THIS WEEKS TIPS, TRICKS, IDEAS

As summer rolls in, I'm looking for ways to recharge while preparing for the new school year. One of my favorites? Dive into a stack of books that inspire and equip me for the classroom. Whether you’re a first-year teacher or a seasoned pro, the right book can spark fresh ideas and remind you why we do what we do.

Here are ten suggestions from my online groups. I hope some are perfect for you:

10 Summer Reading for Educators 

• The Innovator’s Mindset by George Couros – A must-read for teachers ready to foster creativity and empower students. Couros offers practical strategies for cultivating innovation in your classroom.
• Teach Like a Champion 3.0 by Doug Lemov – Packed with updated techniques, this book is a toolkit for classroom management and student engagement that works across grade levels.
• Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain by Zaretta Hammond – Hammond connects neuroscience with culturally responsive practices, making this a go-to for building engagement.
• Atomic Habits by James Clear – While not strictly for educators, Clear’s actionable advice on habit formation is perfect for teachers looking to improve routines and model growth for students.
• Hacking Assessment by Starr Sackstein – Rethink grading and feedback with Sackstein’s practical guide to meaningful, student-centered assessment.

• Blended Learning in Action by Catlin Tucker, Tiffany Wycoff, and Jason Green – This book demystifies blended learning and provides step-by-step frameworks for integrating technology in any classroom.
• Drive by Daniel H. Pink – Pink’s research on motivation will help you reimagine what drives your students (and yourself) to learn and achieve.
• Visible Learning for Teachers by John Hattie – Hattie’s synthesis of education research offers insight into what strategies have the greatest impact on student achievement. NOTE: This has been on my lists before and is always top of mind for my education colleagues.
• The First Days of School by Harry & Rosemary Wong – A classic, this book helps teachers set the tone for a successful year, with routines and tips for building a positive classroom culture.
• Disrupting Thinking by Kylene Beers & Robert E. Probst – A compelling look at how to help students become engaged, thoughtful readers, with strategies that work across content areas.

How to Find Reading Time In a Busy Summer

• Schedule short reading sessions: Even 10-15 minutes a day—waiting for appointments, during your morning coffee, or before bed—adds up.
• Keep a book handy: Toss your current read in your bag or car so you can take advantage of downtime at the park, pool, or while traveling.
• Try audiobooks: Listen while walking, gardening, or commuting. Many educator favorites are available in audio format.
• Create a summer reading spot: Designate a cozy chair or patio nook as your go-to reading retreat, making it inviting to relax with a book.
• Set a flexible goal: Whether finishing a book or sampling from several, give yourself permission to enjoy the process without pressure.

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---some images from Deposit Photo