Having recently retired, I sought out a volunteer position shelving and mending books at Greece Central School District’s Brookside School (grades 3-5). The school has no library volunteers so I thought it a good opportunity to help my community schools, be exposed to young people, and take a look for myself at today’s educational environment.
I have observed every grade level at the school as well as the special education students. The school itself is orderly, peaceful and an inviting learning environment. It is a delight!
The children’s behavior toward one another and adults while in the library is impressive. On one occasion, a group of fifth graders debated the fundamental rights and responsibilities of the young characters in a novel they were sharing; they did not all agree on any one position, but consistently demonstrated respect for those with different opinions. Whether the classes are discussing literary genres or character development or exploring almanacs or Google Earth, they are thoughtful, well behaved and respectful.
All of the classes have shown a keen appreciation of the librarian’s skills; her gifts and talents are shared freely with the children, and they recognize this and thrive in the environment created by the librarian.
Our adult community members with free time should consider volunteering in our schools. I am certain that each will see that our community children are very impressive and our tax dollars dedicated to library curriculum and personnel are well invested!
ANNE O. SAWYKO
Greece
Having recently retired, I sought out a volunteer position shelving and mending books at Greece Central School District’s Brookside School (grades 3-5). The school has no library volunteers so I thought it a good opportunity to help my community schools, be exposed to young people, and take a look for myself at today’s educational environment.
I have observed every grade level at the school as well as the special education students. The school itself is orderly, peaceful and an inviting learning environment. It is a delight!
The children’s behavior toward one another and adults while in the library is impressive. On one occasion, a group of fifth graders debated the fundamental rights and responsibilities of the young characters in a novel they were sharing; they did not all agree on any one position, but consistently demonstrated respect for those with different opinions. Whether the classes are discussing literary genres or character development or exploring almanacs or Google Earth, they are thoughtful, well behaved and respectful.
All of the classes have shown a keen appreciation of the librarian’s skills; her gifts and talents are shared freely with the children, and they recognize this and thrive in the environment created by the librarian.
Our adult community members with free time should consider volunteering in our schools. I am certain that each will see that our community children are very impressive and our tax dollars dedicated to library curriculum and personnel are well invested!
ANNE O. SAWYKO
Greece
