Re: TARGET: Library Media Specialists--Where Do They Come From?

[Margie Fronk <mehcf@WORLDNET.ATT.NET>]

Maureen Simmons asked, "Where do Media Specialists come from?"

This is the response which I wrote last month while in a class for Media
Specialists at the University of Central Florida. Since then I have been
hired as a Media Specialist at Lake Mary High School where I volunteered
two years ago when I was on a leave of absence from my position as an
elementary teacher. I have been in education for approx. twenty years.

I had the opportunity to work with some excellent media specialists in
Seminole County, Florida. While I was in awe of their expertise and
programs, their ability to tactfully interact with students and the entire
faculty, and their knowledge of books as well as technology, I really
didn't realize that I too could be a media specialist. I enjoy teaching
children using a variety of methods, incorporating technology, and I also
LOVE to read to students and help foster in them not only a love of books
but of learning. When I was able to volunteer in a MC last year, I realized
that I truly enjoyed the constant interaction with students and faculty on
a variety of levels. There was such a challenge in meeting the needs of
individuals in a timely, helpful, and cooperative manner. I was also
introduced to some administrative functions of the MS. These women are my
mentors. They have inspired me to persue this new facet of my career. I
look forward to the day I can be the MS, making a difference, being open,
flexible, active, and rising to challenges in the same ways of those who
have encouraged me.

Our school has a computer lab as well as computers with Internet access in
our Media Center. It is important to be current in our understanding and
use of changing technologies. I believe that the Internet will be integral
in the lives of our students for up-to-date and extensive information, yet
I still believe that print media will always have a place in education as
well as in our lives.

Margie Fronk
Media Specialist
Lake Mary High School
Lake Mary, FL 32746
mehcf@worldnet.att.net