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Wednesday, November 13, 2024

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Trump picks former Director of National Intelligence John Ratcliffe to lead the CIA; NY group establishes new veterans' direct care program; Following election results, questions emerge about labor impact; Investors and activists both work to shape companies' climate goals.

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GOP leaders say they're ready for President-elect Trump to return to office. President Biden hosts the Israeli president, amid concerns about blocked Gaza aid, and the labor movement assesses the impact of Trump being back in the White House.

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Texas women travel some of the longest distances for abortion care, Californians the shortest, rural living comes with mixed blessings for veterans, an ancient technique could curtail climate-change wildfires, and escape divisive politics on World Kindness Day.

There's a lot going on in NE school libraries

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Friday, November 17, 2023   

This last day of American Education Week is a great time to highlight school librarians.

Nebraska's school libraries have probably changed since you were in one, especially if it has been a while since you had a child in school or were a student yourself. You might even be surprised to learn school librarians are certified teachers.

Courtney Pentland, a librarian in Nebraska and president of the American Association of School Librarians, said school librarians have the largest classroom in a school other than perhaps the gym.

"From the beginning grade to the last grade in your building -- every ability level, every language background -- we see and serve everyone in our buildings," Pentland explained. "It is something we take very, very seriously. We spend a lot of time looking for materials that support various needs."

Pentland pointed out Nebraska law requires every public school building have a certified school librarian on staff at least part-time, which is not the case in every state. She stressed getting kids excited about books is only one facet of a school librarian's responsibilities.

And when it comes to fostering a lifelong love of reading and learning, Pentland noted Nebraska's school librarians are very creative.

"There are book tastings, where students can check out and see what books are all about before they pick something to read," Pentland observed. "We have author visits -- either virtually or in person -- so students get to connect directly with authors. We have book clubs and book competitions, and quiz bowls."

Pentland said teaching about technology is another large part of a school librarian's responsibilities, including how to use it safely.

"How to find relevant, credible information to use in research or for their own personal knowledge," Pentland outlined. "How to create things using a variety of programs like podcasts programs and video creation programs."

She explained they also teach students about "maker-space" technologies, such as 3D printers, STEM circuits, robots, and coding. Pentland added school librarians serve not just their schools but their communities. She encouraged interested Nebraskans to reach out to their school district or building administrator to see if there is a way they can support their local school librarians.


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