Beyond the Book Club
MSTA’s “Beyond the Book” Club: Professional Development Book Studies for Missouri Educators
Looking for meaningful, flexible professional development hours or Career Ladder credits?
MSTA’s Beyond the Book Club connects Missouri educators with impactful books on pedagogy, instructional strategies, and classroom management through facilitated online book studies.
What is the “Beyond the Book” Book Club?
The Beyond the Book program is an educator-focused book club that offers monthly and quarterly book studies on current topics in education. Each session includes:
- A curated book aligned to effective teaching practices.
- An online discussion platform to connect with educators statewide.
- At least one live virtual session per month.
- Opportunities to reflect, collaborate, and apply new learning directly to your teaching.
All participants must purchase their own books.
Registration is required and space is limited.
Extended Book Studies: Flexible, Deep-Dive PD for Teachers
Need more time to complete a study? MSTA also offers Extended Book Studies, ideal for busy teachers seeking deeper support. These two-month studies:
- Allow educators more time to read and reflect.
- Include bonus content and implementation support.
- Focus on high-impact topics like student behavior support and trauma-informed practices.
- Are led by experienced facilitators
- Extended Book Studies are a great way to meet your PD goals on your schedule.
Book Studies
July: Educator Wellness: A Guide for Sustaining Physical, Mental, Emotional, and Social Well-Being
August Book Study: Miracle Morning for Teachers by Hal Elrod
Facilitated by MSTA Member Bethany Petty, this course will teach you actionable tips and strategies for getting the most out of your mornings in order to be the best you can for your students.
Quarter One Book Study: Brain-Friendly Teacher by Yanina Jimenez
Facilitated by MSTA Member Ursulla Wadley, you will explore practical, science-backed strategies to help your students retain what they learn.
Semester One Book Study: The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
Facilitated by MSTA Member Sunnie Miller, this study explores research-based strategies for fostering resilience, emotional regulation, and well-being in young people amid the escalating mental health crisis.