TARGET: BOOK FAIR INTERNAL CONFLICT

[Southmont <kwaymire@LINK2000.NET>]

So many of you out there are so good at resolutions, please give me some
suggestions!  I don't know wheither to scream or cry!
This is my 2nd year in this school and as a Media Specialist.  I'm in a
Jr. Sr High (7 - 12).  The Jr. High build a new wing years ago and
basically split from the Sr. High, except that they do have to come here
for the cafeteria, the media center and band/chorus.  There are negative
feelings between the 2.  I have been trying to work with both, equally,
getting many new books in the Media Center for the Jr. High.  The Jr.
High English teachers have kept up their practice of buying their own
books and having their own check out systems in their rooms.  I've even
accepted that, the Media Center is quite a distance from them and there
isn't much left of the period by the time they walk down here, their
basic excuse.  Last fall I told them I had signed up for a Book Fair in
the Spring, they weren't too receptive because it's not the company they
go with, but seemed OK.  I sent out a letter to the Jr. High English
teachers last week giving dates, etc.  Today I received a call from the
'Head' teacher saying that they have a fair scheduled the following week
and that they have had it scheduled for a year, so they don't know who
will hurt who but they wanted me to know.  "Maybe" they will bring
classes over if they have time, but it sure doesn't sound like they will
promote the Media Center's at all to the students.  If they don't let
the kids know in advance, how will they have money to participate? Also,
why didn't they let me know that last fall? What the heck do I do now?
The dates are set, I have clearance from the office to set up the Fair
in the Cafeteria hall during lunch.  Do I just continue and hope for the
best?  I've never run a Book Fair to begin with, let alone have little
cooperation from the group of kids that would do most of the buying!
Any suggestions or comments would be appreciated.  Thanks.

Kris Waymire
Southmont Jr. Sr. High School