Cassie Acker
Wixom,MI
Summary
Dynamic library professional with 24 years of experience teaching Language Arts, Speech, and School Library Media, Skilled in preparing, developing, delivering, and assessing information literacy instruction across multiple modalities. Experienced in developing and curating curriculum-focused collections, and utilizing current and emerging technologies to enhance teaching and learning. Recognized for a personable and humorous presentation style, innovative literacy programming, and ability to engage students from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds. Dedicated to inclusivity and closing achievement gaps. Provides leadership and mentorship to colleagues. Experienced with public library reference services and programming. Published author with experience in manuscript development, editing, and self-publishing processes.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Substitute Librarian
Wixom Public Library
Wixom
01.2024 - Current
- Provided personalized research consultations and reference assistance to enhance user experience for a varied patron demographic through Carl OPAC digital databases and electronic resources.
- Assessed user inquiries and provided tailored support for information and technology needs, improving user engagement and experience.
- Coordinated public programming and user education initiatives to promote continuous learning and community engagement.
- Guided patrons in navigating library systems and locating necessary resources to enhance their experience.
- Organized and executed a series of educational programs and events focused on advancing literacy and encouraging community participation.
- Coordinated daily operational activities during peak hours, ensuring optimal service efficiency and staff support.
- Oversaw interlibrary loan requests to enhance resource accessibility for patrons beyond local collections.
Library Media Specialist at Johnson Upper Elementary School
Livonia Public Schools
01.2019 - Current
- Designed and assessed educational lessons to enhance information literacy, digital citizenship, research skills, and literature appreciation for students in grades 5–6.
- Curated and maintained diverse curriculum-aligned resources in print and digital formats to support educational objectives.
- Coordinated interdisciplinary efforts with educators to effectively incorporate information literacy and technology into curriculum design.
- Implemented innovative teaching strategies incorporating tools like Chromebooks and AI technologies to support diverse learning environments.
- Organized and facilitated interactive literacy events, promoting enthusiasm for reading and critical thinking skills.
- Facilitated leadership and guidance for new library media specialists to enhance skills in collection development and instructional technology.
- Oversaw library budget management to optimize resource allocation. Coordinated annual book fairs to enhance community engagement. Supervised Chromebook inventory and distribution processes to ensure accessibility for students.
- Developed and curated diverse collections of educational resources tailored to specific grade levels and interests.
- Worked alongside educators to implement technology solutions in curriculum, fostering student engagement and digital skills development.
- Facilitated professional development sessions for staff to enhance effective utilization of library resources and instructional materials.
- Administered budgeting strategies for library acquisitions, focusing on efficient resource distribution and fiscal responsibility.
- Facilitated mentorship for student volunteers to enhance leadership capabilities and stimulate community participation in library programs.
- Analyzed existing library policies and implemented updates to enhance service delivery and streamline operations.
- Guided students and staff in comprehending research processes and navigating intellectual property licensing.
- Managed library and technology resources through thorough analysis of student needs to support educational objectives.
- Evaluated school library media programs through systematic data analysis to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
- Guided students in utilizing instructional technology to support mastery of learning objectives.
- Designed and executed yearly financial plans to facilitate acquisition of essential resources, including books, periodicals, supplies, and technology.
- Curated and expanded library resources to reflect multicultural diversity, supporting an inclusive learning environment.
- Designed and managed a resource library tailored to curriculum needs and varied learning styles within the school community.
- Guided students in distinguishing between relevant and irrelevant online resources to enhance research skills.
- Spearheaded development and implementation of library programs that significantly enriched student engagement and learning experiences.
- Developed and implemented engaging instructional programs to enhance student literacy and research skills.
- Collaborated with teachers to integrate technology into classroom activities, fostering collaborative learning environments.
- Curated and maintained diverse library collections, ensuring alignment with curriculum standards and student interests.
- Mentored student volunteers in library operations, fostering leadership and organizational skills among participants.
- Led initiatives promoting digital literacy, enhancing students' critical thinking and information evaluation skills.
- Streamlined cataloging procedures using advanced library management systems, improving access to library materials for users.
- Maintained relevant, organized and correctly catalogued library and technology collection based on careful analysis of student needs.
- Repaired or replaced damaged items to maintain continuity of service.
- Assisted faculty in grant writing endeavors by researching funding opportunities related to educational technology or library improvements projects.
- Stayed abreast of latest trends and strategies in field by reading trade publications and attending conferences.
- Promoted literacy by organizing engaging author visits, book clubs, and reading incentive programs.
Secondary Instructor of English Literature and Composition
Dearborn Public Schools
01.2001 - 01.2019
- Designed and implemented comprehensive English and speech curricula for grades 7–12 to enhance students' literature comprehension, writing proficiency, and public speaking abilities.
- Implemented cooperative learning strategies aligned with Common Core standards to enhance student engagement.
- Supported diverse student populations by providing tailored guidance and ensuring inclusive educational opportunities.
- Oversaw mentorship activities, providing guidance and support to student-teachers in conjunction with local university programs.
- Created innovative curriculum to enhance student learning outcomes in accordance with state guidelines.
- Implemented progressive educational techniques aimed at fostering critical thinking and effective communication in students.
- Assessed student performance using formative assessments and offered actionable feedback to foster academic development.
- Facilitated dynamic learning spaces that encouraged active participation and collaboration among peers.
- Guided new instructors in mastering classroom management techniques and implementing effective instructional practices.
- Conducted interactive sessions to improve faculty knowledge and application of modern educational practices and technologies.
- Evaluated student performance data to drive instructional modifications.
- Fostered partnerships with parents and community stakeholders to drive student achievement initiatives.
- Implemented targeted instructional strategies to enhance reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills, addressing unique learner requirements.
- Modified instructional materials to support varied learning preferences, ensuring effective understanding of covered material.
- Developed a collaborative learning space that encouraged open communication, mutual respect, and the cultivation of active listening skills among students.
- Developed lesson plans and adapted curriculum to meet individual needs of students
- Designed and facilitated hands-on learning experiences to promote active involvement and engagement among students.
- Selected and developed educational materials to enhance engagement and inclusivity in learning environments.
- Monitored and analyzed individual performance through quizzes, tests, essays, and oral presentations, ensuring prompt feedback to facilitate academic growth.
- Developed student comprehension by incorporating visual aids, multimedia presentations, and group activities.
- Collaborated with teaching staff in curriculum planning sessions to maintain consistency in English course offerings throughout all grades.
- Enhanced overall student success with personalized feedback, constructive criticism, and one-on-one tutoring sessions.
- Improved student performance by defining clear goals and communicating performance metrics.
- Contributed to professional development workshops that focused on innovative pedagogical strategies to effectively engage learners from various backgrounds.
- Provided targeted mentorship to students outside of class time, fostering mastery of challenging concepts.
- Cultivated a respectful classroom atmosphere through the establishment of clear behavioral expectations and consistent rule enforcement.
- Crafted stimulating discussion prompts that encouraged active student involvement and broadened viewpoints in classroom interactions.
- Cultivated participation through an encouraging demeanor and proactive interaction with students during lessons and activities.
- Employed diverse teaching approaches to help students of all abilities understand material.
- Created and implemented instructional activities to enhance learning outcomes informed by student learning style data.
- Delivered comprehensive grades and progress reports to identify and address student learning needs.
- Developed and implemented engaging lesson plans aligned with curriculum standards.
- Evaluated student performance through assessments, providing constructive feedback for improvement.
- Fostered a positive classroom environment that encouraged student participation and collaboration.
- Mentored new instructors, sharing best practices for classroom management and instructional strategies.
- Integrated technology into lessons to enhance student learning experiences and engagement.
- Collaborated with colleagues to design interdisciplinary projects promoting critical thinking skills.
- Led curriculum review initiatives, adapting materials to meet diverse learner needs effectively.
- Promoted skill development in reading, writing, speaking, and listening through various instructional methods tailored to individual needs.
- Adapted lesson plans to accommodate different learning styles and abilities within the classroom setting for optimal comprehension of material covered.
- Collaborated with colleagues to develop cross-curricular projects that enriched the overall educational experience for students.
- Evaluated students' abilities and grasp of English language, keeping appropriate records and preparing progress reports.
- Participated in professional development workshops focused on pedagogical strategies for engaging learners from diverse backgrounds.
- Mentored struggling students during after-school hours or outside of class time to provide additional support in mastering course content.
- Managed classroom behavior effectively by establishing clear expectations and consistently enforcing rules while maintaining a respectful atmosphere.
- Initiated, facilitated and moderated classroom discussions for college-level English students.
- Incorporated current events into lesson plans to promote student engagement.
Library Media Specialist
Dearborn Public Schools
01.2007 - 01.2010
- Implemented and reviewed instructional materials focused on digital citizenship and effective research strategies for K–12 education.
- Facilitated the embedding of library instruction within course curricula to support student research and literacy skills.
- Oversaw creation and maintenance of collections, ensuring resources met curriculum standards and student requirements.
- Organized and led interactive literacy initiatives, including Battle of the Books and author visits, to promote reading engagement among students and families.
- Provided leadership and professional guidance to newly hired educators and librarians to enhance instructional effectiveness.
- Collaborated with district technology and literacy committees to drive policy development and foster instructional enhancements.
- Managed budget allocations and collection strategies to support educational resources across 2-3 school libraries per year.
- Spearheaded the development and implementation of library programs focused on increasing student engagement and optimizing learning experiences.
- Engaged with educators to strategically integrate curriculum resources, fostering an inclusive and supportive educational atmosphere.
- Evaluated and curated library materials to maintain relevance and meet the diverse needs of students and curriculum standards.
- Trained staff on the use of library management systems to improve operational efficiency and resource accessibility.
- Designed and implemented workshops focused on research skills, empowering students to improve information literacy throughout their educational journey.
- Mentored new library staff, enhancing team capabilities and ensuring consistent service delivery in the media center.
- Instructed students and staff in research processes and understanding copyright, fair use and licensing of intellectual property.
- Developed and executed public relations strategies to enhance library visibility via website and newsletter communications.
- Developed and executed yearly budgets to purchase yearly acquisition of books, periodicals, supplies and computer software and hardware.
- Curated and expanded library resources to include multicultural literature, supporting inclusivity and representation.
- Developed and maintained collection of resources appropriate to curriculum, students and teaching and learning styles inherent within school community.
- Collaborated with teachers by scheduling library activities and procuring resources.
- Promoted reading and enhanced information literacy by organizing engaging book clubs and educational reading initiatives.
- Established a welcoming atmosphere within the library space, fostering positive interactions between students, staff, and visitors.
- Interpreted circulation data to identify resource usage patterns, supporting informed decisions on material acquisitions and weeding processes.
- Developed and implemented library programming to enhance student engagement and promote literacy.
- Collaborated with teachers to integrate information literacy skills into the curriculum across grade levels.
- Curated diverse collections of resources to support instructional goals and student interests.
- Conducted assessments of library resources to ensure alignment with educational standards and student needs.
- Promoted library through public relations avenues such as library website and newsletter.
- Updated library collection to include multicultural titles to fit student population.
- Served as an informational resource for teachers by providing guidance on best practices for incorporating media into lesson plans.
Education
M.S. - Library and Information Science
Wayne State University
01-2005
B.S. - English, Education
Eastern Michigan University
01-2001
Skills
- Information literacy education
- Skilled writer and editor
- Collection development expertise
- Digital asset management
- Strategic budget management
- Database query proficiency
- Reader's advisory
- Adult services
- Automated library systems
- Facilitation of interlibrary loan services
- Digital resources management
Courses Designed and Taught
- Information Literacy and Library Studies:
- Introduction to Information Literacy (Elementary Media): Designed and delivered instruction in evaluating sources, ethical use of information, and foundational research skills.
- Research and Digital Literacy (Middle Grades Library Studies): Developed curriculum integrating digital citizenship, academic research strategies, and technology tools; delivered instruction in both classroom and virtual modalities.
- Secondary English Language Arts and Communication:
- Introduction to Secondary English Studies (Grade 9): Developed curriculum emphasizing close reading, academic writing, and research integration.
- Studies in Fiction (Grade 10): Guided students in literary analysis, genre studies, and cultural context of fiction texts.
- American Literature and Cultural Contexts (Grade 11): Designed instruction in canonical and diverse U.S. authors, connecting literature to social and historical frameworks.
- Research and Analysis (Senior English): Taught advanced academic writing, critical analysis, and research methodologies aligned with college-readiness standards.
- Practical Composition (Introductory Academic Writing): Focused on writing across genres, developing thesis-driven essays, and integrating sources ethically.
- Speech for Careers (Public Speaking Fundamentals): Designed and delivered instruction in oral communication, presentation skills, and workplace applications.
- Fundamentals of Reading and Writing (Grade 7-8): Created curriculum supporting literacy growth, critical thinking, and collaborative learning for diverse learners.
District Professional Development Presentations
- “Crafting Course Design: A Glance into Backwards Planning.” Language Arts District In-service. Dearborn Public Schools, MI, March 2005.
- “Thematic Instruction and Authentic Assessment.” Building Bridges: Professional Learning Communities. Dearborn Public Schools, MI October 2004.
- Maker-STEM Summit 2024
- Michigan Reading Association Conference 2023
- MACUL Conference 2020
- Computer Science Fundamentals (code.org)
- What’s New in Young Adult Literature?
- Best Practices in the Classroom
- Literacy and the Common Core
- Writing Essentials
- Reaching All Learners—Content Area Literacy
- Anti-Bullying Program and Best Practices for Middle School and High School
- Professional Learning Communities
- MAMSE 41st Annual Conference
- Secondary Solution: Marzano and Other Best Practices
- Collins Education Associates—A Writing Program That Works
- Oral Language—Leading to Reading and Writing Proficiency
- Profundity: great depth—How to teach your K-12 students to comprehend at high levels using Narrative and Expository Texts
- Sheltered Instruction for Academic Achievement
- Raising Student Achievement Through Discipline and Responsibility with Love and Logic
Certification
Professional Teaching Certificate: English (6-12), Speech (6-12), and School Library Media (K-12)
Affiliations
- The Library Network
- Michigan Reading Association (MRA)
- Michigan Association for Computer Users in Learning (MACUL)
- Michigan Association of School Librarians (MASL)
- American Library Association (ALA)
- American Association of School Librarians (AASL)
- Michigan Association of Middle School Educators (MAMSE)
- American Federation of Teachers
- Michigan Education Association
- Phi Sigma Pi National Honor Fraternity
Timeline
Substitute Librarian
Wixom Public Library
01.2024 - Current
Library Media Specialist at Johnson Upper Elementary School
Livonia Public Schools
01.2019 - Current
Library Media Specialist
Dearborn Public Schools
01.2007 - 01.2010
Secondary Instructor of English Literature and Composition
Dearborn Public Schools
01.2001 - 01.2019
B.S. - English, Education
Eastern Michigan University
M.S. - Library and Information Science
Wayne State University