Many writers admit that the most challenging part of the writing profession is getting published. One talented group of young Sacramento-area authors has found publishing success, though, thanks to a youth literacy program that empowers students.
A team of high school students attending Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) programs hosted a book release party today to celebrate the launch of Out of the Dark. Into the Light. The students published the anthology of essays and short stories with the help of 916 Ink, a non-profit organization that offers a 12-session creative writing workshop, encouraging students to unlock their writing and literacy potential.
The student authors are enrolled in SCOE’s Community Schools and Juvenile Court School programs. Community schools provide an alternative educational program for students from various Sacramento County school districts who have been expelled or display behavioral problems. Court schools provide public education for juveniles who are incarcerated in facilities run by county probation departments.
916 Ink has been working with Sacramento-area students since 2001. Students write fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction with guidance from 916 Ink staff and volunteers. The organization is funded in part by the Cultural Arts Award Program of the Sacramento Metropolitan Arts Commission, with support from the City and County of Sacramento.
Books featuring SCOE student work are available for purchase from the 916 Ink website.