Faculty Embark on Yearlong Book Club to Deepen Learning and Connection

On a recent Thursday, as students headed home for the day, Middle and Upper School faculty members gathered in classrooms across SCH Academy, not to teach, but to learn. Books in hand, they began their yearlong book club to delve into titles such as The Anxious Generation, Grading for Equity, and The Emotional Lives of Teenagers, among others. This collaborative initiative, designed by academic leaders with the strategic framework in mind, is a platform for educators to engage in thoughtful discussions, share timely insights, and explore innovative teaching strategies. 

The brainchild of Matt Norcini, head of Upper School, and Meadow Pepino, head of Middle School, these book clubs aim to spark debate and discussion with outcomes that directly affect teaching, learning, and best practices within the school community. 

“All of the books, voted on by faculty members, are connected to how they can become the best teachers; how students learn; and how we might support students’ sense of belonging,” says Pepino.

Divided into groups based on topics they are interested in exploring, each group of educators meets regularly to discuss a selected book, focusing on key themes and practical applications. The book clubs will model the school’s cross-divisional mission to focus on “cultivating a rigorous learning environment anchored in curiosity, agency, and belonging.” The groups will concentrate on specific strategies to achieve these goals for students. 

“The book my group is discussing isn’t directly focused on teaching strategies, but it enhances our ability to understand our students' experiences and emotional needs,” says English teacher Heidi Painter who facilitated the first session of a group discussing Belonging: The Science of Creating Connection and Bridging Divides. “By deepening our understanding of our students, we can create more inclusive and supportive classrooms and foster a sense of belonging."

Groups will present their findings and share their learning on salient issues with colleagues in the spring of 2025. 

"As lifelong learners, our teachers are always seeking new ways to improve their craft and connect with students at their developmental level," says Norcini. "This faculty-led book club is just one example of how we foster collaboration and community at SCH. We look forward to hearing about the insights gained from this year of research and deep discussion."