Breakout Block 2 Sessions

Sunday, March 9, 2024 - 3:00 – 3:50pm

  • Growing Readers at the Library: a Reading Tutoring Program
    • Presenter(s): Allison McLean & Sonya Overman

    • Description: Elkhart Public Library's reading tutoring program has directly impacted over one hundred struggling readers in the past three years. Former teachers work one-on-one with kids from age three to the start of third grade to bring them up to reading on grade level. Learn what we have done to make the program successful and let us help you envision a way to make this possible at your library.

  • Thematic Programming for DEIJA Celebrations

    • Presenter(s): Justine Carlotta

    • Description: Thematic Programming provides a flexible framework for creating engaging and culturally rich learning experiences by combining a central theme with a featured person, group, or event. By using the formula THEME + FEATURE = PLAY, educators can design immersive programs across a variety of topics, from music and art to STEM and folktales. For example, explore Juneteenth through graffiti art and hip-hop, celebrate AAPI culture with anime and manga, or introduce coding by highlighting leaders in tech. This approach encourages learning alongside children while celebrating diverse achievements and traditions. Suggested professional readings offer guidance on fostering inclusive and meaningful discussions.

  • STEM Programming for Everyone

    • Presenter(s): Kelli Debikey & Jessica McKinney

    • Description: We will discuss and expand what you think of as STEM programming. You will walk away from this session with STEM program ideas and curriculum that are ready to go. We will discuss how to implement STEM into programming that you are already doing for pre-K through upper elementary. You will be given opportunities to brainstorm with peers and to "play" with science.

  • The Read Aloud Indiana Book Awards: What We Do, How We Do It, and Why It Matters for You

    • Presenter(s): Malissa Hostetler

    • Description: The Read Aloud Indiana committee will share how they curate their five age level lists, Primary, Upper Elementary, Middle Grade, High School, and Ageless, and how you can use them in your school or library. We'll share favorites from the 2025 lists and give examples of ways to use Read Alouds at every age and listening level. And, as always, we'll make sure to save time to read to you and to answer any questions you have for us! This session is geared toward public youth services librarians, school librarians, teachers, and anyone with the opportunity to bring people together with Read Alouds.

  • Winter Reading
    • Presenter(s): Jessi Brown
    • Description: Winter Reading is a well-established tradition in libraries, having been practiced for many years. However, there is always room for fresh perspectives and new ideas. Join Jessi Brown of the Huntington City-Township Public Library for a brief presentation on Winter Reading, where she will share successful examples from her own library. The remainder of the session will be dedicated to audience participation, allowing attendees to share their own experiences and strategies. By the end of the session, participants will leave with new ideas and inspiration for enhancing their next Winter Reading program.