By Jessica Chapa, Director, Short-Term Programs
Short-Term Programs recently held a Writer's Workshop course specifically designed for 6th-12th grade students who are Blind or Visually Impaired from across Alabama. This program brought together 11 enthusiastic young writers, providing them with an opportunity to explore their creative potential and enhance their literary skills.
The course featured a series of presentations by a diverse group of local authors and storytellers. Writers such as Kelly Kazek, Carol Cain, Leah Oakley, Tom Brandon, and sisters Ashley and Monique Jones shared their expertise of writing and storytelling. Each presenter brought a unique perspective, inspiring the students with their varied backgrounds and approaches to writing.
The course was not just about listening to presentations; it was a hands-on experience where students engaged in writing exercises. The participants were given prompts by teachers and local authors and storytellers who presented at the course. This collaborative effort provided students with a diverse range of ideas and themes to explore, allowing them to craft their own stories and poems.
Several categories of the Expanded Core Curriculum were incorporated into the course. These included compensatory skills, such as creative writing and literacy; assistive technology, through the use of specialized writing tools; and independent living skills, demonstrated by the kitchen skills training – emphasizing the importance of students’ independence and limitless potential.
Reflecting on the experience, Carol Cain stated, “I hoped that as a storyteller I could inspire students to find and then craft their own stories. What I did not expect was how much these students would impact my own work." Leah Oakley added, "Being with these students was one of the richest blessings of the year."
Short-Term Programs student Maggie from Pike Road, Alabama, shared her thoughts, saying, "It is a great environment for learning writing techniques while talking to first-hand professionals and simply spending time with your friends simultaneously."
The Writer's Workshop course was a resounding success. The students left the program not only with improved writing abilities but also with a sense of accomplishment and empowerment. Short-Term Programs continues to make a significant impact on the lives of students across Alabama who are Blind or Visually Impaired.
