Most teachers, even if they work a second job or teach summer school, have more free time in the summer. In addition to enjoying time with your family and friends and catching up on your favorite shows, we think summer is a great time for some extra reading.
Here are four things we think should be on every teachers’ summer reading list:
Something for fun
Summer is a great time to relax and read something for fun. This is the time for that thriller you have been wanting to read, the latest in the mystery series you love, or a fun and light beach read. We often talk about the importance of allowing our students to read for enjoyment and you deserve no less. So, go ahead, open up the sci-fi fantasy or the easy romance- whatever you like. There is no judgement in summer reading choices!
A children’s, middle grade or young adult book
The best teachers are those who can help students find the right book at the right time. How can you help students find good books if you aren’t familiar with their literature? We consider this enjoyable reading, and you might love reading their books almost as much or more than you love reading your books. Sharing books with students is a great way to build rapport, and if you make good suggestions, to build trust. Secondary teachers can also enrich their content area by knowing great books connected to their subject matter and helping students to find them. Go ahead, head over to the library and grab a stack of kid’s books. You’ll be glad you did.
A book for professional development.
Your district likely offers some professional development opportunities in the summer. Why not follow up by reading the book of the author who came to your school or whose training you’ve watched? We live in an era where professional development is available from a variety of sources and in a variety of formats. Don’t forget books. Your district may offer general professional development, with a book you can narrow the focus to exactly what it is that will help you become a better teacher. Explore your professional interests or needs on sites like Amazon or browse the websites of publishers of teacher’s books such as Stenhouse, Corwin or Teachers’ College Press. You will be amazed at the diversity of books that are offered and one of them is likely exactly what could help you take some aspect of your teaching to the next level.
Something for personal development.
Good teachers are lifelong learners and often have a variety of interests outside of school. Summer is your chance to work on improving something that is important to you. Perhaps you want to learn more about healthy eating or exercise. Maybe you could use some knowledge about personal finance. If you have children, you might want to read something about good parenting or child development. If you coach or play a sport, there are lots of books written by and for coaches. Chances are, if you are interested in something, there is a book about it.
Those are the four things we think should be on every teachers’ summer reading list. What is on your list? We’d love to hear your ideas and suggestions!
Happy reading,
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