CPP Book Study Guidelines

BOOK STUDY GUIDELINES

What is the purpose of a book study?

The purpose is to encourage staff to form study groups to facilitate learning and build partnerships among educators. The study group concept allows teachers to meet in an informal situation where they can learn, share ideas, and investigate relevant topics. Any person in the District may apply to facilitate a book study group. All teachers and other professional staff may participate in a book study for the purpose of professional growth.

How is a “book study group” defined?

A book study group consists of two or more individuals who work effectively to plan and propose school improvement measures, to gain content specific knowledge, to research new instructional and learning techniques, or to study best practices. Study groups also are useful for creating a collaborative school environment and establishing school reform (Murphy 1992).

Who may participate in a book study group?

The district staff involved in a book study group can be from any building, grade level, or content area. An administrator may be part of the group, but is not necessary for a group to form. A Book Study Proposal must be completed and submitted to the Office of the Instruction for prior approval 20 days before the book study begins. Groups are expected to meet on a regular basis, at a convenient time and location, and after contractual hours. At the meetings, one person acts as facilitator. Attendance must be taken at each meeting. Time spent reading is in addition to the 15 clock hours of the study [meetings/conversation] itself.

How is “meeting-time” defined?

A study group may meet face-to-face, either in person or online (ex. Google Meet). All book study groups should understand that meetings are a real-time, live expectation; the method of/for meeting must be clearly outlined in the book study proposal. Online platforms are acceptable ONLY if they offer live opportunities for direct participation.

What is expected of the group facilitator?

The facilitator is responsible for all copies of the study group attendance sheets and logs, and for collecting the individual reflection sheets. All paperwork must be forwarded to the Office of Instruction at the completion of the study in order to receive credit/compensation. Facilitators receive up to 3 hours of prep time. (1 hour for every 5 meeting hours.)

What is expected of participants?

Group participants must sign-in for each session, should actively participate in group discussions, and must complete the individual reflection assignment in order to receive credit/compensation. You must attend all sessions, no partial credit will be given.

What will teachers or support staff receive for participation?

The ultimate goal is professional growth in an area identified by the participant. Teachers will receive in-service credit. Teaching assistants or other support staff will be reimbursed according to their contracts. (For TAs, this satisfies your requirements for Level 3 PDP.)

What is the timeline?

Proposals for Book Studies may be submitted at any point in the school year. Proposals must be submitted 20 days before the start of the study so materials can be ordered.