Conference reflections

I recently participated in the NC School Library Media Association's yearly conference, and it was absolutely wonderful.  And I mean wonder-full! I learned about virtual reality, summer themed programs to draw high school students into the library, effective ways to create Donor's Choose grants, utilizing mindfulness strategies to combat stress, and lots more.  There were great keynotes and a lovely dinner with the state board members and visiting authors and working with the Emerging Leaders winners group and fun meetings with friends new and old. Every minute of each day was filled with learning, sharing, collaborating, reflecting.  It was both exhausting and exhilarating.

I believe completely that providing opportunities for educators to participate in conferences and workshops away from school has so many benefits for students and staff- not just the individual who gets to go have fun.  We return filled, not only with great ideas and teaching strategies, but with a lifted spirit and renewed focus. I'm a better person and a better librarian when I get back- a win-win for me individually, and for those people in my school whose lives I touch. Really. Good. Stuff.