Susan Block
Reeds,MO
Summary
Dynamic professional with a strong background in library management and education, looking to transition into the public library sector. Known for establishing welcoming spaces and enhancing student engagement through innovative programs. Committed to promoting literacy and ensuring resource availability aligned with curricular needs.
Overview
32
32
years of professional experience
Work History
Library Media Specialist, Grades K-12
Miller R-2 Schools
Miller, MO
08.2022 - Current
- Managed circulation desk operations, ensuring efficient service and resource availability.
- Evaluated library resources regularly to align with curriculum standards and user needs.
- Maintained relevant, organized and correctly catalogued library and technology collection based on careful analysis of student needs.
- Developed and executed yearly budgets to purchase yearly acquisition of books, periodicals, supplies and computer software and hardware.
- Collaborated with teachers by scheduling library activities and procuring resources.
- Implemented and maintained automated catalogs, circulation systems and Chromebook check-out services.
- Encouraged reading, information literacy skills and information resources through book clubs and reading programs.
- Established a welcoming atmosphere within the library space, fostering positive interactions between students, staff, and visitors.
- 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.
- Managed the library budget, ensuring the acquisition of diverse materials aligned with curricular needs and student interests.
- Repaired or replaced damaged items to maintain continuity of service.
- Established partnerships with public libraries to promote summer reading programs aimed at preventing "summer slide" among students.
- Catalogued and organized books, materials and other documents for proper library management.
- Assisted students in locating and using library resources and assisted teachers with materials needed to enrich classroom instruction.
- Researched and acquired new library materials to maintain updated library collection.
- Maintained library databases to support accuracy and availability in circulation systems.
- Researched, planned, and set up attractive and informative library exhibits.
- Assisted library patrons with resolving computer problems.
- Maintained and updated patron records in library system database.
Classroom Teacher, Grade 5
Miller Elementary School
Miller, MO
08.2021 - 05.2022
- Developed engaging lesson plans aligned with state standards to enhance student learning outcomes.
- Fostered a positive classroom environment that promoted respect, collaboration, and active participation.
Science & Social Studies Teacher, Grades 3-5
Avilla R-13 School District
Avilla, MO
08.2018 - 05.2021
- Developed engaging lesson plans aligned with state standards to enhance student understanding of social studies concepts.
- Implemented diverse instructional strategies to accommodate different learning styles and improve student engagement.
Title 1 Reading Teacher, Part Time Grades 1-3
Avilla R-13 School District
Avilla, MO
08.2017 - 05.2018
- Led small group instruction, offering personalized attention and support for struggling readers.
- Promoted a growth mindset among students by celebrating incremental improvements in reading skills and performance.
Library Media Specialist, Grades K-12
College Heights Christian School
Joplin, MO
08.2012 - 05.2015
- Kept library shelves and printed materials well-stocked and organized according to established system.
- Catalogued and sorted books and library materials.
- Processed customer fines and educated individual patrons on ways to minimize future charges.
- Served on technology committee.
- Promoted literacy by hosting book fairs twice each year.
- Stayed abreast of latest trends and strategies in field by attending conferences.
Title 1 Reading Teacher and Preschool Aide
College Heights Christian School
Joplin, MO
08.2011 - 05.2012
- Implemented engaging instructional strategies to foster a positive learning environment.
- Coordinated literacy events to promote community engagement and parental involvement in education.
- Established positive learning environments by fostering strong rapport with students.
Library Media Specialist, Grades K-8
Avilla R-13 School
Avilla, MO
08.1998 - 06.2010
- Developed and implemented innovative library programs to enhance student engagement and literacy.
- Curated diverse collections of resources tailored to meet curricular needs and student interests.
- Collaborated with educators to integrate information literacy skills into classroom instruction.
- Established welcoming atmosphere within library space.
- Promoted literacy by organizing engaging local celebrity readers, reading celebrations, and reading incentive programs.
- Hosted workshops focused on digital citizenship and internet safety for students in conjunction with the county DARE officer.
- Managed library budget, ensuring acquisition of diverse materials aligned with curricular needs and student interests.
- Stayed abreast of latest trends and strategies in field by reading trade publications and attending conferences.
- Implemented user-friendly cataloging sustem to increase accessibility and utilization of library resources.
- Took on role of effectively troubleshooting PC's, software, printers, and other equipment for entire design department.
- Coordinated school-wide participation in statewide reading programs, celebrating student success and promoting love for reading.
- Assisted students in locating and using library resources and assisted teachers with materials needed to enrich classroom instruction.
- Assisted library patrons with resolving computer problems.
- Catalogued and sorted books and library materials.
- Catalogued and organized books, materials and other documents for proper library management.
- Collaborated with teachers by scheduling library activities and procuring resources.
- Developed and executed yearly budgets to purchase yearly acquisition of books, periodicals, supplies and computer software and hardware.
- Instructed students and staff in research processes and understanding copyright, fair use and licensing of intellectual property.
- Promoted literacy by hosting book fairs twice each year.
Classroom Teacher, Grades 4-6
Miller Elementary School
Miller, MO
08.1993 - 05.1998
- Planned lessons, activities and trips to cover all required course material.
- Provided timely feedback on assignments, allowing students to learn from mistakes and improve their performance.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities, staying current on best practices in education and refining instructional techniques accordingly.
Education
Master of Science - Education - Reading
Missouri State University
Springfield, MO05-1998
Bachelor of Science - Education
Missouri State University
Springfield, MO12-1992
Skills
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Client relationships
- Team collaboration
- Verbal and written communication
- Reading promotion
- Works well independently
- Friendly
- Approachable
Affiliations
Member of Missouri Association of School Librarians (MASL) since 1998.
Timeline
Library Media Specialist, Grades K-12
Miller R-2 Schools
08.2022 - Current
Classroom Teacher, Grade 5
Miller Elementary School
08.2021 - 05.2022
Science & Social Studies Teacher, Grades 3-5
Avilla R-13 School District
08.2018 - 05.2021
Title 1 Reading Teacher, Part Time Grades 1-3
Avilla R-13 School District
08.2017 - 05.2018
Library Media Specialist, Grades K-12
College Heights Christian School
08.2012 - 05.2015
Title 1 Reading Teacher and Preschool Aide
College Heights Christian School
08.2011 - 05.2012
Library Media Specialist, Grades K-8
Avilla R-13 School
08.1998 - 06.2010
Classroom Teacher, Grades 4-6
Miller Elementary School
08.1993 - 05.1998
Master of Science - Education - Reading
Missouri State University
Bachelor of Science - Education
Missouri State University