What Is Whoopensocker? “Whoopensocker” is an old Wisconsin word that means “Something extraordinary of its kind.” For us, Whoopensocker is an arts integration program that uses improv and theater as tools to teach creative writing. Through games, writing, and performance, we help students realize how extraordinary their ideas are.
Whoopensocker, an arts-based residency project of Dr. Erica Halverson, has conducted in-person residencies in 3rd-5th grade classrooms around Madison for 10 years. In collaboration with PBS Education, Whoopensocker has translated the in-person model into a virtual collection of tools which will be free to use by educators throughout the state in the 2025-2026 school year.
In this session, you will receive an overview of Whoopensocker, be introduced to the virtual tools, and have hands-on experience expressing your good ideas and collaborating with others to create stories and performances.
