The school welcomed this year Mrs. Panico, the new librarian who will effectively manage the library and support students with any resources they may need. Ms. Panico obtained a professional certificate as a library media specialist and started teaching in 2003. Her passion for learning is not limited to books only; she loves imparting knowledge to students so that they can become “life-long learners.”
Since the library’s reopening is scheduled for the end of the 2024-2025 academic school year, Mrs. Panico has ordered an estimate of 900 new books. However, the library will provide more than just books. Students will have access to reliable information, research tools, and a quiet space to study. “It’s about the access to information, and there’s so much information out there,” Mrs. Panico said.
Despite the library being closed for the past two years, Mrs. Panico has been working with the school to assist students in many ways. For instance, she collaborated with teachers to incorporate digital literacy lessons in their classrooms.
These lessons revolve around the many aspects of research which include gathering and evaluating data appropriately. However, this initiative was not only limited to data studies. These lessons also featured the concepts of paraphrasing, citation, and how to use some of the new tools that the school offers (Sora and Sooth.fyi).
Sora is a free reading app that is available through the Department of Education and Sooth.fyi is a new search engine designed to help students assess information and serve as a resource for class projects. Mrs. Panico encourages students to access these digital resources when conducting research.
In addition to the library, $11,000 has been allocated to develop an outdoor garden space in the school’s courtyard, which will serve as another space for students to go.
Mrs. Panico expressed her enthusiasm for the opening for the library. “I love a good book, and I love sharing my favorite books with others,” she said. “I love hearing students share their favorite stories.”