Editor:

I recently attended my first meeting of the Baldwin County School Board. As a former school media supervisor in another state, I was surprised that the arts and school library media supervisor’s combined position was deemed “non-essential” and might be eliminated in the latest “reduction in force” by the board. None of the comments convinced me that any logical criteria were used such as tenure, length of service, performance, or possible impact on student achievement in placing each of the positions on the list. It is obvious that our schools are facing a severe financial crises, but there must be a better way of making staff decisions and meeting funding shortages.

The school library media supervisor is responsible for evaluating and making recommendations for the improvement of the library media program, developing and administering the budget and administering district policies and procedures. She serves as a valued resource person to administrators, teachers and library media specialists through staff development, assessing needs, developing long-range plans and coordinating an integrated program of library/information skills in instruction. The Alabama State Department of Education recommends a library media supervisor for every system. As the largest county in the state, it is crucial that our schools do not lose this supervisory position that assists both small and large schools to provide outstanding media programs for our students.

Research shows there is a direct correlation between high quality school library media programs and student achievement. Children need library resources and the expertise of a librarian to succeed. Books, information technology and library media specialists who are part of the schools’ professional team are basic ingredients for school achievement. School library media specialists are trained in 21st century literacy and technology skills and, per student, provide one of the most cost-effective “classrooms” in the school.

Using understandable criteria to make needed cuts is essential. Choices made today will impact student achievement as well as our educational standing. Therefore, it is incumbent upon the citizens of Baldwin County to get involved in any way possible to solve this crisis.

Fairhope