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Trump administration begins sweeping layoffs with probationary workers, warns of larger cuts to come; NYC music school teachers strike after union negotiations break down; Ohio advocates push for inclusive policies during Black History Month; Health experts recommend sunshine, socializing to cure 'winter blues.'

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Federal workers tasked with securing elections from foreign interference are placed on leave, parents' organizations reject dismantling Dept. of Education, and the Congressional Black Caucus presses discussions on slavery reparations.

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Rural America struggles with opioids and homelessness in unexpected ways, Colorado's Lariat Ditch could help spur local recreation, and book deliveries revive rural communities hit by Hurricane Helene.

American Education Week: WA libraries inspire reading

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Thursday, November 16, 2023   

It's American Education Week and school librarians' role in students' lives are in the spotlight.

Elizabeth Roberts, a teacher, librarian and curriculum developer for the Bellevue School District, said librarians in Washington state provide programs to get students engaged, such as the Washington Library Association's book awards.

Roberts explained when the book list is created, the selection committee thinks carefully about what stories are being told and who is being represented.

"We know that is it important that when students are reading, they are getting viewpoints both that reflect their own experience and that are a window into other people's experiences," Roberts emphasized.

The Washington Library Association has a variety of awards for books. They include the Sasquatch Award, which goes to a novel for kids in grades four to six, and the OTTER Award, which goes to books for transitional readers in kindergarten through fifth grade. Once the committee select books, students vote for the winner.

Roberts added librarians want to find books to suit the needs of every child.

"My favorite thing is when I get that book for that kid and they come back and they say, 'Oh my gosh, that was so great! Do you have anything else like this?' Because I know that's just started them on their journey to reading and learning and just finding out more information," Roberts noted.

American Education Week is celebrated every year the week before Thanksgiving. Each day has its own theme. Today's theme is "educator for a day," inviting community members to experience life in the classroom.


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