Foundation opens new Writing Center at Grady
On Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, Grady students will now be able to access the use of research facilities, the expertise of tutors, and the assistance of staff members and volunteers for their writing projects or assignments. The Grady Foundation is beginning operation of its Writing Center, three days a week for three hours (3:00 – 6:00 PM), in a space inside the Media Center. The Writing Center will open on August 18.
Riki Bolster, former journalism teacher and Southerner and GNN adviser, will coordinate the Writing Center. “We hope the Writing Center will become the center of an active writing community for all members of Grady High School. In addition to tutoring assistance in writing, we will plan events centered on writing such as competitions, lectures, and presentations,” said Ms. Bolster.
The Writing Center hopes to be – a place to receive assistance with assignments or writing for pleasure (technical, artistic, editorial); a place to access resources (writing samples, dictionaries, computers, guide sheets); a place to see and hear other writers (special events that feature writers, poets, including workshops, writing contests, book signings); and a place that connects talented students to writing opportunities and internships. Whether the student is writing a business letter for a job, an essay for college admission, the summary of scientific findings for a science project, the lyrics of a song, or an assignment for class, the Writing Center will be there.
Special emphasis will be given to college essay writing as well as to the areas of deficit that have been identified on system-wide writing tests. Although tutoring is an important part of the mission, the emphasis will also be on creating a relaxing place individuals can use for written expression.
In order to provide the one-on-one attention that is most beneficial, the Foundation is seeking volunteers to assist. Training sessions will be scheduled on a regular basis. “We are looking for at least two volunteers for every hour the Center is open. So, we encourage you to participate as much or as little as you can,” emphasized Ms. Bolster.
If you are interested, please contact Riki Bolster at bolsterr@bellsouth.net and put “Writing Center Volunteer” in the subject line of your email, and indicate your availability.
“We also welcome any suggestions you may have that would make the Writing Center a roaring success,” Bolster added.
