One of the most important resources available to all KCS students is their school library.  School libraries are full of high quality books and materials that open the door to a vast world of learning for students on a daily basis.  But what is the key to unlocking those adventures and guiding students in that learning adventure?  The KCS library media specialists!

This week in the Saturday Six, let’s take a look at six things you might not know about KCS libraries and library media specialists.

1. KCS Libraries have partnered with the Kingsport Public Library and the Tennessee STEAM Festival in Knoxville to host a community “STEAMfest” on October 7, 2017 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. at Glen Bruce Park.  This unique event will allow students of all ages to experience Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math at various stations.  There will be activities for kids, snacks, and FREE giveaways for all participants!
2. KCS Library Media Specialists (LMS) were recently honored by being able to present at the Tennessee Association of School Libraries Conference in Murfreesboro, TN.  The LMS’ collaborated to offer three presentations to others LMS professionals from across Tennessee.  “Rockin’ with Robots in your Makerspace” showcased how KCS is using robotics to teach coding in school libraries.  The “STEAM in the Community” presentation highlighted the upcoming STEAMfest.  “Take this Code and Shelve it: Implementing a Coding Curriculum” gave details of how the KCS LMS’ have undertaken teaching of a new coding curriculum within their classes.
3. Did you know that in Tennessee, an individual must have a Master’s degree in Library Information Science in order to be qualified for the position of Library Media Specialist?  This is one of only a few teaching positions that requires this advanced degree.
4. KCS Library Media Specialists are leading the way in computer programming training for students across the district.  These professionals have received intensive training on teaching coding to students in grades K-8.  Coding not only teaches 21^st Century technology skills, but also allows students to problem solve and engage in higher-order thinking.  KCS Library Media Specialists have done an excellent job of fostering these skills in students at a very early age.
5. All KCS Libraries house a “Maker Space.”  A Maker Space is a location in which individuals with shared interests (especially in computing or technology) can gather to work on projects while sharing ideas, equipment, and knowledge.  The Maker Space holds a variety of different materials for this purpose.  Some of the most popular items include Legos, K’Nex, Makey Makey circuit boards, a Dash robot, PlayDoh, building materials, iPads, and computers.
6. The KCS Libraries and Library Media Specialists have received a number of awards and certifications in recent years.  These recognitions include three National Board Certified teacher designations, four Certified Tennessee Electronic Libraries Trainers, all LMS’ receiving training in selection and resource curation, several American Library Association accredited school designations, three Library of Congress primary resource trained professionals, and the 2017 Tennessee Association of School Libraries Innovative Elementary Librarian … WOW!

As you can see, the KCS Library Media Specialists play a critical role in the development and support of the KCS teaching and learning process.  Thanks to this great group of individuals who work hard on a daily basis to support exemplary student learning!

Next week in the Saturday Six:  The KCS Board of Education is poised to approve a 2018-19 School Calendar at their scheduled meeting next Tuesday.  We’ll look at the major components of that schedule next Saturday!