Most educators would agree that school library programs are extremely valuable to students. But did you know that, according to recent studies, strong school libraries help to increase standardized test scores? Statistics show that public schools with strong school library programs outperform those without such programs on high-stakes standardized tests. This is true regardless of parent education, poverty levels, ethnicity, or the percentage of English language learners found in the population of the school. Increases in library program elements correspond to standardized test scores at all grade levels, including elementary, middle school, and high school.

Library elements that contribute to increased test scores include the total number of hours the library is open, the total amount of technology available in the library, the total services provided by trained library staff, the presence of a program of curriculum-integrated information with literacy instruction, the informal instruction of students in the use of resources, providing teachers with information about new resources, and providing reference assistance to both teachers and students.

A strong school library program is described as one that provides a full-time teacher/librarian, a full-time paraprofessional, a robust and up-to-date collection of digital, print, and media resources with a budget to support it, and abundant access to the library’s facilities, technology, and resources. How well does your school’s library program meet the criteria?

To learn more, read the report, Remodeling Literacy Learning: Making Room for What Works, which details key findings from a nationwide survey of more than 2,400 educators representing all grade levels and subject areas. The report investigates the connection between professional learning, educator collaboration, and student learning.

With the coming of 2020, many educators are giving thought about making New Year’s resolutions that will help them be better teachers. If this describes you, here are six suggestions for constructive resolutions you may consider.

First, establish a positive attitude. Approaching the next semester with a cheerful and upbeat attitude will be of great benefit to you, and it will also encourage your students to do the same. Teachers know how powerful modeling can be. Model a positive attitude for your kids.

Second, get your classroom organized. Clean up your desk and storage areas. Design an extra lesson that can be used independently of your regular curriculum, to be prepared just in case something unexpected happens such as a lock-down. Think of ways you can delegate classroom jobs to your students. Create an emergency substitute teacher plan and make it easy to find.

Third, think of ways you can reduce the amount of work you take home with you. Click on this link to read an article about ways to reduce your paper load: 12 Time-Saving Assessment Strategies.

Fourth, design a lesson for your students that will encourage healthy living habits.  Present a lesson on good eating habits or the benefits of physical fitness. Consider incorporating some sort of movement in your classroom activities.

Fifth, experiment with new instructional technique or updated technology. Studies show that the human brain craves novelty. Changing things up a bit will be stimulating for you, and for your students, too.

Last, take good care of yourself. Create balance between your work and your personal life. And be sure to get plenty of rest. Taking care of yourself is one of the best ways to take care of your students.

Have a wonderful Winter Break, and a successful second semester! And Happy New Year to you all of you!