The SLS Staff will not be available on March 11, 2025 due to Battle of the Books at SUNY Adirondack. We will respond to emails and phone calls when we return to the office on March 12th. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

We're often asked if teachers can share Sora book lists with students. Here's a way to accomplish that!

If there's an item in TeachingBooks that we own in Sora, a Sora button will now be visible for discoverability within TeachingBooks. This is a great opportunity to show teachers that they can create accounts in TeachingBooks (email Karin if you have any questions about that), and share lists with their students. TeachingBooks also has tools such as:

• QR codes for shelf talkers
• Interviews and read-alouds
• Lessons
• Virtual escape rooms
• And so much more!

SLS purchases TeachingBooks for our region, so all educators and students in the WSWHE region have access to this resource.

These webinars are provided by TLC. Info and Zoom registration links below.

April 15, 2025 | 1:00 PM ET

Topic: Mastering Slip Customization

Description: A customized slip can significantly enhance the patron experience by making important details easy to find. Join the Training team for this webinar to learn the various ways you can tailor your slips, from adding personalized messages to organizing information for maximum clarity.

**LS2 Preferences access is needed.
Registration: Register here

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April 22, 2025 | 1:00 PM ET

Topic: Inventorying your Library

Description: It’s time for spring cleaning! If you haven’t run an inventory for a while, join us for this webinar to learn how the inventory process works. This session will guide you through the necessary steps to get your library’s inventory up to date.

**LS2 Cataloging is needed.
Registration: Register here

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April 29, 2025 | 1:00 PM ET

Topic: End-of-Year Tasks for Schools

Description: Are you a school librarian or school library administrator? While the end of the school year is still a few months away, it’s quickly approaching. Join the Training team for this webinar, which will cover a few reminders of important tasks to start thinking about as you prepare for the final stretch. This webinar will cover the end-of-year tasks in detail and discuss how TLC School Support can help you get ready for a smooth end-of-year wrap-up!

Registration: Register here

All Webinars are recorded and available immediately on LS•Community | Training Webinars | Recordings.

Using AI to Enhance Social Studies Instruction

AI is an important tool that can enhance instruction. Join us as we delve into the use of AI in the Social Studies classroom. We will look at ways in which AI can save teachers time as well as look at the major issues surrounding the use of AI. Participants will leave with tools that can be used to enhance instruction and the beginnings of a plan to bring AI into their classroom in an ethical and positive way.

Date: March 18th

Time: 8:00 - 11:00 am

Register: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=18589&I=4965188

This comprehensive workshop will give you a historical and foundational understanding of artificial intelligence (AI). We will look at how artificial intelligence will not only shape the future of education but also transform many things we do. Throughout the workshop, participants will engage in various interactive activities, including hands-on exercises, small-group/large-group discussions, and collaborative exploration of shared resources. These activities are designed to ensure that attendees not only comprehend the theoretical aspects of AI but also gain practical insights into its applications, along with understanding the connections to technology literacy, media literacy, and the Empire State Information Fluency Continuum (ESIFC). The workshop will spotlight various facets of AI, such as large language models, image generators, and chatbots.

School Library System Communication Coordinator Meeting - One of at least four meetings for SLS Communication Coordinators as mandated by NY State Education Law 90.18. Communication coordinators are updated on topics relevant to the profession such as changes in curriculum, technology, and the Information Fluency Continuum. Professional Development is provided on current issues. Information is disseminated to district librarians after each meeting. All school librarians are welcome.

Date: April 2, 2025

Time: 8:30 am - 3:00 pm

Location: Ballard Road Conference Center

Register (wait list): https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=18589&I=4959110

In January 2025, the New York State Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services shared the Media Literacy Toolkit for Educators with several stakeholder groups across the state. Join us as we unpack this toolkit and find practical ways in which this information can be incorporated into what you are already doing. In addition, you may be surprised to learn that there is already a professional in your school who is doing this work. Participants will leave with a working understanding of the toolkit and its practical uses in schools.

All educators and administrators are welcome!

Date: April 10, 2025

Time: 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Register: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=18589&I=5040013

Dive deep into platforms like OverDrive, TeachingBooks, and other valuable tools, learning how to curate digital collections, integrate e-resources into curriculum, and maximize student engagement. This workshop will provide hands-on experience, practical tips, and strategies for seamlessly incorporating digital resources into your library program.

April 24, 2025

8:30 am - 3:00 pm

Register by April 10th: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=18589&I=5030074

Topic: TBD, but we will also celebrate our retirees and our School Librarian and Administrator of the Year Awardees.

Date: May 15, 2025

Time: 8:00 am - 3:00 pm

Location: Ballard Road Conference Center

Register: https://www.mylearningplan.com/WebReg/ActivityProfile.asp?D=18589&I=4959120

The Regional BOCES School Library Systems are collaborating to bring you multiple book studies this year. Please see the attachment below for information. These book studies are limited to 20 participants so you will want to register early.

📌 Latest Newsletter and Engagement Kits:

• Resource Roundup - March 2025

• Newsela Engagement Kit - March 2025

• Formative Engagement Kit - March 2025

As budgets begin to be developed for next year, now is the time to take a look at your current database stats (let us know if you need help) and see if any changes might be necessary.

As we have done in years past, we have asked our vendors to provide trials for our librarians so that you can begin to see if you want to make any changes to your databases for 25-26. You will want to start thinking about any new products you might want to purchase next year.

We have secured trial information from a number of our vendors to make it easier for you to try new products now when there is plenty of time to share with teachers and students and fully evaluate the resource. You can access trial information on this spreadsheet. If you want to see if a trial is available for something not on the spreadsheet, reach out to Laurie Doyle and she can try to secure a trial for you.

Upcoming: Be on the lookout in late April - early May for information on ordering.

If you need help or have questions, please reach out to libraryservices@wswheboces.organd we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Job Description:

Galway Central School District is now accepting applications for a Full-Time probationary Library Media Specialist. A Bachelor’s degree and valid NYSED certification as a Library Media Specialist is required.

Applicants must upload the following documents: (a) Cover letter; (b) Resume; (c) Three letters of recommendation; (d) Proof of NYS Certification; (e) Copies of College Transcripts. Paper applications will not be accepted. Applicants who have been chosen will be contacted by the District.

Job ID: GLWN0334540-0000

Job Type: Full Time (10 Month)

Salary/Pay Rate: Per Contract (GTA)

Application Deadline: 03/19/2025

Tentative Start Date: 09/01/2025

Job Description

Library Media Specialist - Geyser Road Elementary

The Saratoga Springs City School District has an anticipated vacancy and is now accepting applications.

Date of Posting:

March 3, 2025

Effective Date:

September 1, 2025

Location:

Geyser Road Elementary

Certifications/Qualifications:

NY State Certified in School Media Specialist

• Individual must be willing and able to multitask in a fast-paced library environment and collaborate with a team of library aides and clerks
• Provide instructional support for teachers and library resources for classes and students
• An understanding of library software and regulations is necessary for school librarians
• Willingness to collaborate with Professional Learning Teams is necessary
• Full-time probationary, tenure-track position
• Salary per the SSTA contract

Application Deadline: April 13, 2025

All interested external applicants must register and apply through RecruitFront. First create an application, then apply to the job posting.

All interested internal applicants please submit a letter of interest (cover letter) through SchoolFront. Letters of interest are no longer accepted through e-mail or hard copy.

https://saratogaschools.recruitfront.com/JobPosting?JID=61742

Job Description

School Librarian, Middle School - Anticipated probationary position effective 9/1/25. NYS certification required. Minimum salary $51,518, actual salary based on education and experience pursuant to the wage schedule posted on the district’s website. We encourage you to visit queensburyschool.org for more information about our district.

Job Qualifications

NYS certification required.

Queensbury Union Free School District Job Description: Teacher

Minimum Qualifications:
NYS Teaching Certification in the appropriate teaching discipline.
Preferred Requirements:
Evidence of successful teaching experience.
Dual certification and Masters Degree, 3.0 GPA
Reports to: Principal
Assistant Principal (if applicable)
Director of Student Support Services (if applicable)
Director of Guidance (if applicable)
Director of PE, Health, and Athletics (if applicable)
Purpose of Position:
Under general and direct supervision, responsible for helping students learn subject matter and
skills that will empower all students to be lifelong learners, inspired to pursue their dreams and
to contribute to the global community.
Terms of Employment:
Ten or Eleven-month year. Salary and working conditions in accordance with agreement
between the District and the Queensbury Faculty Association. Performance of this position and
its responsibilities will be evaluated annually by the Principal or another immediate supervisor
(if applicable) as specified in the QFA contract.
Performance Responsibilities:
A. Meets and instructs assigned classes in the locations and at the times designated;
B. Plans a program of study that, as much as possible, meets the individual needs, interest,
and abilities of students;
C. Creates a classroom environment that is conducive to learning and appropriate to the
maturity and interests of he students;
D. Prepares for classes assigned and show written evidence of preparation upon request of
immediate supervisor;
E. Prepares students to fulfill educational standards, pass NYS assessments and/or Regents
exams, and/or fulfill graduation requirements;
F. Encourages students to set and maintain standards of classroom behavior;
G. Guides the learning process toward the achievement of curriculum goals. Establishes
clear objectives in the form of essential questions for all lessons, units, and projects to
communicate these to the students;
H. Employs a variety of instructional techniques and instructional media consistent with the
needs and capabilities of the individuals or student groups involved;
I. Strives to implement by instruction and action the District’s mission, core values and
instructional goals and objectives focusing on student learning;
J. Assesses student progress on a regular basis and provides progress reports as required;

K. Participates in student interventions and TSTs, seeks the assistance of District specialists
as required;
L. Takes all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials,
and facilities;
M. Maintains accurate, complete, and correct records as required by law, district policy, and
administrative regulation;
N. Assists the administration in implementing all policies and rule governing student life and
conduct, and, for the classroom, develops reasonable rules of classroom behavior and
procedure, and maintains order in the classroom in a fair and just manner;
O. Maintains open lines of communication with parents - Available to students and parents
for education-related meetings as necessary;
P. If applicable, plans and supervises purposeful assignments for teacher assistant(s),
teacher aide(s), and volunteer(s) and, cooperatively with immediate supervisor, provides
input when evaluating their job performance;
Q. Keeps current on curricular needs and trend and strives to maintain and improve
professional competence. Participates in staff development opportunities;
R. Attends staff meetings and serves on staff committees as required;
S. Performs other related duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor(s) or the
Superintendent of Schools.

Application Procedure

Please upload onto RecruitFront the following supporting documents: (a) All college transcripts (b) At least three written letters of reference. Reference letters should be SIGNED. (c) Evidence of certification. A copy from TEACH is sufficient.

https://queensbury.recruitfront.com/JobPosting?JID=61283

Kerrie Burch, School Library System Director

Karin Howansky, School Library Media Specialist

Laurie Doyle, Information Processing Specialist

Deb Massa, Information Processing Specialist