A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.

In an exchange of letters, three students across one city share stories about where they came from and the places that matter most.

A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.

This poem gives insight to what it's like growing up Black in America.

In this rousing poem, a student asserts her strength and worth as a woman.

This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.

In this memoir, the narrator recounts the struggle of being the bigger person in a very small space.

Through redefining a label, a student reclaims a piece of their identity.

In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.

Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.

Glimpse into the mind of a student who considers artistic influences in her life.

A student compellingly argues that immigrants deserve respect and to be free of discrimination.

In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a sophomore at South High School in Minneapolis gives thanks to Children’s Hospital employees.

A compilation of letters written by three students across one city filled with thoughts on books, sports, music, family, and musings on Valentine’s Day.

A smile isn’t always what it seems.

When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.

Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.

This narrative calls us to see the world through the perspectives of others.

Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”

One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.

Even though we may look different, we remain united with one another.

A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.

This poet rejects judgement based on the color of one’s skin.

A soccer-filled, feud-fueled memoir.

This poem uses a fundamental poetry technique, repetition, to share the writer's future plans.

Using dialogue and detailed description, this poet investigates whose voices are heard and whose voices are left behind when injustice occurs.

In this poem, a student’s experiences in two countries meld together as she seeks out her true home.

Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.

From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem expresses the realization that a cage is not the only obstacle to a bird's freedom.

A student reflects on his life, stemming from the life of his father.

The written word is a powerful tool, and this poem shares a few reasons why the author continues to write.

A student reflects on her origins to deconstruct social borders and seize her boundless future.

A student is lifted up by the dance of her ancestors.

In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, 10th grader Tala asks essential workers what motivates them to keep going during these difficult times, offering her own views on hope for the future.

Two students write to each other about where they came from, what they love, and a few mishaps along the way in an exchange of letters.

This poem personifies Earth as a mother coping with the brutalities of climate change.