K-12 Students
Storytelling Programs for All Learning Styles In All Learning Environments
A former teacher of ten years, Jen collaborates well with educators and feels at home in the school environment. She matches her Storytelling programs to academic goals and grade-level curriculum, helping students of all ages make the Story Telling to Story Writing connection.
Since 1993, Jen has traveled nationally (and virtually) to perform for students in a variety of learning environments including school assemblies, classroom visits, family literacy nights, and homeschool gatherings.
Jen designs interactive, education and entertaining Storytelling programs for all ages and all abilities in public, private, alternative, and intermediate school settings.
In her most popular assembly, “If You Can Tell It, You Can Write It”, Jen combines humorous stories, brain science, and writing tips to inspire students to understand their story and walk as writers in the world.
In her High School Program, “Keeping an Eye Out for Coyote”, Jen explains the adolescent brain and shares stories that highlight the importance of nurturing a healthy self-esteem, making positive choices, and knowing how to ask for help!
So, if you want to kick-off the school year, motivate reading, inspire writing, celebrate March is Reading Month or reward students for a job well done, Jen will design a Storytelling Program that meets your goals and desired outcomes.
See some program options below and book a program with Jen Strauss today!
“This week I marveled at my students as they put their adventure to paper. I cried as I listened to their stories both happy and sad; funny and serious. I saw each one from a new place. I grew as both a writer, and a teacher of writing. Thank you for your spirit and energy, but most of all for sharing your gift of storytelling.”
Angela Dey, 5th grade teacher
Students with Differing Abilities
In 2011, Jen became a Teaching Artist for Arts for All Northern Michigan, adapting Storytelling performances and workshops to provide students with differing abilities new avenues for listening and creative expression. The video above is a Sample of Jen’s work with Arts for All Northern Michigan.
Youth-At-Risk
Jen specializes in programs for Youth-at-Risk, using her Turning Points Narrative Process to help them understand their life story, reduce feelings of isolation, and intend future goals as shown in this video with Alternative Education Students and Youth-At-Risk.
Michigan Legends and Lore
As a Touring Artist for the Michigan Humanities Great Outdoor Culture Tour, one of Jen’s specialties is Michigan Legends and Lore. Enrich your Michigan curriculum or event with stories from Jen’s Great Lakes repertoire including stories about the critter, waters, ships, lighthouse and loggers of Michigan.
Use the form below to join Jen’s email list and get a free download of her recording, Michigan Legends and Lore: Stories from Shore to Shore.