Leadership: School Librarian Evaluation

CA

Moreillon, J. (2013). Leadership: school librarian evaluation. School Library Monthly, 30(2), 24-25, 59. Retrieved from: http://www.abc-clio.com/Portals/0/PDF/FeaturedArticles/LU/SLMFreeArticles/1113_v30n2p24_Leadership_Moreillon.pdf

Summary:

The implementation of Common Core influenced a review of teacher evaluations.  Teachers are evaluated on many aspects of their teaching including student achievement on standardized tests.  While school librarians are not specifically evaluated based on student assessment, they should be concerned about student success and how it can be achieved.  This article suggests that with the use of formal and informal assessments, such as pre- and post-tests, reflections, graphic organizers, and checklists, school librarians can accurately assess student learning and achievement.  It is also important for school librarians to practice self-assessment.  Some suggestions in the article for self-assessment include reflection on teaching, collaboration with teachers, professional development, outreach, collection access, leadership, and planning and evaluation.  The article even provides an example of a self-assessment, “School Librarian Self-Assessment: Five Roles of the School Librarian” as a resource for teacher librarians and school administrators.

Evaluation:

This article provides a guide to school librarians with specific standards that should be met based on the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) 21st-Century Approach to School Librarian Evaluation.  An emphasis in the standards is placed on the collaboration and co-teaching of school librarians with other teachers and faculty members.  Self-assessment and self-evaluation are important tools for any person to reflect upon if they want to become better.  The resource provided at the end of this article is a great tool to help school librarians initially self-assess themselves so that they can set goals for future improvement.