826michigan Open Mic Poetry

826michigan is partnering with University Prep Academy Middle School for the 2025-2026 school year to create an After-School Writing Lab for students across multiple grade levels. In this program, we create a supportive community of writers, where students work with community volunteers, visiting writers, and teaching artists in small groups each week. Each program starts with a warm-up creative exercise and chance for connection and is followed by a mini-lesson to learn techniques that the pros use. Students have the opportunity to write, draw, and share their original work. By the end of the program cycle, students will have been provided multiple opportunities for publication and performance. Our first performance opportunity is slated for December 2025 as a Showcase for all participants to share the poetry they have created with us. This event will also feature an open mic for other students, families, facilitators, and community members to share form or free verse poetry while also supporting the young writers of our ASWL.

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Host or Publisher Main | Detroit Public Library