The Reading League Chapter Network Book Studies: Flexible and Collaborative Professional Learning

By: Andrea Setmeyer, NCSP   |   September 26, 2024

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At The Reading League, we believe educators must possess professional knowledge in the science of reading to maximize outcomes for all readers. As a school psychologist and advocate, I thrive on increasing my professional knowledge by attending conferences and webinars, listening to podcasts, reading research articles, and participating in social media forums to continue learning about the science of reading. Yet, one of my favorite ways to expand my knowledge is through book studies. Book studies strike a perfect balance between personal reflection and collaborative learning. Through The Reading League’s chapter network book studies, I have connected with amazing people nationwide and often revisit the underlined sections and margin notes of the books we’ve read together.

What Is The Reading League Chapter Network?

Almost five years ago, I co-founded The Reading League Indiana chapter. I had learned enough from The Reading League through their webinars and resources to know that if the dedicated teachers in my school had access to this knowledge, they would transform their teaching methods and significantly improve our students’ reading outcomes. We began working to raise awareness and deepen understanding of the science of reading by hosting events and partnering with various stakeholders. What I didn’t anticipate was that the greatest gifts would come from the connections made in building a league committed to generously paying this knowledge forward and making a difference in our communities through literacy.

Today, our vibrant chapter network consists of 32 state chapters and one in the District of Columbia, with new chapters launching in 2025. Led by over 300 volunteer chapter leaders, these individuals are among the most knowledgeable and generous people I know. The Reading League chapters move our shared mission forward through advocacy and educational events, including book studies on evidence-aligned books about reading and writing. I always find these book studies engaging and informative, with well-prepared facilitators enhancing the reading experience. Many sessions are recorded, allowing me to fit them into my busy schedule as a mom and working professional—and as an added bonus, the authors of the books often participate in some way.

This past summer, the entire chapter network collaborated on a national book study of Effective Universal Instruction by Drs. Gibbons, Brown, and Niebling. This action-oriented framework for improving Tier 1 instruction attracted over 3,100 participants! A teacher from New York shared, “This book study was OUTSTANDING. Best one I’ve done recently. I greatly appreciate how it was organized with synchronous and asynchronous opportunities and the weekly sharing of resources.” A chapter leader from Oklahoma shared that she is using our book study materials to read Effective Universal Instruction this year with her district leadership, and they plan to have principals lead book studies with their school teams the following school year. If you missed it, you can access free, curated resources, including all recorded sessions with the authors, Dr. Stephanie Stollar’s webinar, and related tools for implementation.

Why Participate in The Reading League’s Chapter Book Studies?

1. Deepen Your Understanding of the Science of Reading

At the heart of every title selected for a chapter network book study is a resource that delves into evidence-aligned reading instruction. Engaging with these books helps educators better understand how students learn to read, why some have difficulty, and the practices that research has demonstrated will support their literacy development. Staying up-to-date with these high-quality professional books ensures that educators remain informed about the latest research and discover new ways to support their students’ growth.

2. Collaborate With Peers

One of the most significant benefits of participating in a book study is the opportunity to collaborate with other educators. The Reading League’s chapter network book studies foster a sense of community among participants. Educators from various backgrounds share insights, challenges, and successes related to implementing evidence-aligned instruction. This collaboration enriches the learning experience and offers valuable networking opportunities.

3. Implement Evidence-Aligned Instruction in Your School

Book study participants gain actionable strategies for implementing effective instruction in their classrooms. Grounded in scientific research, these books equip educators with practical and effective tools. Participating in The Reading League’s chapter network book studies can also empower you to take a leadership role within your school or district. The network often provides on-demand resources from their book studies, which can be a valuable asset in leading your own book sessions. Many school or district-based book studies create a shared knowledge base and common language for implementing the science of reading.

Your Participation Is Key!

the reading league chapter network book study zoom session

Author Nancy Hennessy joins TRL-NC for a recent book study on The Reading Comprehension Blueprint.

Reach out to your local chapter or visit The Reading League’s calendar of events for more information on upcoming book study sessions and chapter events. Whether you are an experienced educator or new to the field, these book studies offer valuable insights and opportunities for professional growth. And if you’re ready to lead your own study, explore these on-demand resources to help you get started:

A special thanks to Dr. Pam Kastner of The Reading League Pennsylvania for teaching us all how to organize and generously share our knowledge via Padlets!

We Would Love to See You at Our Upcoming Fall Book Studies

Climbing the Ladder of Reading and Writing book study explores Nancy Young’s ladder infographic and shares evidence-aligned considerations for varying our instruction to meet students’ needs. This co-hosted book study wraps up in October, but you can register for the final session to gain access to the archived resources.

This October, join The Reading League state chapters in California, Colorado, Michigan, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, and New York, along with Collaborative Classroom, for the Literacy Foundations for English Learners book study. Explore Dr. Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan’s comprehensive guide to evidence-based instruction for English learners and emergent bilinguals.

The Reading League South Carolina will kick off their Strive-for-Five Conversations book study at the end of October, which explores a framework that gets students talking to accelerate their language comprehension and literacy.

You don’t have to live in one of these states to participate—the studies are open to everyone. Register, purchase a copy of the book, and we’ll see you there!

By studying books based on the science of reading, collaborating with peers, and implementing evidence-aligned strategies, educators can enhance their teaching practices and better support their students’ literacy development. Additionally, leading a book study within your school or district allows you to drive professional growth and foster a culture of continual improvement for your students. Don’t miss this opportunity for flexible and collaborative professional learning—and take a moment to thank a local chapter leader for making it all possible.

Andrea Setmeyer

Andrea Setmeyer is a nationally certified school psychologist in Indianapolis, Indiana. As the founding president of The Reading League Indiana chapter, she experienced firsthand the impact that affiliation with The Reading League can have on a grassroots, local movement to advance evidence-aligned literacy throughout an entire state. She is honored to serve as the National Chapter Director for The Reading League, supporting our growing network of vibrant chapter leaders throughout the country.

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