Turning Pages and Building Community Through Washington Virtual Academies’ High School Book Club 

At Washington Virtual Academies, students are proving that a love for reading can thrive, with the right combination of dedication, persistence and school support. Now in its second year, the high school book club has become a welcoming space where students connect, share ideas, and dive deep into the stories they love. 

The club began in the spring of 2023 when a student expressed interest in starting a book club. With support from the high school counselor and teacher Jaime Beckland, who had just transitioned to the high school level after years of teaching at Washington Virtual Academies, the club came to life. 

That first year, the group remained small, fewer than ten students, but committed. A core pair of students took the lead, choosing books they were excited about and coming prepared each week for meaningful discussion. By the end of the year, they had read four books together, creating the foundation for a growing community of readers. 

Fast forward to 2025, and the book club is flourishing. The student who helped start the club graduated, but a new student, now a junior, picked up the leadership role. She had been involved in the club from the beginning and connected with the previous facilitator to learn the ropes. With a strong interest in English and even a passion for writing poetry, the current leader has continued to bring structure and enthusiasm to each meeting. 

Under her leadership, the club has grown both in size and consistency. Weekly meetings are now included in the Class Connect schedule, which has helped boost attendance. On average, 10 students attend each week, with about 20 students in total who stay connected to the group. Even more students have expressed interest, thanks in part to outreach by the school’s engagement coordinator. 

The book club is entirely student-led, with the facilitator guiding the weekly discussions. Students select their own books, ensuring the group is always reading something they’re excited about. So far this year, they are wrapping up their fifth book, one more than they read the previous year. 

The impact of the club is extending beyond the high school level. A few middle school students have joined in occasionally, showing enthusiasm for the readings and discussions. This has sparked conversations about starting a separate book club for middle school students, a possibility that educators are now exploring. 

Jaime Beckland continues to support the club behind-the-scenes, making sure students have the space and encouragement they need to succeed. Based in Edmonds, Washington, Ms. Beckland brings 15 years of experience with Washington Virtual Academies to the table, and this is her second year working specifically with the high school. In addition to overseeing the book club, she teaches 8th and 9th grade English and History. 

What started as a simple idea from a passionate student has grown into a valued part of the Washington Virtual Academies high school experience. The book club provides students with a sense of community, the opportunity to build leadership skills, and a space where their voices and ideas are heard. 

As the club continues to grow and evolve, it’s clear that students are not just reading books; they’re building connections, sharpening their communication skills, and fostering a lifelong love of literature.