This was a fantastic book to read on our final week. I was able to send classes off with this phrase. Longest school year ever is now complete.

Our top 10 circulations confirm my suspicions. Our fiction collection collects dust while the Wimpy Kid books take over the world. Thinking about how to gently inspire readers to try "other" books. Nonfiction shows a little bit of variety. Reflecting and planning for next year.

My favorite project this year was Students Rebuild, hands down. When we can interact with each other, create, and do this with purpose, beautiful things are born. listenconnectempower.blogspo…

I knew graphic novels and nonfiction were the top circulating collections. The numbers show just how close. I take a close look at trends and make notes now so as I let things marinate over the summer, I can make decisions accordingly.

The last two years have taught me that our oldest students (5th graders) really thrive when they play. They actively choose magnatiles, legos, and games over chromebook activities. When they play, they are collaborating and communicating. We need to let them play!

I keep a folder of drawings, notes, etc that students have sent me over the years. It is a place I like to return to on occasion (especially when I need a reminder of my "why"). I am adding this beauty to my fine collection. #TLSky #SchoolLibraries

Survey says... attitudes towards the library diminish as school years progress. No surprise here - I've felt it in the lack of interest in checking books out and behaviors. However, I WILL say that the 5th grade responses feel higher than past years.

Wrapping things up with a few humorous titles. Steve is definitely a crowd favorite. I Am Not Happy doesn't always "land." I however, am having a grand old time reading these!

It's survey time! Thank you Amanda McCoy for your use of a visual scale to help students understand and respond to this very important question. I read these very closely and shape next year in response to what I read.

Our model magic creations are complete. Like our country has monuments and symbols to represent it's story, we do too! Our "Footsteps to Freedom" community read is coming to a close #America250

Our breakout answers come from our databases BUT students insisted on going to google. How many times have I redirected groups? Too many. Natural consequences - their answers don't work. Grrrr

I saw these beautiful book creations done by former students when I visited the middle school for a meeting. These are very insightful young men & women, given tools to express themselves. It makes my heart so very happy! ❤️

Students are creating a landmark or symbol with model magic. This one looks just like the plan. (That doesn't always happen). Markers are next week!

We are creating landmarks or symbols to tell our stories with Model Magic. 4th & 5th graders are thinking about the stories we hear and the stories we don't as we celebrate our country's 250th birthday.

We have two of these Little Free Libraries outside of our Early Childhood building. They are often empty. Great problem to have! I've been doing some cleaning and relocating books to these to get them in the homes of our families.

I shared this gorgeous Robert Sabuda book with students as they start their landmark or symbol creation project to celebrate their American story.

Ks are brainstorming gifts to give our country on it's 250th birthday celebration. Love, money, a diamond ring and a Nintendo Switch were highlights of today's work. We read The Gift Inside the Box to launch our thinking.

Ks were discussing "well worn" and how someone older may have wrinkles. "LIKE YOU, Mrs. Garland!" Check. Love having my wrinkles compared to Abe's. 🤣 I still *feel* like I'm 27 but clearly I am "well worn."

We are thinking about our media choices - what is the purpose? What is a healthy choice? What is a not-so-healthy choice? This partners well with the Common Sense Media video: commonsense.org/education/vi…

Nothing like a love note to pick me up and carry me through the day! ❤️