Applications available for writing institute for K-12 educators

The Messenger 03.06.13

The West Tennessee Writing Project (WTWP) will host its 20th invitational summer institute at the University of Tennessee at Martin on May 11 and June 3-13.
K-12 teachers are invited to apply and 12 will be selected.
The institute is designed for teachers who want to become stronger teachers of reading and writing and be included in the ongoing professional community of WTWP writing consultants.
The program uses teaching demonstrations, discussions and readings to help participants discover innovative ways to meet standards and implement differentiated instruction. Participants will explore both teacher-driven and student-driven assessment methods, learn writing and reading approaches to develop critical thinking among students and discover the beginnings of classroom inquiry.
Afternoon writing workshops are also offered to help teachers rediscover their own love of writing.
Teachers completing the institute will receive 52 renewal points from UT Martin through the Office of Extended Campus and Online Studies, which will appear on an official academic transcript.
A grant from the National Writing Project will cover the cost of the renewal points, books and supplies, so there is no cost to participating teachers. Those completing the institute will also receive a stipend to help cover costs such as food and travel. Lodging is available in student dorms for those interested.
“The administration at UT Martin has been incredibly supportive of WTWP during these lean budget years,” said Dr. David Carithers, associate professor of English and WTWP director. “The work of the writing project would not be possible without that support.”
The program has been highly praised by participants over the years.
Jamie Babb, a teacher at Dresden Middle School, participated in the 2012 institute and called it “one of the most valuable opportunities for growth I have had as an individual and a teacher.”
“The summer institute gave me the opportunity and the time to express myself as a writer and to experience being a part of a writing community,” added Donna Martin of Jackson Careers and Technology Magnet School, who also participated in the 2012 program.
All application materials are due April 15.
Application forms, brochures and other information can be found at www.utm.edu/wtwp or interested teachers may contact Carithers at (731) 881-7290.

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