Why I keep working as a librarian in Middle School- and good news

[Thtwudbeme]

This year has the potential to suck. Between being tasked with all the technology in my school (over 1200 computers) and book challenges all around my county, I am preparing my teachers during the "back to school" meetings for book challenges. The conservative whacks managed to get Battle of the Books canceled already in a county close to me. If anyone wants to know which books, let me know.

The reason I am staying? I had a student three years ago that moved here from Mexico. She and her parents spoke no English. She was in 6th grade. I had to borrow books from other librarians that were in Spanish. It was a terrible struggle to get them online and work with her teachers/ social workers/ guidance counselors. Last year I handed in my resignation and had to be talked down by my principal.
(not because of that student- just the whole damned thing)

I just found out that the student I am writing about was accepted to, and has started Early College at the local community college. That means that in four years, she'll graduate with her HS diploma, AND an associates degree. In other words, her first two years of college are FREE. Eightteen years old with an associates.

I have other stories like that. Other students where I have jumped up and down screaming and calling my Mom (a retired teacher)...

And that's where I fight. Where the rubber meets the road- right here on the ground.

[XanaDUer2]

1. K n r nt

[Elessar Zappa]

2. It's people like you who give me hope.

Keep up the good fight!

[Emile]

3. My son is a high school teacher, I

feel your pain.

[Thtwudbeme]

7. I hope he has a good year- I am trying to start mine off on a strong note!

I'll be thinking of your son!

[people]

4. A Wonderful Story

You must feel so good about what you have done. Sounds so wonderful.

[Thtwudbeme]

6. Well, I didn't do that much- As a librarian, I support teachers and students. Really, her sucess

speaks more to the strenght and resilience of public school teachers.

But, yeah- I am bustin' a gut proud as punch....there are so many others...but this was the first one I have heard about from this Covid Class that is not even a HS grad!

Oh my gosh- I DO love the kiddos-- all of them.

I just thought I would share!

[Timeflyer]

5. Librarians and teachers are on the political front lines now--unfair, but reThugs need a devil

Your job is vital, and I hope you and all your colleagues stay strong and stay in the field. Support for teachers & librarians is building around the country as the public learns about the Bannon-esque, Christo-fascist strategy to weaponize disinformation and attack schools and libraries.

[CaptainTruth]

8. Wow! Awesome! Great job to you & to her.

[calimary]

9. Bless you for the fight.

We can’t just give in!

Especially because that’s what the bad guys want. Badly.

[fierywoman]

10. Bless your soul!

Librarians are the best!

[Lonestarblue]

11. Thank you, and hope you have a great school year.

And may the right-wing parents and nutters will find another horse to beat instead of banning books.

[yonder]

12. That's an inspiring account. Thanks for sharing AND

Hang In There!

[nuxvomica]

13. People are always looking for "meaning" in their lives

Some may search out gurus or life coaches or therapists in that pursuit. But I contend that we only find meaning when we accept the role of hero, one whose singular duty is to make the world safer for the innocent, the duty out of which all our other duties arise. The role of hero is not without sacrifices and you may find your job frustrating, time-consuming and demoralizing at times, but it sounds like you have found meaning, and in that your are far richer than any number of billionaires I could name.

[Thtwudbeme]

18. The teachers are the real heroes :)

Remember, I am in a support role. But yes! I agree with you. Public teachers deserve a serious round of applause!

[FakeNoose]

14. Librarians are AWESOME!

And you are a perfect example. Thanks for all of your dedication and hard work.
The teachers and students appreciate you, and that's an important thing to remember.

[dchill]

15. You are a truly good person!

[iluvtennis]

16. Bravo - thank you for all you do for your students!!! n/t

[Hermit-The-Prog]

17. Thank you!

[Duppers]

19. Our country would be in the crapper w/o folks like you ❗

Thank you, thank you!