PfISD Reads

The trees are budding, the breeze is blowing and our Sora collection has grown by nearly 1000 titles! Relax in a hammock, grab your device and take a vacation into a book by reading or listening using Sora.

To close out Black History Month, our very own Jean Darnell, Dessau Middle School librarian, hosted a district-wide virtual discussion on Black representation in children’s picture books. In case you missed it, check out the recording below for a look at the book "Hair Love" by Matthew A. Cherry and connections between the context of the characters and their experiences to current moments in Black History Now.

Many of our PfISD librarians utilize their passion and skills for helping others outside of the school day. Jennifer McCauley (pictured above, right), Connally High School librarian, recently returned from a two month deployment to the Texas border, where she served as a paralegal as part of the Border Prosecution Unit handling felonies involving human smuggling. Ms. McCauley was part of a joint task force with the Texas Air National Guard, the Texas Army National Guard; and the Texas State Guard. She enjoyed the experience so much that she hopes to return to the mission this summer. Thank you for your service, Ms. McCauley!

Jennifer Coleman, published author as well as Carpenter Elementary librarian, traveled to Lubbock, Texas, for an author visit at her former elementary school. To celebrate the occasion, the whole school wore cowboy gear and serenaded her with "Deep in the Heart of Texas." Students created artwork inspired by her work and the cafeteria even served "Cowboy Cheeseburgers" and beans. It had been many years since Ms. Coleman walked her elementary school halls as an aspiring author, so this event was truly special. Check out the link to the news article here.

Janine Collins, Brookhollow ES librarian, hosted a virtual author visit with Dan Santat, during which he interacted with students and teachers and highlighted his new book, "The Aquanaut." Many thanks to BookPeople bookstore for sponsoring the visit!

Wieland students were excited to hear from author Chris Singleton, who read his book "Different" to first and second graders. Wieland librarian Susan VanDeWater worked with 100 Black Men Austin, a nonprofit organization focused on mentoring and economic empowerment of the African American community in Austin, to sponsor this event and provide all the students with copies of the book!

Makerspaces in PfISD libraries provide students with opportunities to explore and learn new skills and make connections with other students. Recently, the Weiss High School makerspace has been abuzz with Kindness Rock painting, Perler Bead creations and jewelry making. Students made new friends and decompressed as they worked.

Hendrickson High School librarian Kara Johnson collaborated with her school social worker, Lori Carl, as well as the Center for Child Protection to put on an open mic night and other events to raise awareness for healthy relationships. Ms. Johnson sponsors the Girl Advocates club and these students worked hard to make the week a success.