InsideOut’s Writer-in-Residence model places professional writers into classrooms to partner with teachers.
The program infuses poetry, spoken word and other multi-media arts experiences into academic spaces to build stronger reading and writing competencies for youth. Every student has the opportunity to featured in a professionally published literary journal.
InsideOut is committed to creating healthy learning environments that respect our students’ communities and identities, and prepare them for both educational and personal success.
InsideOut programs are designed to support:
- Michigan Department of Education curriculum standards
- English Language Learners
- Social-Emotional Learning, which includes self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making
FAQ for Teachers and Principals
What is the Writers-in-Residence program?
As part of InsideOut’s mission to inspire and equip students to think broadly, create bravely and share their voice with the world, our Writer-in-Residence program offers a literary arts intensive to schools in metro Detroit. A trained, professional Writer is paired with three (or more) classes to facilitate writing and community-building activities. Students become versed in poetry, literary techniques and devices, poetic forms, and oral performance through close readings, literary interpretation and weekly practice of the writing process. Additionally, we focus on community building, social-emotional growth, and writing as a coping tool. More information on our curriculum can be found here.
How many schools does InsideOut work with each year?
InsideOut works with approximately 25 elementary, middle, and high schools in metro Detroit each year, serving grades 2-12. Once we are at capacity, interested schools are placed on a waiting list.
When does the program start?
Schools ideally confirm their partnership with InsideOut in the spring or summer of the prior school year. Programming begins between mid-October and mid-November and culminates in May or June. Principals can reserve their slot here.
How do teachers engage with the residency program?
InsideOut classroom teachers are a vital part of the process, from supporting classroom management and culture setting, to communicating any special needs or themes to the Writer-in-Residence and supporting the completion of the literary journal. Our Writers plan meaningful, engaging lessons – students and Writers alike love it when teachers participate alongside students!
InsideOut classroom teachers are a vital part of the process, from supporting classroom management and culture setting, to communicating any special needs or themes to the Writer-in-Residence and supporting the completion of the literary journal. Our Writers plan meaningful, engaging lessons – students and Writers alike love it when teachers participate alongside students!
Is there a cost for the program?
You can find detailed pricing information on our menu of services. InsideOut also offers matching grant funds to selected schools. These funds are allocated on a first come, first-served basis between June-September.
Is it possible to arrange for a shorter program or single visit with a writer?
We consider single visits and shorter engagements on a case-by-case basis, depending on the time of year and our capacity. Please reach out via the Workshop Request Form.
Do you have a question not answered here?
Please reach out to Alise Alousi, Director of School & Community Partnerships.