Writers in Schools
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The Program
PEN/Faulkner Writers in Schools is a national literary arts outreach program committed to developing the next generation of readers. Since 1989,
PEN/Faulkner Writers in Schools has brought nationally-known writers into urban public high schools. PEN/Faulkner provides free copies of an
author’s book to
students along with resources to aid teachers in preparing students for the author’s visit. The teacher and author work together to prepare
students.
Playwright Edward Albee meets with students at Coolidge High School in Washington, DC
- Teachers and writers receive stipends in appreciation for their participation.
- Teachers may request two to three visits a year.
- Teachers have the opportunity to exchange best practices during professional development sessions hosted by PEN/Faulkner.
- The dedication of writers and teachers year after year is testament to their belief in the Writers in Schools Program.
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Expanding the Impact—National Outreach
Writers in Schools began a national expansion in 2001, launching three-year pilot programs in Detroit, Kansas City, Atlanta, and Chicago with
founding support from Ford Motor Company and other sponsors.
The national program is modeled after the highly successful Washington, D.C. program. PEN/Faulkner partners with an established arts organization in each city, and
the partner organization oversees the program on a local level.
Writers in Schools is committed to finding new opportunities in cities eager to develop generations of readers.
The U.S. Department of Education has declared reading the leading skill determining both academic and future life success.
Elizabeth Strout signs copies of students’ books
- Meeting an author illuminates the art of writing.
- Conversations with authors strengthen students’ critical thinking and verbal skills.
- Students delight in owning autographed copies of a writer’s book.
- Students experience increased confidence in their own reading and writing.
- Students forge bonds with authors, sometimes sustained by ongoing correspondence that lasts far beyond the classroom visit.
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Thank You for Supporting Writers in Schools
- The Gwendolyn and Morris Cafritz Foundation
- Folger Shakespeare Library
- ExxonMobil Foundation
- Ford Motor Company
- The D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities
- Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale and Dorr, LLP
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T.C. Boyle reads to DC high school students.
“Read, read, read. Read everything—Just like
a carpenter who works as an apprentice and studies the master. Read! Then write.”
–William Faulkner
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Teacher Guidebook
Coming soon!
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For more information, contact:
Writers in Schools Program
PEN/Faulkner Foundation
201 East Capitol Street, SE
Washington, DC 20003
Tel: 202.898.9061 | Fax: 202.589.0067
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