LIBRARY EXTENDS HOURS
BHS continues student enrichment efforts
By Kelly Griffith-Fields news@bullardnews.com

-- Bullard Banner photos by Kelly Griffith-FIelds Students gather in front of the cappuccino bar to share some drinks and a good book.

The Bullard High School library has implemented a new strategy to get students reading.

"Once you get the students in the library," said Principal Scott Franks, "it betters your odds of them reading."

Cappuccinos are now the incentive for students to cross the threshold.

"Mrs. (Carol) Martin asked me over the summer about getting a cappuccino machine," Franks said. "So we did some research."

Now for a dollar a cup students may enjoy ever-changing flavors such as French vanilla, pumpkin spice and Hershey's double dark chocolate cocoa.

"We absolutely love it," said student Steven Langston.

Cappuccinos are served before and after school as well as during lunch. The proceeds raised go towards trips for the reading club, rewards for students and books.

Students Heather Camp and Marissa Hicks agreed that since adding the cappuccino machine they want to spend more time in the library, which is precisely the point.

Franks said there has also been talk about allowing guitar playing and singing during the lunch hour to pique more student interest.

"Mrs. Martin and Mrs. (Ann) Kyle do a very good job as far as creating interest for students to come to the library," Franks said.

As well as making the library a fun place to hang out Martin will be extending the hours starting Jan. 8.

Parents were surveyed over the summer to learn what they thought would best benefit the students; extended library hours topped the list. The library started by opening its doors earlier each morning.

The students were then surveyed to find which times for extended hours would be best for them and Tuesday evenings were decided.

Starting after the holiday break the library will stay open until 6 p.m. to allow students extra time to work on assignments.

Franks said they will try these extended hours for six weeks and see how it goes. Wednesday evenings are also under consideration.

Franks said the he hopes that at some point the library may also benefit parents and others in the community.

Beginning Jan. 7, students will also be allowed to check out laptop computers for use on school assignments. Eight lap tops are available to be checked out. If more are needed they will be available, Franks said.

The issue arose when students were given assignment required to be typed but many students did not have access to a

computer.

Laptops will not have

Internet but will come equipped with Microsoft programs such as Word, Excel, Access, Power Point and Inspiration.

These new practices spring from roundtable discussions implemented by Franks to get parents and students more involved; to know their ideas and opinions.

For more information on the roundtable meetings, contact principal Scott Franks or assistant principal Cheryl Hendrix at 903-894-3272 or scott.franks@bullardisd.net and cheryl.hendrix@bullardisd.net.

The next roundtable is set for 8 a.m. Jan. 14.