“We learned a lot and were allowed to do whatever we wanted with the information that we learned. I think it was all very versatile information that I will use for the rest of my writing career” -Student Participant
Lighthouse's Young Writers Program works with schools to give students a love of creative writing. Our programs are highly customizable, working with a range of ages, where students can visit Lighthouse, or we can come to you.
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Elementary: Our elementary students build strong storytelling skills using sensory details, simple poetic devices like rhyme and repetition, and creative character development. Through writing personal stories, children also grow their social-emotional learning while expressing the natural imagination and creativity they bring to this age.
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Middle School: Here, we deepen storytelling skills while introducing personal narrative and self-reflection. Students explore who they are through poetry, short stories, and screenwriting, using writing as a tool to understand themselves and express a unique voice in an often overwhelming world.
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High School: Older students are exposed to diverse genres and topics, helping them explore their interests and discover where they fit in the world. Through creative writing, literature, and mentorship from professional writers, students gain insight into real writing careers while developing originality, self-expression, and strong independent voices during a pivotal stage of life.
Why are these programs important? Learn more about the value of the literary arts and why you should bring them to your school.
Explore some examples of past Lighthouse programs below:
Ages 7 to 10 | Lighthouse at Elementary Schools
A Lighthouse instructor worked with elementary students at Lena Archuleta Elementary for after-school programming, where students practiced storytelling and using their imagination. Learn More
Ages 7 to 10 | Students Visit Lighthouse
A group of fourth-graders from Creative Challenge Community Elementary School came to Lighthouse’s building to learn about poetry. They displaced an incredible amount of creativity in just a short time! Read Their Poems
Ages 12 to 16 | At the Denver Museum of Nature and Science
The environment around us provides so much inspiration. Young writers in this sci-fi club explored exhibits at the museum before letting their imaginations run wild with out-of-this-world stories. Read About Their Experiences
Ages 14-18 | Lighthouse at 5280 High School
5280 High School is a project-based learning school creating bold, prepared, and balanced students who are dedicated to living life in recovery. Lighthouse’s Writing for Resilience program uses writing workshops to support the school in its goal of having students thrive. Explore Writing For Resilience