Highland’s new Learning Resource Center (LRC) teacher, Rebekah Sorensen, didn’t always plan to be a school librarian, but you wouldn’t know it. She exhibits incredible passion for libraries, books, reading, writing and research. She hopes to nurture her own students’ passion for reading as well this school year.
Sorensen actually started her career as a middle school English teacher at a private school. She enjoyed teaching English and working with students. Then one day, she was asked to fill in at her school’s library, and everything clicked.
“It was a great fit. I loved working in the school library,” Sorensen said. “I immediately got my library endorsement, and later I returned to school and obtained my master’s in library information science.”
Since starting at District 58 this past August, Sorensen said she’s been impressed with the District’s internal culture.
“I’m having a very positive experience! Everyone is so supportive and welcoming,” she said, citing her mentor Irene Jackson and instructional coach Nicole Ring as two individuals who have made an exceptional impact.
As the LRC teacher, Sorensen is very busy – she teaches several classes, places book orders, plans lessons and collaborates with classroom teachers.
“I like to learn what teachers are doing, so we can collaborate and find something related for their students in the LRC,” she said.
For example, to complement a first grade unit on rocks, Sorensen recently taught first graders how they can safely use the Internet to search for information on rocks.
Sorensen also appreciates how District 58 is up-to-date with its technology resources and support. She’s challenging herself to study the latest mobile apps, searching for ones that will enhance her instruction.
“I’m looking forward to growing as an LRC teacher. My goal is to be a resource for everyone: students, staff and even parents,” she said.
Check out the Highland LRC website at http://highlandlrc.weebly.com/.