Kyle loves to read and hang out with their friends. They are always seen wearing a new hat and are a strong leader in their community at school.
Dear Future President,
My name is Kyle and I’m in the sixth grade. Recently I have seen a lot of laws being passed that are banning gender-affirming care for minors and anti LGBTQ+ laws in general. I live in Missouri, where one of these laws has been passed. I am a gender-fluid (which falls under the trans umbrella) minor, and I really don’t think these laws are okay. My family may have to move if more anti-LGBTQ+ laws are passed.
Many people are having to leave their homes because of anti-LGBTQ+ laws in their state. If they don’t leave they might not have access to gender-affirming care, which allows them to be themselves. According to the article “Judge in Missouri transgender care lawsuit agrees to step aside but decries ‘gamesmanship’’’ published by ABC News, St. Louis Children’s Hospital and University of Missouri Health Care in Columbia have stopped prescribing puberty blockers and hormones to minors if they’re wanted for gender transition. This shows how people have decided that it is a bad thing to transition, which is a large problem. In the article “Missouri law banning minors from beginning gender-affirming treatments takes effect” published by AP News, written by Summer Ballentine, it says, “At least 22 states have enacted laws banning or restricting gender-affirming care for minors, and most of the bans are being challenged in court.” I can see that a lot of people are being affected by these laws, and people are trying their best to get rid of them so they and their families can live in peace
If I wanted to medically transition I would not be able to unless I moved away from my home. My family is also scared that more laws will be passed in Missouri that target the LGBTQ+ community. If they are passed I will have to move away from my home, friends, school, and family. I know a lot of people are facing the same thing. My school is a place for everybody, no matter who they are, which gives people facing problems in school a place to feel safe. The laws targeting the LGBTQ+ community need to be removed.
Please side with the LGBTQ+ community and fight against these laws. If you do this, other people might be inspired to do the same. If more people fight against these laws, then there is a much larger chance of them getting removed or not getting passed in the first place. People in many different states are filing lawsuits against these laws and if you support them they might win. I truly hope you fight against these new laws. Thank you so much for taking the time to read my letter and think about my cause.
Sincerely,
Kyle
6th grade
by Sophia, 826CHI
In this poem, a student makes some noise about resilience and beating the odds.
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A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Meredith, 826michigan
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This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
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Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Gael, 826CHI
A short but powerful poem about the circular nature of history.
by Najah, Grade 6, 826 MSP
A student appreciates and reflects on her mother's kindness over the years.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
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by Luis, 826LA
A rap song dedicated to the Marvel comic writer Stan Lee and his inspired creations like the Hulk, Deadpool, Iron Man, and The Fantastic Four.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
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by Leslie, 826NYC
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by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
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This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
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In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Kaiya S., Grade 6, 826DC
The harrowing tale of a super spy student vs. the villainous Mr.X.
by Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games night turned into a nightmare.
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by Faisa Y., Grade 6, 826MSP
A student describes their comfort fairy imaginary friend.
by Yanni, 826NYC
This poem is written in the style of William Carlos Williams’ “This is Just to Say” and celebrates small acts of unapologetic joy.
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A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
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A poem about the writer's favorite animal--corgis!
by Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
by Valary K., Grade 6, 826 MSP
A story about a mysterious tunnel that leaves you on the edge of your seat!
by Ari, 826CHI
In the Realm of Virtues, a search for attention and significance teaches these characters an important lesson about what it means to be human!
by Guinevre, 826CHI
A persuasive letter with a few ideas on how to improve cafeteria lunches at school.
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This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
by Kelis, 826michigan
This student describes what it would be like to become the first female president, campaigning on education for all, friendlier attitudes, more food and housing, and snow days!
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by Saeed, 826NYC
Food justice advocacy is reimagined by this student as an epic battle rages between Nutriman, Captain Nutritional, and Junkster in a school cafeteria!
by Kevin, 826NYC
A wizened middle schooler offers the benefits of sixth grade to younger readers, sprinkling in a few tips to survive and thrive in their year ahead.
A writer's fake news article about a miracle drug that can cure anything.
A writer's fake news article about a miracle drug that can cure anything.
by Gael, 826CHI
A poem about becoming a dancer.
by Jacore, 826 Valencia
An intriguing and educational essay discussing environmental consciousness and the devastating effects of global warming.
by Angelina Do, Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A poem about living in the space between two cultures.
by Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Krisbel D.L.M., Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A letter to the next President asking them to support immigration laws that will allow them to see their family.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by 826NYC students Ash Doliber, Sidney Edelson, Ella Holland, Mavis Lu, Justin Nemeroff, Bird Rzepniewski, and Isabella Wu
This collaborative poem explores the many sides and senses of laughter.
by Khari Garris, New York, NY
A student remembers what life was like before the COVID-19 pandemic, and imagines a brighter day when schools reopen.
by Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
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This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
by Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Satis, 826 Valencia
A student argues for the importance of transgender rights in response to current events.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
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by Mady, 826 Valencia
A student examines the mermaid industry today through a historical lens that begins in the late-nineteenth century, turning fantasy into a profession.
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Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
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A letter devoted to a favorite fruit that’s sweet and sour just like this student’s favorite candy: Sour Patch Kids!
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A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Ayana A., Grade 6, 826NYC
by Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
by Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
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A school dare gone horribly wrong!
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A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
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A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
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In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that sometimes the easiest way to make someone feel included is by lending a hand.
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An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
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This author recounts the beginning of a family tradition: the best homemade sandwich ever!
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A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
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This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.