Library
The Serviam Shield, a symbol of our commitment to serve, is worn on all student uniforms. Serving others is a component of every class curriculum. More importantly, the active engagement in service, from Pre-Kindergarten through our expanded middle school community service program, not only plants the Serviam seed in all Mount Merici students toward a greater likelihood that they will become leaders and good stewards in the world as adults but also instills in young children a belief in their own abilities to influence positive change and compassionate improvements in the world around them.
Whether our youngest students are collecting food to benefit the local ‘Weekend Backpack Program’ or contributing their own precious dimes and dollars to the ‘Rice Bowl Program’, they recognize that they are capable of helping to feed children less fortunate than they are and that with some compassion and effort, they can make a difference.
Our 6th and 7th-grade students work diligently every week at the area soup kitchen, food bank, the Muskie Center for elders and disabled adults, here at school, and on a multitude of fulfilling service projects.
Our 8th-grade students draw from the wealth of their previous years of service work to create a year-long senior service project based on their own individual interests. so that they leave Mount Merici Academy with a clear understanding of their abilities to extend their hearts and hands by contributing their own individual gifts in their communities and in the world-at-large. At Mount Merici Academy, every child learns what it feels like to make a difference.
Learn About the Library Curriculum
PreK Through Grade Two
Library time begins with a story at all grade levels. Choosing which book to read depends on a number of variables. First, the grade level of the class is considered. In grades PreK and kindergarten, a picture book is chosen. Sometimes the book will highlight a particular issue, such as getting along with each other. For instance, if children have been arguing on the recess playground, a book might be read that deals with friends cooperating and working out differences together. Christian values such as kindness, love, caring and respect are often threaded into the stories and discussed. Many times, humorous stories are read for fun. Holiday stories are always enjoyed at holiday times. In grades one and two, more advanced picture books are read and chapter books are introduced. This gets many of the students interested in some of the more popular\beginning level chapter books that are available in the library. Students will also learn about and read nonfiction books. This helps them get an idea of what we have in the library collection, as well as enrich topics they are currently studying in their respective classrooms. At all levels, library skills are taught periodically throughout the year so that students know how to use a library for both research and enjoyment.
Grades Three Through Five
In grades three through five, a variety of texts are read. Students will read picture books, chapter books, graphic novels, and sample novels with First Chapter Book Tastings. This is a wonderful way to get the older students interested in new authors or perhaps a certain genre of books such as mystery or historical fiction.
Junior High School Library
The library for the middle school is available to all students wishing to conduct research or simply to choose a book for their enjoyment. The library is a great resource that can help students to develop skills in critical thinking, writing, and overall lifetime learning.
Statement of Philosophy – Library
Library time is meant to provide students with two basics: one being to enhance a child’s joy of reading and the other to learn the mechanics of using a library. In learning to use the library, respect, cooperation, consideration, and responsibility are continually discussed and stressed.
Library Management Plan
The library is a walking place.
Please use an inside voice.
Please respect our books.
Positive Reinforcement for Appropriate Behavior
Verbal praise
Classroom teacher informed of a good library time
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Consequences of Inappropriate Behavior
Verbal reminder of rules
Classroom teacher notified of behavior
Loss of following week’s library time