Since Fall 2023, IPiE has facilitated a partnership between Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) and UNCG’s Library and Information Science (LIS) department. Through this partnership, a residency program was created, designed to prepare prospective and practicing School Library Media Coordinators to teach and run media centers in the district.
Currently, 10 CMS School Library Media specialists are taking classes in the LIS department, working toward their Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) degree and initial licensure in Library and Information Science. Below is what one student, Kathleen Lock, shared about the program.
“This program fosters collaboration across grade-level teams, special area teams, media coordinators, and librarians. By working together, educators can create a more cohesive learning experience, integrating different perspectives and expertise to enhance student engagement and project development in the makerspace.
I have learned how to guide students in extending their learning within the makerspace to create projects that not only showcase their understanding but also promote positive change. By encouraging them to apply their knowledge in meaningful ways, students can develop solutions that address real-world issues and make a lasting impact. Students are applying what they are learning and experiencing physical learning in fun ways.
I have learned the importance of writing grants to secure funding for programs and collection development in the media center. This skill allows me to support the growth of resources and initiatives that enhance student learning and engagement. Because of this, I was able to fund the most exciting program, the Icelandic Book Flood. The program provided an opportunity for students to share reading interest and receive a stack of books to take home for winter break. Students participated in a transdisciplinary unit of inquiry the connect/special area team created to learn about culture, geography, history, and experience. The project never would have happened without the support and education from the MLIS program at UNCG.
It is also important to note that the entire LIS department is passionate about supporting students and growth in the library community. They provide validation and support for any of the ideas I have shared in my experience as a new media coordinator.”
