Library Media Specialist

Position Title: Library Media Specialist

Location: Gentry Public Schools

Summary:

We are seeking a candidate with a strong public servant mindset and a genuine service attitude, committed to prioritizing the well-being of children—if you are passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of kids and truly love what you do, this job may be of interest to you. Check out our website at www.gentrypioneers.com and follow us on Facebook to learn more about who we are.

Position Overview:

Candidate will oversee the GMS Library Program and instill a life-long love for reading in our students. Required skills for this position include the ability to utilize current social media platforms, organize book talks and student engagement opportunities, manage student and teacher technology devices, effectively multitask and prioritize daily job duties, create and maintain the Gentry Middle School weekly newsletter, and assist teachers through the presentation of materials that support the mastery of state standards. Our ideal candidate is student-focused and driven to provide the highest quality of literary education for Gentry Middle School.

Salary:

The salary for this position follows the salary schedule posted on our website linked here. The exact salary will be determined after reviewing the successful applicant's experience and will be provided in an official offer sheet.

Responsibilities:

• Shares responsibility for seeing that the library functions as an integral part of the school.
• Works directly with the building administration concerning the organization and implementation of the library program.
• Develops a plan to evaluate the library/media program.
• Performs other duties as may be assigned.

• Promotes library materials and programs.
• Provides flexible spaces that promote inquiry, creativity, collaboration, and community.
• Serves as a professional consultant to the principal, teachers, and students in relating library materials to the curriculum and for enrichment.
• Provides reading guidance for students and faculty and recognizes the interests and reading levels of the school population.
• Sets up and implements schedules with the professional community for collaborative instructional opportunities of:
• • An effective program for teaching library skills.
  • An effective program of student research in collaboration with teachers.
• Assumes responsibility for instructing faculty and students in the use of instructional technology.
• Uses technology in instruction and promotes the use of technology in instruction with teachers.
• Collaborates with the technology department in the distribution/collection, organization, and troubleshooting of student Chromebooks.

• Organizes, evaluates, and maintains a balanced collection of books and other media that reflects student interests and strengthen the instructional program of the school.
• Orders print and non-print materials for the library, considering requests from teachers, students, the principal, curriculum needs, existing library collections, and State Department of Education guidelines within budgetary constraints.
• Catalogs and classifies all materials in a uniform manner using professional guidelines.
• Make an annual inventory of the library holdings and presents recommendations for improvement as requested.

• Attends in-service meetings and participates in organizations that promote professional growth while staying current and implementing with fidelity the key commitments of Arkansas and National School Library Standards.
• Follows and maintains knowledge of all District policies and procedures.
• Maintains accurate records and proper statistics for various reports as necessary.

Qualifications:

• Education: Master’s Degree.
• Certification: Arkansas Teacher’s License in Library Media.
• Experience: Experience as a practicing school library media specialist is preferred.
• Knowledge: Knowledge of current trends in instructional technology. Knowledge of a variety of reading instructional strategies.
• Skills:

• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Ability to contribute to a positive school culture.
• Strong oral/written communication, planning, organization, and presentation skills.
• Strong commitment to quality desegregated education.
• Skills in the area of classroom management.
• Management skills in technology preferred.

All candidates, regardless of the position they are applying for, must demonstrate the following additional essential skills to align with the mission and vision of Gentry Public Schools:

• Consistently monitor district email to stay informed and respond promptly to important communications.
• Submit requested data and information in a timely manner.
• Attend all scheduled meetings organized by supervisors and district administrators.
• Complete necessary paperwork as directed.
• Demonstrate proficiency with workplace technology and adapt as needed.
• Prioritize safety by ensuring all doors and windows are securely locked.
• Respect the established chain of command in all interactions.
• Stay informed about and understand the district's crisis management plan.
• Exemplify professional excellence in the school, community, and on social media.
• Focus on their designated responsibilities and collaborate effectively while respecting the boundaries of their role.
• Serve as a strong advocate for the school district, promoting its values and achievements both internally and in the broader community.
• Maintain a positive attitude and actively contribute to a supportive and constructive work environment, avoiding negativity.
• Demonstrate reliable attendance to maximum student instruction and enhance learning outcomes.

Physical and Mental Demands

Ability to lift at least 30 pounds.

• Ability to provide physical assistance to students in emergency situations, including evacuations or lockdowns.
• Must have the stamina and agility required to care for active students in a school setting.

Work Environment

• Works in standard office and school building environments.
• Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.
• May be required to provide student behavior support using appropriate restraint or seclusion techniques for student safety purposes.

Benefits

• Opportunities for professional growth and development within Gentry Public Schools.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
• A variety of additional benefit plans available for enrollment through payroll deduction.
• Teacher retirement benefits.
• Includes days off for holidays and scheduled breaks throughout the year.

Application Process
Interested candidates should submit a completed application, resume, and proof of certification.