Noah Arhm Choi, award-winning poet and educator, spent three days on The Storm King School’s campus recently, working closely with the English Department to engage students in an exploration of contemporary poetry. Their visit formed a key part of the School’s celebration of National Poetry Month and its ongoing commitment to literary arts.

During the visit, Choi worked with eight English classes, leading thoughtful discussions on poetry and the writing process. Each session blended readings of selected poems with interactive writing exercises, encouraging students to analyze language while developing their own creative voices. Their approach invited students to engage deeply with poetry as both readers and writers.

Noah Arhm Choi with Dr. Finn-Atkins and her class.

A central theme of Choi’s sessions was the exploration of banned and restrictive language. Through guided discussion and close reading, students examined how the use of language can be shaped by cultural and political forces—and how poetry can challenge those boundaries. Choi encouraged students to consider how writers use language to confront difficult topics and to reflect on their own perspectives through writing.

Beyond classroom visits, Choi also hosted a dedicated writers workshop each day for students with a strong interest in poetry. This smaller setting allowed for more focused writing time and discussion, giving participants the opportunity to experiment with new techniques and receive feedback in a supportive environment.

Throughout their residency, Choi emphasized poetry as a space for exploration and honesty, encouraging students to take creative risks and engage with complex ideas. Their visit left a lasting impression, helping students see poetry not only as an academic subject, but as a powerful tool for expression and inquiry