What do you want to be when you grow up?

Each year the 9th grade College Prep classes write a research paper which asks them to consider a future career. They research skills needed, education required, the need for that profession in the world, and other other related information. I tell them that at the conclusion of the paper, they can make an honest assessment: "After researching this career, it is something I DO want to pursue" or "I DO NOT think this is the job for me!"

It's always one thing to read about a job, but no one can argue that it is better to talk to someone who is already in the field. I thought I'd devote some blog space to helping my students out by interviewing real people in real professions. All the individuals I meet with (I'm sure) will be able to continue a conversation beyond mine at any time.

Yesterday I was warmly welcomed by my former student/current friend, Joie Formando. Joie, a Central Catholic graduate of 09, is currently the Head Librarian at Lancaster Country Day School. Joie has a BA in English from Millersville University and a Master's of Library Science from Clarion University.

After spending a day with Joie, forget about all the stereotypes about a librarian! Joie, especially because she is a school librarian, does a lot more than sit behind a desk and check out books. She is as much a part of the faculty as any classroom teacher. She starts her day by meeting with a core group of 8th graders, being their "go-to" advisory person for grades, school information, and probably what they enjoy most, an ear to chat. I observed her first class that she co-teaches, a Health and Information Literacy course for 8th graders. This class centered on using proper sources and citations for a research project. She also visited a 7th grade class to show them the Data Bases that are available at their school.

BUT WAIT--IT GETS EVEN BETTER!

Joie does do important things for the library like ordering/processing/cataloging books, managing the library's Social Media sites, and collaborating with the faculty, but she makes it really exciting for her students.

She started some fun clubs, including a chapter of the Harry Potter Allegiance and organized a "Hogwarts Library" for Halloween. When you go in this library, it's obvious that it's a welcoming, fun place to read and study and just absorb the "reading is fun" atmosphere.

The black dome-like thing in the background is a star dome where kids spent some of the day with their  classes. It's kind  of a "blow-up" planetarium!

Miss Joie Formando, School Librarian Extraordinaire!

A day spent with Joie made me think of what a great career this is for anyone who loves books, kids, fun, and helping others--not only finding great books to read or sources for research, but helping them feel smart and special and important---what could be better than that?

One great thing about being a high school teacher is that it only takes 4 years to see my students "move on" and tackle the world. Many of you reading this blog may be, fortunately for me, a former student. If you have a career you'd like to share with my students let me know...bonus for all of the readers to catch-up and see where life has taken you.

Coming up: The Philadelphia Free Library---and Walt Whitman