Objective: Managing Program Resources: Human, Financial, Physical

Indicator: Candidates plan adequate space for individuals, small groups and whole classes.

Reflection:

My favorite time of the day is when the media center is buzzing with activity: a class engaged in a lesson, students completing projects, staff collaborating and using professional materials. I thrive and become energized with this level of activity, but I noticed that others become distracted and lose their focus. Teachers often use the media center during their staff development planning days; time set aside for collaboration between grade-level teachers. On one such occasion, the 7th grade World Studies teachers were trying to work through their newest curriculum guide while the 6th grade science classes were completing a physics lesson using a computer simulated roller coaster. As the enthusiasm for the roller coaster ride increased, the level of concentration for the 7th grade teachers decreased. It became clear that a new layout for the media center was needed. My assistant and I rearranged some materials, cleaned out a storage space, added tall shelves as dividers and created a new professional work room. We placed all professional materials, videos and DVD’s, as well as a computer station in this area. Staff members, or teachers with small groups of students, are now able to work with a bit of privacy. They can even close the door when things get too exciting in the Media Center!