Saturday, March 1, 2014

PTA Gift Supports Library Redesign

At its March 1 meeting the Bronxville Board of Education accepted a PTA gift of $8,315 to launch a study to redesign the secondary school library.  The basic concept is to convert the library from a place where books are archived to a space that supports innovative technology-based work by students. KG&D, the District's architect of record, will carry out the study. PTA President Margaret Mager expressed the PTA's interest in supporting renovations that grow out of this study.

The project started with discussions between Eileen Mann, 6-12 librarian, and High School Principal Ann Meyer.  Mann has spearheaded several technology initiatives, including an e-reader program and the use of tablets. Students now have wireless access to laptops in the library, but Mann and Meyer identified a further need to reshape the space to support growing student interest in using technology as a research tool.

Superintendent David Quattrone described the District's approach to widening the use of instructional technology as an essential tool for learning: "We have included a technology partnership with BOCES in the 2014-15 budget, but we are getting a head start this semester. We are working with a consultant who has been talking with teachers about their technology frustrations and needs, and we are excited by the prospects of some important improvements in our infrastructure.  The idea of turning the library into a 'learning commons' is a promising development, and we are grateful to the PTA for its support."