Empowering Students Through Innovation: Dayani Boatman’s Library Initiative at LEAD Neely’s Bend
Dayani Boatman may be new to LEAD Neely’s Bend, having joined as the media specialist in Spring 2024, but she’s already making an impact with her innovative approach to student literacy and resource accessibility.
As the school’s media specialist, Boatman oversees the library and teaches students how to utilize available resources, including books and technology tools. However, her vision extends far beyond the physical confines of the school library.
Boatman has launched an exciting new program that’s opening doors for students. By helping them create accounts with the local public library using the Libby app, she is ensuring that scholars have access to thousands of titles across various mediums not physically available on campus.
“I’ve been passionate about giving students opportunities and resources that are readily available, but not necessarily easy to obtain,” Boatman explains. “As a former general and special education teacher, I recognize that not all students process information the same way. I started the Libby initiative because I wanted students to have access to different versions of media.”
The initiative began with students applying for public library cards, introducing them to the diverse forms of media available, including audiobooks, video games, and movies. With their new library cards, students can now access the Libby app to check out e-books and audiobooks.
This program not only expands students’ access to learning materials, it also informs them about free, local resources they might not have known about otherwise. This knowledge will benefit students well beyond their time at LEAD Neely’s Bend.
Boatman’s approach embodies LEAD’s value of building community. She’s passionate about expanding students’ knowledge and deepening her relationships with them.
“I hope students understand that there is so much more to explore and see in the world. I want students to have increased imagination and love for the written word. In addition, I would love students to know that they always have someone in their corner.”
Her dedication to her students is clear: “I absolutely adore my students and want them to achieve their goals and dreams. If there’s a way for me to help them achieve those goals or dreams, I will always stand beside them.”
Through her innovative thinking and commitment to student success, Dayani Boatman is not just managing a library – she’s opening up a world of possibilities for the students at LEAD Neely’s Bend.
