Drape's Takes - Latest Comments in Thoughts on the New Gig

Re: Thoughts on the New Gig

Linda Fox — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 19:19:04 -0000

It sure does. We have a different model and some of that comes from a funding perspective. We are training library media specialists to BE media technology specialists in their schools. Most of our media specialists are the tech integration folks in their schools. They are the ones teaching teachers to integrate the technology when it makes sense. One of our frustrations continues to be the concept of using tech for the sake of using tech. And if you take a close look at the lessons, they are still information products. The technology doesn't transform them into knowledge projects. The curriculum design is the only thing that does that. So we try to impress on the librarians and teachers that 5 facts about the bird in a powerpoint is still an information product. It does not go to the level of the value of the bird to the eco-system or the importance of birds to human endeavors. Either model works - but we all need to keep those bigger issues of knowledge vs. information in mind. Thanks for this. It really is an "excellent adventure".

Re: Thoughts on the New Gig

Darren Draper — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 14:00:33 -0000

Excellent question, Linda.

In our district, we have Library Media Specialists in every secondary building. If we continue with the model established by Jordan (the district we have split from), there will be a team of specialists to serve the needs of the teachers and students in the elementary schools.

Now, the Media Technology Specialists that I have proposed to be a part of my team will serve very much a blended role between a traditional Library Meeting Specialist and an Educational Technology Specialist. They will help teachers and students with media literacy principles and techniques (Big 6, for example) and the utilization of technology in such endeavors. With regard to staff development, therefore, the Media Technology Specialists will work directly with School Library Media Specialists - teaching them to use technology in their curriculum.

Does that make sense?

Re: Thoughts on the New Gig

Linda Fox — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 19:07:57 -0000

Darren. In New York the school library media specialists have a lot of responsibility for the information literacy implementation, including both print and electronic media. I'm wondering how that might be different in Utah since I don't see them anywhere on the schema. Where do those existing information specialists fit in your big picture and how are they being "staff developed" to take on the challenges of their future responsibilities?
Thanks

Re: Thoughts on the New Gig

Darren Draper — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 21:36:42 -0000

Thanks Chad and Jamie,

You know, one of my highest priorities is for me to never forget what it's been like to be where I've been. I think it's very important for district-level administrators to especially never forget what life is like as a teacher, with the day in, day out grind and the issues that they have to consistently deal with.

If I can do this one thing, then I (at least like to think/hope) that I will be at least somewhat successful as a leader.

Re: Thoughts on the New Gig

Jamie Gustin — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:02:45 -0000

Congratulations Darren. it is a very exciting time for you and for the school district. I have sat in on some hiring committees and have felt the same way that you do. It is a daunting task. Best of luck and keep the attitude that you have now.

Re: Thoughts on the New Gig

Chad Lehman — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 21:24:19 -0000

It's great to hear things are going well. It sounds like your district really has a great plan in place for the technology. The IT tree is very interesting.

Re: Thoughts on the New Gig

Darren Draper — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 19:45:09 -0000

Thanks, K. It all is very exciting. Seriously, you can't help feeling
the energy.

So with your upcoming retirement, are you ready to join me in Canyons? :)

Re: Thoughts on the New Gig

Kalyn — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 10:43:19 -0000

I think it's very exciting. The position seems like a great fit for your skills, and I couldn't be happier for you. I'm sure you're going to do a great job.

Re: Thoughts on the New Gig

Darren Draper — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 09:35:14 -0000

Thanks, Louise. These are certainly exciting times.

I understand what you mean about swimming up stream. Our systems of
education are extremely complex, aren't they. Sometimes I think that
the fact that change doesn't come easy in our schools is a good thing
(a safety valve, if you will) but at other times I know it can feel
like we're beating out heads against the wall.

Best of luck to you in your efforts to fight the good fight.

Re: Thoughts on the New Gig

Louise Maine — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 06:13:31 -0000

Darren, I am so happy for you! I dream one day of being in a position where I can affect real change, much like you are doing vs. the current swimming-up-stream I am now doing. Kudos to the Superintendent who sees the big picture and puts in place visionaries who will do great things! I look forward to hearing more...