Recommended Reads: Student Success Edition
Resources that Build Resilience
At Iowa Choice Charter School, learning extends beyond the virtual classroom. We believe education should build confidence, strengthen character, and prepare Learners for success beyond graduation.
Whether you are a Student developing strong study habits, a Parent supporting learning at home, or an Educator seeking inspiration, these five books offer practical insight and encouragement. Organized in order of publication date, each selection reflects the personalized, Learner-centered approach and strong focus on Student success that define Iowa Choice Charter School.
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens
Sean Covey (1998)
Average Reading Time: 4–6 hours
Overview 📖
Covey provides Teens with practical strategies for goal-setting, time management, and personal growth. Relatable examples make it easy for Learners to apply these habits in school and life, aligning well with Iowa Choice Charter School’s focus on independence, responsibility, and leadership development.
Guided Gains ⬇️
Develop healthy routines for school and life
Strengthen decision-making skills
Build confidence and self-discipline
Learn practical goal-setting strategies
Improve relationships and communication
Mindset: The New Psychology
of Success
Carol S. Dweck (2006)
Average Reading Time: 6–8 hours
Overview 📖
Dweck explains how a growth mindset can transform learning and life. Students and Families can learn to embrace challenges, overcome setbacks, and view effort as a pathway to achievement. This philosophy closely reflects Iowa Choice Charter School’s commitment to personalized learning and continuous growth.
Guided Gains ⬇️
Identify fixed vs. growth mindsets
Learn strategies to embrace challenges
Develop resilience through effort
Encourage a love of learning
Apply growth mindset to school and life
Drive: The Surprising Truth
About What Motivates Us
Daniel H. Pink (2009)
Average Reading Time: 6–8 hours
Overview 📖
Pink explores what truly drives motivation, including autonomy, mastery, and purpose. The book offers insights that encourage Learners to take ownership of their goals, complementing Iowa Choice Charter School’s flexible and Student-centered learning environment.
Guided Gains ⬇️
Understand intrinsic vs. extrinsic motivation
Discover the power of autonomy in learning
Explore mastery as a key to success
Connect purpose to everyday goals
Apply motivation strategies in school and life
How Children Succeed:
Grit, Curiosity, and the Hidden Power of Character
Paul Tough (2012)
Average Reading Time: 6–7 hours
Overview 📖
Tough examines what helps children succeed beyond grades and test scores. By focusing on perseverance, curiosity, and resilience, this book reinforces Iowa Choice Charter School’s emphasis on character development and long-term Learner success.
Guided Gains ⬇️
Learn why grit matters more than talent
Understand the role of curiosity in learning
See how resilience impacts success
Explore character-building strategies
Capture insights related to Student development
The Distance Learning Playbook
Douglas Fisher, Nancy Frey, John Hattie (2020)
Average Reading Time: 5–7 hours
Overview 📖
This practical guide supports Students, Parents, and Educators navigating remote or hybrid learning. With strategies for engagement, effective study habits, and personalized instruction, it aligns closely with the virtual learning model at Iowa Choice Charter School.
Guided Gains ⬇️
Boost engagement in virtual learning
Build effective study habits
Support personalized learning goals
Strengthen Teacher-Student communication
Maximize online learning resources
Rising to Read on the Regular
Strong readers become strong thinkers. Additionally, by investing time in meaningful reading, Learners expand their perspectives, sharpen critical thinking skills, and deepen their understanding of themselves and the world around them.
Here at Iowa Choice Charter School, we are committed to providing Students and our community with access to tools and resources that can help them thrive both personally and professionally. The books we have shared through this Cobra Connection Blog Post serve as valuable resources for strengthening motivation, building resilience, and encouraging lifelong learning!
