Elementary Library/Media Specialist

REPORTS TO:  Building Principal

SUPERVISES:  Students in the library space or assigned to the media specialist

WORKS WITH: Classroom paraprofessionals, administrators, classroom teachers, classified staff, parents, community members

QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor’s degree and endorsements in the areas of teaching assignment.  Current, valid South Dakota teaching certificate in assigned grade span and South Dakota Library Science Educator Permit or ability to receive endorsement before start of position.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:  Hand-eye, mind-eye coordination. Constant hearing; intermittent speaking, standing, walking, and writing. Frequent carrying, keyboarding, reaching, and other repetitive motions.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:  Excellent oral and written communication skills. Skills in human relations, leadership and conflict management. Knowledgeable of teaching techniques that meet the diverse needs of students. Demonstrated skills in the use of technology to enhance student learning.

EXPERIENCE:    Successful completion of appropriate degree/certification requirements. Experience in a school library setting is preferred.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES

1. Maintain the library

• Initiate, develop, and implement policies and procedures for the operation of the library media center.
• Provide support for students and faculty in the utilization of materials, equipment, and media services.
• Understand and operate automated library systems, computer network resources, audiovisual equipment, and other resources provided by the library.
• Establish and maintain an atmosphere in which library staff, faculty, and students can meet instructional goals and information needs.
• Keep books, periodicals, newspapers and other library materials organized
• Maintain an accurate inventory of all library materials and their condition
• Replace outdated and damaged materials as needed
• Ensure library materials are relevant and up-to-date
• Organize and conduct periodic book fair activities

1. Ability to Plan and Prepare Instructional Tasks

• Plan instructional tasks that are meaningful and related to student learning goals

1. Provide Instruction to Students

• Implement District-approved curriculum
• Provide services and resources that allow students to develop skills in locating, evaluating, synthesizing and using information to solve problems
• Develop extended and enriched activities to challenge students beyond the required curriculum
• Provide formal and informal instruction in information skills, production of materials, and the use of information and instructional technologies.
• Maintain a strong instructional focus utilizing the elements of effective instruction
• Communicate a high level of expectation
• Communicate clear learning goals to students
• Adapt instruction to meet the needs of all students
• Address various learning styles
• Utilize technology effectively and appropriately to enhance learning
• Sequence content at an appropriate pace
• Use appropriate level of questioning to promote understanding
• Relate lesson content to prior and future learning
• Appropriately recognize and reinforce individual student effort
• Represent knowledge/information non-linguistically through a variety of methods
• Organize students in cooperative or ability groups when appropriate
• Require students to analyze and apply knowledge
• Display enjoyment, humor, and enthusiasm for teaching and expect students to enjoy learning
• Conduct ongoing assessments for learning

1. Provide an Effective Classroom Environment

• Establish appropriate library/classroom rules and procedures that are clearly understood by all students
• Effectively and consistently enforce rules and follow procedures
• Redirect students naturally and immediately without disrupting others
• Be well-organized and have all materials and equipment ready to use when students enter the room
• Carry out smooth and effective transitions (e.g. students enter and leave the room)
• Maximize time on purposeful tasks
• Begin and end class period with a focus on reading and learning
• Establish a positive learning environment
• Communicate effectively and appropriately with students in multiple grade levels

1. Participate in Professional Growth Opportunities and Demonstrate Professionalism

• Participate in ongoing professional growth
• Participate in school/professional and/or community organizations or events
• Complete routine assigned tasks and comply with District requirements
• Promote the education profession
• Communicate effectively and professionally with colleagues, parents, and students
• Conduct parent-teacher conferences in accordance with District policy

1. Work with teachers in planning, evaluating, and selecting resources and activities consistent with instructional activities.
2. Follow District and building policies and procedures
3. Support District goals
4. Report student progress to parents and students
5. Perform other duties as assigned

EVALUATION: Performance of this job will be determined in accordance with the teacher evaluation policy and procedures of the board of education.

PUBLIC DEMANDS: Presents a proactive and positive image of the school, students, and staff, and fosters the district mission to educate and empower all students to become successful, contributing citizens in an ever-changing world.