Read and Reflect 6/15/2011

"The Teacher-Librarian as Literacy Leader"
I enjoyed reading Barbara Braxton's article.  I appreciated the credit that is given to librarians for all of the many hats they wear.  I feel that this is something that others (faculty, administration, and community) do not often see.  I found that the article also had many excellent ideas.  Being that I will actually be in the library next fall, I already have an idea of some changes that I would like to make, including a better labeling system.  Currently, there are some divisions of categories, but no strong labels that all can understand and use.  I also really liked the idea of going into the classrooms to do book chats.  One key here is going INTO the classrooms, by doing so, I think that the students will see me more as a teacher and not just the keeper of the books.  I also liked how many of the ideas incorporated staff and student input and assistance in creating displays.  I think this would be an excellent way to get all to take ownership of the library.  These are all very little, simple steps that will liven up the library and make all feel much more comfortable there.

"Effectively Influencing Decision Makers"
Marshall Goldsmith's article on influencing decision makers was quite interesting.  Knowing that the people who make decisions aren't always the ones who should, people really have to think about the way they present themselves and their cause.  Of course, education in general was one of the first things that popped into my head.  The government is the decision maker on a lot of education issues that they don't know much about.  Cutting funding programs such as Parents as Teachers based on money alone isn't a good thing, not having early intervention programs such as this will only hurt our education system in the long run.  I do think that it is beneficial when attempting to influence someone to give the costs as well as the benefits. 

Obviously, there will never be one perfect solution to any problem and being able to demonstrate that you know both sides and still feel that your stance is important is key. My favorite tip by far has to be focusing on the greater good.  Sure we all have our little pet projects that we want to do and be recognized for, but in the end what is best for the students is what must prevail.  In education, if you are wanting to "sell" something to the school board, this is key.  They are often looking for ideas and programs that will benefit all of the students.

"Transparency=Leadership"
I can definitely see how Will Richardson's article could stir up a lot of controversy and I can see both sides.  I understand the point that teachers should effectively model good practices and how to use the internet safely and wisely.  On the other hand, I don't think that students need to know everything about their teachers.  Not to mention, that just because a person has a web-presence does not make them a positive leader and role model.

Our district has discouraged staff to even have a facebook account.  I feel that this is a little extreme. Personally, I do have a Facebook account, and I do have students, parents, community, and staff members as friends.  I also have my family and members of my church as friends.  I'm not going to do or say anything to disgrace myself, my family, or my profession.  I have taken some measures in security though.  I do not chat with students or send private messages.  Every communication with them is public.  I feel that by being present on Facebook, my students do get to see how a responsible adult can act, but I don't think that they should be granted the same status as my family and friends.  Yes, a level of transparency is good, but I don't think my life should be an open book to my students.