Volunteer writing coaches sought in Flathead County

Writing Coaches of Montana seeks volunteers to help students in Flathead County public schools improve their writing skills.

Coaches help students by encouraging them to think critically about writing assignments so they can become confident and competent writers across subjects, according to a press release.

No prior experience is necessary. Volunteers are trained in best practices.

There is no minimum time requirement to volunteer. Coaches will be able to choose from times, dates, assignments and grade levels where volunteers are requested.

The program currently serves grades fourth through 12th in schools located in Columbia Falls, Evergreen, Kalispell and Whitefish.

“The writing coach program manages to get volunteers of all ages and from all walks of life,” Whitefish Middle School teacher Angie Finberg said. “Watching students share thoughts and words is a visual bridge of a generational gap that isn’t really as wide as we may feel. The days we have writing coaches assisting our student writers are some of my favorites of the year."

A virtual training session on Zoom is scheduled from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Sept. 14 for people interested in becoming writing coaches. Thereafter, monthly in–person workshops will be held throughout the school year.

For more information visit writingcoachesofmontana.org or email Flathead County coordinator Jeanne Wdowin at jeanne@writingcoachesofmontana.org.