“We must always change, renew, rejuvenate ourselves; otherwise we harden.” ~
Johann Wolfgang von Goeth
Johann Wolfgang von Goeth
Another school year begins, and this one is already highly energized. The beginning of the school year invites reflection - What will I try to do differently this year? What can I do to keep grounded in my goals for my professional growth and student learning - but also in my personal growth? This year is no different. An array of new district initiatives combined with two Grants as well as interest from colleagues to collaborate on a broad range of curricula ideas have kept me working long hours this fall. It seems as if this year is already speeding by with great intent. What I find interesting is that every educator I speak with feels the same way about their school start up this year. I’ve heard words such as “whirIwind,” “unsustainable” and “so tired already.” I believe the key to grounding these tensions is not only a balance of reflection, growth, and relevancy - but also an understanding of the needs of our community and how the library plays a central role in sustaining the energy that is needed for a successful school year.
Currently, the different entities within MSLA are thinking about all of the elements of our profession and the tensions that are in our daily work lives. How can we assure that our members are getting the professional support necessary - while having the opportunity to develop skills that will assist with best practice, advocacy, and continuous forward movement in the profession? The MSLA executive board will focus on Advocacy this year. With the addition of our Advocacy Chair, Cathy Collins, we will delve into these topics. We are excited to have Cathy as part of our team. Also, watch for upcoming information on a Twitter Advocacy week with Amy Short - join us for collegial conversation around the topic of advocacy.
As the year unfolds new challenges will emerge. I hope that these challenges will push us to move out of our comfort zone and think reflectively about how we are using our position and the library space to bring positive influence into the lives of our colleagues and our students. Are we changing, renewing, and rejuvenating to bring new forward movement, best practice and positive advocacy to our school communities and our professional community? Your opinion matters. Bring your voice to the conversation.
Anita Cellucci is the Teacher Librarian at Westborough High School
Currently, the different entities within MSLA are thinking about all of the elements of our profession and the tensions that are in our daily work lives. How can we assure that our members are getting the professional support necessary - while having the opportunity to develop skills that will assist with best practice, advocacy, and continuous forward movement in the profession? The MSLA executive board will focus on Advocacy this year. With the addition of our Advocacy Chair, Cathy Collins, we will delve into these topics. We are excited to have Cathy as part of our team. Also, watch for upcoming information on a Twitter Advocacy week with Amy Short - join us for collegial conversation around the topic of advocacy.
As the year unfolds new challenges will emerge. I hope that these challenges will push us to move out of our comfort zone and think reflectively about how we are using our position and the library space to bring positive influence into the lives of our colleagues and our students. Are we changing, renewing, and rejuvenating to bring new forward movement, best practice and positive advocacy to our school communities and our professional community? Your opinion matters. Bring your voice to the conversation.
Anita Cellucci is the Teacher Librarian at Westborough High School