Library Media Services

The Ambitious Instruction: Accelerating Learning plan brings the district back to the basics of quality learning and teaching. It unites all content areas around (1) formative practices, (2) explicit instruction, and (3) meaningful student engagement. Each grade level and content area will embrace specific instructional practices around these areas.

The following equity-oriented practices provide the framework for Ambitious Instruction: Accelerating Learning.

• Using high-quality, standards-aligned, district-adopted instructional materials
• Focusing on culturally and linguistically responsive teaching practices that promote learning
• Leveraging technology to empower students to create, collaborate, communicate, and think critically
   

The library media services office provides leadership in developing pre-K through grade 12 school library media programs to support student achievement.

School library programs ensure that students and teachers have access to media collections that include a variety of print, non-print, reference, and electronic resources.

Each MPS school media center tailors its collection to best serve its student body and supports the school curriculum to have a positive effect on student outcomes.

School library impact studies show that school libraries have a positive effect on student outcomes, as they teach 21st-century skills, promote active engagement and critical thinking, and develop independent learners.
 

Additionally, the library media services office

• uses technology to effectively and efficiently manage school library collections through the use of a centrally administered Destiny Online Public Access Catalog (OPAC), a web-based union catalog and inventory system of K–12 library collections in all schools;
• supports student research 24/7 through student HOME access to OverDrive eBooks and digital content in the student toolbox — see your school library media specialist for access information;
• integrates the Standards for 21st-Century Learners  (AASL) with K–12 curricula and provides academic coaching to ensure that all students have the knowledge and preparation for success in the 21st century.
   

Library Media Licensure Programs

• University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee – School of Information Studies
• University of Wisconsin System School Library Education Consortium