Setting Up a Reading Classroom for Success

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Tips for New and Seasoned Teachers Alike

Summer may still be bringing the heat, but for many teachers, the mental shift toward back-to-school is already beginning. Whether you’re a brand-new teacher or simply looking to refresh your space and systems, now is the perfect time to start thinking intentionally about your reading classroom.

As you enjoy those final poolside days and moments of rest, it’s natural to start imagining bulletin boards, book bins, and the eager readers who will soon walk through your doors. Many teachers are already getting back into their classroom to start decorating and arranging their rooms. The beginning of the year brings a fresh opportunity to create an environment where students feel safe, engaged, and excited to read.

A strong reading environment doesn’t happen by accident—it’s built with intention, strategy, and just a touch of magic. From the way you organize your space to the way you select books, small details can create a lasting impact on how students experience reading all year long.

This post is your guide to setting up a classroom that invites curiosity, promotes literacy, and builds lifelong readers—whether it’s your first year or your fifteenth. 

Teaching Strategies That Work With Your Curriculum—Not Against It

One of the biggest misconceptions new (and even veteran) teachers face is the idea that meaningful reading instruction has to happen outside the required curriculum. In reality, the most powerful strategies can, and should, be woven directly into what you’re already doing! No need to add more to your plate by trying to navigate both in a parallel format!

I held a virtual training over this very thing! I walk through a handful of high-impact practices that support your school’s reading goals while still honoring what we know creates lifelong readers. These aren’t add-ons or extra work. They’re intentional strategies that deepen engagement and comprehension within your current framework.

Here’s a quick preview of what I cover:

  • Read Alouds and Interactive Read Alouds – These aren’t just for primary grades! Strategic read alouds model fluency, build background knowledge, and invite powerful discussions making them perfect for any grade level.
  • Independent Reading Time – Giving students choice and time to read self-selected texts builds stamina, ownership, and love for reading. Even 10 minutes a day can make a difference.
  • Using Authentic Literature – Don’t be afraid to bring real books into your classroom. Authentic texts help students build deeper connections and vocabulary far beyond what’s found in scripted lessons.
  • Novel Studies – Thoughtfully designed novel units support close reading, critical thinking, and literary analysis, all aligned with standards and curriculum goals.
  • Supporting Struggling Readers – Learn how to differentiate within your structure using scaffolds, tools, and intentional small group time to keep students growing at their own pace.

The goal isn’t to do more, it’s to do what works, and make it work with the tools and curriculum you’re already expected to use. These practices don’t just check boxes—they build readers.

Check out the training below (and it’s your lucky day because it’s FREE for you!):


While instructional strategies are essential, they’re just one piece of the puzzle. The atmosphere you create, the experiences you curate, and the environment you set all contribute to the kind of meaningful reading culture that sticks with students long after the school year ends. As you begin to reflect and plan for the year ahead, here are a few thought-starters to help you set up a reading classroom where all students feel supported, challenged, and inspired.

Create a Reading-Friendly Environment

  • Cozy nooks, accessible book bins, soft lighting, and labeled shelves
  • Offer a mix of genres, reading levels, and diverse voices
  • Use student-friendly signs that invite browsing

Build Routines that Support Independent Reading

  • Daily reading blocks or literacy centers
  • Teach students how to choose “just right” books
  • Track reading progress with journals or logs

Curate a Classroom Library with Intention

  • Organize by theme, genre, author, or series
  • Rotate books throughout the year to keep the library fresh
  • Feature student book reviews or “reader of the week” picks

Incorporate Word Work & Vocabulary Growth

  • Use tools like Word Noodles or Greek & Latin Root Words Units to build vocabulary in fun, meaningful ways 
  • Add word walls or interactive displays
  • Make vocabulary part of your daily warm-up or transitions

Make Room for Student Voice & Choice

  • Book tastings, genre exploration days, or “first chapter Fridays”
  • Encourage reading goals and let students help decorate reading spaces
  • Let students recommend books to peers

Plan for Reading Challenges & Celebrate Growth

  • Seasonal reading challenges or summer reading follow-ups
  • Reading celebrations and classroom displays for milestones
  • Invite mystery readers or authors (even virtually)

Whether you’re unboxing your first classroom library or pulling your favorite picture books from storage, setting up your reading classroom can be both exciting and overwhelming. But with a little planning, and a lot of heart, you can create a reading classroom where students feel safe, curious, and empowered as readers. Your classroom can be the place where reading comes to life. Let’s make this year one where that love grows deeper with every page turned.

Leave a comment below and let us know your best tips and tricks for setting up your reading classroom!

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