The PTA and School have recently received questions about the request that students bring headphones to their library classes. Below are some clarifications, as well as background information about the Grade 1 - 5  Library Classes led by Ms. Montagna.
Note that PS20 is a PYP IB candidacy school. 

Headphones

If you would like to supply your child with their own headphones, here are some recommendations. The school uses headphones with standard 3.5 mm audio jacks: https://a.co/d/8rVyNdn  or https://a.co/d/cYy2S7M 

While they will try their best, your child's teacher, the library teacher or the school cannot be held responsible for keeping headphones safe. Please keep that in mind when purchasing and sending in headphones.

If your child cannot bring in headphones or forgets, the school has access to a number of high-quality headphones for students. They are stored in the library and cleaned in-between classes using sanitary wipes and a UV-C Sanitizer Box.  

About the Library Classes

• Library Classes are offered to Grades 1-5. During library visits, literacy is promoted through read-aloud sessions with books that align with the IB PYP Learner Profile attributes and the IB PYP Attitudes, while incorporating Reading with Purpose and the 5 Keys to Storytelling.
  
  
• Digital Literacy and Digital Citizenship
  The importance of learning how to be responsible digital citizens is promoted through the use of computers, as well as audiobooks, as part of library classes.
  
  
• Research Skills
  Students develop research skills geared toward their IB Units of Study by using books, periodicals, and the Internet.
  
  
• Multicultural Competency
  Diversity, tradition, culture, and language are explored, shared and discussed through literature, research, and geography. Spanish vocabulary is incorporated into discussions to promote exposure to additional languages.

Here is another resource, an article that explains a little more about librarians at IB schools: https://www.ibo.org/ib-world-archive/may-2011-issue-62/between-the-pages/

If there are any more questions or concerns, please contact the PTA Board at board@ps20.org, and we will work closely with Ms Blyden to respond to you.