The Touchstones Circle

Our monthly update on programs, events, and opportunities.

Let us know what you think: Fill out our Mid-Year Educator Survey!

For 2023, our priority continues to be better understanding what educators need from us now. Although you often share stories from the classroom, we haven't asked for feedback since before the pandemic. We know so much has changed over the past 3 years, and your participation in this 15-minute survey will let us know how we can best support you and your students in the months ahead. You can respond by January 31, 2023.

We're giving away copies of Discussion Leadership Getting Started to everyone who completes a survey and entering folks for the chance to win a single $150 Visa gift card.

Start Survey

Opportunities for Schools & Educators

2023 workshop registration now open!

Build your discussion leadership skills through hands-on practice with other educators as part of our virtual Open Enrollment Workshop. We welcome those new to Touchstones and veteran teachers who have never received formal training. Scholarship seats are available if funding is a barrier.

More dates to come!

Learn More & Register

Check out our FREE evaluation tools!

Are you interested in getting a better sense of your class' progress toward Essential Skills in Touchstones this school year? We've adapted some of our individual discussion evaluation tools into short, digital, surveys you can use to assess growth throughout the year. Get in touch with us to get free access for your students!

Email us at schoolprograms@touchstones.org or visit our website to access these resources!

Learn More!

Community Programs News & Opportunities

Next Online Community Discussions!

Everyone is welcome to join for this free, drop-in program. Whether you’re just getting familiar with Touchstones or you’re a seasoned discussion leader, Online Community Discussions offer a way to practice discussion skills together and build community.

Our next Thursday community discussion will be held on January 19, from 7:30pm-8:45pm. Our next Saturday discussions will be held on January 14 and 28, from 11am-12pm.

Restarting Programs for Seniors

Are you interested in starting a Touchstones discussion group with seniors in your community or in partnership with a local retirement center? We're looking to restart these long-standing programs after a break during the pandemic. Our tools and training provide you with the support you need to get a program up and running. Learn more about our Senior Programs on our website, and reach out to us at to get started.

Learn more about our programs for Seniors

Restarting Programs for Veterans

In Touchstones programs for veterans, participants learn to co-lead discussions on themes related to service and homecoming. They explore selections from Homer’s The Odyssey alongside contemporary work— including many by veterans— about service and war to reflect on their own experiences and journeys. If you are a veteran and interested in starting a discussion group, learn more on our website and reach out to get started.

Learn more about Veterans Programs

Check Out What We're Reading!

Share Your Touchstones Story

The Touchstones community spans the globe! Help us spread the word about the amazing work happening in your classroom or community group by sharing your story on social media. Use the hashtag #BeyondTheSocraticSeminar in your posts or complete this form to be featured in an upcoming #TouchstonesSpotlight on our channels.