Leading a professional book study with colleagues can be a powerful way to build shared understanding, reflect on instructional practices, and strengthen school culture. Here are some practical tips to help you lead a successful and engaging book study.
Before the Book Study
Taking the following steps before the book study meets can help create clarity, buy-in, and shared sense of purpose:
Choose the Right Book
- Select a book relevant to your school’s goals, teaching challenges, or current initiatives.
- Involve colleagues in the selection to increase buy-in.
Define the Purpose and Goals
- Clarify what you hope to achieve with the book study (e.g., improving student engagement, aligning on teaching strategies).
- Communicate these clearly to participants.
Plan the Structure
- Decide on the format: in-person, virtual, or hybrid.
- Break the book into manageable sections (e.g., 1–2 chapters per session).
- Schedule regular, consistent meeting times (e.g., weekly or biweekly for 30–45 minutes).
Invite and Encourage Participation
- Create a welcoming tone in the invitation.
- Frame it as a supportive space for growth, not evaluation.
- Emphasize that everyone has something valuable to contribute.
During the Book Study
Once your group is established and the study is underway, your role shifts to facilitating meaningful dialogue, encouraging reflection, and helping participants connect ideas to their daily practice. Here are some ways to foster rich, inclusive conversations.
Create a Safe and Respectful Space
- During the first meeting, set group norms collaboratively (e.g., assume positive intent, honor confidentiality, speak from your own experience).
- Acknowledge differing perspectives and make space for reflection.
Use Thoughtful Discussion Protocols
- Try protocols like Think-Pair-Share or Save the Last Word.
- Ask open-ended questions such as:
- “What surprised you?”
- “How does this connect to our students?”
- “What might be a first small step to try?”
Make It Practical
- Ask participants to share classroom examples or implications for practice.
- Encourage teachers to try one idea between meetings and reflect on it.
Foster Equity of Voice
- Consider rotating facilitators or discussion leaders.
- Have colleagues turn and talk, share around the circle, or write their ideas on sticky notes to ensure everyone participates.
After the Book Study
A thoughtful conclusion helps participants solidify their learning and carry it into their classrooms. These final steps can turn a successful book study into lasting professional growth.
Reflect and Apply
- During the last session, include some time for reflection on the book study: “What did we learn? What will we carry forward?”
- Encourage participants to set a personal or team action step.
Share the Learning
- Consider summarizing key takeaways to share with the broader staff.
- Celebrate the group’s efforts with a certificate, a shout-out at a staff meeting, or a small celebration.
Bonus Tips
- Start small: A group of 4–6 is a great size.
- Be flexible: Respect time constraints and energy levels, especially during busy school seasons.
- Keep it light and fun: Include snacks and time for reflective journaling to add variety.
Recommended Books for Your Next Study
Great for chapter-by-chapter discussions, trying out strategies in between meetings, and coming back together to reflect. Bonus: Many include free discussion questions!
Elementary Educators
Middle School Educators
Elementary and Middle School Educators
Kristen Vincent is the Director of Marketing for Responsive Classroom.
