WITS Helps Schools Reach Their Goals of Teaching Writing Across the Disciplines

Writers in the Schools (WITS) employs poets, fiction writers, essayists, graphic novelists, journalists and playwrights to teach semester-long writing residencies in Portland’s public high schools in order to get students excited about reading and writing, and to contribute to student achievement in Language Arts. In addition to in-school residencies, WITS provides publishing opportunities for students, professional development for teachers, visits with world-famous authors, and books, tickets and transportation for high school groups to attend Portland Arts & Lectures.

How WITS Serves Local Writers

Writers who teach with WITS are trained prior to placement, and participate in ongoing professional development opportunities throughout the year.

WITS Annual Report

Last year WITS served more than 2,800 Portland high school students by teaching writing, extending literary experiences beyond the classroom, publishing student work, and presenting student readings throughout the city. Read more about the work of Writers in the Schools and about WITS sponsors and evaluations in our annual report (or you can download the WITS report here).