Pleasanton Seeking 2 Teen Poet Laureates

The City of Pleasanton is now accepting applications for two Teen Poet Laureates to serve for the 2014-2015 academic year. Incoming high school juniors and seniors who enjoy writing and are interested in contributing to their community are encouraged to apply. One student from each city high school, Amador and Foothill, will be selected to serve.  

Applicant must be enrolled and in good standing at their respective school.  The deadline for applications to be submitted is Friday, August 1.

The purpose of the Pleasanton Teen Poet Laureate program is to promote writing among young adults, and help to develop and foster an appreciation for composing, reading, reciting, and listening to poetry.

Examples of projects that the Teen Poet Laureates can lead are: casual poetry readings and gatherings on their school campus as well as middle and elementary schools; assisting middle school teachers with poetry programs at their school sites; collaborating with each other and/or the adult Pleasanton Poet Laureate on poetryworkshops, open mics, or community poetry slams.  Events may be held on school campuses or at city operated facilities.

The Pleasanton Teen Poet Laureates serve in conjunction with and under the supervision of the current Pleasanton Poet Laureate and city staff.  Volunteer service hours can be earned if desired.

Applicants will be asked to submit two short samples of their poetry or prose, a short statement about the reason they are applying for the post, and what project(s) they would like to pursue during their term.  In addition, they will submit a list of the school courses and activities they will be participating in during the 2014-2015 academic year.

Information and application: http://www.firehousearts.org/programs/literary-arts, or contact Julie Finegan, (925) 931-4849 or jfinegan@cityofpleasantonca.gov.

—Information from City of Pleasanton