Washington Library Media Association

Macaulay as genius

Mon, 02 Oct 2006 01:01:01 -0700

David Macaulay won a 2006 MacArthur Genius Award for his work. http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2006/09/19/eveningnews/main2023406.shtml

Children's Poet Laureate

Wed, 04 Oct 2006 01:01:01 -0700

Jack Prelutsky was named the first Children's Poet Laureate by the Poetry Foundation http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/article/CA6377868.html http://www.poetryfoundation.org/ http://teacher.scholastic.com/wrItewIt/poetry/jack_home.htm http://www.poemhunter.com/jack-prelutsky/poet-11077/

Podcasts on timely topics

Wed, 11 Oct 2006 01:01:01 -0700

SLJ sponsors podcasts that extend their articles.Will Richardson will present about Blogging on Oct. 15 and you can access it anytime after that date. http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/article/CA6363460.html

TL of the Year story in news

Mon, 16 Oct 2006 01:01:01 -0700

The Woodinville Weekly did a story on Christopher Tracy, secondary TL of the Year at Kenmore JH of Northshore SD. Debra Kilcup of Woodland Elementary of North Thurston SD won the elementary TL honors. http://www.nwnews.com/editions/2006/061009/local6.htm

Letters About Literature

Wed, 18 Oct 2006 01:01:01 -0700

Students throughout Washington are invited to participate in Letters About Literature 2006-2007, sponsored by The Center for the Book at the Library of Congress in partnership with Target Stores and the Washington State Library. Letters About Literature, a writing contest for readers in grades 4 through 12, gives students the opportunity to write a letter to an author describing his or her personal reaction to a poem, story, or book. The deadline for students to submit their letters is December 8, 2006. http://www.secstate.wa.gov/library/lal/default.aspx

Puyallup-Miss Jane Pittman

Fri, 27 Oct 2006 01:01:01 -0700

Read about the controversy- The News Tribune article Published: October 20th, 2006 01:00 AM: http://www.thenewstribune.com/opinion/story/6177597p-5402447c.html The News Tribune Blog pages: http://community.thenewstribune.com/?q=node/4486 http://blogs.thenewstribune.com/oped/ (scroll down) King 5 original piece from Tuesday, Oct. 17th: http://www.king5.com/localnews/stories/NW_101606WABbook_controversySW.46fea7f6.html

Free Newspaper Archive

Tue, 07 Nov 2006 01:01:01 -0800

K-12 schools and public libraries now have free access to tens of millions of historical newspaper pages through NewspaperARCHIVE.com, a division of Heritage Microfilm. The program, called Access NewspaperARCHIVE, gives students and library patrons access to a historical newspaper database that lets them view, save, and print full-page newspapers dating from 1759 to 1977. The content includes newspapers from the United States and around the world. Public libraries and K-12 schools can sign up for the free service by calling NewspaperARCHIVE.com's customer service line at (888) 870-0484, ext. 30, or by downloading a sign-up form online. http://access.newspaperarchive.com

Patterson offers free audio

Thu, 09 Nov 2006 01:01:01 -0800

Maximum Ride is available until Dec. 31 as a free e-book and audio file for teachers. There is also a free curriculum guide. Details and free log-in at http://maximumride.com/teacheroffer/

Westward to Washington!

Mon, 20 Nov 2006 01:01:01 -0800

The radio play performed at WLMA conference by Joe McHugh and WLMA members is up and read to hear or download. There is a little "noise" at the beginning. http://wlma.org/storage/conference2006/westward-wash.mp3

New ease of sharing

Wed, 20 Dec 2006 01:01:01 -0800

The new icons of the printer and mouse on each WLMA web page allows you to print the page without the common top and sides. The email link allows you to quickly share the page link with a friend or colleague the information on a WLMA web page. Just click and print or click and add the email address and any message you want to add. Try it out!

Book titles around your neck

Fri, 22 Dec 2006 01:01:01 -0800

This simple, novel, and elegant idea is sparking all sorts of conversation at a Florida middle school. http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/sptimes/access/1172684491.html?dids=1172684491:1172684491&FMT=FT&FMTS=ABS:FT&date=Dec+1%2C+2006&author=TOM+MARSHALL&pub=St.+Petersburg+Times&edition=&startpage=7.B&desc=Innovative+idea+grabs+attention

Work Skills Report

Thu, 04 Jan 2007 01:01:01 -0800

The New Commission on the Skills of the American Workforce "unveiled recommendations calling for the biggest changes in the American education system in a century." Suggestions include offering universal pre-kindergarten programs, and enrolling students in college after 10th grade. The site provides a 28-page summary of the report, "Tough Choices or Tough Times." http://skillscommission.org

Qwest Tech Grants 2/15

Fri, 19 Jan 2007 01:01:01 -0800

Applications, procedures and rubric for the Qwest Foundation learning Technology for Washington Public K-12 teachers for technology up to $10,000 are due at OSPI February 15, 2007. 10 grants at least one per Ed Tech Center region will be awarded. http://www.k12.wa.us/EdTech/Qwest.aspx

Amazon Wish List Award

Sat, 27 Jan 2007 01:01:01 -0800

Due February 16 for outstanding library programs. Amazon's Wish for Lit program is now accepting online submissions from libraries in three categories-K-12, academic, and public libraries-and winners will be selected by the American Library Association's Chapter Relations Committee to receive a $5,000 Amazon.com gift certificate, as well as up to $2,000 worth of products from the Amazon Wish List. All of the items will be shipped directly to the libraries to be put to immediate use. You must have a library wish list posted on Amazon (free). http://www.amazon.com/gp/corporate/registry/wish-for-lit.html

30 minute lessons

Mon, 29 Jan 2007 01:01:01 -0800

Deb Ramsey of ESD 101 is providing the Lunch Bag Specials--short introductions to web resources. You can sign up for Washington State Clock Hours too and complete activites or just use them for your own tech learning. http://scripts.esd101.net/edtech/lunchbags/

Cal. Librarian accolades

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 01:01:01 -0800

Good article about the impact of a certificated librarian in California. "Librarian leaves mark at school" http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/living/education/16570773.htm

Information Fluency "games"

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 01:01:01 -0800

IMSA 21st Century has added new interactive searching and information fluency games- great stuff. You can always find by searching information fluency-- then click on their tutorials, wizard and resources. Now Available: Maximizing Resources With new curricula, games, assessments and other resources being produced each month, selecting just the right activities to achieve information fluency can be overwhelming. In this issue we publish for the first time a COMPLETE INDEX of all Full Circle Resource Kit Materials and suggestions for sequencing them. Easy-to-use menus give you one click access to nearly 100 Information Fluency Learning Games, Curriculum Examples and Assessment Ideas. http://21cif.imsa.edu/ home page latest Resource Kita t: http://21cif.imsa.edu/rkit/index_html

Try another search engine

Fri, 02 Feb 2007 01:01:01 -0800

This article and hyperlinked list allows you to see innovation at work. Look at the latest in clustering, recommending, and alternative searches. http://www.readwriteweb.com/archives/top_100_alternative_search_engines.php

Washington History CBAs

Thu, 15 Feb 2007 01:01:01 -0800

The Washington State Historical Museum provides over 20 lessons with teacher plans, primary documents and connections to the CBAs http://washingtonhistoryonline.org

Copyright brochure

Thu, 15 Feb 2007 01:01:01 -0800

One free downloadable brochure from ACRL (academic libraries) is available. The rights of teachers to fairly use materials is the focus. http://www.arl.org/news/pr/kycrpr.shtml

New search engines

Thu, 15 Feb 2007 01:01:01 -0800

The world of Google only search is changing. Try these new engines that are trying to meet users needs. http://oedb.org/library/features/top-25-web20-search-engines

Economic literacy lesson

Sat, 24 Feb 2007 01:01:01 -0800

A lesson by college students for middle and high school students in the Seattle area: Students In Free Enterprise is a global, non-profit organization that is changing the world through highly dedicated student teams from more than 1600 university campuses. The City University Bellevue SIFE team is composed of nineteen undergraduate and graduate students from Colombia, Bulgaria, Taiwan, India, U.A.E, Malaysia and China; making it one of the most diverse SIFE teams in the world. One of the projects that we are very proud of is the K-12 Project. The objective of the project is to share experiences and knowledge with elementary, middle and high schools and together learn about ways to improve ourselves and the community. This year we are looking at the different SIFE Criteria's that include Market Economics, Business Ethics, Financial Literacy and Entrepreneurship and Success Skills. For the project, we decided to make a workbook that touches on examples of each of these criteria. Last week, we were fortunate to be invited to the Highland Middle school and were able to teach 150, 7th and 8th graders. It was a lot of fun and a fantastic experience for all of us. We taught the students about the importance of ethics in life and business and for the financial literacy we spoke about the importance of understanding credit cards and ways to get and deal with student loans. All in all SIFE is a volunteer program for students who just want to help the community; We need to reach another 300 students before the beginning of April so if you are a teacher and wouldn't mind us teaching one/all of your classes for a day, then please contact Leila@cityu.edu or call Leila at 296.883.5800.

Digital Commons offers WASL

Thu, 08 Mar 2007 01:01:01 -0800

The Digital Learning Commons has made ALPs-a WASL prep resource for middle and high school students-available for free to every school in Washington. These online tutorials help students review and practice math and reading skills, and assess their knowledge, in preparation for classroom tests and the WASL. ALPs was created by the Federal Way Internet Academy (IA). IA staff created ALPs specifically to help students meet the state standards tested in the WASL. As a state-funded organization, the DLC offers ALPs for free to all schools in Washington, regardless of their DLC membership status (DLC members can access even more resources). Note that the middle school content is up now, and the high school math content will be up by next fall. Feel free to pass along to your colleagues, especially those working with WASL prep or remediation students. The resource can be accessed here: http://www.learningcommons.org/free/

Portal for free learning

Sat, 10 Mar 2007 01:01:01 -0800

Open content portal debuts for educators with over 8,000 sites.There is content and social networking tools such as tags, comments, ratings and reviews. http://www.oercommons.org Read the story at http://www.eschoolnews.com/news/showStoryts.cfm?ArticleID=6937

Bookapalooza Award

Wed, 14 Mar 2007 01:01:01 -0700

The Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC), is pleased to announce that applications now are being accepted for its new Bookapalooza Program. The deadline for receipt of applications is April 15, 2007. Each year the ALSC office receives almost 3,000 newly published books, videos, audiobooks, and recordings from children's trade publishers. The materials are primarily for children age birth through 14 and are submitted to ALSC award and media evaluation selection committees for award and notables consideration. The Bookapalooza Program was created to find new homes for these materials once the award and notables selection process is completed for the year. ALSC will select three libraries to receive a Bookapalooza collection of materials published in 2006, to be used in a way that creatively enhances each library's service to children and families. For the pilot year, libraries must be located in the United States and the applicant must be a personal member of ALSC. http://www.ala.org/ala/alsc/awardsscholarships/bookapaloozaprogram.htm

WLMA Speaks out

Fri, 16 Mar 2007 01:01:01 -0700

WLMA president, Marianne Hunter and past president Sarah Applegate wrote a convincing guest editorial about the need for teacher librarians in Spokane's elementary and middle schools in Spokane's Spokesman-Review paper March 15 Guest Opinion: Don't close the book on school librarians (B7) Back in the day," as the kids like to say, school libraries were considered little more than warehouses for books. pdf listed on http://wlma.org/advocacy web page Thursday March 8, the district announced it possible cuts to meet the budget shortfall School cuts outlined (A1) Some freshmen could be without sports teams, elementary libraries may be staffed only part time and classrooms may not be cleaned every day. TL Dinah Coble adds her words as well http://www.spokesmanreview.com/opinion/letter.asp?ID=13451

New group for discounts

Fri, 23 Mar 2007 01:01:01 -0700

The ESDs have combined to a web resource Washington Learning Source with free membership. The site started in January to post and obtain group discounts. One new offered product is Destiny Texbook Manager http://www.walearningsource.org/

Poster-Rights of Readers

Wed, 04 Apr 2007 01:01:01 -0700

One of our professors shared with me-Walker Book has free downloadable poster of the "The Rights of Readers" illustrated by Quentin Blake. http://www.walkerbooks.co.uk/Downloads/The-Rights-of-the-Reader-poster

Free Food Force game

Mon, 07 May 2007 01:01:01 -0700

Multiple languages of a UN World Food Programme- Food Force game for students. There are free teacher's lessons as well.It is designed for world hungar awareness. http://www.food-force.com/

BTSB grants awarded for AASL

Sun, 03 Jun 2007 01:01:01 -0700

WLMA is pleased to announce that Tom Curd from Silver Lake Elementary in Everett and Nancy Tosh, from Kessler Elementary in Longview are the 2 winners of the BTSB "My First AASL" Grants. Their names were drawn randomly from among those who applied, and each will receive $750.00 toward expenses for attending the AASL National Conference in Reno in October, 2007. Congratulations Tom and Nancy!

School Library 2.0

Mon, 04 Jun 2007 01:01:01 -0700

California school librarians have teamed together to provide fun and practice with he read/write web, also know as Web 2.0. There are things to do each week (9 weeks) , so you can set yourself up for a summer learning experience or you can sign up for CE credits as well. Check it out! Joanna Freeman (asst. webmaster) is helping Washington Librarians with a Washington wiki about the project too. Join us! http://waschoollibrarylearning2.pbwiki.com/ http://www.schoollibrarylearning2.blogspot.com/

Free IF brochures

Sun, 24 Jun 2007 01:01:01 -0700

ALA has a new free downloadable brochure directed at kids and their intellectual freedom rights http://www.ala.org/Template.cfm?Section=news&template=/ContentManagement/ContentDisplay.cfm&ContentID=159988

New NETS standards

Wed, 11 Jul 2007 01:01:01 -0700

ISTE unvieled the new student NETS refreshed and it includes the use of creativity and innovation! http://www.iste.org/Template.cfm?Section=NETS&CFID=449525&CFTOKEN=89063219

Media Literacy Toolkit

Thu, 12 Jul 2007 01:01:01 -0700

The SETDA (State Educational Technology Directors Assoc) provides a new free toolkit on media literacy to systemactically advocate learning across the grades. It includes research, lessons, rationale, and a matrix comparing modern types of literacy definitions. http://www.setda.org/web/guest/toolkit2007/medialiteracy

Make your avatar READ Tshirt

Thu, 12 Jul 2007 01:01:01 -0700

In cooperation with yahoo avatars, California School Library 2.0 and ALA, you can make your own free avatar with a READ tshirt (free registration at yahoo required). Read all the details with links at: http://www.ala.org/ala/pressreleases2007/july2007/vrtava07.htm

Underserved areas and books

Thu, 12 Jul 2007 01:01:01 -0700

Roads to Reading Intiative grants books to programs that are in underserved areas for remedial and tutoring purposes. Remember to read the details before applying. http://pwirtr.org/biannual.html

School Library Learning 2.0

Sun, 15 Jul 2007 01:01:01 -0700

There's still time to join a WLMA group learning about Web 2.0 technologies this summer. We are going through an online tutorial from the California School Library Association - < http://schoollibrarylearning2.blogspot.com/ > together. You can do it for credit or just for the experience. We have a wiki - < http://waschoollibrarylearning2.pbwiki.com/ > and blog, and if you add your information we will visit your blog and support you.

Net Safe Bookmarks

Thu, 23 Aug 2007 01:01:01 -0700

Downloadable bookmarks with tips for kids and teens are available as part of the cooperative work between myspace, ALA and Illinois Library Assoc. The free downloads are at http://www.ila.org/netsafe

Congrats to TL Year winners

Mon, 10 Sep 2007 01:01:01 -0700

Teacher Librarians of the Year for 2007 are: Karen Huebschman - Elemenatary and Sherese Roe- Secondary. Awards will be given at WLMA 2007 Conference. Details on document at http://wlma.org/tlyear

Seattle Times article

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 01:01:01 -0700

Key to literacy, librarians now "highly endangered" http://archives.seattletimes.nwsource.com/cgi-bin/texis.cgi/web/vortex/display?slug=librarians12n0&date=20070912

School Library Research

Tue, 18 Sep 2007 01:01:01 -0700

AASL released "Sizing up America's Libraries" as snapshots of the national trends. So far it is not listed on the AASL site just on the AASL conference program. eschool news reports the highlights: http://www.eschoolnews.com/news/showstoryts.cfm?Articleid=7367

LIBRARIAN Act

Tue, 02 Oct 2007 01:01:01 -0700

The Librarian Incentive to Boost Recruitment and Retention in Areas of Need Act of 2007 (LIBRARIAN Act) H.R. 1877 in the House would amend the Higher Education Act ? and would provide for PERKINS COLLEGE LOAN FORGIVENESS for those serving Title 1 low income schools and public libraries. The bill is expected to come to the House Floor for a vote sometime in October. Please contact your Congressman or Congresswoman and ask for their support of this bill. Also, we have already received good news that school and public librarians were added to the list of those who will receive college loan forgiveness for Stafford loans. H.R. 2669, the College Cost Reduction Act, which reauthorizes the Higher Education Act. The bill was signed into law September 27, 2007.

Free educ Web 2.0 conference

Thu, 04 Oct 2007 01:01:01 -0700

Educators can receive an overview of Web 2.0 tools and opportunities for education in the "Playing with Boundaries" free online conference from Oct. 5-19 with archived chats and talks. http://www.k12onlineconference.org

Free kid's guide to I.F.

Thu, 04 Oct 2007 01:01:01 -0700

ALSC of ALA has a new free downloadable guide (color pdf) Kids, Know Your Rights! A Young Person's Guide to Intellectual Freedom. http://www.ala.org/ala/alsc/alscpubs/KidsKnowYourRights.pdf

YRC 2008 DVD available

Wed, 10 Oct 2007 01:01:01 -0700

Young Readers Choice of the Pacific NW Library Assoc offers seals, a poster and now a DVD of this year's choices. The DVD is just $10.00. As of today the DVD is not listed on the order form but the information was sent by the person listed on the form, so use the form or contact YRC chair Barbra Meisenheimer Form at: http://pnla.org/yrca/store.htm

Info on Advocating SKILLS

Wed, 17 Oct 2007 01:01:01 -0700

Information on who to contact and a poster to get others involved on this important piece of legislature. http://capwiz.com/ala/issues/alert/?alertid=10223941

New AASL Standards Released

Sun, 28 Oct 2007 01:01:01 -0700

"Standards for the 21st-Century Learner" officially launched during the American Association of School Librarians (AASL) 13th National Conference & Exhibition in Reno, Nevada. "AASL hopes that these standards will provide a foundation for a strong library media program in every school, where our students will research expertly, think critically, problem-solve well, read enthusiastically and use information ethically." Download a PDF of the standards here: http://www.ala.org/aasl

Bloomin' Authors 2008

Sun, 17 Feb 2008 01:01:01 -0800

Join the Peninsula Region at their spring 2008 retreat with several local authors, including Analji Banarjee, Deb Caletti, Carl Deuker, David Greenberg, Deb Hall, Gregg Olsen, Suzanne Selfors, and Richard Jesse Watson. Registration closes February 20th. The retreat is on March 7 & 8, 2008, at Fort Worden State Park near Port Townsend. For more information see the Bloomin' Authors website: http://www.nkschools.org/schools/khs/WLMAConferenceMain.htm

Live Classroom

Sat, 03 Nov 2007 01:01:01 -0700

Try Annick's press live classroom with lessons and Skype (live chat) technology. the current sessions are about media awareness with future plans for history, science,health and current events. Free registration provides lesson plans and interaction. This is a great way to try the new technologies with favorite topics and authors. http://www.annickpress.com/Livebrary/index.html

Indiana Study Results

Sat, 10 Nov 2007 01:01:01 -0800

The Indiana Study titled "How Students, Teachers, and Principals Benefit from Strong School Libraries" is now available: http://schools.shorelineschools.org/ridgecrest/documents/Indiana_Study_School_Libraries.pdf The results show that schools with libraries with strong financial support and strong staffing tend to have higher test scores. Read and share with administrators in your districts.

School Libraries Work

Sun, 18 Nov 2007 01:01:01 -0800

An updated 2008 version (including the 2007 Indiana study) of "School Libraries Work!" is now available from Scholastic as a PDF download. http://librarypublishing.scholastic.com/content/stores/LibraryStore/pages/images/SLW3_2008.pdf

School Library Petition

Sun, 25 Nov 2007 01:01:01 -0800

A Seattle Times news article published this week highlights the grassroots efforts of two Spokane parents to save school library programs. Read the article and sign the petition: http://archives.seattletimes.nwsource.com/cgi-bin/texis.cgi/web/vortex/display?slug=libraries20m&date=20071120&query=school+libraries

Washington State Coalition

Tue, 27 Nov 2007 01:01:01 -0800

The Washington Coalition for School Libraries and Information Technology is a group of concerned citizens, educators, businesses, and community groups working to ensure that school libraries receive adequate and sustained funding for full-time certified teacher-librarians, materials, technologies and facilities. There is more information on their website: http://fundourfuturewashington.org/

Oprah's Angel Great Stories

Thu, 06 Dec 2007 01:01:01 -0800

Free books and help to lead discussions with underserved, troubled teens. This grant is a connection between libraries,providing books that targets teens in troubled situations. Perhaps you are doing a service project with an juvenile detention facilty, partner with your public libray if you have an alternative high school. The applications are due February 1, 2008. http://www.ala.org/ala/ppo/currentprograms/greatstories/club.cfm

NCCE Booth Volunteers Needed

Sun, 09 Dec 2007 01:01:01 -0800

WLMA volunteers are needed to be Exhibit Booth Buddies at the WLMA booth for the NCCE conference at the Washington State Convention Center in Seattle. EXHIBIT DATES/HOURS * Wednesday, February 27, 4:30-6:30 pm * Thursday, February 28, 11:15 am-5:00 pm * Friday, February 29, 10:30 am-2:30 pm If you are able to volunteer for one or more of these full or half days, WLMA will pay for your substitute fees. Please contact Jennifer Maydole at jennifer@jennifermaydole.com if you are able to volunteer or have any questions. For more information about NCCE please see their website at http://www.ncce.org

AASL Nat.. Survey Results

Mon, 10 Dec 2007 01:01:01 -0800

School Libraries Count! : A National Survey of School Library Media Programs 2007. It is the first longitudinal survey and was conducted in Jan-March 2007. the questions, a presentation, and the final report are available. http://www.ala.org/ala/aasl/slcsurvey.cfm

Best edublogs of 2007

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 01:01:01 -0800

Take a look at some of the best from librarians, teachers, schools, audio and video blogs. http://edublogawards.com/and-the-winners-are/

2008 Conference Proposals

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 01:01:01 -0800

Share your expertise with fellow librarians at the next conference. The online proposal form for concurrent sessions at the 2008 OASL-WLMA Joint Conference in Portland is now available. The theme of the conference, to be held October 9-11, is "Elect to Lead" and proposals for sessions are due March 31, 2008. Find the form through the Joint conference website, linked from the WLMA website under Our Events in the right sidebar, or go directly to: https://web.memberclicks.com/mc/quickForm/viewForm.do?orgId=wmla&formId=36420

Sunday L.A. Times article

Sun, 23 Dec 2007 01:01:01 -0800

The L.A. Times has an article about the Wash. Coalition's efforts to save school libraries in Washington State. The article gives great exposure to the cause. Forward to friends and family members to share information about the coalition. Families in Spokane launch what has grown into a statewide effort to protect schools' guardians of the shelves. By Stuart Glascock Los Angeles Times Staff Writer December 23 2007 SEATTLE - As has happened in other states, cash-strapped schools in Washington are dropping librarians to save money: This year, Federal Way cut 20 librarian positions. Spokane reduced 10 librarians to half-time. Darrington cut two librarians. A school in Marysville eliminated its half-time librarian. The complete article can be viewed at: http://www.latimes.com/news/printedition/asection/la-na-librarians23dec23,1,1497338.story

Wash. Coalition Needs

Sun, 23 Dec 2007 01:01:01 -0800

Dear WLMA members, The coalition is deep into their own pockets with thousands of dollars of expenses for copies, ink cartridges, trips to Olympia. Contributions are truly needed. To bring you up-to-date, Senator Rosemary McAuliffe and key members of the Appropriations Subcommittee of Education are willing to sponsor the legislation that is currently being written. Several legislators have indicated that they also would suppport it. The progress that the Coalition has made is truly amazing! If you want to read about the latest developments, go to: www.fundourfuturewashington.org and read about their work. And while you're there, PLEASE SIGN the petition. Individual WLMA members are encouraged to contribute. Send the link to your friends and family. Hearing voices of parents and teachers is critical. This is about school libraries, teacher librarians, student success, and our profession. I cannot emphasize enough how important it is for you to take action! Secretary of State Sam Reed has said that petitions as well as emails and phone calls DO make a difference. This is a unique window of opportunity. WLMA members need to show their support! Sincerely, Linda Collins, President, WLMA

Seattle Times article

Sat, 29 Dec 2007 01:01:01 -0800

"The Readers' Due" is an op-ed piece highlighting the recent work by WCSLit for school libraries in Washington State: http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/opinion/2004097587_satrdr29.html

YAs Major Users of Libraries

Sun, 30 Dec 2007 01:01:01 -0800

Young adults are the heaviest users of public libraries despite the ease with which they can access a wealth of information over the Internet from the comforts of their homes, according to a new study. Education-related topics (finding a school, obtaining funding, gaining job skills) were the most common reasons people visited libraries. http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/nationworld/2004100127_webinternetlibraries30.html

Jon Scieszka 1st Reading Amb

Fri, 04 Jan 2008 01:01:01 -0800

Jon Scieszka has been named by Library of Congress as the first National Ambasssador for Young People's Literature. He will be promoting reading in his two year term. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/01/02/AR2008010202236.html

Social Studies Conf CBAs

Fri, 04 Jan 2008 01:01:01 -0800

The Washington State Council for the Social Studies is conducting a K-8 workshop Sat.February 2 at Seattle University. They are including teacher librarians from around the state to present a one hour session on a particular grade level. This is a wonderful opportunity to talk with TLs who are collaborating with their teachers. Registration and more details available at http://www.wscss.org/index.php?module=pagemaster&PAGE_user_op=view_page&PAGE_id=15&MMN_position=29:10

Visually compare

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 01:01:01 -0800

Doug Johnson read and analyzed the new AASL and NETS standards for students and made a graphic for our understanding. It is posted at his blog http://doug-johnson.squarespace.com/blue-skunk-blog/2008/1/7/student-standard-comparisons-and-a-clean-garage.html

Authors at WWU

Sun, 13 Jan 2008 01:01:01 -0800

Sat. March 1 features Christopher Paul Curtis, Eric Rohmann, Chris Crutcher and John Rocco in Bellingham at the Bond WWU Children's Conference. Registration is available online with reductions for students and retired teachers. http://www.wwuclc.com/spkrs_feat.asp

Seattle Times article

Tue, 22 Jan 2008 01:01:01 -0800

Once considered a mainstay, storytimes could be in danger at some area school libraries, educators say. To adapt to budget challenges, Southeast King County districts say they are overhauling how they run their libraries and how much money goes into library programs. http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/southeastkingcountynews/2004133461_library20s.html

Take Action Today!

Tue, 22 Jan 2008 01:01:01 -0800

Today is the day to call the Legislative Hotline!!! There is a bill in the Senate, SB6380, which will provide funding for Teacher-librarians in the library and $12 per FTE for school library resources. Thanks to the hard work of the www.fundourfuturewashington.org this dream can become a reality. 1. Call your legislative hotline: 1-800-562-6000. Tell them your name and address, then say "I would like funding for school library programs to be included in the supplemental budget." Please support Senate Bill 6380 "ENHANCING SCHOOL LIBRARY PROGRAMS" IF your Senator is one of the sponsors below, please tell them THANK YOU for sponsoring our bill: Senators Eide, Brown, McAuliffe, Marr, Shin, Kohl-Welles, Weinstein 2. Go to this website and sign the online petition: www.fundourfuturewashington.org

SLJ Article about Summit

Thu, 24 Jan 2008 01:01:01 -0800

Article from School Library Journal's Extra Helping about the February 1st Summit in Olympia: "Three Spokane, WA, moms who are working to improve funding for school libraries have scored some heavyweight help for their upcoming library summit: American Library Association (ALA) President Loriene Roy and American Association of School Librarians (AASL) President Sara Kelly Johns have both committed to travel to Olympia, WA, to speak at the February 1 event..." http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/article/CA6525176.html?nid=2413

Support the SKILLs Act

Wed, 30 Jan 2008 01:01:01 -0800

From ALA in support of the SKILLs Act: Send Your Senators a "Save School Libraries" Valentine! We need your help - ALL LIBRARIANS AND LIBRARY ADVOCATES - to ensure the inclusion of the Strengthening Kids' Interest in Learning and Libraries (SKILLs) Act in the reauthorization of the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB). This is the single most important piece of legislation concerning school libraries that will come before Congress this year. Reauthorization of this bill is critical to the future of school libraries. For more information, links, and talking points: http://capwiz.com/ala/issues/alert/?alertid=10223941&queueid=1690281301

January ENews now available

Sun, 27 Jan 2008 01:01:01 -0800

The current January issue of ENews, the newsletter of the WLMA President, is now available on the ENews page under the "About WLMA" menu. You can also go directly to the ENews archive: http://www.wlma.org/enews

SB6380 Bookmark/Explanation

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 01:01:01 -0800

Do you know someone who can take five minutes to help school libraries? Download, print, and hand out these bookmarks created by Spokane Teacher-Librarian Yvonne Davis. They have suggestions for school library supporters on how they can help our legislative efforts with just a phone call and signing the online petition. Download the bookmarks: http://www.wlma.org/storage/documents/Take_Action_Bookmark.pdf In addition, the NE 7 region has created a one-page summary of Senate Bill #6380 explaining the importance of this bill. Download this PDF for talking points or to share with supporters: http://www.wlma.org/storage/documents/SB6380_what_it_means.pdf

Join the Rally in Olympia

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 01:01:01 -0800

Rally in Olympia Friday, Feb. 1st, for Senate Bill #6380 **Friday, February 1st, 2008 12:00 noon - Capitol Steps, Olympia WA *Wear black and white because "It's a black and white issue." *Bring signs (posted at our website) *Bring your favorite book for a group READ poster photo *Bring a carload make it a day! Say THANK YOU to the Senate sponsors: Senators Eide, Brown, McAuliffe, Marr, Shinn, Kohl-Welles & Weinstein. Senate Bill #6380 will provide permanent essential funding for school library programs across Washington State, and will benefit every child, every teacher, every school, and every community. To RSVP for the rally, sign the petition, and get all the information you'll need, please visit the WCSLit website: www.fundourfuturewashington.org After the rally visit your legislators' offices and voice your support for Senate Bill #6380. You will be provided with talking points. Join your legislators at a reception for Bill # 6380 from 4-5pm in the Pritchard Building. Information on logistics and parking for the rally can be found at: http://fundourfuturewashington.org/19.html

Library Summit Information

Wed, 30 Jan 2008 01:01:01 -0800

For up-to-date information for Summit attendees check the WLMA Summit webpage: http://www.wlma.org/summit Agenda is now posted. If you are attending the Washington School Library Media Program Summit on Friday, February 1st, find the schedule here (including morning and afternoon session information) as well as information about our participation in the noon Rally at the capitol. Please check the webpage regularly if you are planning to attend for the most current information.

ENews Alert - 1/30/08

Wed, 30 Jan 2008 01:01:01 -0800

Please read the special 1/28/08 ENews with time-sensitive Rally and petition information under About WLMA and ENews, or follow this link: http://www.wlma.org/enews

School Lib. Funds Decrease

Fri, 01 Feb 2008 01:01:01 -0800

In the federal study, conducted by the National Center for Education Statistics, a division of the U. S. Department of Education, library expenditures per pupil are shown to have fallen to $13.67 in 2003-2004 from $19.14 in 1999-2000, a drop of almost 30 percent. For more information see the press release on the American Library Association website: http://www.ala.org/Template.cfm?Section=News&template=/ContentManagement/ContentDisplay.cfm&ContentID=171737

YA author Blogfest in March

Sat, 02 Feb 2008 01:01:01 -0800

Prepare your students now to interact with YA authors through a blog. Fourteen questions will be posted and the authors hope to give an answer and then teen comments will keep the discussion going. Sponsored by Simon & Schuster March 14-27. More details at SLJ article http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/article/CA6527154.html?nid=2413

Fund Our Future/WCSLit Blog

Sun, 03 Feb 2008 01:01:01 -0800

Read WCSLit's blog for up-to-date and behind the scenes legislative information about the Senate and House bills for school library funding. http://librariesfordemocracy.org/fundfuture/

School Lib. Summit Photos

Mon, 04 Feb 2008 01:01:01 -0800

ALA has uploaded photos to Flickr from the Washington School Library Media Program Summit and the Rally for School Libraries held on February 1, 2008, in Olympia, Washington. http://www.flickr.com/photos/ala_members/2242890304/ If you have photos from the events, upload them to Flickr and add the tag "fundourfuture" so other WLMA and ALA members can search for them.

Librarians = High Scores

Wed, 06 Feb 2008 01:01:01 -0800

New York schools with certified librarians have higher scores on average on the fourth grade English Language Arts (ELA) test than those who don't, according to the findings of researchers at Syracuse University School of Information Studies (iSchool). To read more, see the New York Library Association website: http://www.nyla.org/index.php?page_id=1509

AASL Letter to Legislators

Fri, 08 Feb 2008 01:01:01 -0800

Read this letter from Sara Kelly Johns, AASL President, to our Washington legislators regarding the legislation now moving to the Appropriations and Ways and Means Committees. Download the PDF version of the letter: http://www.wlma.org/storage/documents/AASL_Washington_letter.pdf For more information see the Fund Our Future Washington website: http://www.fundourfuturewashington.org/9.html Also read the Fund Our Future blog for the most recent information: http://librariesfordemocracy.org/fundfuture/

Action Needed on SB 6380

Sat, 09 Feb 2008 01:01:01 -0800

SSB 6380 could save your job! If one of your legislators is on the Senate Ways and Means committee, call and politely encourage him/her to support it! This substitute bill includes new language favorable to all teacher-librarians. See the original bill and substitute bill: http://apps.leg.wa.gov/billinfo/summary.aspx?bill=6380&year=2007

SB6380 Hearing

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 01:01:01 -0800

Senate Bill #6380 was scheduled for a hearing on 2/11. For up-to-date information about the hearing, see the Fund Our Future Washington Blog: http://librariesfordemocracy.org/fundfuture/ If your Senator serves on the Senate Ways and Means Committee they will decide this afternoon whether this bill goes forward or dies. Check this list to see if your Senator is a member and then send them a two sentence email with the subject heading "RE: support SB#6380" and please add "No reply necessary." at the end. These emails will have an impact if they flood the Senators' in-boxes. Sen. Margarita Prentice, Chair (D-11th) (360) 786-7616 prentice.margarita@leg.wa.gov Sen. Karen Fraser, Vice Chair (D-22nd) (360) 786-7642 fraser.karen@leg.wa.gov Sen. Craig Pridemore, Vice Chair (D-49th) (360) 786-7696 pridemore.craig@leg.wa.gov Sen. Joseph Zarelli, Ranking Min. (R-18th) (360) 786-7634 zarelli.joseph@leg.wa.gov Sen. Dale Brandland (R-42nd) (360) 786-7682 brandland.dale@leg.wa.gov *Sen. Mike Carrell (R-28th) LIBRARY CHAMPION - please thank him! (360) 786-7654 carrell.michael@leg.wa.gov Sen. Darlene Fairley (D-32nd) (360) 786-7662 fairley.darlene@leg.wa.gov Sen. Brian Hatfield (D-19th) (360) 786-7636 hatfield.brian@leg.wa.gov Sen. Mike Hewitt (R-16th) (360) 786-7630 hewitt.mike@leg.wa.gov Sen. Steve Hobbs (D-44th) (360) 786-7686 hobbs.steve@leg.wa.gov Sen. Jim Honeyford (R-15th) (360) 786-7684 honeyford.jim@leg.wa.gov Sen. Karen Keiser (D-33rd) (360) 786-7664 keiser.karen@leg.wa.gov ** Sen. Jeanne Kohl-Welles (D-36th) BILL SPONSOR - please thank her! (360) 786-7670 kohl-welles.jeanne@leg.wa.gov Sen. Eric Oemig (D-45th) (360) 786-7672 oemig.eric@leg.wa.gov Sen. Linda Evans Parlette (R-12th) (360) 786-7622 parlette.linda@leg.wa.gov Sen. Marilyn Rasmussen (D-2nd) (360) 786-7602 rasmussen.marilyn@leg.wa.gov Sen. Debbie Regala (D-27th) (360) 786-7652 regala.debbie@leg.wa.gov Sen. Pam Roach (R-31st) (360) 786-7660 roach.pam@leg.wa.gov Sen. Phil Rockefeller (D-23rd) (360) 786-7644 rockefeller.phil@leg.wa.gov Sen. Mark Schoesler (R-9th) (360) 786-7620 schoesler.mark@leg.wa.gov Sen. Rodney Tom (D-48th) (360) 786-7694 tom.rodney@leg.wa.gov

ESSB6380 passed the Senate!

Wed, 13 Feb 2008 01:01:01 -0800

ESSB6380 passed the Senate with a unanimous vote of 49 - 0. Please take this opportunity to call, email, or write your Senator and send them a personal THANK YOU NOTE for voting for our bill! For more information about the bill, including the specific bill language, see the Washington State Legislature website: http://apps.leg.wa.gov/billinfo/summary.aspx?bill=6380&year=2007

ESSB 6380 out of Ed. Comm.

Wed, 27 Feb 2008 01:01:01 -0800

ESSB 6380 passed out of the House Education Committee on a unanimous vote on Tuesday. However, the House budget proposal does not include an allocation for school libraries. The Senate budget proposal does include $11.7 million for school libraries, enough to fund ESSB 6380. We have Senators Lisa Brown, Tracey Eide, and Rosemary McAuliffe to thank for this ... please take a moment to thank them for their support and for including funding for ESSB 6380 in the Senate budget. Grassroots engagement and constituent calls & letters are what led to the unanimous vote in the Senate. Please, help us get this bill through the House. 1. Sign the online petition (and encourage others to do the same!) http://gopetition.com/online/15285.html 2. Call the Legislative Hotline at 1-800-562-6000. It just takes 2 minutes! Your opinion goes to your 2 Representatives, 1 Senator and the Governor. Thank your Please let them know you believe in full-time library programs for all children in WA, and that you want them to support Senate Bill 6380. * SB will provide crucial funding ($12 per student) 'to maintain and improve library materials, collections, and services.' This is new money that will arrive in September 2008. * This bill represents 'bridge funding'; it aims to stop the erosion of WA school libraries, and also calls upon the Basic Education Joint Task Force to consider school library programs as it revises basic education funding formulas. * This is a top priority for you and you want it to be for them too. 3. Email both of your Representatives and personally ask them to support ESSB 6380. Let them know it is a top priority for you, and tell them why. Find your Representatives here after plugging in your address: http://apps.leg.wa.gov/DistrictFinder/ 4. Email the House Appropriations Committee. You can draft one email, but please send it individually. Please remember to say 'NO REPLY NECESSARY' - the legislators are working around the clock during this short session. We need them to understand the following: * urgency - Do the kids have full-time access to school libraries in your community? Are there cuts on the horizon for your district? Have libraries been cut in recent years? Are certified teacher-librarians on the endangered list in your community, or already extinct? What about the school library budget? What is the average age of the collection in your community? * it can make a difference right now. Find the Appropriations Committee members here: http://www.leg.wa.gov/House/Committees/APP/members.htm - click on their name and then click on the email link - the system will identify if you are a constituent or not (it's ok to not be; as Appropriations Committee members, they represent the entire state for fiscal decisions). - type in 6380/ click on "FOR" - make your case 5. Contact the Governor Governor Gregoire will decide, along with Representative Chopp and Senator Brown, which bills make the final budget. The budget is very tight this year - let her know that this is a wise investment in the education of Washington's children. Here is how to communicate with the Governor: http://www.governor.wa.gov/contact/default.asp 6. Pass the word! Please forward to your friends and family. This is entirely a grassroots effort, and we depend on supporters helping to get the word out. Thank you so much!

Take 10!

Thu, 21 Feb 2008 01:01:01 -0800

Take ten minutes to complete the following surveys. Betty Marcoux has asked for help from WLMA members to complete two surveys, one by the member and one by your principal. Please download the two surveys and return to her by February 25th. Principal Survey: http://www.wlma.org/storage/documents/Survey_Principals.doc Practitioner Survey: http://www.wlma.org/storage/documents/Survey_Practitioners.doc Survey Questions for Building level Principals: This survey is being conducted to determine issues of communication with building level principals and the school library professional. It will also help define nomenclature language issues that impact the profession. The 12 questions can be responded to with a check next to each answer. Directions are noted at the top to send the survey to Betty Marcoux at b.marcoux@verizon.net after completion. Survey Questions for School Library Practitioners: The responses to the 13 questions can be done by placing a check next to each answer. LIkewise, this survey is to be sent to Betty Marcoux at b.marcoux@verizon.net after completion. Please know that this survey is entirely voluntary. You are asked to complete it and return it to b.marcoux@verizon.net for her use in 2008. The survey is not for academic research, but will hopefully contribute to better practitioner understanding. At any time during the survey you may decide to either quit or not send the results - this is entirely up to you. You are also able to be selective in answering only those parts of the survey you wish.

News-Tribune letter

Thu, 28 Feb 2008 01:01:01 -0800

From WLMA Member and Advocacy co-chair Christie Kaaland: Elected representatives this session have had difficult financial challenges. One important issue, however, has not escaped their attention and support: legislation that recognizes devastating cuts made in school library programs in Washington. Senate Bill 6380 unanimously passed the Senate and is facing the House and governor's approval next week. Washington's grass-roots library legislation, begun by the now-famous "Spokane Moms," has gained national recognition. Upon discovering closures of their children's school libraries, in three months these women have made local history. They worked with supporters to create legislation that identifies the importance of school library programs and helps districts with emergency funding to keep libraries open. To read more see: http://www.thenewstribune.com/opinion/letters/story/289851.html

Article highlighting T-L

Thu, 28 Feb 2008 01:01:01 -0800

Bill aims to get state funds: Several school staff members and parents in Rainier joined a support group to gain state support for school libraries. Senate Bill 6380 would protect school libraries, which currently do not receive state funding. Rainier teacher-librarian Stephen Coker was the first Rainier schools employee to become involved in the grassroots group that started the bill. To read more: http://www.yelmonline.com/storynews.php?subaction=showfull&id=1203701886&archive=&start_from=&ucat=1&

WCSLit Updates

Mon, 17 Mar 2008 01:01:01 -0700

Follow the WCSLit blog to read up-to-the-minute news regarding school library funding: http://librariesfordemocracy.org/fundfuture/

Scholarship Applications Due

Mon, 10 Mar 2008 01:01:01 -0700

WLMA Scholarship applications are due in one month, on April 10th. Don't miss this opportunity to support your librarianship studies or professional development. For more information and the application forms see the WLMA Scholarship section of our website: http://www.wlma.org/scholarships

Arizona Republic article

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 01:01:01 -0700

Arizona's consistently low school funding is claiming another victim: the school library. Many Arizona school districts are shedding librarians and cutting their hours. Like most other states, Arizona has no dedicated funding for libraries and no law requiring school libraries to exist. The fate of the libraries and librarians is up to district officials. To read more: http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/news/articles/0311libraryfade0311.html

School Libraries in Budget!

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 01:01:01 -0700

$4 million in emergency school library funding has been included in the new supplementary budget, as reported this morning by the Spokane Moms on their blog. This is an amazing accomplishment! Thank you to everyone who spoke up for school libraries. Please thank the Moms and those legislators who are library champions and read more and find out the details as they come in on the Fund Our Future Washington blog: http://librariesfordemocracy.org/fundfuture/ There are more actions to take coming up, as the next focus is the Basic Education Task Force. Watch the Fund Our Future Washington blog and website for more information.

Take Action Now

Fri, 21 Mar 2008 01:01:01 -0700

Bridge funding has been secured, but we cannot rest. The next step involves informing the Basic Education Task Force about how school libraries are essential to our students' basic education. Please download the WCSLit flyer and bookmarks from the links below and follow the steps. Spread the word among family, neighbors, staff, and friends. Grassroots works! Flyer: http://www.wlma.org/storage/documents/Take_Action_Flyer.pdf Bookmark: http://www.wlma.org/storage/documents/Take_Action_Bookmark.pdf

WCCPBA 2009 Nominees

Mon, 24 Mar 2008 01:01:01 -0700

Go to the WCCPBA webpage to download the new 2009 WCCPBA Nominee list. http://www.wlma.org/wccpba

Legislative Newsletter

Mon, 07 Apr 2008 01:01:01 -0700

Questions about the $4 million for school libraries? Download a newsletter with more details about the state budget money for school libraries, created by Marianne Hunter. http://www.wlma.org/storage/documents/Newsletter_Legislative.pdf

Children's Choice Winner

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 01:01:01 -0700

The winner of the Children's Choice Picture Book Award is "Once Upon a Cool Motorcycle Dude" by Kevin O'Malley, Carol Heyer, and Scott Goto. See voting results and who took second place on the WCCPBA webpage: http://www.wlma.org/wccpba

Sasquatch Winner

Fri, 18 Apr 2008 01:01:01 -0700

The 2008 Sasquatch winner has been announced: The Ghost's Grave by Peg Kehret. See the vote tally for this year and the list of next year's 2009 nominees on the Sasquatch webpage: http://www.wlma.org/sasquatch

Edmonds T-Ls Facing Cuts

Sun, 20 Apr 2008 01:01:01 -0700

The Edmonds School District is proposing cutting teacher-librarians to half-time at their six smallest schools next year. Please consider attending the school board meeting this Tuesday night and writing letters to the district administration and school board to protest this proposal and support our WLMA colleagues. To find out more information about the situation, the school board meeting and email addresses for administration and board members, please download this PDF: http://www.wlma.org/storage/documents/Edmonds_cuts_flyer.pdf

Library Leadership Institute

Thu, 22 May 2008 01:01:01 -0700

The annual LLILI (Library Leadership and Information Literacy Institute) website is finally up and ready for registration! Go to: www.psesd.org/technology Select: Library Media Services Select: Library Leadership You will find the date (August 6, 2008), times, sessions descriptions, and registration form on this page.

Social Studies GLEs & CBAs

Sat, 24 May 2008 01:01:01 -0700

Social Studies GLEs are posted on OSPI web site. Please look at the SOCIAL STUDY SKILLS SECTION to view EALRs about the research process and more. Teacher-librarians are VITAL during the social studies CBA process. Please share this link with your 3rd-12th grade teachers: http://www.k12.wa.us/CurriculumInstruct/SocStudies/pubdocs/SocialStudiesGLEs.pdf Please ask colleagues to check the OSPI social studies web site again in June. There will be Social Studies Unit Outlines for each grade level. The updated lists of GLEs for each grade level are much shorter and better presented. The number of social studies GLEs have been pared down substantially since last year. For example, there will be only 10 GLEs for third grade. Caleb Perkins (OSPI) is encouraging TLs to become familiar with the new GLEs and the CBAs. Please look for training opportunities in the fall, particularly the Civics CBAs which will be required at the 4th or 5th, 7th or 8th, and 10th or 11th grade levels.

North Thurston Levy Passes!

Sun, 25 May 2008 01:01:01 -0700

Congratulations to the North Thurston School District, which passed its $48.9 million maintenance and operations levy, saving the jobs of 19 librarians. Other positions saved included elementary PE, music, art, band and orchestra, among 255 staff positions. The levy represents approximately 16 percent of the district's budget. For more information, read The Olympian article: http://www.theolympian.com/710/story/455200.html

Scholarships Announced

Wed, 28 May 2008 01:01:01 -0700

The WLMA Scholarship Committee has announced the 2008 winners of WLMA Scholarships: Student Grant In Aid � No one applied Scholarship Committee�s Choice - Caitlin Velazquez WLMA Award - Debra Nickerson WLMA Memorial Award - Karen Veloz Laura Hahn Scholarship - Seri Chaplik & Robin Duncan Eleanor Ahlers Scholarship - Mary Fishback Sharon Bates Professional Growth Scholarship - Joan Enders Denny Bond Library Para-Professional Award - Dawn Doyle John Stanford Memorial WLMA Scholarship - Carrie Calonzo For more information about WLMA Scholarships, please look at the Scholarships webpage: http://www.wlma.org/scholarships

Edmonds T-L Update

Sun, 25 May 2008 01:01:01 -0700

Through overwhelming staff and community support, all but the smallest school in the Edmonds School District will continue to be served by full time teacher-librarians during the 2008-2009 school year. Information literacy, resource management, and active collaboration remain valued assets for student success. A big thanks to WLMA for its support!

Conference Registration Open

Sun, 01 Jun 2008 01:01:01 -0700

Wow...a fun, useful conference combined with the possibility of a family trip to beautiful Portland! Online registration is now open for the WLMA/OASL Joint Conference in Portland, October 9 through October 11, 2008. Washington and Oregon teacher-librarians are combining their efforts to present a bevy of opportunities for professional growth. There is something for everyone at this conference, including keynote speakers, the 3 Spokane Moms: Lisa, Susan and Denette. Listening to them speak is worth the price of registration! Preconference extended sessions include Judy Freeman, Peggy Sharp, Jerene Battisti & Angie Benedetti, Toni Buzzeo, Teresa Bateman, and many others. Registration is easy and quick online for the WLMA/OASL joint conference: http://www.oemawlma2008.org/registration.htm

Outstanding T-L Nominations

Mon, 02 Jun 2008 01:01:01 -0700

Do you know an Outstanding Teacher-Librarian? If so, consider nominating that professional for the annual WLMA Outstanding Teacher-Librarian Award. To be considered for this award, candidates must be current WLMA members, hold a valid Washington teaching certificate, have a Learning Resource endorsement and/or Master of Library Science degree or equivalent, and be currently in a school library position. Nominations may be made by any member of the school community and remain active for two years from the nominations. The nomination deadline is July 1 and the nomination form can be found on the WLMA website: http://www.wlma.org/teacherlibrarian

Apply for your state grant

Sat, 07 Jun 2008 01:01:01 -0700

As you may know, the $4 allocated from the State Legislature during the past session is now ready to be applied for through the OSPI igrant website. The application is due JULY 1st, so time is of the essence! Apply here: https://eds.ospi.k12.wa.us/iGrants/Default.aspx

Task Force Action Needed

Sun, 08 Jun 2008 01:01:01 -0700

Dear WLMA Members and their Friends and Family - Last night one of the 'Spokane Moms', Lisa Layera, met with a group of school library advocates in Spokane. We strategized ideas to keep the school library campaign alive, focusing on the work of the Basic Education Joint Task Force. The Joint Task Force is meeting next Tuesday, and they need to hear from PARENTS, BUSINESS people and SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS. How can you help? Involve PTG Leaders: Personally give the attached bookmarks to one of your school's PTG board members OR an active parent volunteer. Ask them - no BEG them - to photocopy these bookmarks on color paper and distribute them ASAP - before school ends for summer break. Involve Business: Email the bookmarks to any friend or family member you have who works at a Washington business. We need business people to write a comment on the petition and AND send an email to the JTF. After all, we are helping train their future employees learn 21st Century Skills, skills needed to be competitive in a global economy. Ask an admistrator to show support: Give your principal, a supportive administrator, or a school board member the attached flyer. Ask them to email the JTF right away. As a private citizen they can also sign the petition with a COMMENT. The Petition: http://gopetition.com/petitions/world-class-education-for-washington.html (One of my 4th graders (voluntarily) signed the petition and wrote a comment...legislators and their staffs will take notice). Reach for 10,000 petition signatures: Ask at least 5 of your family members or friends to sign the petition with a comment. There are about 1,200 WLMA members - we should be over 10,000 signatures already just by asking our family and friends! Yes, it is a busy time of year - but we can't stop the momentum now. Will you please show your support for the 3 Moms and for Washington school children? Kathy Kalich

Sign the Petition

Sun, 08 Jun 2008 01:01:01 -0700

Keep the mission of Fund Our Future Washington alive! As you know, Fund Our Future Washington made astounding progress this year promoting and securing a budget line for school library resources for the 2008-2009 school year. This work continues and it needs YOUR help to continue on. Nearly 6,000 Washington residents have signed the petition asking the Legislature to fund school library programs in Washington state and ensure that all students have access to quality library programs and information literacy skill instruction. The goal...10,000 Washington citizens to step up and let the Legislature know that school libraries are an important part of a student's basic education. WLMA members- I know it is the end of the year, we are all racing toward the finish line of the school year, but we need you to do one last thing for your students and teachers...please make a commitment to have 5 people sign the petition who haven't already. It is easy, straightforward, and will do a lot in making the Fund Our Future Washington mission be a reality for all students in Washington state. The petition is at: http://fundourfuturewashington.org/ Click on the "sign the petition" link on the right side. Thanks for keeping this momentum going! Sarah Applegate Christie Kaaland WLMA Advocacy Co-Chairs

More iGrant Information

Mon, 09 Jun 2008 01:01:01 -0700

Download this PDF document with more information about the iGrants to access the state school library funding: http://www.wlma.org/storage/documents/School_libraries_igrant.pdf

Collect Petition Signatures

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 01:01:01 -0700

Here are paper petition documents that will enable people to gather signatures on paper for the WCSLit petition. There are three documents to download: 1. WCSLit petition sig gathering info (2 pages) http://www.wlma.org/storage/documents/WCSLit/WCSLit_sig_info.pdf 2. WCSLit Petition Text (1 page) http://www.wlma.org/storage/documents/WCSLit/WCSLit_Petition_Text.pdf 3. WCSLit paper petition sig page (1 page) http://www.wlma.org/storage/documents/WCSLit/WCSLit_petition.pdf The first doc has two pages: the first has instructions and info on where to mail the signature pages when you get some filled up. The second page is an update with some info that signature gatherers may find helpful. We'll likely replace that second page with some talking points this coming week. Important to remember that we only want folks to sign ONCE (EITHER online or paper, but not both), and please encourage folks to include a comment. Also, download the latest bookmark to pass out to supporters with information on contacting the Joint Task Force and where to get more info on the Coalition and the issue: http://www.wlma.org/storage/documents/WCSLit/WCSLit_bookmark060408.pdf

June WLMA Enews Posted

Fri, 13 Jun 2008 01:01:01 -0700

Read the latest Enews bulletin, including information about the Joint Education Task Force, applying for the $4 million for school libraries, and congratulations to several WLMA members: http://www.wlma.org/enews

WLMA Elections Now Open

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 01:01:01 -0700

WLMA members may now vote in the first online election. Information about the candidates and a link to the online voting form can be found at: About WLMA > Elections or: http://www.wlma.org/elections Deadline for voting is July 15. Join us in our newest online venture and have a voice in your organization's leadership.

Still Time to Vote!

Mon, 14 Jul 2008 01:01:01 -0700

Vote in the WLMA elections today. From the "About WLMA" menu choose "Elections" and then "Click to Vote!" You will need to create an account, so use the email address where you wish to receive WLMA email messages. Those who vote and register their account may receive special email messages from WLMA this summer using our new bulk email system.

Spokane Moms Need Sponsors

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 01:01:01 -0700

Do you know of a business executive who would consider sponsoring the 3 Moms and their Advocacy Team as they continue to advocate on behalf of students and families? Maybe your neighbor's aunt owns a chain of bookstores or coffee shops. Maybe one of your contacts knows a generous millionaire! For the past year, the tenacious Spokane Moms have "donated" over $10,000 of their own money to pay for airfare and other expenses related to our grassroots effort. Let's find some business sponsors for them. Please send suggestions to Kathy Kalich (Spokane) at kathykalich@hotmail.com or to Christie Kaaland (Tacoma) at ckaaland@antiochseattle.edu Remember that every dollar counts, so if you can donate a few dollars, go to the Fund Our Future website where you can donate any amount using PayPal.

All Together Now - 2.0 Tools

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 01:01:01 -0700

School Library Journal is launching a summer Web 2.0 learning experience modeled on Helene Blowers' "23 Things." This is a great opportunity to learn at your own pace if you missed it before. More information from the leader, Michael Stephens, a faculty member at Dominican University (and the Tame the Web blog): We�ll do our own version of Learning 2.0 - for anyone and everyone that wants to participate, far and wide. Then, you�ll be able to take the content and use it in your schools, libraries, organizations�really, everywhere! Hopefully, some of you will roll the program out for your users/students/faculty/staff as well. As we go along, please ponder how you might use these tools to make your life easier, how it might further your work, and how you might share with others. Our work will begin the 21st of July! Starting Monday, I�ll put up a post here � the first of our �things� - with instructions to explore. Explore. Try things out. Don�t worry about �breaking� anything! Ask questions. There are no dumb questions. AND It�s okay to make mistakes. The Blog for All Together Now is at http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/blog/290000629.html

Conf. - Early Bird Reg. Ends

Thu, 31 Jul 2008 01:01:01 -0700

Early bird registration for the WLMA/OASL Joint Conference ends today, August 1. After this date through October 3, the cost of the conference goes up $25. Click on the conference logo in the upper right corner of the WLMA website to register.

Free author event Aug 14

Thu, 07 Aug 2008 01:01:01 -0700

ColumbiaKIDS online history magazine celebrates its launch Thursday August 14 3-8 pm with over 10 children's book authors and Sherman Alexie at the Washington State Historical Society in Tacoma. http://columbia.washingtonhistory.org/kids/

Are you getting your $4.09?

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 01:01:01 -0700

Are you one of the 87 districts not getting the $4.09? OPSI has reported that of the 295 Washington school districts, 208 have applied for the emergency funding that the legislature designated for school libraries. Don't be left out: check with your district finance person or library administrator if you think your district's application has not been filed. Final date for application is August 31st.

10,000 Signatures!

Fri, 12 Sep 2008 01:01:01 -0700

The petition for support of school libraries coordinated by the Fund Our Future Washington reached its 10,000 signature goal! This benchmark was reached just in time for the next Joint Education Task Force meeting September 12th. Thank you for your efforts in helping to reaching this goal.

Supporting Student Success

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 01:01:01 -0700

Grants for collaboration for Social Studies CBAs is open. The WSL page has application, FAQ, and details. There is also a training web site with further ideas and help. Deadline Nov. 7, 2008 http://www.secstate.wa.gov/library/libraries/grants/grants.aspx

WCCPBA Activity Packet

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 01:01:01 -0700

You can now download the 2009 Washington Children's Choice Picture Book Nominee Activity Packet, created by the WCCPBA committee members. Download it on the WCCPBA webpage or here: http://www.wlma.org/storage/documents/WCCPBAActivityPacket09.pdf

October WLMA E-News online

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 01:01:01 -0700

The latest version of the WLMA E-News from WLMA President Dave Sonnen is now available: http://www.wlma.org/storage/documents/enews/WLMA_ENews_Oct_08.pdf

Spokane Moms Video

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 01:01:01 -0700

A colleague in Seattle, Mary Bannister (and her husband), created a video at the Joint conference in Portland two weeks ago. The video features the Spokane Moms who started a grass roots campaign for students and their school libraries. They have dedicated themselves to this effort for over a year, and need your help. Please view the video and take action on behalf of libraries and librarians because our students deserve it! Send the link to friends and family and ask them to sign the online petition. Show it at a PTA meeting and have them sign a paper or online petition. http://video.yahoo.com/watch/3768683/10339030 People can search on Yahoo Video by typing: 'Spokane Moms' Find more information and the online petition link at: http://www.fundourfuturewashington.org/9.html

WCCPBA Video Download

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 01:01:01 -0700

The WCCPBA video is available for elementary teacher-librarians to download at: http://gallery.me.com/bengvall#100134 For WINDOWS users: you will be have the best luck with downloading by NOT using IE. Safari 3, Firefox 2 or 3 will work and both are available as free downloads. Also be sure to have the most recent version of Quicktime (also available as a free download). For MAC users: the newer your Safari or Firefox the better as well as Quicktime. Again, all are available as free downloads. Questions, contact Barb Engvall at barbwa@charter.net

Central Region Fall Fling

Sat, 08 Nov 2008 01:01:01 -0800

The Central Region is holding a Fall Fling on December 6, 2008, in Yakima. Join Central Region Teacher-Librarians and Legislators at Nob Hill Elementary in Yakima from 10-1. Download an informational flyer here: http://www.wlma.org/storage/documents/Central_Fall_Fling.pdf

Advocacy News Update

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 01:01:01 -0800

On the 10th of each month Roz Thompson, the WLMA Legislative Chair, will be sending out an Advocacy Update via the listserv. The update will also be posted on the Advocacy section of the WLMA website. The November Advocacy Update is now available: http://www.wlma.org/libraryadvocacy

Legislator @ Your Library

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 01:01:01 -0800

As you know, this is a critical year for school library programs in Washington State. WLMA has worked hard to try to get school libraries "on the radar" of legislators around the state and this upcoming Legislative sessions (starting in January) is crucial to ensuring that all students in the state have access to quality school library programs. Today, I am writing you today with a tremendous opportunity that will help educate legislators by showing them what happens for students and teachers every day in some of the most outstanding school libraries in the state. We hope to have Legislators visit up to 30 outstanding school library programs across the state and I am hoping that you will agree to be one! Here's the plan: 1. You agree to host your Legislator for an hour or 2 in your library. 2. I will help you coordinate (get in contact with the Legislator, help schedule a visit, give you some guidance on what to expect) 3. You will do what you always do...do outstanding work with students and teachers "to ensure that students are effective users of ideas and information!" You will also make sure you have a class scheduled on the day of the visit to truly show the legislator what you do, and more importantly, what is possible when school libraries are staffed with qualified, quality professionals. 4. You will coordinate with your principal and district office so they know when the visit will be happening and make sure all district policies are followed. 5. You will invite your principal and/or a parent to come during the visit and hopefully talk to the legislator about the impact the school library makes on them. 6. You will bask in the glory of the experience! I hope you will take me up on this offer. I feel it is vital that we SHOW legislators what we do in real-time...right now, many of them are working with outmoded models of what a teacher-librarian does (their own experiences usually) and we need to show them what the 21st century teacher-librarian looks like in great schools in Washington State! Time is of the essence. The session starts in January and legislators will be in Olympia until March. We would love to have this visit occur before winter break. Thanks for considering this amazing opportunity to make change in Olympia...and beyond. I look forward to hearing from you! Let me know when a good time for your legislator to visit is...and most importantly, WHO your Legislator is! (I would ask the Legislator of your SCHOOL if that is different than where you live). Here's to a great event! Sarah Applegate WLMA Advocacy Co-Chair

World Book Winners

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 01:01:01 -0800

A Message From Susan McBurney: Hello to all- And a happy Monday after Thanksgiving! Here are the final numbers of the second phase of the contest. Total signatures gathered and sent in since October: 1,278 Top signature gatherers: Marie-Anne Harkness 258 Ginny Flegel 126 Mary Bannister 121 Pat Thompson 116 The top 3 will win a set of beautiful Word Book Encyclopedias from Darrell Thompson. The second phase of the contest runs now through January 12th. Susan is keeping a running record of signatures sent to her since October. Any signatures you send her between now and mid-January will be added to your previous total. For example, if Pat Thompson sends in 100 more signatures by mid-January, her total for the next phase of the contest would be 226 signatures. (Marie-Anne, Ginny, Mary plus Sarah Applegate and Kathy Kalich are out of the running for another encyclopedia set, but they most likely will be gathering more signatures for the cause). A big 'thank you' to the WLMA members who have gathered signatures at anytime over the past year. Let's keep showing legislators that school libraries matter to citizens in our state.

AASL/ISTE Standards Workshop

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 01:01:01 -0800

Learn about blending AASL and ISTE Standards and 21st Century Skills goals. WLMA members qualify for a $10 discount off the normal registration fee for Jamie McKenzie's January 26 seminar on blending the AASL standards with the ISTE standards and 21st Century Skills goals. Details: http://fno.org/good/good2.html Payment and registration: http://fnopress.stores.yahoo.net/se.html For discount enter four letter coupon code "WLMA" in coupon box during check out.

Share Your Funding Story

Sat, 10 Jan 2009 01:01:01 -0800

Tell your story on the Fund Our Future Washington Wiki so legislators and advocates from other states can see how important the state grants are to our school libraries. School librarians, principals, interested teachers, and parents are invited to add stories about how the money is being spent and its impact on the children of the state. These stories are arranged by region and Legislative District. Link to wiki: http://fundourfuturestories.pbwiki.com/

Action Needed Immediately

Sun, 25 Jan 2009 01:01:01 -0800

You've probably followed the decision re: lead in children's toys and how the current wording does NOT exclude books. This message is from Sara Kelly Johns (immed. past pres. of AASL). Please write a note to the Consumer Product Safety Commission to tell them how this might impact your library. There is an example of wording below. -------------------------------------------------------------- It's time to get involved! ALA is pushing an exemption for libraries but now they need stories about how this will affect school libraries sent to the CPSC with cc's to your Congressmen and women. Please show our grassroots strength by getting involve, Thanks, Sara -------------------------------------------------------------- A public meeting was held January 22 with Kristina Hatlelid, Directorate for Health Sciences, and other Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) staff to allow Allan Robert Adler, of the Association of American Publishers, and major publishing companies to discuss the lead content of books. The meeting was a time for the publishing companies to explain their research to the CPSC staff that proves that normal books (non-play, paper books) do not contain lead in the amount specified under the CPSIA. The publishing companies have compiled a group of 300 test results that can be viewed [ http://www.rrd.com/wwwCPSIA/home.asp ]. After the meeting, Cheryl Falvey, General Counsel for the CPSC, stated that a decision should be made by the first week of February. She advised libraries not to take any action at this time, and we are hopeful that the Commission's decision will exempt libraries. Even with her assurances, we must let the CPSC know how important an issue this is to libraries. You can visit their Web site, [ http://www.cpsc.gov/cgibin/newleg.aspx ] to submit your comments to the Commission. Explain to the Commission that it is simply impossible for libraries to remove all children's books from the shelves and/or ban children under 12 from the library and still provide the level of service that is needed. Please feel free to use the sample language below, but personalize it to make your comments known. Studies have shown that individual letters are significantly more effective than form letters, so let's make sure they understand how important their action will be. As always, thank you for all that you do. The only way we will be successful in ensuring that children will have access to safe books is with a strong grassroots effort. Your comments to the CPSC need to be submitted as soon as possible, so please tell all your friends and family � we need as many people as possible to communicate that this oversight could have lasting ramifications on our children and our communities. SAMPLE TEXT: Dear General Counsel Falvey: It has come to my attention that the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 has been interpreted to include books as a product that must be tested for lead. While I can understand the need to protect children from toxic materials, publishers have already tested the book components and found that the lead levels are lower than the regulations require three years from now. Additionally, all book recalls in the last two decades have been because of toys attached to the books that posed a choking hazard, not the books themselves. Making these testing regulations retroactive would require both school and public libraries to take drastic steps to come into compliance. They would either they would have to ban children from their libraries or pull every book intended for children under the age of 12 from their bookshelves at the time children are fostering a lifelong love of learning and reading. In order to allow children and families to continue accessing critical library materials, please either exempt books from the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008, accept the component tests that have already been done, or exempt all books currently in school and public libraries. This will ensure that our children continue to have access to safe and educational library materials. Sincerely, YOUR NAME

State Grant Reductions

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 01:01:01 -0800

A letter from Gayle Pauley, OSPI: As you are aware, Washington State is facing a significant budget challenge. In response to this, Governor Gregoire has instituted a state agency hiring freeze, travel reductions and other spending restrictions. Governor Gregoire requested an initial round of budget reductions in September, totaling $330 million statewide. For OSPI, the reduction target was $2.7 million or 1.1 percent. On November 25, 2009, the Governor required a second round of budget reductions, $260 million statewide. The Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction's (OSPI) portion amounts to $4.7 million, an additional 1.9 percent. In addition, an $8 million reduction in Local Effort Assistance (LEA) will be experienced by districts for 2009 collections between September and December 2009. Provisos are the part of the state budget where specific programs, services and activities are identified, typically including a specific appropriation amount. OSPI receives funding for about 110 different budget provisos. In response to this requirement, OSPI has instituted cuts to about 70 different programs across the scope of OSPI's 2008�2009 proviso budget. Among these cuts is the reduction of the proviso funding scheduled to support school library/media programs. The total cut is $100,000 program wide. Below you may download a revised grant award schedule which shows the initial grant amount awarded, the reduction and the revised district grant award amounts. OSPI requests that districts that applied for the funds submit an updated iGrant's budget page by February 9, 2009. I regret that our agency has to take this action, and I apologize for any negative impact it may have on updating school library/media services. The state revenue forecast, and the resulting growing budget deficit, makes additional deeper cuts to the current state budget a likely necessity. Our state is facing an unprecedented fiscal challenge and sacrifices will be required to meet this challenge and to overcome it. Revised District Grant Award Amounts (xls): http://www.wlma.org/storage/documents/advocacy/OSPI_Library_Allocation_reduced.xls OSPI Budget Reduction Summary (xls): http://www.wlma.org/storage/documents/advocacy/OSPI_Budget_Reduction_Summary.xls Gayle Pauley Director, Title I/LAP/CPR

New Signature Contest

Sun, 01 Feb 2009 01:01:01 -0800

Signature Gathering � More Winners, New Contest The winners of a $1,000 set of encyclopedias after the last phase of the World Book contest are: Craig Seasholes with 208 signatures Nancy Kuta with 162 signatures Jan Jackson 157 signatures. NEW Contest! George Dragich with Follett is offering $500 worth of books to the person who submits the most signatures before March 15th. The winner of this contest will get to choose $500 worth of books for their school library. We hope all WLMA members will try to collect petition signatures at large events or gatherings like high school and college basketball games, PTG events, and church gatherings. Do you have a teenager? Ask them to help you gather signatures. High school students CAN sign the petition. To sign the petition a person needs to be a Washington resident but does not have to be a registered voter! Let's work together to gather thousands more signatures by March 15th.

AASL School Library Survey

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 01:01:01 -0800

AASL has just launched our third year of the longitudinal study "School Libraries Count!" All K-12 schools, public and private, are invited to participate on a voluntary basis. Past participant's continued involvement is crucial when examining trends over time, as well as new participants so that an accurate reflection of the US educational demographics are represented. Additional questions were added to last year�s study that focused on the use of social networking in the classroom. Findings showed that the majority of public and private schools were incorporating social networking tools into the classroom to aid in collaborative learning. This year's study will include additional questions regarding English Language Learners (ELLs) and resources made available to them through school library media programs. The number of participants between years one and two of the survey almost doubled, in large part due to the collective efforts of AASL volunteers getting the word out, and we hope to double again in 2009. Please spread the word now! Post to your website, listservs and blogs! The survey may be accessed directly at http://www.aaslsurvey.org. The last day to complete the survey is March 12. Thank you for your support. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Jennifer Habley Manager, Programs and Affiliate Relations American Association of School Librarians

Advocacy Workshop

Sun, 08 Feb 2009 01:01:01 -0800

Finding Voice and Vision Learning to Advocate for Your Library Program Saturday, March 21, 2009 Puget Sound ESD Presenters Sarah Applegate, NBCTeacher-Librarian Marianne Hunter, NBCTeacher-Librarian Participants will work with teacher-librarian colleagues to learn strategies for program marketing and advocacy in their schools, districts and at the state level. We will explore how to develop a vision, how to shape the vision for an audience, how to make an action plan and how to speak to various decision makers at the school, district and state level. Download PDF for more information and how to register: http://www.wlma.org/storage/documents/advocacy/Advocacy_Workshop.pdf

Legislative Action Now!

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 01:01:01 -0800

Dear WLMA folks- It's been almost two years since we started working together to protect school library and information literacy programs here in Washington, and one year (almost exactly) since the WA Senate voted 49-0 for school library funding! We so appreciate the time and energy that all of you have put into this effort, and remain hopeful that broad and substantive education reform (with a strong library and info literacy piece) will come to Washington State soon. In all honesty, however, things are looking very bleak right now. The two pairs of bills that emerged following the 17 months of work and engagement with the Joint Task Force on Basic Education Finance appear to be nearing death. One pair was based on the official JTF recommendations, the other was put forth by a coalition of WEA, School Directors, Spdts., Principals). At best � parts of these bills will be merged if consensus can be reached. At worst � education reform will be punted once again, back into to another 'study', perhaps in the form of a commission. We asked you to support the JTF recommendations because at the time of that request it was assumed by us that it would be the starting place for education reform; not to mention that it held some of the strongest language in the nation for school libraries if the recommendations were to be made into law (see our website for what the recommendations call for). We didn't know there would be a competing bill but assumed that all parties would negotiate in good faith to adapt the recommendations into something that could be supported by all stakeholders. We know it has been confusing, scary and bewildering, and that many of you weren�t sure what to support � we�ve heard as much from many of you, and our apologies if we weren't able to respond personally thus far, but we did hear you. We hope the tug of war will stop and the earnest work of compromise, employing a vision, and acting in good faith will begin. The thing we can contribute now is helping send the message to the Legislature that we want education to be made a priority and to our professional organizations that we desire and support working towards a compromise. We believe that education leaders in the House and Senate (as well as the legislators who served on the Joint Task Force) remain committed to trying to move education reform forward this session. But things remain precariously close to reform not occurring. In fact, TODAY is a key day in this process. Below you will find an open letter to teachers from Rep. Ross Hunter answering questions about the JTF proposals that affect compensation. We are not experts and defer to him to talk about what their intent was. Please read, and pass along to others in your education community. Just before hitting send on this dispatch to you we were honored to receive a call back from Mary Lindquist from the WEA. We hope to have a message from her that is forthcoming. Our hope is that this is the time, this is the year, and these are the leaders. We are hopeful! HERE'S WHAT YOU CAN DO TODAY TO HELP KEEP THIS ALIVE **** CALL SEN. ROSEMARY MCAULIFFE at (360) 786-7600 If a call isn't possible, email McAuliffe.Rosemary@leg.wa.gov Senator McAuliffe will be counting the number of calls that come in TODAY (Tuesday 2-17-09) in support of moving education reform forward. You'll remember that Sen. McAuliffe was one of the champions of the library funding bill last session. As Chair of the Senate Early Learning and K-12 Education Committee, Senator McAuliffe is managing the delicate process of keeping this alive and moving education reform forward. She is committed to taking the best of both bills (the JTF and FFC) and coming up with a compromise bill that will move us forward this session. And at this point that's what we want � to move forward with education reform now. PLEASE, TAKE A MOMENT TO CALL Thank her for keeping education reform bills in motion. KEY POINTS (use your own words): -> Express your appreciation for her personal efforts to support school libraries. And express your desire to see school libraries and information literacy be a central part of a reformed education system. (The JTF recommendations are very strong with respect to libraries and information technology; teacher-librarians are designated as 'core teachers' and there is an allocation of 1 teacher-librarian for each prototypical school -- these are important to maintain in ANY education reform bill). -> Let her know that as a parent, grandparent, teacher, businessperson ... you believe WA education reform can't wait a session longer. After 103 studies on the subject (over the course of a generation), 2 years of Washington Learns, and 17 months of serious consideration by the Joint Task Force ... THE TIME IS NOW! Just a reminder, we are just three moms around at the kitchen table, with no allegiances to any organization or anyone other than the goal of making education a top priority for the state of Washington. We believe that the state of the school library program symbolizes the failure of the state to fully fund education. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to set the state on a solid course for the future. We feel it is imperative that ALL education stakeholders come to the table to talk, to work it out FOR OUR CHILDREN and for our Legislature and Governor to do the right thing by education for our teachers and our children. Thanks to all of you � Lisa, Susan and Denette Please read the letter with the above information and additional information from Rep. Ross Hunter�s Open Letter to Teachers linked below (in PDF format or also originally posted on his blog http://whatittakesforkids.com/?p=97#more-97) for more information and how you can help. Thanks to all of you � Lisa, Susan and Denette http://www.wlma.org/storage/documents/advocacy/Dear_WLMA_folks.pdf

Legislative Update - 3/1/09

Sun, 01 Mar 2009 01:01:01 -0800

Here is a quick legislative update from our lobbyist, Carolyn Logue. She will be providing me with another update once the fiscal cutoff ends tomorrow. Education reform is hitting some road blocks and with the convoluted legislative process, it's hard to know which bill numbers are alive and which are dead. So ignore the numbers! We need you to continue making the calls to support libraries in general. Only by focusing in on what school libraries need can we ensure our voice is heard in the din of the 2009 Legislative Session. Call your three legislators today at the hotline 1-800-562-6000 and urge them to support including teacher-librarians and library/technology materials in the allocations for prototype schools in any education reform bill that passes this year. Tell them that we need to show support for libraries today to make sure they are available as resources and learning centers for students tomorrow! Explain to them the benefit that a strong school library with a teacher-librarian can have for all aspects of education. Then make two more contacts: 1) Please email our new Superintendent of Public Instruction, Randy Dorn at randy.dorn@k12.wa.us 2) Please call the Governor's office (360-902-4111) or email Governor Gregoire at http://www.governor.wa.gov/contact Let them know the good work you are doing in your library for all students and ask that they make education reform which includes teacher-librarians and school library programs as part of basic education a priority for their administrations this year. Thank you for your help. Keep making the phone calls to support school libraries! Please let me know if you have questions, comments or concerns. Thanks, Roz Thompson Tumwater High School roz.thompson@tumwater.k12.wa.us

2009 WCCPBA/Sasquatch Awards

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 01:01:01 -0700

The Washington Children's Choice Picture Book Award and Sasquatch Award for 2009 have been announced. WCCPBA Winner: Chester, by Melanie Watt Sasquatch Winner: The Homework Machine, by Dan Gutman For more information see the webpages for each award: WCCPBA: http://www.wlma.org/wccpba Sasquatch: http://www.wlma.org/sasquatch

RIF/displacement information

Mon, 18 May 2009 01:01:01 -0700

The Fund Our Future Washington website is collecting stories and data about librarians who received a RIF notice and/or are being displaced from their positions. Check back for more information as it changes weekly. Map of Proposed Cuts: http://www.fundourfuturewashington.org/13.html

ALA ARRA Information

Mon, 25 May 2009 01:01:01 -0700

A PDF download from ALA about the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and how you can advocate for libraries. http://ala.org/ala/aboutala/offices/wo/woissues/washfunding/fedfund/ARRA%20Academic%20Librar1.pdf

T-Librarians in the News

Tue, 26 May 2009 01:01:01 -0700

We are tracking news articles about teacher-librarians, primarily in Washington State, on the new WLMA webpage: Teacher-Librarians in the News - http://www.wlma.org/inthenews This link can also be found under the Professional menu and in the Hot Topics! sidebar. Please forward any related links to articles to the WLMA Webmaster at webmaster@wlma.org

WCCPBA Activity Packet

Sat, 12 Sep 2009 01:01:01 -0700

The 2010 Washington Children's Choice Picture Book Award activity packet is now available to download from the WCCPBA webpage: http://www.wlma.org/wccpba There is also a link to the new WCCPBA wiki on the webpage.

Ontario Invests in Libraries

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 01:01:01 -0700

Elementary students started the school year with more than one million new books in school libraries, and there are more on the way. School libraries play an important role in encouraging young students to develop strong literacy skills and a love of reading. It is essential that those libraries have up-to-date collections for all students. Over one million library books were delivered to schools this summer, while about 700,000 more are expected before the end of this school year. Last January, the government selected 72 Ontario-based vendors, and negotiated discounts up to 50 per cent for school boards. To date, this has saved boards about $3 million and allowed them to purchase 175,000 more books. More savings and additional books are expected during the school year.

Information Literacy Month

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 01:01:01 -0700

On October 1, 2009, President Obama issued a proclamation establishing October as National Information Literacy Awareness Month. Read the proclamation and share this information with administrators and your community: http://www.whitehouse.gov/the_press_office/Presidential-Proclamation-National-Information-Literacy-Awareness-Month/

Video-Lisa Layera Brunkan

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 01:01:01 -0700

Lisa Layera Brunkan, one of the Spokane Moms, recently gave the keynote address at the SLJ Summit. There is a video posted on YouTube showing Lisa talking about advocacy and how to highlight our programs and our students. Take 4 minutes to watch one of our own as she continues to advocate for us at the national level: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U6ZyUDqbZf8

2009 Conference Ends

Sun, 11 Oct 2009 01:01:01 -0700

The 2009 WLMA Conference in Yakima this past weekend brought together 420 attendees and many presenters and authors, including Paul O. Zelinsky, Chris Crutcher, Sharon Flake, Gene Tagaban, Michael Buckley, Brandon Mull, Alma Anderson, Sara Ryan, and Kelly Milner Halls. Thank you to all attendees for helping make this conference a success. To have your session materials posted on the conference website, please send them to the conference webmaster, Kari Madrinich, at karileebee@yahoo.com. Materials will be posted over the next week or two, so if you missed a session, check there for more information.

Conference Evaluation

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 01:01:01 -0700

If you attended the 2009 WLMA Conference, please take a few minutes to complete the online evaluation form so we may improve next year's conference experience: https://catalysttools.washington.edu/webq/survey/lbruce/76790

CA School Library Standards

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 01:01:01 -0800

California is developing statewide school library standards for the first time, and has posted a draft asking for comments. School Library Journal has an article with information and a link to the article. http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/article/CA6704854.html?nid=3252

Call to Action

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 01:01:01 -0800

ATTENTION SCHOOL LIBRARY SUPPORTERS! URGENT CALL TO ACTION! Current discussions on education funding do not phase in having one teacher librarian at each school until after 2014. ACTION NEEDED: Everyone needs to contact the members of the Quality Education Council with the following message: � Teacher-librarians and well-funded school libraries are the foundation of a quality prototype school. It provides the �in-school� resource for effective implementation of district technology goals and spending. � A school library provides the resources and the teacher-librarian provides the teaching to help all students of all types achieve success in all subject areas � from reading and language arts, to social studies and the sciences. � A school library works best as the technological center for the school, providing training to teachers and students in how to best utilize technology tools for improved learning. � Online websites and databases purchased, created and monitored by Teacher-Librarians are available to students, staff and parents outside of the physical library itself. All members of the school community can access this information at home in order to assist with projects and lesson planning. �Please include in your report to the Legislature the recommendation that the state fund one teacher-librarian and the materials for a school library in each prototype school in the first phase of HB 2261 implementation. This will help maximize more effective use of student learning technology dollars and help provide more resources for ALL student programs � including LAP, ELL and gifted programs.� The members of the Quality Education Council are listed below. Please make your call TODAY! Urge others to call as well and ask for FULL FUNDING FOR SCHOOL LIBRARIES NOW � NOT LATER! Speaker Frank Chopp 360-786-7920 Chopp.frank@leg.wa.gov Representative Bruce Dammeier 360-786-7948 Dammeier.bruce@leg.wa.gov Superintendent Randy Dorn Superintendent of Public Instruction 360-725-6004 Randy.dorn@k12.wa.us Dr. Jane Gutting Superintendent of Education Service District (ESD) 105 509-575-2885 jane.gutting@esd105.org Dr. Bette Hyde Director of the Department of Early Learning 360-725-4584 Bette.hyde@del.wa.gov Senator Curtis King 360-786-7626 King.curtis@leg.wa.gov Senator Rosemary McAuliffe 360-786-7600 Mcauliffe.rosemary@leg.wa.gov Senator Eric Oemig 360-786-7672 Oemig.eric@leg.wa.gov Representative Skip Priest 360-786-7830 Priest.skip@leg.wa.gov Stephen Rushing Chair of the Professional Education Standards Board 253-683-8989 srushing@bethelsd.org Mary Jean Ryan Chair of the State Board of Education 206-684-8069 Maryjean.ryan@seattle.gov Representative Pat Sullivan 360-786-7858 Sullivan.pat@leg.wa.gov Senator Joseph Zarelli 360-786-7634 Zarelli.joseph@leg.wa.gov Alternate for House Members: Representative Marcie Maxwell 360-786-7894 Maxwell.marcie@leg.wa.gov 324 John L. O�Brien Bldg. P.O. Box 40600 Olympia, WA 98504-0600

WLMA Memberships Due

Sat, 13 Mar 2010 01:01:01 -0800

To be included in the 2010 WLMA Membership Directory, you must complete your membership by this Friday, January 8th. Any memberships completed after this date will be considered WLMA members, but will not be in the directory for this coming year. To join WLMA online, click: http://www.wlma.org/join Click on the Online Membership button. If you registered online for the 2009 WLMA Conference, use that account to register your membership.

TL Summit a success

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 01:01:01 -0800

On March 3rd, 2010, th first teacher-librarian summit at the NCCE conference took place in Seattle. In attendance were over 150 teacher librarians from around the region, not to mention: Given the speakers and the outcomes, it is safe to say that this was a seminal event for teacher-librarians in the region and perhaps beyond. Here's a quick summary of the outcomes. First, some definitive language and focus. Mike kicked things off by kicking us in the backside, exhorting us to stop pretending that the pot is not boiling (with us inside). With full support and collaboration from WLMA, OSPI, the Moms and others, Mike laid out new language, priorities and a shared mission. 1. In Washington State, we are Teacher-Librarians. AASL aside, this is current WAC language for our jobs. 2. Our programs are Library Information and Technology Programs. The three essential functions of teacher-librarians are: a. Information Technology Instruction b. Reading Advocacy c. Information Management 3. Our mission is simple: To ensure that students are effective users and producers of information and ideas. A more detailed framework is being developed that articulates the above ideas in greater detail. IMHO, the biggest takeaways were these: 1. Mike, the Moms and Joyce all said the same thing: we need to work differently, more visibly and with a common student-centric focus. Business as usual is not cutting it. Strategically-focused change is essential and begins now. This is not optional. This summit is a call to action and will significantly change our jobs, our programs and our spaces. 2. Dennis Small from OSPI has publicly affirmed the critical role of teacher-librarians in meeting Washington OSPI Educational Technology EALRs. Statewide, T-Ls will be leading efforts to integrate technology in schools. With Montana on the same page, it is logical to think that Oregon and Idaho will be interested in looking to see what we are doing and consider following suit. 3. Plans are underway to develop a plan to train all teacher-librarians in the state as technology instructional coaches. Details are being worked out over the next few months. 4. OSPI, NCCE and WLMA are working together at the highest levels toward strategic alliances and coordinated efforts v/v educational technology and 21st century learning. 5. A coordinated campaign is being made to articulate this framework statewide to legislators, school boards, administrators and the press. As an attendee and participant in the discussions leading to the summit, I am very much convinced that this event sets the tempo and outline for a transformation of what we used to call 'library media.' Much of the current work is Washington-specific, but is intended for a regional audience. And it will likely get national attention. The fact that we have multiple state departments of education vested in the process, internationally-recognized leaders (Eisenberg and Valenza) and the Moms (who are now literally taking the fight to the White House) mean that this is not just another article, plan or hope. This is an actionable plan with next steps already being implemented. More information will be coming as details and plans are developed. Visit the NCCE TL Summit wiki at: http://ncceteacherlibrariansummit.ncce.wikispaces.net/ Mark Ray Teacher-Librarian Slayer of Information Ignorance Black Belt in Think Kwon Do Skyview HS Vancouver Public Schools Vancouver, WA mark.ray@vansd.org

Standards Update

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 01:01:01 -0700

Look at our Standards Page (Under Professional tab) for additional standards information, including what's going on with Washington's Ed Tech standards and our new School Library Information and Technology Program framework.

Forbes' Take on Librarians

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 01:01:01 -0700

Check out this article from Forbes.com: "Young Learners Need Librarians, Not Just Google" (http://tinyurl.com/yl6haum ). In this age of all-information, all-the-time, it's great to find support of the argument that we are still necessary guides for our students to actually figure out how to use it.

2010 Sasquatch Winner

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 01:01:01 -0700

After more than 19,000 Washington students voted, representing hundreds of thousands of hours of time spent reading quality children's literature, the 2010 Sasquatch Winner has been decided: Mary Downing Hahn's Deep and Dark and Dangerous. What a victory in a year when all of the nominees kept our students reading, and reading, and reading...Congratulations, Ms. Downing Hahn!

WCCPBA Winner Announced

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 01:01:01 -0700

The 2010 WCCPBA Winner is Two Bobbies by Kirby Larson & Mary Nethery and illustrated by Jean Cassels. Two Bobbies garnered almost 20% of the vote! Wow! Thanks to the 100,000+ children for enjoying the stories and voting and also thanks to their terrific teacher-librarians for providing them the opportunity to participate! Be sure to visit the WCCPBA wiki for more information about the title, the authors, the illustrators and the award: http://childrenschoiceaward.wikispaces.com/.

WLMA Board Elections Open

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 01:01:01 -0700

Vote now for the slate of officers for the 2010-11 WLMA Executive Board. Voting will be open through June 27, 2010. Biographies and candidate statements and the link to the online voting system can be found under About WLMA by clicking on Elections, or by going to this link: http://www.wlma.org/elections Members will vote online using our conference/membership registration system through Thriva/Active. If you previously registered online, you use the same account to login to vote for the officers. If you have not previously registered online, you can register and then use that account for conference and membership.

Conference Registration Open

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 01:01:01 -0700

Please visit the 2010 Conference site to register now for our joint conference with WALE October 14 - 16 at the Sea-Tac Doubletree Inn. Looking forward to seeing you there!