Best New Books for Teachers September 2023

photo of woman reading book
Photo by Polina Zimmerman on Pexels.com

September is coming, and you know what that means – a fresh start to the academic year and a chance to revamp your teaching toolkit. It’s also the perfect time to dive into some inspiring new reads that can transform your classroom experience. Whether you’re a seasoned teacher or just starting your journey, the right books can be your best friends, mentors, and even your daily dose of motivation.

So, what’s cooking in the literary world this September 2023? We’ve scoured the shelves, talked to the experts, and even sneaked a peek into some classrooms to bring you the absolute BEST new books for teachers. These aren’t just any books; they’re game-changers, filled with innovative ideas, practical strategies, and heartwarming stories that will resonate with educators of all stripes.

Ready to discover your next favorite book and take your teaching to the next level? Buckle up, because this list is packed with gems you won’t want to miss. Let’s dive in!

Punished for Dreaming: How School Reform Harms Black Children and How We Heal by Bettina L. Love

Dr. Bettina Love argues that Reagan’s War on Drugs ushered in a War on Black Children, pathologizing and penalizing them. She makes her case through the real lives of 25 Black Americans and sets out a roadmap to help repair the damage.

Sale
Punished for Dreaming: How School Reform Harms Black Children and How We Heal
  • Hardcover Book
  • Love, Bettina L. (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 352 Pages – 09/12/2023 (Publication Date) – St. Martin’s Press (Publisher)

Growing Up in Public: Coming of Age in a Digital World by Devorah Heitner

The kids in your classrooms live their lives in a public way we could never have imagined a few decades ago. This book is a must-read for parents and teachers who need to help them navigate today’s social media-driven world in a way that’s safe and supportive.

Sale
Growing Up in Public: Coming of Age in a Digital World
  • Hardcover Book
  • Heitner, Devorah (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 304 Pages – 09/12/2023 (Publication Date) – TarcherPerigee (Publisher)

Fair Play: How Sports Shape the Gender Debates by Katie Barnes

Title IX brought important changes to schools, especially when it came to sports. But clearly, the gender debates in sports (and the world in general) are far from over. This book evaluates multiple sides of the sensitive issue of transgender and intersex participation in sports and offers potential solutions. School sports coaches will find a lot to consider in this compelling read.

Sale
Fair Play: How Sports Shape the Gender Debates
  • Hardcover Book
  • Barnes, Katie (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 304 Pages – 09/19/2023 (Publication Date) – St. Martin’s Press (Publisher)


The Eclectic Educator is a free resource for everyone passionate about education and creativity. If you enjoy the content and want to support the newsletter, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Your support helps keep the insights and inspiration coming!

The Top 7 Professional Development Books for Teachers

In the ever-evolving education landscape, continuous professional development is crucial for teachers striving to enhance their skills and improve student outcomes. As educators, we are always seeking resources that can inspire and guide us through the challenges of modern teaching. Professional development books are an invaluable asset, offering insights, strategies, and perspectives that can transform our teaching practices and reinvigorate our passion for education.

In this blog post, we highlight seven must-read professional development books that every teacher should consider adding to their reading list. From understanding the power of vulnerability to implementing equitable grading practices, these books cover various topics designed to support and empower educators. Whether you are looking to foster a more inclusive classroom, engage students through culturally responsive teaching, or explore innovative educational practices, these books provide practical advice and inspiration.

Each book in this list has been carefully selected for its relevance, impact, and ability to address current educational challenges. We delve into the key takeaways and reasons why these books are essential reads for teachers committed to professional growth and student success. So, grab a cup of coffee, find a comfortable spot, and get ready to explore some transformative reads that will enrich your teaching journey.

Professional Development Books for Teachers
Photo by fauxels on Pexels.com

1. “Daring Greatly” by Brené Brown

Sale
Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead
  • Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead
  • Hardcover Book
  • Brown, Brené (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 304 Pages – 09/11/2012 (Publication Date) – Avery (Publisher)
  • Overview: Brené Brown explores the concept of vulnerability, challenging the idea that it is a weakness. She argues that vulnerability is a path to courage, engagement, and meaningful connections.
  • Key Takeaways: Understanding and embracing vulnerability can transform teaching practices and classroom management, fostering a more engaging and empathetic learning environment.
  • Reasons to Read: This book helps teachers develop stronger relationships with their students and colleagues by promoting authenticity and courage in the classroom

2. “Street Data” by Shane Safir and Jamil Dugan

Sale
Street Data: A Next-Generation Model for Equity, Pedagogy, and School Transformation
  • Safir, Shane (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 282 Pages – 03/09/2021 (Publication Date) – Corwin (Publisher)
  • Overview: Shane Safir and Jamil Dugan propose a new approach to data usage in education, focusing on qualitative data that captures student experiences and voices.
  • Key Takeaways: The authors provide a framework for using “street data” to create more equitable and responsive educational practices.
  • Reasons to Read: This book is valuable for educators and administrators seeking to transform their schools by centering student voices and experiences in their data practices​

3. “The Art of Coaching: Effective Strategies for School Transformation” by Elena Aguilar

Sale
The Art of Coaching: Effective Strategies for School Transformation
  • Aguilar, Elena (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 368 Pages – 03/04/2013 (Publication Date) – Jossey-Bass (Publisher)
  • Overview: Targeting instructional coaches and leaders, this professional development book offers insights into emotional intelligence and collaboration.
  • Why Buy: If you’re in a leadership role, this book will equip you with the tools for transformative education.

4. “The Power of Place: Authentic Learning Through Place-Based Education” by Tom Vander Ark, Emily Liebtag, and Nate McClennen

Sale
The Power of Place: Authentic Learning Through Place-Based Education
  • Vander Ark, Tom (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 150 Pages – 03/09/2020 (Publication Date) – ASCD (Publisher)
  • Overview: This book explores place-based education, where learning is deeply connected to the local environment and community.
  • Key Takeaways: The authors provide examples and strategies for integrating place-based learning into the curriculum, making education more relevant and engaging.
  • Reasons to Read: Teachers interested in making learning more meaningful and connected to students’ lives will find this book a valuable resource for implementing place-based education​

5. “For White Folks Who Teach in the Hood… and the Rest of Y’all Too” by Christopher Emdin

Sale
For White Folks Who Teach in the Hood… and the Rest of Y’all Too: Reality Pedagogy and Urban Education (Race, Education, and Democracy)
  • Emdin, Christopher (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 232 Pages – 01/03/2017 (Publication Date) – Beacon Press (Publisher)
  • Overview: Christopher Emdin shares his experiences and insights on teaching in urban schools, offering practical advice for educators working in diverse settings.
  • Key Takeaways: The book emphasizes the importance of cultural competence and reality pedagogy in engaging and supporting all students.
  • Reasons to Read: Educators will benefit from Emdin’s strategies for creating more inclusive and effective learning environments in urban schools​

6. “Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain” by Zaretta Hammond

Culturally Responsive Teaching and The Brain: Promoting Authentic Engagement and Rigor Among Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Students
  • Hammond, Zaretta L. (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 192 Pages – 12/01/2014 (Publication Date) – Corwin (Publisher)
  • Overview: Zaretta Hammond combines neuroscience and culturally responsive teaching to offer strategies that enhance student engagement and achievement.
  • Key Takeaways: The book includes ten key moves for teachers to make in diverse classrooms, helping students connect and thrive.
  • Reasons to Read: This book is essential for educators who want to understand and implement culturally responsive teaching practices, improving educational outcomes for all students​

7.“Grading for Equity” by Joe Feldman

Grading for Equity: What It Is, Why It Matters, and How It Can Transform Schools and Classrooms
  • Feldman, Joe (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 344 Pages – 09/20/2023 (Publication Date) – Corwin (Publisher)
  • Overview: Joe Feldman addresses the inconsistencies and biases in traditional grading systems and offers strategies for more equitable assessment practices.
  • Key Takeaways: The book provides practical ideas for creating grading systems that promote fairness and support student learning and growth.
  • Reasons to Read: Educators looking to reform their grading practices will find valuable insights on how to implement equitable assessments that benefit all students

Conclusion

The world of education is ever-changing, and professional development books for teachers are essential tools to navigate this dynamic landscape. These top 7 professional development books for teachers offer diverse insights and strategies to cater to different needs and teaching styles. Whether you’re looking to inspire, innovate, or introspect, there’s a book on this list for you. Invest in your professional growth today with these exceptional reads. Happy teaching!



The Eclectic Educator is a free resource for everyone passionate about education and creativity. If you enjoy the content and want to support the newsletter, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Your support helps keep the insights and inspiration coming!