First Draft Academy
Write on Arts
About Write on Arts
Write on Arts is a literacy program created to inspire students from under-resourced communities to improve their writing skills, critical thinking, and self-confidence through a topic they are passionate about: arst.
We define arts broadly to include theater, music, fine arts, and culture.
In Write on Arts, we approach each of our programs by individualizing our instruction based on students’ interests and abilities, allowing each student to benefit from the program and grow as a writer and learner.
Our delivery models include two or three-week summer sessions, multi-week after-school programs, and single- or multi-session workshops.
For additional information, contact
Shannon Schmitt
Executive Director
shannon@firstdraftacademy.org
Write on Arts
Summer Session Details
Projects
Students choose a theme and identify a project, including a feature article, video, or podcast.
Mentorship
The small student-teacher ratio, allows for support and feedback on projects during scheduled small group or one-on-one meetings.
Guest Days
Guest artists and journalists visit to speak about their profession and allow students to interview them directly, further developing their literacy and writing skills.
Field Trips
Students will go on arts-related field trips, such as a guided tour of The Newark Museum of Art, with time to explore on their own as well.
Showcase
Students present their final projects on the last day of the program to their peers, family, and friends. Their work is also shared online for a wider audience.
Write on Arts
Summer Session Dates and Locations
Click on the location below to learn more and apply for the summer session.
Colorado
July 13 – Jul 24, 2026
Great futures start here: YOU can make a difference!
First Draft Academy works with under-resourced communities and school districts, focusing on middle school students, to improve their literacy skills by tapping into their passion – sports, the arts or whatever makes them tick!