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April 14, 2009
Librarians serve vital role in our schools
What a shame that the Woodbridge school board believes the elementary librarians can he replaced by volunteers and lunch aides. Apparently, the board did not do its homework when they made this outrageous decision. If they did, they would know that across the United States, research has shown that students in schools with good school libraries learn more, get better grades, and score higher on standardized tests than their peers in schools without libraries.
Our elementary media centers are the hub of learning — particularly in light of the 2007-2010 Technology Plan that is supposed to be in effect for the school district. Libraries are no longer just a place to "check out a book." Elementary Media Specialists teach learning and achievements skills and strategies; they are partners in educating students, developing curricula, and integrating resources into teaching and learning; they select, evaluate and utilize electronic resources and tools and instruct teachers and students in how to use them.
With all due respect, where do they expect to find volunteers and lunch aides who can provide this knowledge? Children need to foster a love for reading from an early age. This is certainly not going to happen if this current proposed budget is allowed to pass with the elimination of Elementary Media Specialists.
With these kinds of decisions, the Woodbridge school system will continue its downward spiral, ultimately de-valuing the homes in this township.
NANCY UR
Sewaren
Posted by tumulty at April 14, 2009 3:06 PM
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