ARCLMS

Program Structure

In order to provide a high quality and accessible instructional experience for all learners, ARCLMS is offered as a blended learning program. It is ideal for teachers who:

• Want a learning experience that emphasizes independent learning
• Learn better in a flexible environment requiring strong organizational skills
• Can leverage online tools to engage in a feedback cycle with the instructor and discourse with colleagues
• Have a high level of skill/comfort with technology tools and web-based applications

Technology is an essential component for cross-endorsement, and the program incorporates the use of a variety of technology tools and resources.  Participants will be required to utilize and master a wide variety of technology tools throughout the program.

This program is non-credit-bearing.

2025-26 Program Hours

Instruction

In order to engage fully as a learner in the ARCLMS program, participants will take part in in-class and online discussions, complete homework assignments, and read assigned texts.  Regular attendance in class, as well as full engagement on the online platform, is required for successful completion of the program. These experiences provide the candidate with essential knowledge and understanding of the work of the library media specialist.

Practicum Experiences

Participants will observe and work alongside experienced library media specialists in the field. Through observation of and collaboration with the host LMS, participants will broaden their understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the position, specifically:

• Standards and dispositions demonstrated in action by the host LMS
• How a library media center functions within schools, within different grade bands and in varying locations
• Challenges facing library media specialists
• Program management and administration responsibilities

Additionally, participants will use these field experiences opportunities to learn more about budgeting practices and processes in different library media programs. Participants will gather information regarding these practices during their interview conversations with the host LMS in order to inform the creation of their own library media center budget.

Participants will integrate literacy and information technology into curricular resources in collaboration with their school’s LMS (or with a classroom teacher, if the participant is currently in the role of the LMS).

Professional Learning

A key role for the library media specialist is to inform, advocate for, and lead continuous learning and professional growth opportunities for other educators. Based on an analysis of individual strengths and needs aligned to the AASL standards, participants will create a plan for their own ongoing professional growth for the duration of the ARCLMS program. Participants will share their plan with their instructor by the end of September, and provide updates quarterly. The plan will include at least 20 hours of professional learning and development that are directly related to their identified needs in library media and/or educational technology. Additionally, participants will design and implement a professional learning session incorporating their own new learning.

Embedded Professional Practice

Literature Review

The library media specialist plays a significant role in developing students’ lifelong reading habits and must possess significant knowledge of the complete range of literature available to children and young adults. Reading widely is a habit of all highly effective library media specialists, regardless of grade levels served. By engaging in this assessment, participants will experience authentic and purposeful application of LMS skills in order to support reading and literacy activities in the school at all grade levels. Titles will include award-winning and/or nominated books, professional titles, multicultural literature, and titles that are frequently challenged. It also provides participants with the opportunity to develop skills to advocate for reading using digital technologies that engage children in new, authentic ways, and encourages them to pursue a lifelong habit of reading. Participants will be introduced to various technology tools during ARCLMS classes, and will utilize these technologies to create book trailers, book talks and/or promotions to future PK-12 students and their communities.

Research

The library media specialist needs to have a fully developed understanding of research as a process, as well as knowledge of a variety of information sources and services available to support that process. In addition to teaching students how to research, and helping them to access and evaluate information, the LMS uses action research to improve practice in school libraries. Participants will explore the research process at the elementary, middle, and high school level, while also deepening their awareness of critical issues and trends in the field.

Qualifications for Admission
How to Apply
Application Fee
Interview
Admission Schedule
Online Application

Qualifications for Admission

To be considered for admission, applicants must:

• Hold a valid CT Provisional or Professional Educator teaching certificate
• Be employed by a CT PreK-12 school or school district during the program of study

Applicants will be asked to verify their certification and employment status during the application process.

How to Apply

Complete the online application at the link below. In addition, you must upload the following documents electronically (PDF preferred):

• A copy of your CT teaching certification
• Current résumé (listing all teaching experiences)
• A letter of reference from your current principal/administrator specifically supporting your participation in the program*

*The purpose of this letter is to ensure that applicants possess the necessary competencies to succeed in the program and are able to complete practicum/field experience requirements within their school/district setting. Applicants are encouraged to share program requirements with their principal/administrator that may result in the need for participants to request release time from their current teaching position. If you are working or will be working under a Durational Shortage Area Permit (DSAP), the letter should attest to that.

Application Fee

A non-refundable application fee of $75.00 is required to process your application. You will be asked to provide payment via credit card upon submitting your application.

Interview

Based on the application review, some applicants may be asked to participate in a brief interview with program staff before the final admissions decision is made. This interview serves the following purposes:

• To ensure that applicant dispositions align with those of the program
• To ensure that applicants fully understand program requirements and expectations
• To identify additional supports needed for the applicant to succeed in the program

Admission Schedule

Admission notifications (including interview requests) will be conducted based on the following schedule:

Cohorts are open until filled. Applicants may be placed on a wait list.

Online Application

2025-26 ACES ARC APPLICATION

Complete all required sections. You will be required to register for a SurveyMonkey Apply account before you can begin the application. You will be able to save and resume the application.

Application deadline is July 31, 2025.