RhaKiya White

FRIT7331 Strategic Management Plan

CONTEXTUAL ANALYSIS OF THE LEARNING COMMUNITY

1) School description: Mildred E. Freeman Elementary School
Mission:
Geographical location: Warrenton, Georgia
Grade levels: PreK3-5th
Socioeconomic makeup of community: The population of the community is 5,834 people.
The median household income in Warren County is $27, 366. About 24.10% of families and
27% of the population are above the poverty line.
Size of student population: 422 students
Scholastic standing: CCRPI- 62.9, Achievement Points- 36.7, Progress Points- 14.2,
Achievement Gap Points- 11, Challenge Points- 1.
CRCT Mean Scores:
3
rd
Grade- Reading 830, ELA 821, Math 807, Science 807, Social Studies 806.
4
th
Grade- Reading 832, ELA 828, Math 829, Science 818, Social Studies 807.
5
th
Grade- Reading 817, ELA 824, Math 816, Science 803, Social Studies 807.
Size of faculty, number of certified teachers: 27 certified teachers and 10 paraprofessionals
Special education services: RTI every morning, speech services, Individualized Education
Plans, Excel for Gifted Learners, inclusion, Special Education
School mission statements and goals: The vision of Warren County School System is to
provide an excellent and equitable education for all students that prepares them for college,
career and life. Our mission is to ensure student success.
General description of media center and media center personnel: The Media Center at M.E.
Freeman Elementary School hosts numerous amounts of printed materials for the use of
students, parents, and staff. Besides weekly library visits, students are able to use computers,
laptops, and iPads to conduct educational research. The current Media Specialist, Danielle
Huff, has been in the current position for one year.

2) School library philosophy: The mission of M. E. Freemen Elementary Schools library is to
provide patrons with a welcoming and active workspace that meets the diverse needs of
students, staff, parents, and the community. While in the library, patrons feel free to explore
creativity and collaboration through small groups, whole groups, or individually in an
inviting environment. It is our desire to provide students, teachers, and parents with the
educational and technological devices that will promote a lifelong love of reading, learning,
and leading. In order to do so, our patrons have access to a plethora of reading material of all
genres and formats. Also, students, teachers, and parents have access to an abundance of
internet resources from our virtual library. Other than the profusion of printed material at
their fingertips, patrons have admission to computers, laptops, and iPads, all equipped with
software and apps that further assist in the learning process. Furthermore, our media center
staff ensures that all activities in the library are ethical and do not infringe upon copyright. In
RhaKiya White

order to do this, media center staff models and teaches ethical information use with all
patrons.
Furthermore, librarians partner with students, parents, and administrators to ensure that
the library curriculum is fully capable of supporting the educational and technological needs
of our patrons. Librarians also partner with teachers to provide instructional resources and
models for instruction and research that has a tremendous effect on students education.

3) School library mission statement: The M.E. Freeman Elementary School library is
committed to providing students and staff with the skills, tools, and resources to promote a
lifelong love of reading, learning, and leading.

THE SCHOOL LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER: FACILITIES AND SERVICES

4) School library services overview:
All services in the Library Media Center will be handicap accessible.
The staff of the Library Media Center will be available to all students, staff, and teachers
throughout the school day.
All resources and materials will be attractively labeled to ensure that the display is
viewable.
All resources will be listed in an electronic database to ensure access to all materials.
All resources will be readily available to staff, students, and teachers.
All resources in the Library Media Center will be routinely inspected for repair and
replacement needs.
All resources that permanently remain in the Library Media Center will be properly
labeled and cataloged using the Dewey Decimal System.
Technical support will be available for students, teachers, and staff throughout the school
day.
Educationally and socially relevant resources and technology will be available to all
students, staff, and parents.
As a teacher, the media specialist will collaborate with patrons to evaluate and
incorporate learning and information needs
As an instructional partner, the librarian will collaborate with teachers to produce
significant learning opportunities for students and staff.
As an information specialist, the librarian specializes in providing leadership in
garnering and utilizing information in all formats.
As a program administrator, the librarian collaborates with stakeholders in order to
define the policies of the library.
RhaKiya White

As a leader, the librarian practices ethical behavior that follows the guidelines for the
best practices of education and 21
st
century learning.
Circulation Policy:
Students
A maximum of 4 books or magazines may be checked out to students in the 3
rd
-5
th
grade.
A maximum of 2 books or magazines may be checked out to students in the 1
st
2nd
grade. 1
st
graders must wait until November to take books home. Pre-K Kindergarten
need their teachers permission to check out books.
Books may be renewed for an additional week unless it is in high demand.
Reference books, video tapes, DVDs, and computer software do not circulate to
students.
The checkout period is for 2 weeks.
There is a one-week grace period for all overdue books. For any items returned after the
grace period, there will be a $0.05 fine per school day. The maximum fine per book is
$4.00.
Any student who owes the Library Media Center more than $4.00 will not be allowed to
check out until the book is returned or paid for.
Any student with financial constraints should see the librarian for further assistance.
All damaged materials should be brought to the librarian for repair.
Staff
All materials should be checked out via the automated system.
Reference materials may be checked out for one class period.
Books, videos, software, and other materials may be requested via email or written note.
Materials are to be returned when the need for it no longer persists.
Staff may be required to pay for missing material if it is not taken by a student.
Parents
A maximum of 2 books or magazines may be checked out by parents.
The checkout period is for one week.
Reference books, video tapes, DVDs, and computer software may be checkout out for
three school days.
There is not grace period, and any item not returned by the due date will incur a $1.00
fine per school day. The maximum fine is $3.00, and that parent will not be able to check
out more materials until the items are returned.
Parents that frequently incur fines will not be allowed to check out more materials.
RhaKiya White


Scheduling Policy
Teachers learn of their scheduled media center time at the beginning of the school
year, so there is no need to sign up on a weekly basis. Pre-K through 1
st
grade students has a
weekly fixed time to visit the library media center for 40 minutes. Other elementary students are
allowed to visit the library during the scheduled classes. Visitation for 2
nd
- 5
th
grade students is
flexible. Teachers may send up to four students at a time to check-out and return materials.
Teachers are encouraged to schedule additional times for activities and lessons to supplement
what students are already learning in class. A sign up calendar serves as a form of collaboration
if teachers would like for their class to visit the library. In addition, teachers are promoted to visit
the library media center during their planning time to accommodated collaboration. The library
media specialist is also available to visit classrooms for collaboration or technical support upon
written note or email.
The school library media center currently provides services that adequately address the
needs of parents, staff, and students. However, the technological aspect of a 21
st
century library
is lacking. The computers are out of date, which makes it troublesome for them to work with
some software that is required to enhance students education. BYOT has not been implemented
either, and this aspect would definitely help when it pertains to technology. Furthermore, web 2.0
tools are being used to enhance learning. Students that come to the library to complete projects
are being presented with these tools. However, students that do not choose to work in the library
do not receive that same information. It is therefore worthwhile to ensure that all students receive
training and support with using and creating with web 2.0 tools. All teachers would benefit from
the training as well. On another note, because the library media center and all classrooms have
ipads, it is quite easy for parents, students, and teachers to have access to eBooks.
Furthermore, because the library media center is so small, creating a learning
commons is a difficult task. To ensure that the library remains a quiet and orderly space, there is
a minute limit to how many patrons are allowed in at one time. Therefore, the library lacks the
aspect of a learning commons. Moreover, I feel as though the services align very well with my
MC philosophy. For instance, a plethora of information and resources is available for everyone
in an arranged catalog. Also, educational and technological resources are readily available to
enrich the educational journey. My philosophy states that the librarian will partner with students,
parents, and staff to ensure that the library curriculum is apt to support the educational and
technological needs of our students, and the services listed provide just that and also encourages
collaboration.


RhaKiya White


5) School library facilities
a) The media center in M.E. Freeman Elementary School is a quaint area that suits the needs
of its learners. As you enter the library, the check in/out station is to your left. This allows
students to quietly return books upon entrance without disturbing other patrons; or on the
other hand, it allows for a quick check-out on the way out of the door. In the middle of
the media center are two round tables that can be used for collaboration. On the side of
those tables is the computer station, where four computers for student use are located.
This arrangement encourages quiet group work because some group members could
research on the computer, while the others could use textbooks and other resources to
gather and synthesize information. The computer area is also ideal for Accelerated
Reader tests because they are facing the wall, which allows students more privacy and
fewer distractions. Furthermore, on the right side of the library are two rectangular tables
that come in magnificent use when students need a quiet area to work. Around the
perimeter of the library is where all the books are located, and in the very back is the
laminating station. Finally, in the back left corner is the media specialists office, which
is connected to a production room that is now used as a closet.

Furthermore, students also have access to wireless internet not only in the library, but the
whole school. Students do not have access to online library resources at home however,
while at school, they are furnished with iPads and laptops to supplement their educational
needs. Educational apps are downloaded to these devices, and serve as an excellent source of
differentiated learning.

Since the library is such a small space, there is a strict whisper code while attending. At
any given moment, if one was to visit Freemans media center, one would be mistaken for
being on a quiet, country plain. Nevertheless, this workspace is not ideal for the 21
st
century
learner because it lacks the adequate space for exploring and collaborating. The lighting is
very bright, which is detrimental for reading. Also, the temperature and moisture levels are
always set at a comfortable medium to accommodate all patrons. As previously stated, the
location of the check out/in counter at the door allows for quiet and easy access to library
materials. However, the position of the bookshelves may cause a disturbance to students
working at tables as other patrons look for reading materials. Furthermore, accessibility to
the library for the special needs population also serves as a problem. The media center is
located in between two sections of the school; a breezeway connects the 3
rd
-5
th
grade
building, library, and PreK- 2
nd
grade building. Because of the old age of the buildings, the
ramps and stairs are not built to accommodate wheelchairs. This limits the access that these
students have to the library.








RhaKiya White

Floor Plan


b) Since our students thrive off of technologically driven incentives, it is necessary for all
libraries to possess a virtual facility for students to access from school and home. An
OPAC is essential for learning and providing students with the best material and access to
that material as possible. At this point in time, M.E. Freeman does not possess a virtual
facility, though it is known that this addition would be a great boost to our school system.
M.E. Freeman does not possess ebooks, either. Though there is a lack of virtual
knowledge for students to have access to from the school library, the library does provide
four iPads per classroom for student engagement and learning. Students have internet
access, though there is a filter in place that blocks inappropriate websites. Furthermore,
while in the library, students are able to access iPads and laptops at their leisure.

M.E. Freeman provides a quaint library that suits the needs of its patrons, which is to
search for books and check them in and out. Therefore, it is evident that the need for
expansion is dire. Instead of being a place to choose books, students need the space to be
creative and intellectual beings with numerous sources of technology at their fingertips. The
library offers books and materials that align with the school curriculum, supplements to
support learning, and specialized technological devices that support literacy. Also, the library
does offer a calm and orderly place to read, reflect, or relax. Other than those necessities, the
library is too small for students to comfortably have large group presentations, team
collaborations, or individual reading simultaneously. Nevertheless, student interests are
addressed, and this information is used to purchase reading and technological materials.
However, the creation of media products and tips on applying technology effectively are
limited due to the age of the computers. These negative factors need to be addressed and
improved in order to maintain a positive learning environment.

RhaKiya White

c) Besides the library being small, the color scheme does not add to the openness of the
space. The library is filled with natural hues, which is not conducive to en elementary
reading environment. Brighter colors, more open space, and a lounging area would add a
more welcoming aspect to the drab environment. This addition would definitely draw
students to the library. Concluding, though the media center provides a quiet environment
to check books in and out, it does not promote a space for small groups, individuals, and
whole classes to work in simultaneously.

6) Budget sources:
Scholastic Book Fair- $4,450
The Scholastic Book Fair is held twice a school year. Students, teachers, and
parents are invited to purchase books and other supplies from the books fair. A
portion of these proceeds directly benefit the school and the school library.
Local Supplements- $40, 457
The local supplement is a portion of money from tax payer that is used for M.E.
Freeman Elementary School.
Federal Supplements- $2,186
Federal supplements are received from our Race to the Top Grant. A portion of
this grant is presented to the school library in order to purchase technology
supplies.
PTA Fund Raiser- $6,000
The school PTA holds fundraisers to buy supplies for the school library. The fund
raisers included school dances, chocolate sales, and cookie dough sales.
Grand Total: $53, 093
Based on current needs, the current funding is adequate enough to fulfill the present
needs of the school library.
Budgeting Plan:
For the next fiscal year, available money will be used to purchase new computers and
laptops. Also, funds will be used to purchase new library books, magazine subscriptions,
Nook tablets, eBook subscriptions, apps, technology supplies, and educational media
supplies. In the educational media supply category, I have included the furniture that will
be needed to add to the library. The percentage of each purchase will be broken down
into the chart below.
RhaKiya White



THE SCHOOL LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER PROGRAM PLAN: GOALS,
OBJECTIVES, AND EVALUATION

7) Stakeholder Survey:
This survey was conducted using the third grade students at M.E. Freeman Elementary
School, which consists of 54 students. The student survey evaluated the effectiveness of the
school library. 75% of students in the 3
rd
grade strongly agree that the library is effective,
20% agree that it is effective, 10% disagree that it is effective, and 5% strongly disagree that
it is effective. This data will be used to make improvements to the school library.
Survey link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/B2KF3BK

RhaKiya White


8) Long-range goals:
The library media center will be expanded its space to meet the needs of teachers, staff,
parents, and students. After a survey from teachers, staff, and parents, it was evident that
everyone would benefit from the expansion of the library media center. Since the elementary
school plans to move to the Middle/High school next year, the need for a bigger space will be
accommodated. This will allow for multiple projects and classes to function in the media
center at any given moment without disturbances of others utilizing the library.
The library media center will purchase new computers to accommodate the technological
needs of teachers, staff, parents, and students. It is evident that all of the computers in the
library are at least ten years old, and take quite some time to load and execute tasks.
Therefore, new computers will be purchased to ensure that everyone has instant access to the
internet and computer software that will enhance the educational process.
The library media center will be re-painted and re-decorated in a child-friendly manner to
add to the openness and welcoming of the space. Upon moving into the new library, there is
a need to paint the walls in a bright, welcoming color that is conducive to learning.
Comfortable sitting and lounging furniture will be added to accommodate patrons when in
the library to read or complete other tasks and projects.
9) The library media center will create an online library. By 2016, an online library will be
created for the use of teachers, staff, parents, and students. Patrons will be able to view
RhaKiya White

materials that are available to checkout, view upcoming events in the media century,
schedule collaborations and other activities, monitor their accounts, and many other
suggested things that will assist our patrons in the learning process.

Because our mission is: The M.E. Freeman Elementary School library is committed to
providing students and staff with the skills, tools, and resources to promote a lifelong love of
reading, learning, and leading, the goals directly correlate with that mission. In the library,
patrons will have the opportunity to grow academically with a proficient use of technology
and accommodations
10)
Goals Objectives Activities Evaluation
1. The library media center
will be expanded to meet
the needs of teachers, staff,
parents, and students.
The library will move
to the Middle/High
schools library, which
offers a bigger space.
The big move will
occur during summer
2014. The media
specialist, custodians,
and parent volunteers
will assist in the
process. This move
will benefit teachers,
staff, parents, and
students.
The media specialist, along
with administrators, will
evaluate the process of the
big move. The evaluation
should be done by October
2014. The space will thereafter
be evaluated annually.
2. The library media center
will purchase new
computers to accommodate
the technological needs of
teachers, staff, parents, and
students.
Media workstations,
equip with computers
will be added to the
library.
Survey the student and
teacher population
regarding their
computer and software
needs.
By the time all
materials are moved
to the new library, the
school will have
purchased new
computers to
accompany the ones
that are already at the
Middle/High School.
The survey will be
given in May 2014 to
assess needs. The
survey will be done
annually and be given
by the media
specialist. Computers
and software should
be assessed when
needed or every 5
years.
Parents, teachers, and students
will be given an annual survey
to evaluate the computers and
software that are in the media
center.
3. The library media center
will be re-painted and re-
decorated in a child-friendly
manner to add to the
openness and welcoming of
the space.
In order to create a
more welcoming
environment that is
conducive to learning,
the media center will be
adorned with murals
that promote reading.
Comfortable sitting and
lounging areas will also
be added. The area will
be comfortable,
Teachers and students
will be surveyed in
order to see what
colors and images
would best fit the
school environment in
May 2014. During
summer 2014, the
appropriate furniture
will be ordered and
arranged in the
In August 2014, teachers and
students will evaluate the
paintings and furniture.
Afterwards, every 5 years,
teachers and students will be
surveyed on this matter. Then,
changes will be made
accordingly.
RhaKiya White

accessible, and open to
the community.
library. Painting will
also occur during this
time by teacher,
parent, and
community
volunteers.
4. The library media center
will create an online library
that will be fully
implemented by August
2015.
The library will begin
the process of creating
an online library that
lists all materials
available in the school
library. The online
library will not only
offer a search tool for
resources, but also a
scheduling component,
patron accounts, and an
online discussion board
for collaboration.
The process of
creating the online
library will begin in
June 2014. The media
specialist will create
the database using
input from teachers,
parents, and the
community. As
different aspects of
the site are being
created, the media
specialist will use that
input to add and
subtract different
aspects.
The media specialist will work
with teachers to create the
website. Surveys will aid in
the process of selecting the
right tools to add to the
website. Every other month,
teachers will be allowed to
monitor the process of the
website to add input on the
process.

Goal 1: August 2014, August 2015, August 2016, August 2017
Goal 2: August 2014, August 2015, August 2016, August 2017
Goal 3: August 2014, August 2015, August 2016, August 2017
Goal 4: May 2014, and then every other month

11) Advocacy: develop a plan for communicating the librarys strategic plan to your stakeholders
and to the professional library community.
In order to ensure that all stakeholders are fully aware of the strategic plan, a brief seminar
will be held in the media center during open house. All stakeholders that attend will receive a
copy of the plan. Furthermore, I condensed brochure will be provided for students to take
home. Furthermore, the strategic plan will be made available on the schools website and
Facebook page to ensure that members of the professional library community are aware of it
as well.






RhaKiya White


Works Cited
American Association of School Librarians. (2009). Empowering learners. Chicago:
American Library Association.
Johnson, D. (2013). The indispensable librarian. Santa Barbara, CA: Linworth.