Our Impact
The ability to share what’s inside is the difference between the shy kid and the charismatic performer, the school hater and the engaged student, the passive bystander and the active citizen.
InsideOut Literary Arts programming can enrich the academic and creative life of every student – from a second grade English Language Learner exploring the nuances of language to the high school student learning to craft stories beyond their next text message.
Whether they have an InsideOut Writer-in-Residence in their classroom or attend our Citywide Poets afterschool sessions, these students look forward to expressing their unique voice, utilizing their imagination and creativity, and feeling confident in their ability to read and write.
Why does learning to write poetry make a difference in a young person’s life?
Because students learn:
Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
How to improve their writing
Positive and constructive ways to communicate their authentic feelings
Our program also:
Builds self-confidence
Fosters artistic excellence
Creates community
Our Impact
96% of teachers see an overall increase in student grades and report that our program improves their students’ critical thinking abilities and writing skills.
say our program has improved the classroom climate.
applied what they learned about writing in other classes.
have improved reading comprehension.
Aside from finding yourself, writing is a great coping mechanism, and it allows you to see the world around you differently. I don’t think I’ve felt the sense of community anywhere else.”
“Many students who previously do not consider themselves to be ‘serious’ writers change their minds after a few sessions with the writer-in-residence. He makes the students take themselves and their writing seriously. He is a true inspiration to my students.”
-Patrick Butler, classroom teacher
Western International High School
Poetry is a way for me to just be myself instead of trying to fit in with everybody else. I can be my own rainbow with different colors. Instead of the standard red, orange, yellow, I can be pink, black, and green.”
“I love the spark in a student’s eye who usually struggles in my class after they have created their first piece.”
– Lisa Brooks, classroom teacher
Detroit International Academy for Young Women