Phillip Shabazz -- Poet, Writer, Author

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I like to come to schools where everybody - staff, teachers and students alike - are anticipating my visit. The students are energized and ready to participate in the activities. They have read and are familiar with my work. Teachers and staff are excited and involved. The students have posted banners, photo displays, book covers, poems, and quotes which announce my coming. And they feel really good about their input. This shows they have been prepared by teachers who understand the value of art projects and creative writing.

What To Do For A Residency

Have each student to read the Living Words writing-packet. They'll enjoy the presentation more, and so will I.
Make sure that each student has a residency writing folder, paper, and sharpened pencils. I will also need plenty of board space, chalk or markers for workshop discussions.
Teachers should prepare to participate in the activities and remain with their students. Let's not do like some schools I've visited where the teacher drops and disappears from the workshop.
NOTE: If a student oversteps the bounds of conduct during any activity, I expect a teacher to be there to step up and get the student back in line. I don't want the student to be removed unless it's absolutely necessary.
I need at least an hour with each group, and time between each session to catch my breath.

What To Do For A Poetry Reading
or Poetry Workshop/Open-Mike Performance

Have each student to bring paper and pencil. I need a wireless, hand-held microphone, a board, and a podium. I'd also like a bottle of cold spring water. Otherwise, I'm good to go.
Again, teachers should prepare to participate in the program and remain with their students.
IMPORTANT: Video recording of my presentations in any format is NOT allowed. Permission will NOT be granted to do so. Thank you for understanding.
Plan a time into the schedule for book sales and signing. I can bring books and have them available for students to purchase. You can also order books directly from my distributor. You can have a local bookstore bring the books in for the students to purchase. Remind the students (a million times) to bring book money, or they will forget.

What To Do To Schedule A Visit
Contact me by email. Let me know which program you are interested in and when. From there we'll do whatever paperwork that is required including letter of intent, contract, invoice, etc. Once the paperwork is done, send me a brief summary of your students, including their grade level, and a schedule. We'll fine-tune the schedule so it works best for me as well. *Please do not schedule me for lunch with students. It ends up being another presentation, and I don't get to eat or relax.

I will provide my own transportation. I usually purchase my own plane ticket, and you can reimburse me. As the case may be, I need a hotel for the night before, and if you are on the west coast, the night after. Beyond my fee, budget in for one meal, gas expense, and lodging per day. It is very difficult for me to appear at schools that cannot have the check ready on the day of my presentation. Please understand.

I really want my visit to your school to be successful and memorable. If the students are prepared, we can make it one of the best times they'll have all year. I'll do my best to make it wonderful for them. Let's have great time!

I look forward to working with you.