The St. Mark’s Media Center is a lively and innovative space located in the heart of campus. It comprises three distinct yet interconnected areas: the library, the STEAM Smart Lab, and the production studio.
LIBRARY
The print collection of the St. Mark’s library includes over 14,000 volumes available for check out to St. Mark’s students from PK4 through 8th grade, in addition to staff and parents. Students browse and borrow their favorite series, graphic novels, and beginning readers as well as classics, non-fiction, and much more.
Weekly classes in the library for PK3 through 5th grade include read aloud story times, interactive lessons on traditional library use and information literacy, as well as digital citizenship curriculum from Common Sense Education. The mission of the library is to ensure that our students are using library and information resources effectively and responsibly, as well as developing a lifelong love for reading and learning. iPads and an interactive SMART Board supplement and enhance traditional library lessons.
KEY FEATURES:
- OUR LIBRARY COLLECTION: From board books to middle-grade novels, biographies and non-fiction to young adult literature, our collection serves the entire school. New titles are added regularly with student and faculty input.
- DESTINY DISCOVER: Our interactive library catalog system is a user-friendly website for browsing, searching, and placing holds. Personal accounts for students in grades K through 8 enhance the library experience.
- SUNSHINE STATE YOUNG READERS’ AWARD PROGRAM: A statewide reading motivation program for students. Each year, students in grades K through 8 who have read at least three titles from their respective list submit votes with other Florida readers for their favorite title from the list.
- BIRTHDAY BOOK DONATIONS: Students in all grade levels have the option of donating previously-selected books to the library during their birthday month. This program creates a lasting legacy in our library as each donated book contains a customized bookplate.
STEAM LAB
The mission of the STEAM Smart Lab is to inspire the world's future innovators! The STEAM Lab encourages student collaboration through dedicated research centers and collaborative desk spaces. The lab offers numerous STEAM-focused learning kits and online resources that emphasize coding, engineering, robotics, and circuits. A Glowforge laser cutter, 3D printers, and a Lego wall are available for class projects.
PRODUCTION STUDIO
St. Mark’s Morning Announcements are recorded three times per week, led by 5th grade Lead Anchors. Guest Anchors in grades 1 through 5 take turns preparing daily scripts. Middle school students on our production team work behind the scenes to operate the cameras, lighting, microphones, and teleprompters, while students in the Media Production elective create additional content and edit the show into a cohesive news package for our YouTube channel.