Parent Book Study Invitation
BUILDING EMPATHY, INCLUSION, and CONNECTION
Hosted by Dr. Philip Schonebaum, Superintendent
Elk Point-Jefferson School District
Dear Parents, Guardians, and Community Members,
As a district, we are deeply committed to creating a community where every child feels seen, valued, and supported. One of the best ways to strengthen that mission is by coming together as parents and educators to reflect, learn, and grow.
This year, I’m inviting you to join me for a three-month community book study focused on building empathy, inclusion, and connection. Our goal is simple: to explore how we, as adults, can model understanding and acceptance—and help our children do the same. All titles can be easily found on Amazon.com.
November
Book 1: The Coffee Bean: A Simple Lesson to Create Positive Change
By Jon Gordon & Damon West
December
Book 2: Raising Good Humans: A Mindful Guide to Breaking the Cycle of Reactive Parenting and Raising Kind, Confident Kids
By Dr. Hunter Clarke-Fields
January
Book 3: Different—A Great Thing to Be!
Book 4: The Lucky Few
Both By Heather Avis
Meeting Details
Location: Community Library (inside Elk Point-Jefferson School)
Time: 7:00 PM
Dates:
Wednesday, November 19
Wednesday, December 17
Wednesday, January 21
No homework, no pressure — just honest discussion about parenting, perspective, and community. Whether you read every page or just come to listen, you’ll be welcome. These evenings are about growing together — not being perfect, but being present.
Why This Matters
Our children watch how we treat one another, how we respond to differences, and how we engage with our schools.
By reading and discussing these books together, we’re modeling the same empathy, curiosity, and inclusion we hope to see in them.
Interested?
Sign up through the district office or email philip.schonebaum@k12.sd.us by November 5, 2025. If you need financial assistance for the books, please let me know when you sign up.
Let’s make this a year of connection and compassion — one page at a time.
Warmly,
Dr. Philip Schonebaum
Superintendent, Elk Point-Jefferson School District