Apply for the Summer Poetry Teachers Institute
Bring more poetry to your classroom!
The Poetry Foundation is holding its ninth annual Summer Poetry Teachers Institute in Chicago at DePaul University, July 22-26, 2024.
This free, four-and-a-half-day event will include seminars, hands-on workshops, and small break-out sessions where attendees will craft poetry lesson/unit plans to bring back to their classrooms. We've created a learning community of educators from across the United States and beyond to study and discuss poetry with renowned practitioners and expert teachers.
“The quality of the presenters was outstanding. They and the participants rekindled my enthusiasm and passion after a depleted year”
—2023 participating teacher
Thank you, thank you. “Poetry camp” was my most cherished educational opportunity/experience in 26 years of teaching.
—2023 participating teacher
A great opportunity! As a first-time attendee, I learned a lot and am filled with joy to apply my experiences to the classroom – and hopefully participate again!
—2023 participating teacher
Who is eligible?
- K-12 teachers and community college instructors
- New and experienced teachers, including those who enjoy teaching poetry and those who have struggled with it
- Previous attendees are welcome
- Registrants must be able to commit to participating in every session offered in their tier
FAQ
Q: How much does the Institute cost?
A: There is no cost to attend. Attendees are responsible for their transportation, lodging, and some meals.
Q: When does the Institute take place?
A: July 22-26 (all times CT):
- Monday, July 22-Wednesday, July 24, 8:30 AM -4:30 PM
- Thursday, July 25, 9:30 AM -3:30 PM ( optional reading 5-7 PM)
- Friday, July 26, 8:30 AM -12:30 PM
Q: Where will the Institute take place?
A: DePaul University Schmitt Academic Center
2320 N. Kenmore
Chicago, IL 60614
Q: Do you offer lodging?
A: We will not be offering free lodging, However, we have discount codes for hotels in the area which we will share upon acceptance to the Institute.
Q: Will you offer meals?
A: A light breakfast and box lunch will be provided on Monday and an optional lunch and reception with light snacks will be provided on Thursday. You will have the opportunity to share dietary restrictions upon acceptance to the Institute.
Q: I don’t know much about poetry. May I participate?
A: We aim to make all teachers more comfortable teaching poetry, so if you want to use poetry in the classroom, we encourage you to apply.
Q: As an elementary teacher, will I be in the same seminars and workshops as community college instructors?
A: Every level (elementary, middle, high, and community college) will have level-specific programming as well as some whole group seminars.
Q: How many participants will there be?
A: There will be roughly 135 teachers attending. Participants will meet in groups ranging from 15 people in breakout sessions and up to 50 for workshops and/or seminars.
Q: I’ve submitted my application. When will I receive a response?
A: Applicants will be notified in late April through early May.
Q: Can you meet my accessibility needs?
A: We are happy to provide ASL interpretation. Please let us know at least one week in advance if you would benefit from an ASL interpreter in attendance. If you would benefit from any other accessibility measures, contact [email protected].
To apply, please submit this application.
*Applications will open on March 18, 2024 and close on April 21, 2024. Spots are limited, so we encourage applying early.
If you have difficulty accessing the application, please contact Justine Haka at [email protected].