Arkansas School Boards Association ~ Helping Arkansas School Boards Improve Student Achievement



	Trainings Available The purpose of a local study circle program is to address public issues by bringing together large numbers of people who represent the diversity of viewpoints, backgrounds, and experiences in a community. To successfully recruit diverse participants and then move to action, a study circle program needs to be sponsored and led by a strong, diverse working group and supported by community partnerships. The following trainings are available to help communities plan and implement their study circles program. Building this kind of collaboration takes time and effort, but it’s worth it. There is a lot of evidence to suggest that the most effective study circles are initiated and sustained by broad-based, community-wide partnerships that keep learning and growing. Orientation Meeting The Orientation Meeting is for communities who have not used study circles or those who want a refresher on what study circles can do for them. The two hour meeting includes an overview of the ASCP and the services we provide, an explanation of study circle discussions and how communities can start one, and time for a mock study circle so community members can get a sense of how study circles actually work. Organizational Clinic The Organizational Clinic is for the local coordinator and work group. The coordinator will manage and supervise the study circles program in their community and the work group will help them organize. Members of the working group will serve on committees such as, logistics, communications, recruitment, and action planning. More information about these committees is given at the Organizational Clinic. The Clinic is a 5-hour training and is extremely helpful for all working group members and the coordinator to attend. This is the time when the foundation for the program will be set. However, working group members can be added at any time throughout the process. Facilitator & Recorder Facilitators and recorders play a critical role in establishing the productive, face to face dialogue that is the hallmark of study circle discussions. This 6-hour training will provide facilitators and recorders with information on being neutral, active listening, note taking, the challenges they may face, and on techniques and skills they will need. The training also provides time for the facilitators and recorders to practice their skills using a discussion guide. Related Links: Arkansas Study Circles Project Discussion Guides Special Programs Everyday Democracy (formerly Study Circles Resource Center) Related Downloads (pdf): Arkansas Study Circles Project Brochure Student Achievement Brochure Family Involvement Brochure Early Care & Education Brochure Getting Started and Building Your Team Handout (MSWord)