Writers’ Room Slam Poetry Coach at John D. O’Bryant School of Mathematics and Science

826 Boston•Boston, MA

30d•Hybrid

About The Position

826 Boston is seeking a dynamic and experienced spoken word poet to serve as the Slam Poetry Coach for the Writers’ Room at the John D. O’Bryant School of Mathematics and Science (O’B). This role is for students in grades 9-12 and involves developing writers and performers. The position is part of the Writers' Room program, which offers academic and creative writing programs, including an after-school Slam Poetry Club. 826 Boston is a nonprofit organization focused on writing, tutoring, and publishing for students K-12 and beyond, aiming to help them share stories, amplify voices, and develop as leaders.

Requirements

2+ years as a slam poet
Some experience tutoring, teaching, or coaching middle and/or high school students
High school diploma
Ability to build genuine and responsive relationships/community with a diverse group of students and embrace values of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to prioritize responsibilities, manage your time, and take ownership of projects
Residing in Massachusetts and able to commute to the in-person location
Regular in-person hours are required.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with the Boston Public Schools system, particularly the schools in Roxbury
Experience with Google Suite and digital platforms, including Zoom, Google Classroom, and Google Meet

Responsibilities

Plan and lead hour-long high school Slam Poetry Club meetings in person on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons.
Write biweekly lesson plans to support student artists with strengthening their writing, performance, and public speaking skills.
Prepare a team of four-six high schoolers to compete at Mass Poetry’s annual Teen Spoken Word Festival in March.
Build rapport with youth and nurture a safe community where students of all backgrounds feel supported and comfortable expressing themselves artistically.
Give constructive, strengths-based feedback to students on their writing and performance.
Track club attendance on program-wide spreadsheet.
Communicate Slam Poetry Club progress to the Writers’ Room Manager during weekly one-on-one meetings.
Plan, advertise, and/or chaperone in-school open mic and out-of-school performance opportunities.
Oversee rehearsals with students for in-school and community performances.
Cultivate, maintain, and connect students with a network of BIPOC, LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, and local artists.
Act as an 826 Boston representative for Edvestors, responding to emails, attending virtual meetings, and submitting rosters.
Track weekly student progress in preparation to grade student artists during the spring semester for the Edvestors High School Credit-Bearing Program.