Jean Darnell: Awaken Librarian!

I had this EUREKA idea over the winter break: I want students to CHECK OUT THEIR DREAMS! When I was younger, I dabbled in all sorts of things. I played the cello, played basketball, drew images, designed all sorts of stuff within the walls of my mind. So...I thought how can I attract those sparks of ingenuity with MY kids?! Here's my answer: for the month of January, there will be an "80s Fashion Design" contest going on in the library. Here's a sign-up sheet that explains in details the rules. It's the same QR code for the sign-up form in the slideshow presentation. I am only available Tuesday-Thursday for design times during the last 90 minutes of the school day. You can choose your time on the sign-up sheet. As always students, you can email me any questions. In the meantime, check out these new library books and enjoy Langston's DRIP...😎🧥 P.S. I don't own the music or rights to any Stranger Things images. I downloaded a free 20 secon

In May 2022, I spoke briefly on this blog about Teachers Not Being Okay , and now I'm following up with " All I Can Do ," which is an article I wrote on gun violence. Just below is the article in its entirety. Thank you to the American Federation of Teachers' Union (AFT) for giving me a place to release this internal torture that is surviving a school shooting and the PTSD scars that never fade. I dedicate this article to all of the educators, students and surviving family members that unwillingly perished due to preventable gun violence. Replace "thoughts and prayers" with strict policies to prohibit "civilian access to military weapons." Until then, those words ring hollow because we can help ourselves out of this nightmare. Along with my article and within this same issue, are other perspectives and suggestions to finally end this senseless suffering as it relates to gun violence. I implore you to read every one. Thank you in advance.

Whether you celebrate Bohdi Day or Kwanzaa, this month's newsletter is stuffed with all sorts of goodies to make your holidays cheerful and bright! Enjoy!  

  ¡Felíz Día de los Muertos! Today, we celebrate the lives of our Ancestors in my culture. I do it always, but especially today. On October 26, 2022, I lost my beloved Aunt Pearl. She loved to cook, laugh and dance. On the outside, she held it together. However, she also tried mightily to survive domestic violence [1.800.799.7233, Domestic Violence Hotline.  Click here  for shelter information in the state of TX]. So many of our households suffer due to that dirty secret. She's at peace and free. I will remember her always and tenderly in my heart. She taught me so much about cooking and devoured my homemade cheesecake every time she could. Here's the my tribute to her:   On a lighter note, here's the November library newsletter with a special feature of Dr. Debbie Reese 's work as a fierce advocate for Indigenous Nations. Here's a wonderful article/interview of Dr. Reese on the topic Book Bans and Native Representation ." Enjoy!     I love you forevermore,

When I tell you that Halloween 2020 about broke my beloved 12 y/o (at that time), I promise you, it's the gospel. This was the 1st time, I allowed him to wear a scary costume AND give out candy. We decorated the bushes, changed the porchlight and purchased 25 lbs of candy...and not a single soul would approach him. He scared them all, grown folks, kiddos and teens. One parent argued he wasn't a kid. After 2 hrs, he came in and sobbed. He begrudgingly accepted that he was too scary. What say you, my friends?? Was he too scary? Before it slips my mind, Happy Birthday, JJ. You're the best soulmate for me! You, your brother, and our connection breathes life into the worst of my days! For those kiddos here looking for directions to the scary story contest, here are the details: Halloween Descriptive Writing Presentation by Eboni Darnell Everyone else, I hope you enjoy this October newsletter. It's full of resources, as always. Enjoy!

I can't preach inclusion, representation and diversity and not look out para mi gente. ! Este es mi primer boletín en Español! !Disfruta! Este es un video sobre la importancia de los hispanoamericanos via una "webinar":