To: Belton Students, Families, and Friends
Save Belton ISD Librarians
We believe each school library in Belton ISD is more than a bigger classroom, a STEM center, or a maker space. Certified librarians have specialized knowledge and experience, and we risk losing their unique talents in making reading accessible, meaningful, and memorable for students. We know this for ourselves, and it has been proven as well: https://www.americanprogress.org/article/investing-in-school-libraries-and-librarians-to-improve-literacy-outcomes/.
Belton ISD’s decision to hire “Innovative Specialists” to oversee the library areas threatens to dilute a tailored literacy focus, as this role adds GT education and STEAM curriculum development, along with teaching as a main requirement. But no library certification or experience is mentioned as either a requirement or advantage.
While Belton ISD leadership states that librarians are not being terminated, these professionals are being asked to take on a very different role without reassurance that their current work is valued or has a hope of continuing at the schools where they are making such a difference for children and their teachers.
Belton ISD’s decision to hire “Innovative Specialists” to oversee the library areas threatens to dilute a tailored literacy focus, as this role adds GT education and STEAM curriculum development, along with teaching as a main requirement. But no library certification or experience is mentioned as either a requirement or advantage.
While Belton ISD leadership states that librarians are not being terminated, these professionals are being asked to take on a very different role without reassurance that their current work is valued or has a hope of continuing at the schools where they are making such a difference for children and their teachers.
Why is this important?
Our families and community appreciate and value the certified librarians and designated library staff who make reading exciting for reluctant readers and a continuous treasure hunt for kids who already love to read.
***You do not need to be a Belton ISD parent to sign this petition.***
***You do not need to be a Belton ISD parent to sign this petition.***
