Hosted by: Strong Young Minds Inc. in partnership with Lit Dive LLC and the Core Community Center
Program Schedule: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Core Community Center, Springfield, MA
S.C.R.I.B.E.S. (Students Creating Real Imaginative Bold Expressive Stories) is a youth creative writing and performance program dedicated to nurturing the voices of young writers and performers. Through this program, participants will:
Develop and publish their own short stories, poems, or personal narratives in a self-published anthology.
Gain experience in expressive performance and public speaking through guided workshops.
Collaborate with local writers, poets, and artists to strengthen their craft.
Receive access to writing materials, tablets, and digital resources to support their creative process.
Enjoy a safe, positive, and supportive environment where creativity and individuality are celebrated.
Be provided with light snacks and refreshments during sessions.
The S.C.R.I.B.E.S. program relies on consistent participation to help students complete their projects and grow as writers. By registering, families agree to:
Make every effort for the student to attend all sessions (Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 5–7 PM).
Notify program staff in advance if the student will be absent.
Understand that repeated absences may result in the student’s removal from the active project group or publication list.
S.C.R.I.B.E.S. is a community built on mutual respect, creativity, and accountability.
Students must always respect:
Themselves
Peers and program mentors
Core Community Center staff and property
If a student’s behavior disrupts learning or the safety of others, the following steps will be taken:
First Tier Incidents (Talking or laughing excessively during inappropriate times, Mild horseplay and Ignoring directions): Verbal reminders and discussion with the student.
Second Tier Incidents (Repeatedly interrupting after being reminded multiple times, Disrespectful language, Bullying peers, Leaving the space without permission): Parent/guardian contact and behavior reflection plan between parent, student and director.
Third Tier Incidents (Exhibiting violence, Vandalism, Repeated use of profanity): Parent meeting and potentially dismissal from the program.
Parents/guardians are responsible for arranging transportation for their child to and from the program.
Students must be picked up promptly at 7:00 PM unless other arrangements have been made.
Students who walk home must have written permission from a parent or guardian.
The program is not responsible for students once they leave the premises after dismissal time.
S.C.R.I.B.E.S. staff are committed to maintaining a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment.
Students should inform staff of any allergies, medical conditions, or needs during registration.
Light snacks and drinks will be provided; families are encouraged to alert staff to any dietary restrictions.
Program staff are trained to respond appropriately to minor incidents and emergencies.
By registering, parents/guardians grant permission for the student’s written and creative work to be:
Included in printed and digital anthologies.
Displayed during showcases, events, or social media platforms affiliated with S.C.R.I.B.E.S. and the Core Community Center.
Used in promotional materials (photographs, videos, and publications).
Parents who do not wish to grant this permission may indicate so on the registration form.
Payment confirms a student’s enrollment and secures their spot.
Refunds are not available once the program begins, except in cases of program cancellation by organizers.
Scholarships and payment plans may be available for qualifying families.
S.C.R.I.B.E.S. is committed to:
Providing a safe and encouraging environment for young creators.
Supplying writing materials, tablets, and creative resources.
Offering mentorship and collaboration opportunities with local authors and performers.
Supporting each participant in the creation of a self-published book or performance piece.
Promoting confidence, expression, and literacy development in every participant.
By submitting the registration form, parents/guardians acknowledge that they have read and agree to these Terms & Conditions, including the behavior, attendance, transportation, and payment policies.