Application Process & Responsibilities
The City of Rock Hill Poet Laureate will be selected through a competitive application process. Applicants must live within the boundaries of the Rock Hill School District, be at least 21 years old, and submit all of the following as their official application:
resume and biographical sketch as to how the applicant will fulfill the Rock Hill Poet Laureate position in regards to the Purpose as stated on the Home page;
three letters of recommendation indicating how the applicant meets the purpose as stated on the home page;
five to seven original poems;
a recorded (video/audio) reading of the applicant's poems (not to exceed three poems and/or six minutes);
signed agreement authorizing a background check by the State Law Enforcement Department (SLED) and all social media sites and handles;
list of any awards or recognition (optional);
proof of residency in the Rock Hill School District (no minimum length of residency is required, but residency must be maintained during the term of appointment);
proof of age, at least twenty-one years of age.
Responsibilities
The Poet Laureate will be expected to:
complete a minimum of three workshops/visits each year to local K-12 schools to introduce poetry and literary guidance;
conduct three public readings/performances and three community service projects each year;
write and perform commissioned poems at official city functions and activities;
mentor the Youth Poet Laureate;
coordinate events that advance poetry through collaboration with local partners;
act as Literary Ambassador for the City;
pursue one or more literary projects with an emphasis on outreach, education, and cultural tourism;
attend monthly meeting on the third Tuesday of each month at 1:00 pm;
dedicate significant time dedicated to literary efforts and on community events;
write at the end of the term, a summation of impressions and experiences to help improve the position and application process.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long must I have lived in the within the Rock Hill School District boundaries?
-There is no minimum requirement for residency.
2. Do I have to have work that has been published or received award recognition?
-No, anyone who meets the application requirements is welcome to apply.
3. What is the term of the Poet Laureate?
-The term of the Poet Laureate will be two years with the potential of two additional one-year-term extensions.
4. What experience is required?
-No experience is required, though related experience is helpful in the application process.
5. Is there an interview process?
-Yes.
6. Will there be multiple rounds of interviewing?
-Potentially, based on the number of applicants and their experience.