Writer/Poet Mentor

Southern Word

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Job Summary

The primary purpose of these part-time positions is to support youth in building their writing, presentation, and leadership skills through creative writing and spoken word poetry, including short fiction writing and songwriting.  Writers will work with groups of youth at schools and youth organizations to support their artistic and academic development both individually and as a group.  Writers are expected to plan student-centered, interactive lessons, activities, and curricula for sessions in collaboration with other Southern Word writers. Writers will teach workshops and evaluate their own and other mentors’ workshops in a continuous effort to innovate the curriculum and improve all mentor’s teaching skills and methods. Since mentors are a main driver of program attendance for workshops, clubs, and events, writer mentors will be part of recruiting and marketing programs and events.

This is a part-time contract position that runs between June 1, 2021 and July 30, 2022. Hours and compensation vary based on schedule, level of experience, and placements.

Job Responsibilities

1. In conjunction with Southern Word team, plan, execute, and evaluate writing and poetry clubs, workshops, shows, and poetry slams; primarily for youth in schools and community settings, but also for adults and intergenerational groups at times.
2. Assist with recruiting and marketing programs and events through marketing visits, sample performances, and communication with youth and parents.
3. Present own writing for modeling, demonstration and inspiration. 
4. Document and submit documentation for all workshops, residencies, shows, and activities.
5. Research and develop new spoken word activities and curricula for use in workshops and residencies.
6. Support logistical execution of workshops, shows, and poetry slams.
7. Attend team meetings.
8. Other duties as necessary in support of the Southern Word workshops and events.

Qualifications

Must have experience in educational or youth development settings teaching writing.  Must have experience writing and presenting own writing in front of an audience. Must be active in own artistic pursuits. Must possess excellent lesson planning, teaching, conflict management, and classroom management skills. Must be able to positively engage groups of youth in learning as well as focus on strengths and needs of individual workshop participants. Deal with all situations in a calm and positive manner.  Must communicate responsively via e-mail.

Additional Information

Benefits

How to Apply

E-mail cover poem and resume to info@southernword.org

Details

• Date Posted: May 28, 2021
• Type: Contract / Temp
• Job Function: Educator
• Service Area: Arts / Culture
• Start Date: 08/09/2021
• Salary Range: N/A
• Working Hours: N/A