Show, Don’t Tell: A Common Core Tenet Applies to Our Roles

Amy Woods

CO- collaboration

Ellis, Leanne. (2014). School Library Journal. Retrieved from http://www.slj.com/2014/06/opinion/on-common-core/show-dont-tell-a-common-core-tenet-applies-to-our-roles-on-common-core/

Summary

Leanne Ellis, coordinator for the New York City School Library System, asserts that in order to move past stereotypes, school librarians must capitalize on the tenets of the Common Core and demonstrate their importance as curriculum leaders and “linchpins of student success.” The role of today’s librarian is multifaceted. She a marketer of library resources, a “go-to-techie” and an instrumental instructional partner, collaborating with teachers to create rich units that promote critical thinking and information literacy. Effective librarians have expanded their roles, becoming “staff developers, collaborators, grant-writers, resource experts, community partners, and instructional leaders.” In an environment where so few people understand what exactly teacher librarians do, it is the duty of teacher librarians to “show, and keep showing” their impact on student achievement.

Evaluation

Ellis clearly defines the role of the 21st Century librarian. Unfortunately, few people, educators and administrators included, recognize the value of the teacher librarian as a cornerstone in an effective instructional program. As a result, teacher librarians are often the first ones on the chopping block during a budget crisis. This article is a good reminder that teacher librarians must continually evolve and promote their services and worth to the school community.