September 11, 2009

Challenges and rewards

Today was a mixed bag. I started by attempting to enter the data file of all this year's students into our OPAC system. The year begins by clearing out the students from last year. The patrons that remain are the ones that still have books or fines from last year. Then the staff and teachers are manually entered into the system. Finally, the data file is loaded with all the new students. Unfortunately, I never was able to get the OPAC system to recognize the data file. I will just have to re-tackle this on Monday. Until then I continue to check books in and out the old-fashioned way; with pen and paper.

This afternoon we interviewed candidates for the position of Media Clerk. I did not have a media clerk last year and so have not ever worked with one. I really had to research and think this through to put together the most important questions to ask in the interviews. It was comforting that I had a committee of veterans to help. At the end of the day, we had made a selection and she had accepted. I will be working hard to make sure I use my staff development skills to train the new clerk and create a team that brings our media program to the next level.

Today I collaborated with the Spanish teachers who want to use the lesson we created together last year. I will tweak it and add some new resources to freshen it up for the new year.

Our first book club meets on Monday after school and so far the participation is very encouraging. Our first book is "Jumper" by Steven Gould. I have already given out eight books and we were not expecting to give any out until the meeting on Monday.

Our enrollment is down this year but the excitement of the students visiting the media center points to a great year. I am really looking forward to it!

Total Hours: 8 hours