Student Reviewers

Since adopting our new library automation program last spring, the library media staff has explored some of the "bells and whistles" that make Destiny so great. I recently implemented student book review capabilities for our DRMS Battle of the Books team members. Students have their own user name and password and are able to log in to Destiny to review current BoB books for all students in the school system to read. This feature allows students to summarize what they've read and "sell" the book to fellow readers. Students save each review, then the DRMS media staff is able to monitor responses, approve and post book reviews for all to see.

-Ms. Z

Valentines for Fines

This is the third year the DRMS media center has run a Valentines for Fines program. Students make a homemade Valentine and turn it in to the media staff to have their library fines cleared. This popular program brought in over 150 student-created Valentines this year. Cards will be delivered to Duke Children's Hospital just in time for Valentine's Day.

I'm always impressed by the number of students who don't have any library fines to clear, but still make a card out of the goodness of their heart (no pun intended!). Our generous students continue to amaze me and showcase why DRMS is such a special place to learn and teach. These greetings will brighten the day of over 150 children. What a priceless gift!

-Ms. Z

Flight of the Bumblebee

On Monday, our 2008-2009 21st Century Pilot Classrooms were announced. Teachers submitted applications to be one of two classrooms selected to receive a multi-media cart containing 21st century learning tools. The winners were announced at our February staff meeting. Carts were adorned with black and yellow streamers as Mrs. V and I ran through the aisles while Flight of the Bumblebee was playing (I still have that tune stuck in my head). :-) These teachers received valuable tools to use in their instruction: an LCD projector, laptop computer, speakers, 2 interwrite tablets and a document camera (otherwise known as "Elmo"). Over the coming months, teachers will share new and innovative instructional methods as they welcome other teachers to their classroom to see this new equipment in action!

-Ms. Z