Join us at Henry’s Books in Spearfish on Saturday May 31 from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM for a book signing with local authors Dr. Scott Simpson and Sharla Steever as they release their newest title, “CircleBridge".
About the Book:
"Interested in the kind of education that builds bridges rather than walls? That’s powered not only by time-tested ideas but by compelling storytelling? That honors indigenous voices and reaches across cultural divides? That has the potential for personal and social transformation? Then this is the book for you. Scott Simpson and Sharla Steever write first and foremost from on-the-ground practice, not theory. I can testify from personal experience how reliable their practices are when it comes to creating trustworthy space for difficult conversations and deep learning. I urge you to join them on their journey and learn about the proven potential of the CircleBridge approach."
—Parker J. Palmer (author of “The Courage to Teach,” “A Hidden Wholeness,” “Healing the Heart of Democracy,” and “Let Your Life Speak”)
CircleBridge demonstrates how storytelling can bridge cultural divides, foster empathy, and create connections within educational and community settings. By sharing personal and community stories alongside practical frameworks, the book guides readers toward understanding, relational growth, and intercultural development. Grounded in decades of educational work and collaboration with Indigenous communities, it provides actionable insights for creating safe, inclusive spaces where dialogue and learning thrive.
About the Authors:
Dr. Scott Simpson—Dr. Scott Simpson is a writer, poet, songwriter, and lifelong educator whose work centers on learning, trust, and cultural connection. As a Learning Specialist, Scott helps schools foster meaningful relationships, culturally responsive teaching, and inclusive learning environments. He is a co-developer of Circlebridge, a guiding framework for navigating differences and building trust, and a facilitator with the Center for Courage & Renewal, inspired by Parker Palmer’s work in creating spaces of deep reflection and authenticity.
Scott’s passion for storytelling and education extends into his work with Indigenous communities. He co-developed and maintains the Wolakota Project and Teachings of Our Elders websites, working closely with Indigenous Elders to bring their Essential Understandings into schools across North and South Dakota.
Before stepping into this role, Scott spent over 15 years as a high school English, drama, and speech teacher and a professor of English, theater, and education at multiple universities. He holds an M.A. in English Curriculum & Instruction and a Ph.D. in English Creative Writing from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. His journey has also taken him into leadership as the Executive Director of a youth and family camp in the mountains of Northern New Mexico.
Scott is a published poet, writer, and indie music producer, crafting words and songs that explore themes of belonging, transformation, and resilience. He does most of his best thinking and creating while hiking the Black Hills with his wife, Sheryl, and their three dogs—Gandi, Gilly, and Ellie.
Sharla Steever—Sharla Steever has been an educator since 1992 - an elementary teacher, an outdoor educator, a camp director, a Christian educator and currently a learning specialist. As an elementary teacher, she received several awards for her accomplishments. She received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching for Elementary Science in South Dakota, she was a Classroom Teaching Ambassador Fellow for the US Department of Education, and she is a Nationally Board Certified Middle Childhood Generalist. Sharla is a facilitator for the Center for Courage and Renewal and she is also a Licensed Minister in the United Church of Christ.
Sharla lives in the Black Hills of South Dakota where she and her husband, Kerry, and two dogs (Bonnie and Clyde) live near the camp Kerry manages. Her grown children also live in the area and are a huge part of Sharla's life. Sharla is actively involved in her community, her church, her husband's camp, and she travels for her work across ND, SD, NE and WY. She enjoys gardening, tending to her chickens, hiking, singing, and creating art.
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