Summer Institute
What is the Summer Institute?
The Summer Invitational Institute is the core of the OWP and NWP model. It provides and promotes writing instruction for teachers of all grade levels and content areas. Participants focus on three related activities during the Institute:
- Collaborative, cutting edge teaching demonstrations designed to address the needs of student writers
- Study of current theory and research in the teaching of writing, reading, and thinking
- Practice in writing and responding to writing in small groups
When is the Summer Institute?
The 2026 Summer Institute will be held from June 10–17, with an orientation on May 2. See the full agenda below!
Who is eligible for the Summer Institute?
OWP seeks exemplary teachers K–College from all content areas. Selection is based on these criteria:
- Commitment to writing as a way to learn and to communicate learning
- Potential for leadership
- Recommendation from a building administrator or department head
Why Apply?
The Institute is a teacher-led, inquiry-driven professional learning experience that includes the following:
- Resources and programs for deepening your knowledge about the teaching of writing and literacy issues
- Opportunities to grow as a writer
- Ongoing support to realize new projects and initiatives
- Access to professional development programs in schools, summer programs for teachers, Young Writer’s Camps, teacher research programs, special interest groups and advocacy
Accepted teachers are eligible for one of the following:
- Waived tuition for ENG 730 graduate credit
- $750 stipend
Summer Institute OWP 2026 Agenda
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Date
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Format
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Focus
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|---|---|---|
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Saturday, May 2
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Face to Face, 9:30 am–3:30 pm
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Kickoff & Community Building: Introduction to course, writing invitations, professional goals, and, of course,
writing!
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|
June 3–4
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Online Synchronous
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Writing Groups: Meet with your writing groups.
|
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June 8–10 (Mon–Wed)
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Face to Face, 9:30 am–3:30 pm
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Writing & Learning Intensive: Immersive sessions on teaching writing, modeling practice, and dedicated writing
time.
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June 11–12 (Th–Fri)
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Asynchronous
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Independent Work: Drafting, revising, reading, or responding online.
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June 15 (Mon)
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Online Synchronous, 9:30–11:30 am
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Writing Groups: Meet with groups to provide and receive peer response and support.
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June 16 & 17 (T–W)
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Face to Face, 9:30 am–3:30 pm
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Workshop & Reflection: Continue developing writing; connect to classroom practice.
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June 20–July 20
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Final Submission Window
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Final writing project or publication due.
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Autumn: Date TBD
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Face to Face (Capstone) |
Capstone Celebration: Final presentations, reflections, and next steps for publication or classroom use. |
To apply, visit the form HERE.