Hope Hunter

How do you continue to grow as an educator? 

I jump at available opportunities for any professional development events. As the librarian, staying current on curriculum changes, priority standards in all grade levels and content areas, and library-specific professional development is essential.  I subscribe to professional journals and magazines that help me stay current on state and national trends and give me ideas to bring to our school and how to support current building and district initiatives.  I have also developed a robust learning network with teachers and librarians across the state whom I can contact based on my needs.   

How do you create a classroom environment where students are actively engaged in their learning and feel empowered to take ownership of their education? 

Building relationships is the most important way I create a positive classroom environment.  I am fortunate to work with all the students and all the teachers, and I want all stakeholders to know they are welcome in the library space.  To that end, I empower the teachers and staff to take ownership of the space by ensuring they understand the organization of the Library and all the resources available above and beyond books.  I also teach them how to interact with our library management system so they can practice self-service in the Library.   This supports my work with students because teachers are eager and excited to be in the Library, so they model and encourage enthusiasm for Library visits. 

I work very hard to learn all 720+ student names and make efforts to get to know them personally.  Students must know they can always receive help in the Library for any need.  During instruction, I make learning fun and as interactive as possible.  I collaborate with classroom teachers to ensure that all students, regardless of ability, can participate and succeed in the learning objective.  Students have many freedoms in the Library and are offered choices for learning opportunities during each visit.  I frequently ask student opinions and seek their feedback on what is provided through my programs.   

Who or what inspires you as an educator? 

Every colleague, teacher and librarian I have the opportunity to work with are inspirational.  I’m surrounded by so much talent!  I love visiting classrooms and watching teachers engage with students.  They have so many great ideas and are always so willing to share and answer questions!  I try to surround myself with positive, forward-thinking individuals who are excited to learn and implement new ideas, strategies and initiatives.   

The students I serve are another source of inspiration. Their curiosity, creativity, and resilience remind me daily of the importance of the job I do.  Watching them grow, overcome challenges, and achieve their goals is incredibly rewarding and motivates me to continually improve my teaching practices and look for innovative ways to support their academic and personal success. 

How do you mentor new teachers? What advice would you give to someone starting out in the profession? 

Again, building relationships is of primary importance.  I personally introduce myself to new teachers and staff and continue to check-in with them through the year, so at the very least they know they have a person and supporter in the building.  I heavily promote the Library as an “answer spot,” and am able to provide the information teachers need or guide them to the appropriate person or document.  I offer many collaborative teaching opportunities so new teachers can have support in instruction and have someone to model strong and innovative instructional practices.   

 The biggest piece of advice I can give anyone starting in this profession is to not be afraid to ask for help.  The first couple of years in this profession can be brutal and overwhelming and it takes a whole team to be successful.  No one has to try to do this alone, but they do need to establish relationships and not be afraid to show vulnerability and ask for help to grow. 

Outside of the classroom, what are your passions and hobbies? 

I love to read, of course, but outside that I love outdoor activities such as kayaking and hiking.  I also love opportunities to travel and explore museums around the country.  I have also begun to stretch myself to try to learn new things; some examples of new things I have dabbled in are crocheting, sketching, and gardening.