Volunteers needed for writing programs

Writing Coaches of Montana seeks community members in Whitefish and Columbia Falls to help local students develop better writing skills. Volunteers meet with students twice per month, helping teachers provide individualized attention.

Professional training will be offered to interested coaches on Monday, Feb. 4 from 6-8:30 p.m. at the Whitefish Community Library.

“Coaches come from all backgrounds and do not need to have a formal writing background,” says Brian Schott, program director in Whitefish. “The most important qualifications are to believe good writing is an essential skill and the ability to engage young people in a positive manner.”

Writing coaches work one-on-one with students in grades 8-12, coaching them through first and second drafts of classroom writing assignments in sessions that last 20-30 minutes.

The program aims to help students become better critical thinkers, as well as more confident, competent writers. Beyond encouraging good writing, coaching also connects students with outside community members who bring fresh perspectives and valuable life experience to the classroom.

The Whitefish program is sponsored by the Whitefish Education Foundation. Jennifer Robbins leads the program in Columbia Falls, through a grant from the Steele-Reese Foundation.

For more information email Schott at writingcoaches@whitefishschools.org or call 406-261-6190. Find more information at www.writingcoachesofmontana.org.