Maryland State Arts Council Teaching Poet.
I’m Heidi Mordhorst,
Click the MSAC logo to learn about how I can help you access grant-supported
poetry programming. NEXT GRANT DEADLINE IS JANUARY 5
for Winter & Spring programs!
The WHISPERshout Mission: Poetry and Justice for All! WHISPERshout Writing Workshop brings extended afterschool and in-school enrichment workshops–-especially to underresourced populations–-that mix poetry with nature, art, culture and social-emotional learning. Children ages 4-12 learn that poetry is a powerful medium for capturing their experiences, speaking their minds and imagining their futures.
multi-arts literacy enrichment coaching, classes & workshops
poetry workshops
WHISPERshout poetry workshops come in two forms:
SMALL-GROUP ENRICHMENT CLASSES for 6 to 10 kids, usually held after school and lasting 6-8 weeks
—AND—
SCHOOL-DAY CLASSROOM PROGRAMS
for whole classes, from a one-time visit to poet-in-residence engagements of 3-6 sessions.
Has your child been writing poems at home or at school? Now they can see their poems published online! Click the image above to go to the WHISPER-shout Magazine site, or click the blue button to submit a poem and artwork by email.
Kids getting a first look at their published anthology of poems and artwork—always a thrilling moment!
Does your elementary-aged child need a boost in skills, application or confidence? I can help. I’ll quickly assess where they are in reading and writing development and provide individualized support to move them forward in playful and motivating ways.
In both settings, kids aged 4-12 work with me, a veteran classroom teacher, published poet, & early years literacy specialist. My workshops are multi-arts, mixing drama, art, music & movement, or natural science with poetry to offer a cross-curricular experience. Each program has a planned outline, but as I get to know the students, I consider the needs and interests of the children in the group and adjust the content to match.
Each child receives individual support at their level of reading and writing development, while simultaneously participating in a socially and emotionally rich group literacy experience.
Ideal class or session length is 75-90 minutes to allow time for in-depth creative & academic work.
Each workshop concludes with a presentation or publication that enables children to share their work with an audience.
Workshop Options: what works for your class, group or school?
Custom programs are available!
I have provided a year-long Poetry Playschool program for a PreK Class; a 3-session SEL-focused program for 2nd grade called “Me, Myself and We,” and a 3-session program for 6th grade focused on mask poems. Work with me to design your program!