Emerald Coast Writing Project
We are a network of teachers, university faculty, researchers, writers, and community educators working to advance writing and the teaching of writing.
Celebrating a Decade of Impact, Innovation, and Community
For ten years, the Emerald Coast Writing Project (ECWP) at the University of West Florida has empowered educators to transform writing instruction and inspire students across Northwest Florida. As an official National Writing Project (NWP) site—one of only four in Florida—ECWP is part of a nationwide network dedicated to strengthening the teaching of writing across all disciplines and grade levels.
Since our inaugural cohort in 2015, over 220 teachers from Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties have participated in the Invitational Summer Institute, a multi-week immersive experience where educators become both writers and learners. Participants engage in collaborative writing activities, explore innovative teaching strategies, and develop curriculum that fosters creativity and critical thinking in their classrooms. Many return in subsequent years as Teacher Consultants, mentoring new fellows and expanding ECWP’s impact.
Learn more about our six cohorts of teacher leaders who have attended past summer institutes.
A Legacy of Excellence
The ECWP has brought together a vibrant community of K-12 educators and university faculty, providing over 1,000 hours of professional development each year to schools throughout the region. Our work is driven by the belief that teachers of writing must also be writers, and we cultivate a supportive, dynamic space for educators to grow as professionals and as individuals.
Over the years, ECWP has welcomed renowned guest speakers and award-winning authors, including:
- Matt de la Peña (Newbery Medal-winning author)
- Jeff Zentner (Morris Award-winning YA author)
- Kimberly Willis Holt (National Book Award winner)
- Dr. Rose Brock (Librarian and literacy advocate)
- Carol Jago (Former NCTE president and literacy expert)
- Dr. Bryan Ripley Crandall (Writing education specialist)
50 Years of the National Writing Project
As we celebrate 50 years of the National Writing Project and a decade of ECWP, we remain committed to our mission: fostering a love of writing, empowering educators, and strengthening literacy education in our region. Whether you are a returning teacher or a new participant, we invite you to join our growing community of writers, learners, and leaders.