K-12 Library Curriculum
For Waukee CSD, the library is a central hub of information and resources for staff and students. Rooted in the American Association for School Librarians standards, learners will interact with this curriculum to help them become ethical, information literate, and motivated lifelong readers and library patrons. Students will also foster curiosity about inclusiveness and diversity by engaging with a wide variety of texts that promote understanding and respect for different perspectives.
Elementary Library
The kindergarten through 5th-grade curriculum fosters curiosity and a love for reading among students. It teaches them how to find and use information, both in person and online, while encouraging positive behaviors in the library. Students learn about different types of books, how to locate materials using call numbers, and the importance of various authors and genres. Additionally, they are guided to recognize their emotions and personal connections to stories, while developing respect for diverse perspectives and collaborative skills. Students receive formal guided instruction once per six-day cycle.
Middle School Library (Grades 6-8)
In grades 6-8, the library is accessed through student choice and classroom-teacher partnerships. Students engage in inquiry to gain knowledge and learn to navigate resources, both in-person and online. They explore various genres, identify preferred authors, and use literary awards to guide their reading choices. Additionally, students develop critical thinking skills by analyzing the accuracy and bias of information, organizing it in meaningful ways, and engaging in discussions that consider multiple viewpoints, all while developing an appreciation for diverse perspectives.
High School Library (Grades 9-12)
The 9th-grade curriculum focuses on engaging students in inquiry and utilizing resources. Students develop skills in locating materials, applying search strategies, and selecting reading materials for specific purposes. The high school curriculum emphasizes developing critical thinking by encouraging students to assess the accuracy and bias of information, organize findings logically, and reflect on diverse perspectives, while also emphasizing the importance of intellectual freedom as it relates to libraries and reading. The goal is to foster empathy and a deeper understanding of various cultures and identities.
