“This program is one of the most fulfilling and worthwhile experiences I have had as a teacher and learner.”
The Hudson Valley Writing Project is now accepting applications for its 2025-26 Invitational Institute, LEADERSHIP IN THE TEACHING OF WRITING. Comprised of three graduate courses, this acclaimed program supports educators in developing expertise in writing instruction and literacy development as well as facilitation skills to work as leaders in the Writing Project and their school communities.
HVWP invites applications to the Institute from educators who work with students of all ages -- from preschool to college -- and in all subject areas, including language arts, social studies, science, math, foreign languages, the arts, English as a New Language, and special education. HVWP maintains a special interest in working with educators of color, educators who teach English language learners, as well as those who work with students from communities impacted by poverty. Participants are selected based on their interest in learning and leadership, their teaching experience, their written application, and a collegial interview.
2025-26 COURSE DESCRIPTIONS AND DATES:
TEACHERS AS WRITERS: Invitational Institute 1 (3 credits)
Summer 2025: May 3, July 15-17, 22-24, 29-31 | 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
In this summer session, you will engage in personal and professional writing to develop new skills and confidence as a writing teacher and facilitator. You will gain experience analyzing student writing and learn new ideas for teaching writing in your classroom.
TEACHERS AS LEARNERS: Invitational Institute 2 (3 credits)
Fall 2025: Sept. 13, Oct. 4 & 25, Nov. 15, Dec. 6 | 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
In this fall course, you will deepen your understanding of writing instruction and action research methods as you engage in an inquiry project focused on your teaching. With collegial support, and based on what you learn from your inquiry, you will plan and lead a writing workshop for teachers.
TEACHERS AS LEADERS: Invitational Institute 3 (3 credits)
Spring 2026: Jan. 24, Feb. 7 & 21, March 21, April 25 | 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
In this capstone course, you will build leadership skills as you design and lead a literacy-focused workshop series for your school or the HVWP community. You will learn and practice new methods of documentation as you assess the impact of your project.
LEADERSHIP IN THE TEACHING OF WRITING is offered in partnership with SUNY New Paltz, the New Paltz Central School District, and Storm King Art Center. Participants earn nine graduate credits in one year. The tuition for each course is $850, for a total of $2550. There are no additional fees.
The 2025-26 Invitational Institute will meet in person mainly in New Paltz; several sessions will take place at Storm King Art Center, where you will deepen your learning and connection to art and the environment. Watch this video: https://vimeo.com/468974699 to learn about Storm King.
Learn more and apply today!
To join our mailing list for announcements specific to this Institute, click here.
Please contact Dr. Tom Meyer, HVWP Director, at meyert@newpaltz.edu with any questions.
