.  I have a few things in place but am not satisfied with how things are going.  This year when I leave ILF, I will have a new ideas on how to get my students excited about reading!

So....who's with me?!?  What's your best conference strategy?  Do you have a focus ILF this year?  Share in the comments!

High School Library MakerSpace: Coming to you LIVE this August!!

That's it.  No more thinking about it.  No more mulling over what might go right and what might go wrong.  No more putting it off.  No more lamenting about how there just isn't enough time or enough of me to go around.

I am doing it!  

This school year, starting right off the bat, my high school students can come to the library before school, during their lunch time, or after school to tinker, play, create, invent, improve, engineer, design, code, and dig deeper.

Do I have an exact plan?  Do I know how this is going to look by the end of the year, let alone week to week?  Do I even know what I am doing??

Nope...but that is ok.

During the first round of ISTE Ignite Sessions this summer, Nicholas Provenzano (@thenerdyteacher) shared something profound.  An idea that has lurked at the back of my mind but was pushed back as I felt swamped and overwhelmed with other responsibilities and stuff.  He said...are you ready for this??  It just might blow your mind....he said, "Get off your butts and do it!  Students can't wait!" (or something very close to that)

And there it is...

Among many other inspirational ideas gathered at ISTE, I decided Nick was right.  Every year I wait to make something happen is another graduating class that never had the opportunity to see/try/experience it. 

First things first...

Don't get me wrong.  I do have a plan of action and have a base-level of information to work with.  I was able to hear THE Sylvia Martinez share about the importance of MakerSpaces and am reading the book she co-authored, Invent to Learn.  I became friends with Michael Medvinsky and am learning some ways he implements Making into his music curriculum and more.  I also am privileged to know and be connected to the one and only Leslie Preddy, AASL President elect and author of School Library MakerSpaces: Grades 6-12. 

I told Leslie that I had a baby MakerSpace and wanted it to grow up to be like her Perry Meridian Middle School Library MakerSpace someday.  (Note to self: Do NOT ever again refer to this area as a "baby maker space". It might be misunderstood by my high school students and community. LOL)

Where to Start???

I am beginning with the following areas (understanding that most are actually kits/tubs/roller carts and are not actual fulltime stations):

• Take Apart Tech - I have a 13" black and white TV from when I was a kid and one of those old clunker all-in-one computer to start off!
• Upcycling - crafty or useful creations...who knows what might happen here!?!
• Arts and Crafts - starting simple with crafts, jewelry making, and activities that will get kids to try out the area...but someday maybe a kid will create a blinky-light necklace or a craft supply automatic sorter?!?
• Microwave Making - sometimes making something tasty and other times non-food related
• Coding - hour of code, minecraft, 3D printing creations...followed by begging the PLW teacher to let us print our creations....hmm....lots of directions with this one!
• Electronics/Circuitry - starting with kits such as Makey-Makey, LittleBits, or Squishy Circuits
• Video production - I actually already oversee the student news, so this will be extending the equipment and learning to all students.

I know there will be other areas we decide to try, such as digital design, architecture, digital photography, and more.

My Vision

Today, I envision this as a space students can freely come and go.  The regular time frame will be before school, during their lunch time, and after school.  I hope to offer an official MakerTime (Ooh, just thought of that name and it is perfect!  Wonder if I could get one of my musically talented students to turn that into a short theme song to the tune of "Stop! Hammer time!") once a week with a different focus and community expert.  Some kits will be locked in my office and checked out on an in-library-use only due to the expense, but the majority of supplies and items will be available easily accessible by students. 

Stay Tuned!!

Pictures to come as I am currently putting together my space...which is why I decided now was the perfect time to write down my thoughts. Procrastinator for life!

Tech Tip Tuesday...a day late: iPad Tips and Tricks for Teachers

I am guilty of taking for granted all the tips and tricks I pick up for my iPad.  Sometimes I accidentally figure out how to do something.  Other times I'll stumble upon a tip on Twitter or Facebook.  Then there are the times I actually seek out help!  I know....you all think I just know these things.  I don't...I'm just really good at faking it and/or keeping one step ahead of your questions! LOL

The iPad is an amazing TOOL: a tool in which we have yet to truly tap its potential for productivity, for teaching, and for interactive classrooms.  I would be lost trying to run my day in the library and around the school without my iPad.

So, today's Tech Tip Tuesday post is all about helping you discover a few tricks you will be glad to know.

First, I want to point you to TechSupportAlert.com's article: Tech Support Alert - The Best iPad Tips and Tricks (Updated for iOS 7).

Novice to Nearly-an-Expert, you might just find something useful here.  Be sure to click on the index button and find your favorite tip of the day.

Such as "How to Read a Webpage with Safari Reader"

While you read a web page in a browser, you can either double tap or stretch a page to enlarge the size for ease of reading.  Safari browser takes a step further by taking the ads or other clutter out of a web page. It automatically detects a web page with substantial text, such as online articles, and presents you with a Reader button at the left end of the address field.  Tap the Reader button when it appears and you can read or even email the articles in a clean layout without ads or other distractions, re-tap the button and you're back to the original page.

For more tips and tricks, check out my PearlTree collection.  (And yes, you can expect a future post on what the heck a PearlTree is as it is my FAVORITE website tool!!)



 


Stay tuned for more interesting (hopefully!) blog entries as I begin my 20 Day Blogging Challenge!!

20 Day Blog Challenge - Librarian Version!!

If you are like me, you have LOTS to share with the world.  You crave collaboration with others in your professional realm.  You look forward to sharing and hearing back from others on their own experiences.  With all of that, blogging should be easy, right??

Here is my hang up...I get it in my head that each post should be BIG, meaningful, Earth-shattering, and amazing.  I start planning in my head what I'll write, what resources I'll share, and how it will be a post worth the hours to compose.  Then reality hits, and I don't make the time to write.

So, thanks to Kelly Hines at "In the Trenches" and her 20-day Blog Challenge she shared on Techformers Unite facebook page, I am ready to do this thing!!

I did create my own 20-day Challenge - Librarian Version in hopes that it will help me keep moving forward. I will be flexible, focused, and interesting....ok, can't promise that last one, but I will do my best!  The list and you guys will help hold me accountable!  Because, if I know someone is actually reading this, I'll have to write so as not to let down my readers! LOL

Wish me luck....better yet, join me!  Who's in?  Please share your blog below.  Let's inspire each other to take our professional development to a whole-new-level!

ISTE 13: My Delayed Ah-Ha Moment!!

This was my first trip to ISTE. I dreamed of attending ever since Maureen Brunner shared at an ILF (Indiana Library Federation) conference session 2 years ago. I literally felt myself drool at the possibility of being surrounded by educators who saw the wonder and potential in using technology as a tool to further our students' education. After watching two ISTE's come and go, I knew it was time to make things happen. After working on my husband for months, planning out how to make the trip as affordable as possible since my district was unable to send anyone, I finally won his support. I was bound for ISTE13 in beautiful San Antonio!!

I arrived early where I was able to participate in HackEd. I was not a stranger to unconferences as edCamps in Indiana are finally taking off. However, I was amazed at how many educators sincerely looking for ways to improve were all there. (More to share in a later post!)

The next day the conference officially kicked off. As someone who is NOT a fan of large crowds, I found myself distracted by the fact that I was surrounded by people that "get it"...and, even better, were friendly to boot! Sunday rolled into Monday and then Tuesday. By then I was still waiting for my "ah-ha" moment. Don't get me wrong. I was attending some great sessions, visiting numerous poster sessions with great ideas, and even sessions held by vendors that were well worth my time. Wednesday also was a great day, but by this point I was on information overload...in a good way. I had no direction yet a million ideas I wanted to share. (Again, more to come!!)

Leading up to the conference, many veteran attendees warned about the sheer-vastness of it all. The SIGMS (ISTE special interest group - media specialists)held a preconference webinar where the ladies all advised taking time to decompress and sort out what all you have learned. I did just that these last couple of days since coming home.

AND.....I HAD IT....MY AH-HA MOMENT AT LAST!!!


As I was mowing, racing the incoming huge gray rain clouds rolling in, I started mulling over all the ideas that I picked up from different sessions. Slowly, those pieces started coming together into an idea that I can run with starting NOW!


I shall become a Google-Form Goddess (or something like that)

Here are the problems I keep coming back to...all of which could be simplified with a google form!

Problem #1: Ironically, going 1:1 with iPads meant I used more paper than ever in the library. We need paperwork to track the ipad coming in. We need paperwork for when it needs to be repaired. We need paperwork when it needs to be charged overnight. Without paperwork, we quickly lost track of what needed to be done for each iPad. All of this while I was cheering teachers to "Go, Paperless, Go!!



Problem #2: I was having interns backlog ALL of that paperwork into a spreadsheet where I could tell if Joe Shmoe is having a reoccuring problem or if this is indeed the first time his profiles magically disappeared. We fell behind, embarrassingly so. Plus, the spreadsheet was unfocused and chaotic at best. It did not easily pull together into usable data. Much of this had to do with us learning what we needed to do for iPad support on the fly.

Problem #3: Many students would wait weeks before getting help or turning in a broken iPad. The number one reason: not enough time to stop by the library and fill out the paperwork. Some were too shy (been there, done that). Others were worried about being late to class. (Yes, some students actually do worry about this.) :-)

Problem #4: I encourage students to read and vote on the Eliot Rosewater novels. Their vote really does matter in choosing the award winning book! I make a special display every year, put voting slips in each book, and even track down kids who read the book but didn't submit the slip. This takes a lot of time, and I still do not get very many votes in despite how many kids read the book.

Problem #5: Keeping up with all the discipline referrals is not an easy task for my administrators. The forms we use currently are huge files that often lock up their emails. Each individual form then has to be documented on a separate spreadsheet or filed so that the various administrators can look at past history.

Problem #6: This is a "good" problem. I have LOTS of student interns that help through out the day. I also have many students that volunteer to help out with various projects in the library. However, when each day is a whirlwind, I find myself not taking advantage of this help. I have found out in the last week of the semester that one of my interns has a particular knack for organizing or creating awesome signage. By this point, it is too late to make use of these awesome skills.

What do all of these problems have in common?? Data collection! And a google form can do just that for me. Even better, it will collect the information and put it in a pretty organized form and even graph it!

So...I have had my first ah-ha moment, and I'm positive it will not be my last! Now to make it happen....who can help??  Have suggestions?

Reply below, contact me on Twitter @cybrarianjenn

Monitoring our Teens Online Behavior: Protecting their "digital tattoos"

When internet access was still fairly new and online access was limited (remember when dial-up was practically your only option?), police agencies and parent groups campaigned for families to monitor and restrict their children's access. Families were warned to keep the family computer out in a public area, know their children's passwords, and check in on their activity often. Community meetings were held, educating families on the dangers and how to protect our children.

Fast forward to today, where our preteens and teens have smart phones, gaming devices with internet access, laptops, and even school devices that give them the means to peruse the internet and social media unmonitored. Even when schools try to block access or parents put restriction codes on devices, our clever children find ways to get around these roadblocks. Parents express that they do not feel they have the understanding, or even more alarming, the "right" to control their children's access.

Then we have social media. Social media gives our children a platform to share, share, and share some more. When they have good news, they share. When they are bored, they share. When they are having fun and want to show how awesome they are, they share...even if it involves illegal activities.

I just perused through some Vine videos. I have heard people talking about it, and it sounded like fun. One parent even told me about her daughter's humorous posts. Some really were humorous and innocent. However, some posts I stumbled upon (no account necessary to see anyone and everyone's videos as this is a Twitter app) were like "really?!?" as they show off their cussing skills, or were reputation-damaging videos that ranged from highly suspicious (looked drunk, had alcohol or drug paraphernalia in background...to out-right-future-damaging evidence of demonstrating their ability to roll a joint, take shots straight out of the bottle, etc.

Side note: Vine is a Twitter app that is supposed to only be downloaded by 17+ as it has no rules against porn, illegal activities, etc.

Not all were that bad...but there were still concerning videos. One video had a teen recording himself talking to the camera (while driving) and then video taping something being held up in front of....wait for it....a don't text and drive air freshener. Hmm....message not received by what is otherwise a really great kid, and he wasn't the only one taping himself while driving.

What all this leads to is this: WE HAVE TO DO BETTER FOR OUR YOUTH!

Parents - MONITOR YOUR CHILDREN'S ONLINE ACTIVITY!! Adults, if you see something that would concern you as a parent, do something about it. Friends with their parents? Say something as simple as "Hey, did you see that video/post/picture? I was concerned for so-and-so's safety and thought you might want to know." Friends with the kid? Offer sound friendly advice or heads up that that video/post/pic can be seen by more than just their friends and can have ugly consequences. If it contains illegal activities, and especially if you work for schools, we have a professional duty to report what we see. Why? First, we are supposed to be looking out for the best interest of the child. Second, if that child ever does have something happen due to their online behavior/sharing, and it is found that we knew about it and didn't report it, we can lose our jobs.

Adults need to STOP turning a blind eye to this damaging behavior. We need to step up and educate our youth on how to behave socially responsible online. Even better, we need to DEMONSTRATE responsible behavior online.

What can I do? First, I have already starting talking with my 6 year old about what is appropriate and what isn't. How some things are private and shouldn't be shared with the world. Second, I need to step up my game at school, educating both staff and students how to be responsible for their "digital tattoo".

Resources:
http://www.netsmartz.org/
http://www.commonsensemedia.org/
http://ciese.org/internetsafety.html

Book Review: Wishing for Someday Soon by Tiffany King

Wishing For Someday Soon by Tiffany King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Where do I begin? I now realize I have been reading way too many drama-filled, waiting-for-the-stuff-to-hit-the-fan books. Every time I turned the page, I waited for the bottom to fall out (which literally happened in their mother's car).

While the story lacked major drama on every page, what I did find was a heart-wrenching, anger-inducing story of a young girl doing everything she can to take care of her little brother, surviving her mother's wrath just to get them to their "someday soon" fantasy. How any parent can treat their children like personal slaves, beating them when the mood hits is beyond me, but I know this is the reality for some children and quite possibly some students in my own school.

Katelyn has mastered the art of laying low, keeping the "system" at bay for fear of being separated from her little brother. Having attended more schools than actual years going to school, this hasn't been hard. When she hits the tiny town of Four Corners, she finds she can no longer hide in a school that hasn't seen a new student in six years AND only has one small class per grade level.

Why 5 stars? I have a feeling this is going to be one of those stories that sticks with me. I also think this is a story my teens will love. Katelyn's perseverance and self sacrifice along with Max's determination to love and protect her combine with the majority of the characters refusing to let stereotypes define. I believe this will win over many readers wanting to see the good in this world. But....don't be fooled...things aren't all sunshine and lollipops.

Personal Connection: I had a student my very first year of teaching that started late, clearly tested well behind second grade peers (easily understood after seeing the number of schools already attended), and left after only a few weeks. Ten years later I became a librarian at a high school in a different town. I kid you not, I recognized the student the moment I saw her. I hadn't and still do not have any suspicions of abuse like Katelyn experiences in the story, but I wonder how many schools she has been to and whether she has discovered her "someday soon".

View all my reviews

Book Review: Beta by Rachel Cohn

Beta by Rachel Cohn

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I picked up this book off of my TBR pile, not expecting much. I do find novels with cloning to be intriguing, and this particular twist with the souls of the "firsts" being extracted to keep the clone pure of any real emotions or memories was especially interesting.

I end up really enjoying this book. Without giving too much away, you can count on this teenage girl-clone not just sitting back and taking it.

We are left to wonder what exactly were the Water Wars, but perhaps there will be a prequel someday? You can definitely enjoy the storyline and anticipate what a possible clone revolution will bring without konwing those details.

Will I read the sequel? Absolutely can't wait!! While this novel is definitely giving you a set-up for an entire series, you can read this one alone and be satisfied with a great story.



View all my reviews

Proving and Getting a Grade for Reading in High School

I was asked to look into Accelerated Reader (AR) or any other source that would allow a reading teacher to give grades for personal reading choices. 

The Details: Students are part of the Title 1 program, read well below level (therefore, they don't like to read), and are in a high school "reading" class in addition to their grade level English/Language Arts class. All students in our building take SRI assessments (Scholastic Reading Inventory).

My problem with reading assessments like AR: limits choices and relies on fact-based-recall.  However, I get it.  The teacher needs to give grades.  First, she allowed students to read whatever they wanted to, but she had no way to know each and every book nor could she determine if they were doing anything more than just reading the spark notes on the book.  They switched to reading a class novel, but this is part of the reason so many of the kids don't like reading: being forced to read a book not of their choosing or interest.

My Ideas:  Sometimes I can be pretty thick.  I was an elementary teacher, which means I am armed to the teeth with ideas on how to teach and improve reading skills.  Then there is the fact I am a librarian who loves finding the perfect book that students will WANT to read.  However, up until this question was asked of me...I hadn't even thought about sharing the strategies in my back pocket.  There is this rift between elementary and high school, each level believing the other's situation is TOTALLY different, when the reality is our students learn the same way.

First Step:    The first thing I did was what any intelligent school library media specialsit would do: I turned to my AISLE listserv full of amazing men and women all willing to share their ideas and experiences.  Within an hour I had several responses.  Here is a brief breakdown of what they shared.

Many mentioned AR requiring a minimum of 250 students.  I only have 15-20 students in the reading class. This means we either need to look into offering this program to more students or see if there are other options for such a small group.

Some see value in AR.  One librarian said, "If you are utilizing it with the Title I kids and the AR tests are used with fidelity in conjunction with their suggestions on the reading program, it could bring about change. You are right, it is a tool. It has possibility." 

However, several pointed out the cost, one librarian sharing this, "I have VERY mixed feelings about AR (that differs from some of the teachers in my building) but this is a pretty high price for the product you get and the value it adds to students, in my humble opinion."  This of course is a concern as money is very tight.  If we are to spend a large sum, we need to see great benefit.

A few offered alternative assessing ideas. 

• One school has actually put a LOT of time and energy into writing their own quizzes to go with a variety of books.  She was kindly willing to share.
• One mentioned http://bookadventure.com, although it is targeted for K-8.
• Someone said I should check out http://www.quizwik.com/.
• Another suggested Scholastic Reading Counts for this reason: "I prefer Scholastic Reading Counts – In AR all of the student’s take the same test, while Reading Counts varies the questions, teachers have more options in # of questions, ability to make adjustments for special needs, advanced, etc."

Next Step:  I will explore these other options and share with the teacher and Title 1 Coordinator.  I am also going to pull out some of my reading strategy books and offer my services to the teacher. 

We all know reading, and reading a lot, is the most important strategy.  We need to let go of the idea that novels are the only way for students to improve their reading skills.  Magazine articles, websites, and nonfiction books need to be among their choices.  We can work on fluency and increased vocabulary.  Instead of always turning to fact-recall quizzes, students can do book talks, create book trailers and write reviews.

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If anyone has any additional ideas or suggestions, comment below!  Thanks for your time!

edCamp Fort Wayne: Are YOU registered yet?

When? Saturday, May 4th, 8am-3:30pm --Register Today at http://edcampfw.wordpress.com/registration/

Where? New Tech Academy @ Wayne HS, Fort Wayne

What is edCamp? IMHO, edCamp = awesome (free) PD time! Think "participant-driven" and "organic".  You won't find an "expert" presenter here that takes up the entire session with talk-talk-talk, leaving no time to ask questions and collaborate.  Don't see a session you are interested in?  Propose one!  More information, videos, etc.: http://edcamp.org/

Who are the presenters? You!! Let's face it. We have all attended a conference where experts were paid to present, and yet we felt like nothing was gained. Or maybe you attended a session where you were just dying to ask some clarifying questions yet time ran out, and you were shuffled on to the next session. At edCamp, someone comfortable with a topic volunteers to lead the conversation. Questions, comments, and shared experiences from everyone are encouraged!

Who should attend edCamp?? Any educator that wants to get real, find solutions, and get inspired! Spread the word, especially in your specialty area, because the more people that attend, the more experts we will have on hand.

What if I can't attend this edCamp? -or better yet- What if I love this edCamp so much I want to attend another?? Stay tuned for the 2nd annual edCamp Indy sponsored by AISLE this June!!!  Don't live close enough to join us in Indiana?  Check out http://edcamp.org/ to find out when an edCamp will be in your area!

Book Review: Splintered by A. G. Howard

Splintered by A.G. Howard

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


How do I express the amount of love I have for this book?!?

First of all, the cover is just plain awesome. How could I NOT pick up this book to read? Second, I will admit I am a sucker for books that reimagine fairy tales we all grew up with and loved. The idea of Alice leaving Wonderland forever altered (not in a good way) therefore cursing all her female descendants was too good to pass up.

Will I read the sequel? Yes, YES, and yes. Which reminds me...I hate reading really awesome books in a series before the series is complete. However, I recommend you DON'T WAIT! The book was satisfying to read as a solo novel. Unlike some books in series that leave you totally suspended to the point you are now angry you read the book before having the next book in hand...you will not regret reading this book now.

The best part of all, a student actually told me I HAD to read this. I love it when my high schoolers find me great books to read!



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Book Review: Confessions of a Murder Suspect by James Patterson

Confessions of a Murder Suspect by James Patterson

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


I'm left wondering...did I love this book?

What I definitely liked: idea of all kids having some sort of super-human ability while not being truly supernatural; also liked her determination to solve the mystery of her parents murders, even if it ends up being her or her brothers as the guilty parties

What left me wanting: another "setup for the series" book, lots of story building without much action or excitement

Will I read the next book in the series? What can I say? I'm a sucker for a series, and my students LOVE James Patterson. I did find this to be intriguing and see the potential for excitement. Mysteries left unsolved. But considering how long I will have to wait until the next book, it is likely I'll pass it for the next new series.



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Digital Learning Day!!!

I am declaring it here....My high school library WILL participate in Digital Learning Day this year!


I'm excited! How about you? Are you an educator? student? parent? anyhow involved in young people and their education??? You can sign up, too! There are lots of great ideas ranging from tiny to heavily involved. Check it out: http://digitallearningday.org/

My first year as a librarian, I was at Paul Harding High School. I pulled in a smartboard during lunch time and showed students how to protect their Facebook information and other online information. I handed out bookmarks on Social Networking and other "be smart online" type items.  I did the whole "Be a Smarty (smarties candies), not a Dumb-Dumb (dum-dum suckers)". 

Last year I totally failed. My excuse: at previous library, I took over for a Library Media Specialist (shout out to Michelle Houser @mrshouser68) that had already spent 2 years whipping that sorry place into shape.  I inherited lunch-regulars and a willing staff.  Last year I switched to my current library, and, well...it was my turn to do some "whipping".  Time got away from me, I let myself use sorry excuses, and then I was left with nothing but regrets.  I mean, the beauty of Digital Learning Day is it doesn't have to be complicated!

So, this year, it is on!  What do I focus on? 

• social networking - keeping your private life private?
• iPads (1:1 in my district) - maybe an app-related event (Tap that App or Appy Hour...too controversial for a high school or just right to pull those teens in??)
• maker-stations - I have a green BRAND-SPANKIN-NEW green screen with lights...maybe create videos, ebooks, or...*insert awesome idea here*
• Wii tournament - pull them in with games while surrounding them with awesome "did you know" techie/digital footprint/iPad type facts
• Skype - with another library, school, author, cool person?  Of course, my kids can't have Skype on their iPads, so I'm sure that will bring up drama.  Hmm..maybe turn that into a "why some things are blocked and what we, as students, can do to regain access moment??

What do you think?  What are you doing?  Remember, there are lots of ideas on the website, Twitter (#DLDay2013), and Facebook!

Book Review: The Theory of Everything by J.J. Johnson

The Theory of Everything by J.J. Johnson

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


You know that type of book that is really good, but when it comes time to be responsible and go to a bed at a decent time, you are able to put it down and come back to it later?

Yeah, this isn't that type of book, especially when you get about half-way to three-fourths of the way through it.

I didn't even skim-read as I usually do when a book is getting good. I needed to read and feel and experience what Sarah was going through as she continues to struggle with the horrific loss of her BFF.

The realness of this book, the deep-felt guilt, the desire to be ok yet not be able to pull yourself above water....all combined with boyfriend and parent complications made for a book that has jumped to my top big impact YA books.

In addition, this book is being added to my "unique feature" list. Each chapter starts with a visual representation of Sarah trying to make sense of her life through a series of graphs and diagrams.

Who should read it? Anyone wanting a book with a tough, real, sometimes heart-wrenching topic. Be warned that it doesn't end all tied up in a nice bow...which a book like this shouldn't, IMHO.



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Book Review: Dark Star by Bethany Frenette

Dark Star by Bethany Frenette

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


I really did enjoy this book. I was pulled in, wanted to keep reading, couldn't wait to find out how the "mystery" of Leon's overly-concerned behavior towards her and what power was buried deep in Audrey. I quickly realized that this wasn't a superhero story at all, but the idea of the "kin" using their gifts to protect humans was very intriguing.

But then, the big moments came...and I was let down. It became obvious as to what this book is...a setup for the series.

Will I read the next book when it comes out? Absolutely! I still have high hopes, and by no means was the ending bad. One disappointing ending won't keep me away. Just hoping the author gives us a little more excitement and teenage agnst! LOL



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Why I Do it...

School officially is underway tomorrow.  However, I have been back to full-time-busy for two weeks now.  

Why?

I do it to help me be the best library media specialist I can be for my students and staff.

This summer I was accepted into the Indiana Library Leadership Academy, which led to a week away from my family for a retreat.  I was among 27 women and men chosen from a variety of libraries, including public, academic, specialized, and school.  We were privileged to have the current ALA President, Maureen Sullivan, as our main presenter.  I collaborated with librarians from different disciplines, looking for ways to connect and improve services for our patrons.  While I was there, I connected with David Peter,  Dean of Learning Resources and Technologies at Vincennes University.  It so happens he is the connection I needed to make for our new East Allen University's digital library.  I also met Susan Eberhardt, fellow school librarian wanting who also wants to create a Library Learning Commons. 

Last week I attended IPFW's Collegiate Connection training.  I will admit I just didn't feel like going.  My girls had a playdate with our friends, but I knew it was important for me to know how to help my IPFW students.  It end up being a great decision as I not only learned about some of the wonderful databases but also connected with several local librarians.

One evening I tuned into a Nearpod Webinear (yes, that is spelled correctly) to figure out this new iPad tool.  All I wanted to do was go to sleep, but I knew I should learn about this tool.  It was yet another great decision as I learned a few tips and some exciting upcoming features.

I have spent quite a bit of time over the summer on Twitter.  Why do I tweet?  Simple, to connect!  I have had conversation with fellow librarians on best practices, commented back and forth with awesome YA authors, found links to great articles, and received tips from top world-renowned presenters, administrators, and educators.

So why do I attend meetings, webinars, and groups that are beyond my required time and duties?  Because I am rarely disappointed by the opportunities to connect and learn, all of which keep me a step ahead of my students and staff!