I Write NY

Students of all abilities and from all kinds of backgrounds, need every possible advantage to reach – and exceed – their potential in school, higher education, and careers. The world is becoming more fast-paced and everyone is expected to keep up.

Begun as an innovative literacy program by top TV and Film Production Supervisor and Story Developer, Margaret Hunnewell, The Know (formerly The Knowledge Project) developed a network of schools across the United States. In 1997, we helped coordinate the Chancellor’s citywide K – 12 writing initiative, “In Our Own Write, a Celebration of Student Writing”. Our approach to reading, writing and media was established. We provided applied learning programs guided by experts.

The Know has evolved from one writing event a year to multiple writing programs across the curricula, connecting academics to the workplace. Focused on a specific industry or discipline, each of the Works (Word Works, Food Works, Green Works, Media Works, World Works), was made to apply to real life. Industry specialists mentored students and guided them to complete projects from start to finish. Students in The Know learned basic people skills and work ethics: teamwork, project management, how to set and meet personal goals.

In 1993, we launched The Children’s Creative Writing Campaign (CCWC), an annual campaign to promote children’s writing. Until 2014, we offered a nationwide network of schools the chance for young writers and artists (Pre-K to 8th Grade), to present their creative writing to a public audience. Every year students submitted original work for review by a volunteer Reading Committee comprised of writers, publishers, and story developers. Every young author who submitted their writing was acknowledged.

Now, in our 25th year, we are launching I WRITE NY, to challenge young New Yorkers to show off their writing talent outside the classroom. Writing about a memorable moment or character in their lives or sharing an idea that can improve their community, their stories are passports from The Know to writing camps or workshops led by skillful writers, as well as to being published or having a story adapted. They will be recognized not only as writers, but as influencers and leaders.

Young people in The Know develop greater confidence as they learn about careers that mesh with their abilities. They see how the world of business isn’t so scary or lucky just for the privileged. It’s an exciting, challenging world where they can learn from their mistakes and get back on track. They can see themselves making — and surpassing — the grade.