Southern Maine Writing Project
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There is no Hurricane Island Retreat scheduled for Summer 2018.
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Writing by the Sea

A Retreat for Writers and Writing Teachers
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August 1-3, 2017 (Tuesday-Thursday)

Join the Southern Maine Writing Project for a creative journey on one of Maine’s cherished coastal jewels, Hurricane Island.  Ten miles southeast of Rockland, ME, this 125 acre space formerly existed as a granite quarry boomtown and later, as an Outward Bound base.  Currently, it exists as haven for educators, students, scientists, leaders, and others who are eager to grow and learn.  While surrounded by the spectacular history and scenery of the island, writers and writing teachers will be treated to the supreme luxury:  time and space to think and create. During this three-day, two night getaway, participants will:
  • Explore the rich history, rocky shore, forests, and beauty of the island      
  • Engage in optional guided writing activities and workshops                        
  • Relax in one of the island’s many peaceful spots                                    
  • Enjoy delicious meals with new friends                                             
  • Build camaraderie among fellow writers                                            
  • Write and share!

Though some attendees may choose to focus on individual writing, facilitators will offer opportunities for people to write together and to share personal writing strategies and strategies for teaching young writers. Ultimately, the retreat is designed to provide personal breathing space and time to work, free of life’s distractions. The deadline to register is May 24, 2017. 

Registration Fee - $350


Free transportation to and from the island, plus room & board included.

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30 contact hours or 3 CEUs given for the retreat.

For More Information:  E-mail Leah Siviski at siviskle@spsdme.org

Register Now!
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Archive: Southern Maine Writing Project's 2013 Burnt Island Writing Retreat

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Surrounded by the unique beauty Maine's coast offers, fourteen writing teachers met to write, unwind, and share practice at SMWP's first writing retreat.  Co-sponsored by Elaine Jones and the Department of Marine Resources, the retreat brought educators to Burnt Island, one of Maine’s great undiscovered treasures.  One mile from Boothbay Harbor, this five-acre space is home to a new education center and historic lighthouse.  During the three-day, two night getaway, writers explored the rocky shore, tide pools, sand beach, meadow, and forest; relaxed in one of the space’s many peaceful spots; enjoyed home-cooked meals; laughed with new and old friends; and, of course, spent time writing and sharing. 

Carolyn Nichols, high school science teacher and SMWP teacher-consultant, led most of the program, which included guided writing activities that teachers could easily adapt for their students.  While the instructional strategies were valuable, most participants enjoyed the time set aside to reignite a passion for writing.  Refreshed by her time on Burnt Island, TC Martha Vignola said she enjoyed "spending a few summer days on a beautiful island in Maine with fellow teachers for writing, reflection and renewing." 

SMWP looks forward to planning future retreats and courses with Elaine and Carolyn, who runs several courses for teachers each summer.  The irresistible location provides much fodder for learning and encourages visitors to unplug and appreciate their surroundings. Martha, describing the time there as "priceless," promises, "I will be back!"



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"Island Time"
by Pat Lammers

Three days on Burnt Island
Learning about its history
Observing nature

Finding a Power Spot 
Discovering serenity again

Meeting other life-long learners
Sharing experiences 
Writing by the Sea

                  


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