Writer in Residence makes impression on students

This is the third year that Reggie Mara, master teaching artist in writing, visited the Glenholme School to enrich the writing skills of our students.

From October 23 to November 7, Mr. Mara was the Writer in Residency for four of Mr. McCauley’s and Ms. Schulze’s Writing and English classes.

"My experience when I come to teach at Glenholme reaffirms what I am trying to do as a teacher of writing. It validates my work in the world," said Mara.

The theme for this year's residency, "Who in the World Wrote That?" focused on how voice and tone inform writing and affect choice of words. The class included focused readings, discussions of student writing techniques for getting at the personal voice. Students were observed to enjoy and be fully engaged in this class.

Ms. Schulze, English instructor says of Mr. Mara's teaching, "I'm thrilled to see the students who don't normally participate be engaged and attentive."

Mr. McCauley, writing teacher, said of Mara, "Reggie reinforced what I have been teaching these guys for a couple of years: the importance of voice in writing. This is the main focus that I can't spend enough time on. He was very kind and patient with my students, and they really responded to him. I feel that my students saw the value of having him teach for three weeks."

"It was very inspirational," student participant Nana G. said. Creighton H. added, "I learned a lot. Mr. Mara knew what he was talking about." Student Aleks K. concluded, "It expanded my writing ability. Wish it would've lasted longer."

Mr. Mara is a published poet and writer and part of the Connecticut Arts Commission's Directory of Master Teaching Artists.