Red Cedar Writing Project

09/03/2026

We are happy to share that another member of our MSU educator community, Dr. Jennifer VanDerHeide, has been named the Charles Carpenter Fries Award recipient by the Michigan Council of Teachers of English (MCTE).

The MCTE writes that this award "honors educators whose distinguished career reflects a lifelong commitment to the teaching of English, to literacy, and to the professional development of teachers."

Jen, thank you for all of your contributions and service to English education in Michigan and beyond.

Congratulations, Jen!

09/02/2026

Interest in world language classes is growing, but many schools are struggling to keep up with that demand.

This article explores the relationship between public interest in language learning and the challenges schools face in expanding access.

For educators thinking about multilingualism, language access, and the future of world language instruction in the United States, this article is a worthwhile read.

A new Pew survey found gaps remain in schools' language-course offerings.

08/31/2026

We are happy to announce this semester’s book study of Empowering Youth to Confront the Climate Crisis in English Language Arts!

This book study will be led by Bridget Booth, Michigan State Lead for SubjectToClimate, a nonprofit organization working to make climate change teaching and learning accessible to all.

This book study is a great opportunity to learn alongside fellow educators and explore ways to support youth in addressing the climate crisis.

The registration deadline is September 12. Please use the link below or scan the QR code on the flyer to register:

https://forms.gle/N8Cpb4kygwj4qEKe7

08/31/2026

Generative AI is one of the most relevant topics in education today, and there are many perspectives on how and why students use GenAI.

This article provides some useful statistics on how and why students are using AI and asserts that “teens are not receiving the guidance they want and need in order to responsibly use AI.”

We recommend checking out this article to further develop your approach to GenAI in the classroom.

Two recent surveys provide insights on teens' views of artificial intelligence.

08/28/2026

We at the RCWP are wishing you a restful weekend after this first week of classes.

As you begin to teach more content moving into next week, we share this article that outlines a flexible one week plan for fostering critical thinking in students.

While this article is directed toward science educators, its one-week plan can be adapted across content areas.

Here’s a day-by-day plan for guiding your students to start the year by asking questions. Just resist the urge to answer them.

08/26/2026

Wonderful news! We are excited to share that RCWP Co-Director Jill Hoort has been named the recipient of the Michigan Council of Teachers of English (MCTE) 2026–2027 Ray H. Lawson Award!

The MCTE writes that “this award recognizes an individual whose distinguished career exemplifies lifelong dedication to English language arts instruction, mentorship, and advocacy.”

Jill, you are a mentor and leader for all of us at the RCWP as well as for educators throughout the local community. We are so proud to see your work recognized in this way.

Congratulations, Jill!

08/26/2026

Building relationships with students is such a critical component of the school year and especially the first few weeks of classes.

Take a look at the article linked below for some practical steps for connecting with students who might initially be shy or hesitant to engage.

These practical steps help students know that they are valued and encourage classroom participation in ways that reduce anxiety.

08/25/2026

Save the date! The RCWP is hosting our annual Write Out event on Saturday, October 3rd, from 9am - 3pm at Bessey Hall on MSU's campus.

Come join us for a fun day full of creative writing activities, a teaching demo, and collaborative conversations with fellow local educators. Plus, lunch is provided! See you there!

08/24/2026

Today starts the first week of class for many local school districts, and the first week of class always involves designing (and redesigning) seating charts.

Check out the article linked below for some popular, teacher-tested tips regarding seating chart configurations.

These popular, teacher-tested desk configurations make it easier to shift between independent work, collaboration, and whole-class instruction.

08/23/2026

Opportunity