COMING 2026
S.C.R.I.B.E.S. (Storytellers Creating Real Impact By Expressing Self) is a creative writing and expression program where teens find and express their voice through storytelling, song and poetry. We are creating a safe and constructive space for young poets, storytellers, and sognwriters of all kind. In addition, we are teaching them to improve their skills and turn their art into tangible products (books, performances, etc.).
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📍 Location: Core Community Center, 980 Bay St., Springfield, MA 01119
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📅 Dates: January 12 – June 26, 2026
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🕔 Schedule: Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
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👥 Ages: 12–17
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🎟️ Capacity: Only 12 students accepted
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💭 Mission: To help teens find their voice through poetry, songwriting, podcasting, filmmaking, and public performance.
In Springfield—where less than 35% of teens read at grade level—S.C.R.I.B.E.S. is a movement to rebuild confidence in self-expression and transform literacy into liberation.
What Will Students Create?
Every student with real-world creative projects they can be proud of:
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🎤 Spoken Word Open Mic – Perform original poetry before a live audience.
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🎧 Theater Podcasting – Write, record, and edit stories from your world.
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🎵 Youth Concert – See their words turned into songs performed by local artists.
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📚 Self-Published Book – Publish their own work and sell it to the world.
A Day in the Life at S.C.R.I.B.E.S.
Every day follows a rhythm designed to inspire:
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Quiet Writing Time – Begin each session writing freely on their own project in peaceful reflection.
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Optional Peer Share – Share their work and receive supportive feedback.
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Creative Writing Challenge – Push their imagination with unique prompts and activities.
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Project Time – Focus on one of your four major projects and bring your vision to life.
Terrance Mack is an award-winning literacy educator, author, and curriculum designer with over a decade of experience teaching in Georgia, Massachusetts, and Rwanda.
He holds a Master’s in Applied Linguistics and a Bachelor’s in Political Science, and has helped thousands of students unlock their creative potential through culturally relevant storytelling and literacy innovation.
Terrance is also the founder of Lit Dive, an education-centered company that believes “literacy is power.”
Lit Dive creates books, lessons, and creative learning experiences that help young people write, think, and express themselves freely.
Teka Jones, the visionary leader of Strong Young Minds Inc., has been a force of empowerment for Springfield’s youth—organizing events such as the renowned “I Am Me” Kids Fashion Show and countless other creative and community-centered initiatives. Under her leadership, Strong Young Minds is building a new legacy: a safe, inspiring space where young people can gather after school to grow, create, and thrive.
Their newly developed Core Community Center on 980 Bay Street has opened its doors to S.C.R.I.B.E.S., offering not just a venue—but a home.
The Core team is committed to ensuring that the space runs smoothly throughout the semester, creating an environment where every student feels welcomed, supported, and inspired to shine.
Together, Lit Dive and Strong Young Minds are building bridges for Springfield’s youth to step boldly into their creative futures.
