Fall 2020 Distance Learning
In order to promote continued health and safety due to COVID-19, 826 MSP will begin the 20-21 school year with 100% distance learning. To get involved with our programs as a volunteer, student, family member or partner teacher, email info@826msp.org.
After-School Writing Lab- Trained volunteer tutors provide virtual academic support and creative writing activities which lead to publication for students ages 7-18 through our after-school program open Monday - Thursday from 3:00 - 6:00. Enrolled students attend two 1.5 hour sessions per week, and priority registration will be given to returning students and families. This year, we will have a special program for 5-6 year olds in our After-School program, called Literacy Power Hour in which our youngest students can get support on developing their literacy skills.
Young Authors’ Book Project- In YABP, classroom teachers, volunteers, guest artists, and 826 MSP staff support students in the creative process of writing original works around a theme. For the 2019-20 school year’s YABP, we partnered with three classes of English Language Learners at South High. In this publication, students explored themes of cultural inheritance, resilience, and reactions to current events. Due to the shift toward distance learning, our publication date for this year’s YABP, Words Unburden Me, with a foreword from local musician Maria Isa, has been extended to the fall of 2020.
Writer’s Room- Modeled after a college or university writing center, this dynamic and intentionally student-centered space prioritizes accessibility for those who most need support and those whose leadership qualities are too often ignored, missed, or dismissed. Here, South High students and faculty receive dedicated writing support from 826 MSP staff and volunteers through in-class tutoring, drop-in writing consultations, and the hosting of workshops, events, and author visits.
Young Authors’ Council- Started in the 19-20 school year, this new 826 MSP program is focused on youth-leadership skills building, civic engagement and writing enrichment for students in grades 6 - 12. In this selective program, all youth receive publishing opportunities and stipends for their participation and service. In the 20-21 school year, the YAC will begin with bi-weekly virtual meetings starting in late fall.
Literary Field Trips- This year, our Storytelling & Bookmaking field trips will be virtual. While classes will not be visiting our space in person, they will still be engaging in the same interactive, imaginary, and immersive writing activities. This field trip is designed for students in grades 3–5 and will be divided into two sessions, one hour on Monday and one hour on Wednesday of the same week. Signs up are available now for trips here.