Milton library media specialists outline Future Ready plan, digital resources and outreach

Milton School District library media technology specialists told the Board of Education on March 10 that they are implementing a “future ready” approach across K–12 libraries, expanding digital and makerspace resources and increasing staff-led instructional partnerships.

The presentation, delivered by district library media technology specialists Tina Nording, Sheila Wilcox, Kim Westby, Kelly Minogue and Rhianne Miles, laid out three primary goals: create and implement a K–12 scope and sequence aligned with state guidance, build instructional partnerships with classroom teachers, and expand professional learning for staff. The specialists said the district is pausing final adoption of a K–12 scope-and-sequence until the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) finishes updates to its information and technology literacy standards, and expects to resume the work next year.

Why this matters: the specialists framed libraries as instructional hubs that support equity and access to digital tools, curricular resources and staff training. They described a mix of print and digital collections, districtwide access to ebook and audiobook platforms, and centralized resources meant to ensure every school has comparable materials.

The specialists said the district is using components of the Wisconsin Digital Learning Plan and the Future Ready Library framework. Achievements they described include districtwide digital citizenship lessons at K–6, integration of digital wellness topics in middle school collaborations, and a new Spanish-language database (identified in materials as “Machiemach”) intended to increase Spanish-language reading options. They also reported expanded makerspace resources and four Class VR sets (two new sets added this year, now available across grade levels) to support curriculum connections such as extreme weather, national parks and world festivals.

On teacher support and professional learning, the specialists said they provide just-in-time PD, a district online library resource site (updated this year), and short “tiny tech bite” tutorial videos shared twice a month. The team also said the district purchased Scribe to help create quick how-to guides for teachers. They noted collaboration with the technology department to centralize troubleshooting and instructional tool information.

Presenters showed photographs and examples from school libraries across the district — including read-aloud and book-tasting activities at elementary schools, makerspace and flight-simulator activities at middle school, and research and independent-learning supports at the high school, where a student cadet program helps with displays and circulation. The specialists emphasized equity: “We are streamlining our resources to make sure they are equitable and accessible to all students and staff within the district,” a presenter said during the briefing.

Board members asked how the team wants administrative support; presenters requested assistance with scheduling and time to expand programming. The presentation concluded with the specialists saying they will return next year with a completed K–12 plan once DPI’s updated standards are available. No formal board action was taken on the presentation.

Next steps: the board will revisit the district library plan after DPI publishes updated standards and when the specialists bring a finalized K–12 scope and sequence back to the board for review.