Information for the University MLS Practicum Student

  • Congratulations on deciding to work on a Master of Library Science degree.  Not only do you have an opportunity to engage with students is a variety of ways, but with the inclusion of both technology, art, and makerspaces (STEAM) into libraries, every day is a new adventure!

     - partnering with Denton ISD -

Steps to Request a Mentor

    • Contact the Coordinator of Library Services via email to express your interest in obtaining a mentor.
    • Upon receiving approval from the Coordinator, review and fulfill all requirements outlined on the Denton Human Resources website for Denton ISD Clinical Teaching, Observation, & Practicum Applicants.
    • Following the successful completion of your criminal background check and subject to mentor availability, the Coordinator will provide you with further information and instructions regarding the next steps in the process.

Best Practices for Interns

    • Current district employees must complete all internship hours outside their regular contract hours. This policy remains unchanged. Interns should plan to utilize personal time to fulfill the required internship hours.
    • Given that librarian certification in Texas encompasses Kindergarten through 12th grade, it is essential that interns gain experience at educational levels different from their teaching background. While librarians at all levels focus on students' literacy needs, the implementation varies significantly across elementary, middle, and high school settings. The Texas Administrative Code mandates 160 practicum hours, which can be distributed in either a 70/30 or 60/20/20 ratio. The latter option requires interns to allocate time across elementary, middle, and high school levels.
    • Mentor selection is governed by university and state internship guidelines. While efforts are made to place interns at sites near their residence or campus to minimize travel time, it may not always be feasible to locate a qualified mentor who meets state requirements in close geographic proximity to the intern.
    • Recent updates to ethical guidelines now include specific provisions for Intern Site Supervisors. We are committed to ensuring compliance with these guidelines in all internship placements.
    • Our goal is to support the professional development of both practicum students and staff while adhering to the requirements set forth by our governing boards.

    Practicum Activities for Denton ISD Librarian Interns

    • The librarians of Denton ISD have compiled a robust list of competencies essential for candidates seeking employment within and beyond Denton ISD. These skills reflect the routine responsibilities and key aspects of the school librarian's role as outlined in our job description.

      The practicum evaluation checklist encompasses, but is not limited to, observing the candidate's proficiency in the following areas:

      • Instructional Delivery: Demonstrating a diverse range of instructional methodologies with adept application of advanced pedagogical techniques.
      • Information Ethics: Addressing topics such as digital wellness, digital citizenship, copyright compliance, fair use practices, student research methodologies, and proper source citation.
      • Resource Curation: Managing and organizing both print and digital materials effectively.
      • Library Operations: Proficiency in circulation procedures, catalog management, and processing of various materials, equipment, and acquisitions.
      • Collection Development: Participating in the expansion and refinement of library resources, as well as contributing to special library initiatives as required.
      • Collaborative Planning: Observing and participating in planning sessions between the librarian and teaching staff for integrated lesson development.
      • Emerging Technologies: Engaging with current trends such as video production, multimedia creation, 3D printing, and makerspace activities.
      • Digital Presence and Engagement: Discussing appropriate social media utilization and creating impactful visual displays.
      • Literacy Promotion: Strategizing methods to foster a culture of reading and literacy within the school community.
      • Financial Management: Understanding and participating in budgeting processes.
      • Stakeholder Engagement: Conducting and analyzing surveys to gather feedback from the school community.

    • It is our goal that you are an exemplary library candidate and in the best position to obtain a library job. If you have any questions, please contact Denton ISD Library Services.