Effective Collaboration:
Media Coordinators and Classroom Teachers
Joseph R. Poletti

INTRODUCTION
We are in a critical time for media and technology programs in North Carolina's K-12 schools.  At the same time the wealth of resources (print, digital, human) is expanding, budgets for human infrastructure and staff development are shrinking.  Moreover, high stakes testing is driving a return to a traditional, "by-the-book" pedagogical paradigm for many teachers. More than ever, we in media and technology must strive not only to demonstrate but also to define curricular relevance.  If we do not capitalize on the opportunity that still exists--the opportunity for us to remain visionaries, innovators, pioneers, and collaborators--then might we be easily replaced by automatons and tech support?  

I have been fortunate in my career to have collaborated on a variety of rich resources for North Carolina teachers.  Six years ago, I helped to bring about Learning Environments for the New Century (LENC) in Carteret County Schools.  LENC is still recognized as a successful model of curriculum and technology integration. and over 160 teachers have participated in the LENC experience.  

Several years ago, I worked with EstuaryLive to help bring about the largest field trip ever.  I also helped bring content experts to classrooms and media centers throughout the state via  Town Meetings by Teachers Connect.  The Town Meeting archives still exist as a credible resource for primary information on Hurricanes, Reed Gold Mine, Cherokee Museum, Blackbeard, Biltmore House, and children's authors--among other topics.  Just under two years ago, I collaborated on EastNet educational chats from the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores that focused on Loggerhead Turtles, Maintaining Aquariums and "Snakes and Gators."

From these and other experiences, I have come to appreciate the value of professional collaboration to benefit student learning.  Against this backdrop, I set out on my journey to participate in and document good educational practice that flows from collaboration between media/technology personnel and teachers.

On to East Carteret High School...