Educational Programs

At Mass Poetry, we believe poetry can change the world. We also believe our commitment to educational and youth programming is a strong first step. For over ten years, we’ve been bringing Poet-Educators into classrooms to work with students on reading, drafting, writing, editing, providing peer feedback, and performing. We help students find their authentic voices, and increase their self-confidence and communication skills. One of our former students, a 7th grader from Excel Academy Chelsea, said it best: “Poetry can help you unswallow your thoughts and unfold your feelings.” As we head back into classrooms after nearly 500 days of quarantine, with many students struggling not only academically, but in terms of social and emotional development, our mission feels more important than ever before.

Poet-in-Residence Program

Mass Poetry-certified Poet-Educators, or those with comparable experience, work in public schools for a minimum of three sessions, and up to an entire school year. Residencies are customizable and can include co-teaching, workshops, performances & open mics, after-school programming, and/or one-on-one mentorship. The residency culminates in a capstone, such as the publication of an anthology of students’ work or a poetry open mic for the entire student body.

Professional Development

Mass Poetry’s Professional Development program is led by engaging poet-instructors and focused on the teaching of poetic craft and technique, providing skills for educators to invigorate their classrooms. While the sessions are geared toward high school teachers working with the Common Core Curriculum, anyone who seeks to strengthen their knowledge and skills in creative writing poetry instruction are welcome to attend. Teachers earn PDPs, while others earn Certificates of Completion.

Resources for Educators

Resources for educators include: tools and tips for teaching poetry; poetry programs in Massachusetts; and publications, programs, and contests for middle & high school students.

Also, check out what’s in store for upcoming Student Programming. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we are offering virtual versions of these programs as well as creative writing workshop packets (below) to facilitate poetry learning in a variety of distance learning models.

Tools and Tips for Teaching Poetry

Poetry Programs in Massachusetts and Beyond

Contests