For years, many of you have gathered with me in the summer to walk through Bible studies together. It’s one of my favorite summer traditions as teachers gather together to open God’s Word, share life, and encourage each other when classrooms are quiet and schedules are a little slower.

But what if that same encouragement could continue into the school year? What if, instead of leaving Bible study behind when August hits, you carried it right into your school building? The truth is, you can! And I think it is exactly what you and your coworkers need.

1. Start with Prayer

Every lasting ministry begins with prayer. Before you send a text or pick a book, pause and invite the Lord into this idea. Ask Him: “Who around me needs this? How should we meet? What would bring You glory in my school?”

Sometimes He’ll put one specific coworker on your heart. Other times He’ll nudge you to simply step out and extend an open invitation. When you begin in prayer, you remind yourself that this isn’t your project to manage, but it’s His to grow. That perspective takes the pressure off.

2. Start Small

It can be tempting to picture a room full of teachers gathered with open Bibles, but don’t let that picture discourage you if only two show up at first. The truth is, some of the most meaningful groups I’ve seen began with just a handful of people.

Think about what’s realistic in your school schedule. Maybe it’s 20 minutes before students arrive on Friday mornings, or a quick lunch break once a week. Even a short time together can reset your perspective and remind you that you’re not alone in your faith. Over time, word will spread and others may join, but don’t wait for “big” before you begin.

3. Keep It Simple

Teachers don’t need more on their plates. The goal isn’t to add a heavy new program but to weave encouragement into what’s already there. That’s why I recommend choosing a study that’s light, flexible, and easy to follow.

Many of you already know this from our summer studies. Books like Pray, Teach, Repeat or Write, Mark, Pray work beautifully in a group setting. They give you a short passage of Scripture and thoughtful prompts without requiring hours of prep.

Another simple option? Pick a book of the Bible and read a few verses each week, sharing observations and praying together. I would suggest one of Paul's letters or working through the Gospels- Mathew, Mark, Luke, and John. 

The point is not how much you cover, but it’s how faithfully you show up to open God’s Word.

4. Invite Personally

Teachers crave encouragement, but many feel nervous admitting it. A gentle personal invitation can be the open door they’ve been waiting for. Instead of announcing to the whole staff, start by asking one or two coworkers:

“I’ve been thinking about starting a short Bible study before school once a week. Would you want to join me?”

When people sense that you’re not pushing an agenda but simply offering friendship and truth, they’re more likely to say yes. Keep it warm, relational, and low-pressure. Sometimes all it takes is knowing someone else is brave enough to start.

5. Stay Consistent

Every group has ups and downs. Some weeks you will crave your time that you meet and other times it may feel like something else on your plate. Don’t be discouraged. The power of a teacher Bible study isn’t in the size of the group but in the steady consistency of gathering.

If you decide to meet once a week, stick to that. If it’s once a month, mark it on the calendar and protect the time. Consistency builds trust, and over time your little gathering becomes a dependable source of peace and encouragement in your school.

Remember: showing up is more important than having the perfect plan.

Why It Matters

Our summer studies have shown us how life-giving it is to open God’s Word together. Carrying that into the school year keeps your heart anchored when teaching feels heavy. A teacher rooted in Christ brings peace, perspective, and strength into the classroom and that kind of overflow changes more than just your day. It can change the entire atmosphere of your school.

Take Your First Step

If you’re not sure where to begin, browse through our Bible studies and pick one that you feel will encourage your group best. Each Bible study comes with a leader's guide to help you facilitate discussions. You don’t need to be a Bible scholar or have a polished plan, just be willing to say yes.

God loves to multiply small beginnings. Your one step of obedience could become the spark that encourages teachers in your school for years to come.

As always, if you have questions, please feel free to reach out via email info@teachersintheword.com