Mrs. Stallbaumer, Media Resource Specialist, astallbaumer@mckinneyisd.net

Mrs. Howard, Learning Commons Assistant, lhoward@mckinneyisd.net

In this Issue

• What is a Learning Commons?
• Learning Commons Policies & Procedures
• The Bennett Learning Commons Google Site
• Featured Resource: MISD Single Sign On
• Featured Resource: Destiny: Searching the Online Catalog and Creating a "My List"
• K-2 Texas 2X2 Reading Challenge
• 3rd-5th Nominated Bluebonnet Award Reading Challenge
• 3rd-5th Bluebonnet Book Club: The Key to Extraordinary
• Digital Citizenship: Student Acceptable Use Policy & Internet Safety

What is a Learning Commons?

McKinney ISD libraries have transitioned into Learning Commons to accommodate the needs of our 21st Century learners. A Learning Commons is a place for experts and learners to come together to engage with information and create new understandings. Its flexible space allows individuals, small groups, and classes to visit at their own convenience. Although cutting-edge technology and adaptable spaces are vital components, its true strength is found in the relationships it creates and sustains, whether these are student-to-student, student-to-faculty, student-to-equipment, or student-to-information. A vibrant Learning Commons will resonate with the sounds of students working together, establishing the kinds of connections that promote active, engaged learning. - MISD Learning Commons Website

Learning Commons Policies & Procedures

When can I visit the learning commons? The learning commons model operates on a flexible schedule. Students come to the Learning Commons whenever they want or need with teacher permission! Teachers schedule lessons on technology production tools, digital fluency and citizenship, and information literacy skills that connect with what is being taught in the classroom. Small groups, individuals, and classes may use the learning commons at the same time, anytime, and any day.

• The learning commons is open Monday-Friday from 7:30am – 3:30pm.
• Parents and younger siblings are welcome to visit anytime after signing in at the office.

How many books can I check out?

• Kindergarten students = one book
• 1st graders = two books
• 2nd graders two books in the fall
• 3rd = three books
• 4th & 5th graders = four books
• eBooks = two books on Follett Shelf & five books on Overdrive
• Parents = five items for two weeks. In addition, the McKinney Public Library offers weekly programs for parents and children to attend.

When there is a special assignment in class, students may be allowed to check out extra items. Books may and should go home to read each night.

When are books due? Books are checked out for two weeks. Please promptly return books you have finished since others may be waiting to read them.

Please return nominated Bluebonnet award books and the Texas 2X2 books after one week, due to limited quantities and high demand.

Students are welcome to keep items longer than two weeks, but please come to the Learning Commons to renew the items so the books won’t be marked overdue. Fines are NOT charged for overdue items.

What happens if an item from the library is lost or damaged? Lost books must be paid for. Once an item has been deemed lost or damaged beyond repair, (don’t forget to look under your bed and in your car) students will be asked to pay for lost and damaged items.

Featured Resource: MISD Single Sign On

In an effort to reduce the number of passwords that staff, students, and parents have to remember, McKinney ISD is in the process of implementing single sign on (SSO) for as many applications as possible. The link for Single Sign On has been added to the Bennett Website under the Learning Commons tab. For more information, watch this short tutorial.

Featured Resource: Destiny - Searching the Online Catalog and Creating a "My List"

K-2nd Texas 2X2 Reading Challenge

3rd-5th Nominated Bluebonnet Book Reading Challenge

3rd-5th Nominated Bluebonnet Book Reading Club

MISD Student Acceptable Use Policy

September's Digital Citizenship Theme: Internet Safety

Each month, Bennett will connect the monthly character trait to the district digital citizenship theme to help develop students who are good digital citizens. The monthly character trait for September is Respect. Teachers will focus on the being safe and respecting oneself and others online.