Rotella Interdistrict Magnet School:
Library Media Center Site Review
Betsy Tymosko
Professor Shteirman
ILS 562
September 29, 2014
Tymosko 2
Introduction:
Mrs. Margaret Riley is the Library Media Specialist for Rotella Interdistrict Magnet
School, in Waterbury Connecticut. She is fortunate enough to have the assistance of both Mrs.
Victoria Lanouette, a Library Technician and Mrs. Martha Thomas a Library Paige. I performed
my site visits with interview on September 23
rd
and September 25
th
. During these visits I easily
understood why In 2007 Rotella was awarded the Dr. Ronald P. Simpson Distinguished Merit
Award, a top award in nation given to only one magnet school a year, and Mrs. Gina Calabrese,
a former principal was awarded Principal of the Year Award in 2011 by the Magnet Schools of
America. According to Magnet Schools of America the National Magnet School Principal of the
Year is awarded . . . for their exemplary contributions made to their profession and has
demonstrated excellence in the following four areas: promoting equity and diversity among
students and staff within their magnet school; providing equitable academic success for all
students; leadership implementing and sustaining an innovative magnet program; and evidence
of leadership within their school district and the magnet community (www.magnet.edu).
Immediately upon entering the doors of this school it is easy to ascertain the high
creativity level of the study body, and staff. The aesthetically pleasing building and grounds is
only surpassed by the artwork and the smiling faces.
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City of Waterbury:
The city of Waterbury, in the New Haven County, is conveniently accessed by both
Interstate I-84 and Route 8 and is located only thirty three miles southwest of Connecticuts
capital, Hartford and only seventy seven miles northeast of popular New York City. The citys
diverse cultural and religious population of 110,336 which lives in 28.9 square miles of land
makes it not only the fifth largest city in Connecticut, but also the ninth largest city found in
New England.
At one time Waterbury was well known for its role as the center of our nations brass
industry and nick named the Brass City. In the late 1900s the Brass City suffered a terrible
economic decline which much of its residents still suffer the toll even today. The Brass City,
was labeled as having the worst quality of life by Money Magazine in 1992, named one of the
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ten worst places to live in 1999 by the Placed Rated Almanac, and determined to be the worst
place for business or careers in 2008 by Forbes Magazine.
Despite the citys economic lows its public officials have been leading the city in one
directionforward. Today, Waterbury is known for its advanced technology capabilities,
historic architecture and . . . most importantly, its strong communities and neighborhoods
(www.waterburyct.org) *.+ This forward drive is meant not only to bring its business to the
forefront but most importantly its schools. To date all of its public high schools with the
exception of Waterbury Arts Magnet School (which is near the state average) and Kaynor
Technical College (listed on U.S. News Best Schools list) have still been below the state average
according to the U.S. News and World Report website.
The Waterbury Board of Education has pledged to make the Waterbury Public School
District the leader in the state for urban education reform, performance improvement, and
efficiency( www.waterburyct.org ). An entirely 100% urban district their Public School System
consists of a total of twenty elementary schools, three middle schools, three high schools, one
middle/high school, one alternative education school (Wilson Alternative School) and one
learning center (the Enlightenment School) that serves approximately 18,000 children.
Waterbury is home to public campuses/centers for higher learning such as Naugatuck
Valley Community College, Post University, University of Connecticut, University of Bridgeport,
and Western Connecticut State University. The citys convenient location in the region offers a
great opportunity to its residents With *m+ore than 40 institutions of higher education,
including Yale, Wesleyan, Quinnipiac University, UCONN, Fairfield University, University of
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Hartford and the four campuses of Connecticut State University . . . located about an hour from
Waterbury [it offers great educational opportunities to its residents+ (www.waterburyct.org).
The once thriving Brass City, still offers many tourist attractions that highlights the rich
cultural and religious diversity of the region. Among its most popular attractions are the
renovated 1920 historic landmark The Palace Theater, restored Holy Land USA and The
Mattatuck, Timeexpo, and Railroad Museums.
School Demographics:
The following demographics were retrieved using State Department of Education CEDaR
data, and Rotella Interdistrict Magnet School strategic profile reports for the 2010-2011 school
year.
Rotella Interdistrict Magnet School:
Serves grades PK-5
School population: 615 students
46% male 54% female students
51% of student population minority students vs. 39% for state average
Majority of minority population is Hispanic 26% vs. 61% White for state average
2% of students not fluent in English vs. 8.1% for state average
6.3% of students have disabilities vs. 11.2 % for state average
0% identified as gifted and talented vs. 2% for state average
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97.4% of Special Education students who spend over 79% of time
with non-disabled peers vs. 79.2% state average
57.3% of Grade 3 Students Meeting State Goal Reading vs. 49.6% state
71.9% of Grade 3 Students Meeting State Goal Writing vs. 69.9% state
64% of Grade 3 Students Meeting State Goal Math vs. 51.7% state
55.3% of Grade 4 Students Meeting State Goal Reading vs. 36.4% state
71.9% of Grade 4 Students Meeting State Goal Writing vs. 63.4% state
63.4% of Grade 4 Students Meeting State Goal Math vs. 45.4% state
70.7% of Grade 5 Students Meeting State Goal Reading vs. 54.7% state
68.4% of Grade 5 Students Meeting State Goal Writing vs. 54.2% state
79.3% of Grade 5 Students Meeting State Goal Math vs. 64.6% state
62.1% of Grade 5 Students Meeting State Goal Science vs. 48.8% state
Teacher population: 38 teachers
5.9% staff are minority vs. 40.9% state average
95.1% staff with Masters or above vs. to 81.8% state average
15.9 average years of teaching experience vs. 13.7 state
$66,399 teacher salary vs. 67,878 state average
Student teacher ratio 16:1 vs. 13:1 state average
1.7 students per computer vs. 2.7 for state
100% computers with internet access vs. 98.1% for state
100% computers with High or Moderate Power vs. 93.5% for state
19.5 # of Print Volumes Per Student vs. 29.7 for state
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8 # of Print Periodical Subscriptions vs 10 for state
School Environment
This state funded Magnet School provides admission and transportation services to the
districts of Waterbury, Wolcott, Thomaston, Terryville, Plymouth and Naugatuck. Admission is
based on a lottery system that is performed the year prior to entrance around the month of
March. Students are notified shortly after if they obtained a seat, within their district, through
the lottery or if at least were added to the waiting list. Students from other towns may also
apply if there are seat vacancies available within the participating districts but if admitted must
provide own privately funded transportation. Once admitted students are allowed to remain to
keep their seats through the 5
th
grade without having to reapply. Admission to one of the
regions elementary magnet schools does not guarantee admission to the servicing region
magnet middle/high school (6
th
thru 12
th
)all students wanting to gain admission to the
Waterbury Arts Magnet School must again gain admission by a lottery.
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The school is beautiful not only in aesthetic design but functionality. In addition
to the district curriculum a Magnet School offers a specialized program. Rotella offers an
integrated arts curriculum, where teaching and learning is integrated through an arts approach
(www.waterbury.k12.ct.us).
Integration of the Arts:
It STARts with the ARTS, is the Rotella School motto. The children know and adhere to the
star, philosophy not only for a Positive Behavioral Intervention Support incentive (i.e., raffles
or passes) but most importantly because it enriches their academic and extracurricular lives.
These students are given the opportunities each day of the year (academic calendar, after
school programs and summer programs) to learn through their diligently crafted integrated fine
art curriculum. The students participate in many classroom project-based activities (i.e., dance,
music, theatre, and art) as well as create and contribute to many community art pieces as well.
Some that can be found lining the hall, walls and shelves of the school itself. A large
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auditorium where students gather not only in morning and afternoon for bus duty and
recitation of school motto and special recognitions, but also holds a beautiful stage where the
children build confidence, self-awareness and self-esteem through art and performances.
Library Media Center:
Rotella serves Pre-K through 5
th
grade. All students including Preschoolers have allotted
(blocked times) for the Arts, however blocked library media center, and informational
technology is only for grades K-5. Preschoolers are allotted thirty minutes of integrated art,
music and drama while kindergartners through 5
th
grade students have allotted blocked visits
to different parts of the building including library media center for forty-five minutes.
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Beautifully designed areas for art, music, library and informational technology along with art
integrated classroom teaching ensures this school is following its motto.
The Library Media Center weekly blocked time is for student interaction with library
staff, familiarizing self with procedures and library use (i.e., education, leisure, enjoyment), and
a place for interactive art driven curriculum lessons given by the Library Media Specialist, Mrs.
Riley.
In addition to the Library Media Center students also have forty five minutes blocked
once a week for Information Technology with Mrs. Angela Calo where children work with
current media events i.e., having a live video conference with Astronaut Rick Mastracchio,
working on collaborated library and classroom projects i.e., Black History Month, and National
Hispanic Heritage Month. All library patrons use book shelf markers, memorization of assigned
library card numbers and a tape labeled Xs and arrows leading to and from the circulation desk
which children follow diligently. Kindergarten through 2
nd
graders have assigned
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shelving/books easily positioned in the center rows of the library while the 3
rd
through 5
th
graders have access to entire collections and computer catalogue where they can access and
request materials.
Each grade enters with their classroom teacher or aid, greets the staff then take seats at
assigned tables where they await for their names and permission to go to shelves to look and
take out their books. Students are encouraged to immerse themselves in the selection of their
books with the use of book shelf markers. With three people always staffing the Library Media
Center and blocked times for students it is a very fast paced, organized and offers a lot of
opportunity for 1:1 student/teacher interaction. Mrs. Thomas, the Library Paige and Mrs.
Lanoutte, the library technician help reinforce and ensure the formal process around the
circulation desk is properly performed. X marks the spot, besides the wonderful labeling
around the circulation desk which keeps things moving in an orderly, uncongested fashion the
labeling at the ends and tops of book shelves i.e., grade levels and fiction vs. non-fiction allows
children the ownership and accountability needed to instill responsibility.
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With Mrs. Lanouette and Mrs. Thomas handling the formalities of checking in and out of
the childrens collections Mrs. Riley and I were completely free to assist children on a 1:1
individual basis. It was nice to see the children using their book markers and skimming the
pages and pictures to make sure 1)they could read it and 2)they think they would enjoy it. OF
course there were some to choose a book based on its cover, but the majority showed great
concern with the content and performed their searches quit methodically. It was amazing to
witness so many children exude such excitement yet at the same time so disciplined. Taking
turns at shelves, diligently using bookmarks to hold the place of a book while they perused its
pages politely stepping aside or waiting for their classmates. The ideal use of spacelarge
areas between book racks, assigned seating at tables (that sit four) with ample space in
between, the large circulation desk with the tape not only to mark the spot but set up to leave
plenty of room/space between patrons. Everything was carefully planned for efficiency not
only in time, but behavior. From entrance to exit the school rules are reinforced through
playful songs and rhymes which the students not only enjoy reciting but follow.
They asked for suggestions and assistance as needed and were orderly and kind to each
other as they freely looked through their designated stacks. The only talking was genuinely
about the bookswhich was really nice to witness. This entire process because it is so well
organized takes less than ten fifteen minutes from start to finish allowing a full 30-35 minutes
for Mrs. Riley to engage and complete an always very enjoyable interactive lesson.
During my observations I was able to sit in on three classes each day. Mrs. Riley used a
number of interactive tools to engage and incorporate the arts i.e., charts cue cards, smart-
board, books, videos, websites, music etc. Mrs. Riley incorporates a lot of kinesthetic body
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movement in her teachings and reinforcement which I would love to emulate in my own library
read aloud assignment.
For instance, stand up and take a bow, for answering something correct that is above
average for their grade level, walk through secret passageway, to reading rug, stand up and
show me what the character did to show they were angry etc.
I have been an avid proponent of Gardners Multiple Intelligence Theory and have tried
to incorporate many of the learning styles into my own classroom teaching through the years, I
always enjoy watching and learning from other teachers perform these tasks so effortlessly.
As I reflect on the pictures I included that relay the beauty, organization, and creativity
of the LMC nothing compared to when it is filled with its students using and enjoying it.
Mrs. Riley is fabulous and does get the kids up and moving as many of the visiting staff
let me know during interviews and is easily construed by all of her interactive teachings. I
especially enjoyed how a first grade class (upon request from a previous viewing) sang and
danced their way from table to line in a very fun yet orderly fashion to Happy by Pharrell
Williams accompanied by the students of Stone Ranch Elementary in California via a you tube
video (www.youtube.com/watch?v=6tRK7ewdfIo). The videos description included the
following description:
Stone Ranch Elementary version of Pharrell Williams' "Happy" video which spotlights teachers,
staff, parents and students celebrating their incredible learning community
(www.youtube.com).
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*Collection Analysis (by 100s)
Rotella Interdistrict Magnet Elementary School
The Hundred Divisions Average
Year Age
Items % of Collection
000 Generalities 1996 60 0.56%
100 Philosophy and Psychology 1991 43 0.40%
200 Religion 1994 115 1.07%
300 Social Sciences 1994 783 7.30%
400 Language 1996 63 0.59%
500 Natural Sciences/Mathematics 1996 1221 11.38%
600 Technology 1996 573 5.00%
700 The Arts 1997 956 8.91%
800 Literature and Rhetoric 1994 312 2.91%
900 Geography and History 1998 928 8.65%
Hundred Division Totals 1996 5018 46.76%
Additional Category Listings Average
Year Age
Items % of Collection
General Fiction 1998 1659 15.46%
Reference 2007 125 1.16%
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Biography 1996 1131 10.54%
Professional 1998 191 1.78%
Story Collection 1993 32 0.30%
Paperback 2004 129 1.20%
Easy 1996 2447 22.80%
Additional Category Listing Totals 1997 5714 53.24%
Average Year Age for Entire Collection 1997
Total Items for Entire Collection 10372
*current as of May 2014
Conclusion:
Rotella certainly is another . . . incredible learning community (www.youtube.com),
that the students and staff enjoy working and learning in. It is not just the art integration into
the schools curriculum that has given this school the edge over its neighboring schools, but the
creation of a school environment and implementation of learning methods/styles that meet the
needs of a socioeconomically diverse population of students.
The classrooms as well as the Library Media Center is very curriculum driven, and the
students are fortunate to have access to so many tools. Besides the physical location of the
LMC students also have internet access to their librarys collection via the website where
students can view and read e-books and take advantage of the many educational interactive
subscriptions such as Raz-Kids and Brain Pop.
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The aesthetically pleasing and open atmosphere make it not only a welcoming
environment but encourages and enhances learning. From the A-Z reading rug in front of
picturesque views of a beautifully landscaped courtyard to the integrated technology of a
smart-board with a photo capturing device one can easily see that the library is one of
Waterburys best. However, the concerted efforts, organization and experience of faculty like
Mrs. Lanouette, Mrs. Thomas and Mrs. Riley is what had made this particular magnet school
one of the best in the Nation.
This is definitely a Library Media Center I would enjoy working in and would enjoy if a
student entering its doorways. The ceiling to floor ceilings provide a very naturalistic
environment that is serene and inspiring. The staff is friendly, accommodating and
knowledgeable. A separate reference/material selection for teachers is available for teachers
near the circulation desk that includes not only subject matter but tips for classroom
management as well such as Tools for Teaching, and The First Days of School.
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Unquestionably Rotellas Library Media Center and Mrs. Riley not only meet, but surpass
the needs of a uniquely diverse population.
It takes a special person to give the children more than books and
Mrs. Riley does that and much more. ~ Mrs. OConner
Its always organized and there is always someone to help the students and teachers.
~Vicky
I think it is wonderful. ~ Leda
Can see kids really enjoy themselves
~ Ermonela Xhafai
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Works Cited
"ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT." Economic Development. N.p., n.d. Web. 29 Sept. 2014.
<http://www.waterburyct.org/content/9588/default.aspx>.
"EDUCATION." Education In Waterbury. City of Waterbury.
http://www.waterburyct.org/education N.p., n.d. Web. 19 Sept. 2014.
"Issues. People. Events." History Of The Brass Industry In Waterbury. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 Sept.
2014. <http://www.waterburyobserver.org/node/130>.
"OUR MISSION." Rotella Interdistrict Magnet School. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 Sept. 2014.
<http://www.waterbury.k12.ct.us/school_home.aspx?schoolid=24>.
"MSA Principal of the Year Program." 2015 Magnet Principal of the Year Program. N.p., n.d.
Web. 23 Sept. 2014. <http://www.magnet.edu/awards/2015-magnet-poy-program>.
Magnet School Lottery Information for Waterbury Elementary Schools. N.p., n.d. Web. 25
Sept. 2014
"QUICK LINKS." Rotella Interdistrict Magnet School. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 Sept. 2014.
<http://www.waterbury.k12.ct.us/school_profile.aspx?schoolID=24>.
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"QUICK LINKS." Rotella Interdistrict Magnet School. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 Sept. 2014.
<http://www.waterbury.k12.ct.us/content_page2.aspx?schoolid=24&cid=852>.
"Rotella Interdistrict Magnet School." Public School Review, n.d. Web. 21 Sept. 2014.
<http://www.publicschoolreview.com/school_ov/school_id/16273>.
"State Department of Education - CEDaR." State Department of Education - CEDaR. N.p., n.d.
Web. 19 Sept. 2014.
<http://sdeportal.ct.gov/Cedar/WEB/ct_report/LibraryMediaTechnology.aspx>.
US News. U.S.News & World Report, n.d. Web. 25 Sept. 2014.
<http://www.usnews.com/education/best-high-
schools/connecticut/rankings?int=c0b4c1>.
"Waterbury, Connecticut." (CT 06702) Profile: Population, Maps, Real Estate, Averages, Homes,
Statistics, Relocation, Travel, Jobs, Hospitals, Schools, Crime, Moving, Houses, News, Sex
Offenders. N.p., n.d. Web. 19 Sept. 2014.
"Waterbury, CT Street Map." Waterbury Road Map, Waterbury Map. N.p., n.d. Web. 25 Sept.
2014. <http://mailamap.com/street_maps/138/waterbury-ct>.
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"Waterbury, Connecticut." Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation. Web. 25 Sept. 2014.
<http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waterbury%2C_Connecticut>.
