This week, our class went on a field trip just down the street to St. Francis, a private Preschool-Grade 8 school. It was SO adorable, like a little treasure tucked away in a pocket of the school. The collection was small, yet engaging, and it was obvious that the librarian (our gracious host for the afternoon) and her predecessor were able to do a lot with the little resources available to a small, private school.
Through our discussions, we were able to get a sense of the particular climate of the school, and it made me realize that of course every librarian's job is going to look different, because no two schools are the same. It made me wonder just how prepared we can ever be to begin a career in education. I remember my first year teaching in the Philippines, I felt so unprepared-- like someone had told me to make sure I gave reading assessments and used techniques for differentiation and then just dropped me off in a war zone. One of the biggest challenges to beginning teachers, I believe, is readjusting/socializing yourself to the flip side of the educational atmosphere. We learn a lot of strategies for working with kids but very few for working alongside other adults in an atmosphere of autonomy and somewhat extreme peer isolation.
Aside from this field trip, I also went on one of my own this week to Forsythe Middle School for my collection development project. This media center was a lot more like what I grew up with: a spacious, recognizable layout and a very full, comprehensive collection. Every time I visit a school library, it really confirms my sense of vocation. I walk into the room and can immediately see myself in this environment everyday. How exciting.
I loved the idea of a library that was just about the size of a classroom, and I was so impressed by how the collection has been managed voer time. But the most impressive thing, of course, is that you're feeling your sense of vocation confirmed. :)
ReplyDeleteI like the point you bring up about learning strategies for working with kids, but not necessarily for working with adults. My biggest concern would be how to teach, interact with, and socialize with the children, but we have to learn to interact with and collaborate with the adults too. I agree with Kristin too, it's nice to know exactly what you want to do with your career!
ReplyDeleteInteresting and true - when you say you have more experience working with children than with adults. It is true though - navigating those relationships with coworkers can be a tricky business.
ReplyDeleteI also wonder how prepared we can ever feel. Every school and community is so different!
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