Grades 9–12
PoetryWritingJana C. attends Venice High School in Los Angeles, California. Her piece was first published in Our Voices Matter: A Collection of Journeys and Dreams, a collaboration between 826LA and Los Angeles Unified School District’s Black Student Achievement Plan. You can read the full digital publication and learn more about the project here.
I learn something new about myself everyday. I wake up everyday and get the choice to choose the person I want to be. My choices are always something new and my expressions are just as inconsistent. However, at the core of everything are my values. They are the staple to my identity.
I value my excellence. I choose to be a role model to those around me. I have an unspoken duty to prove myself. I strive to be better than myself.
I value my loved ones. I choose to make them.
I value myself. I choose to love everything that is different about me. Despite the internal and external battles I have to pick myself over anything.
by Rey, Grade 9, 826 MSP
Aliens give this student superpowers to help him fulfill his greatest dream.
by Pia, 826NYC
A student reimagines food justice: Fruit Woman must convince Junk Food Man and Cheesecake Boy to eat their fruits and vegetables.
by Nhu N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A young writer reconciles their sexuality with the beliefs of their community.
by Maggie Munday Odom, Kailua, HI
This poem personifies Earth as a mother coping with the brutalities of climate change.
by Elizabeth W, 826 Valencia
Even though we may look different, we remain united with one another.
by Tala, Grade 10, 826 MSP
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.
by Bianca Morcho, 826 MSP
A personal essay that explores the different shades of the Black Lives Matter movement.
Rosman A., age 18, 826CHI
Smells swirl about a student walking around an ice cream shop.
by Kyla Edwards, 826 New Orleans
This creative short story explores a snapshot of what a future New Orleans might look like amid climate change.
by Sergio M, 826 Valencia
This piece reminds us that a smile is not always what it seems.
by Jeremy Hsiao, 826 National
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem reminds activists that "to change everything, we need everyone."
by Ryker, 826michigan
Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”
Virginia Walker, age 18, 826 Boston
A student writes to a grandmother she never met.
by Charles, 826 MSP
A student reflects on his life, stemming from the life of his father.
Annasian Walters, Grade 11-12, 826NYC
A student explores gratitude and love through sharing food.
by Junaynah R., Grade 11, 826NYC
Full of exquisite imagery, this poem explores the idea of second chances.
by Olivia H., 826CHI
A piece that explores the connection between stars, legacy, and Black resilience.
by Lucas Hu, 826 Boston
A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition
by Jesus C., Grade 12, 826LA
A poet identifies with a trapped ocelot at the zoo.
by William, 826LA
A teen discovers the power of books to transport him to another world, and shares his excitement about becoming a published author.
by Kevin G, 826 Valencia
This narrative calls us to see the world through the perspectives of others.
by Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
by Cindy, 826LA
A student compellingly argues that immigrants deserve respect and to be free of discrimination.
Amara, 826 New Orleans
An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.
by Sylvia C., 826 Valencia
A poet demonstrates their devotion to love.
by Isaiah, 826 New Orleans
This student reveals the mysterious origin story of the king cake. Hint: it includes Big Freedia, DJ Chicken Wing, and a massive party.
by Katya Torres, The 826 Dallas Project
This bilingual poem explores the harrowing story of a boy working while in school to save his mother.
by Maria, Grade 12, 826 Boston
In this public narrative, a student makes the case for creating community change by building youth centers in her neighborhood.
by Steysi Hailee, 826LA
A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.
Yashasa Fluker, Grade 9, 826 New Orleans
A student describes the eeriness of liminal spaces.
by Jazmine & Vanessa, 826CHI
Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.
by Jason, 826michigan
Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".
by Maya M., Grade 11, Newburg, OR
A student reflects on the memories they made while backpacking.
by Aphra, 826CHI
A student considers realistic happy endings and the representation of LGBTQIA+ youth through the analysis of two webcomics.
by Jazlyn Moses, 826 National
One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.
by Elsy M.E., Grade 11, 826 Valencia
A poet imagines a better and more harmonious world.
by Jennifer Alcocer, The 826 Dallas Project
This personal narrative addresses the struggles of students graduating high school during the pandemic.
by Aniah, 826 MSP
A student is lifted up by the dance of her ancestors.
by Regina, 826LA
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.
by Kayla, 826 Boston
This poem offers a very-real answer to "What do you want to be when you grow up?"
by Joanne H, 826 Valencia
In this poem, a student’s experiences in two countries meld together as she seeks out her true home.
by Numan Khan, age 16, 826 Boston
A bilingual "I am" poem filled with conviction and courage.
by Melody Marcano, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on their roots and their desire to grow.
by Helen, Grade 12, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a senior at South High School in Minneapolis offers words of support to healthcare workers across the country, including her own mom.
by Anthony, 826DC
This poem gives insight to what it's like growing up Black in America.
by Kayla Wayne, Grade 11, 826NYC
In this poem, a student reflects on their first encounter with forced assimilation.
by Fahima Dahir, 826 MSP
A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.
Kenya G., 17, 826LA
A poet relates her experience as a queer woman in the closet to a peacock in the zoo.
by Sammie, Grade 9, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a freshman at South High School in Minneapolis thanks care workers for supporting our local and national communities during this global pandemic.
by Oriel, 826NYC
In this poem, an echoing question strikes a chord and reveals the tragic loss held within systemic injustice.
by Terra C., Grades 10-11, 826NYC
A student recalls their journey on how they discovered their LGBTQIA+ identity.
by Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
by Samuel Wang, Grade 10, 826NYC
A poem about the complexity of love exchanged during the holidays.
by Jizelle Villegas, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
The stunning and vulnerable poem processes feelings of loss, grief, and hope for the future.
by Calvin, 826michigan
A laugh-out-loud personal narrative about a crush. Has your heart ever beat so fast it might get a speeding ticket and a $500 fine?
by Izzy T., 826 Valencia
A student reflects on memories of home and what binds her special community together.
by Christian Z., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.
by Soraya, 826NYC
This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.
by Mariah Valenzuela, Minneapolis, MN
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poet uses her voice to speak up for those who have been silenced in the indigenous community.
Yamilet J., 826LA
A student reflects on the fear and wonder of becoming a mother.
by Sarah X. Age 18, 826Boston
A rousing public narrative from an author coming to terms with their identity as a young Chinese American woman and what they represent: the community of Boston's Chinatown.
by Henry, Matthew, & Santiago, 826CHI
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.
by Quran Samad, age 15, 826 Valencia
A young Black student's perspective on how it feels to grow up Black in the United States.
by Sabrin, Grade 9, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, 9th grader Sabrin discusses how she feels both happy and sad, and thanks nurses nationwide for bringing her peace through their work.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Caroline, 826 Valencia
A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
Cate H, Grade 12, 826CHI
A poet sets the stage to showcase her reflections on being trans.
by Terry Velasquez, Grade 12, The Bronx, NY
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student shares gratitude for the dedication of nurses and gives “credit where credit is due.”
by Ryan, Grade 12, 826 Boston
In this public narrative, a student illustrates the hardships his uncle has faced to argue for a path to citizenship.
by Raheem, 826 New Orleans
A student compares themself to the place they live, New Orleans, as both evolve through great obstacles.
by George S., Grade 11, 826 Boston
A writer implores people to get outside and touch grass because you never know what you might find!
by Navayah, 826 MSP
Through redefining a label, a student reclaims a piece of their identity.
Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
A trans student reflects on their desire to be male.
by Arianna R., Grade 11, 826 Boston
A beautiful ode to home and self.
by Jordan, 826 New Orleans
Crawfish, crayfish, or mudbugs. Whatever you call them, the writer of this poem doesn't like them.
by Quardasha Mitchell, The 826 Dallas Project
In this compelling poem, the author navigates her relationship with America as a young African-American woman.
by Timothy T., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student tells the story of how his family has influenced his life.
by Yazmine-Gizelle, 826DC
This poem uses a fundamental poetry technique, repetition, to share the writer's future plans.
by Jesus Sanchez, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative short horror piece explores the mysteries and danger of a night in the woods.
by Matthew Inoa, 826 NYC
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student describes how essential workers are the pulse of New York, fueling the city’s hope.
by Abby S., Grade 11, 826 Boston
An author reflects on their correspondence with their friend from the past.
by Samantha Wint, Grade 9, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to explore many dualities of the narrator's life.
by Alanis T., Age 17, 826 Boston
A student reflects on how her relationship's with her parents has influenced her life.
by Karina Centeno, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
This poem takes an honest look at two sides of the writer's culture.
by Brandon R., 826LA
A student recounts the epic highs and lows of high school track and cross country.
by Tina N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student describes their shark like imaginary friend.
Alex P., Grade 10, 826 National
A poem to the next president of the U.S. demanding change and advocating for transgender rights.
by Leydi Di Villanueva, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative narrative imagines how the coronavirus views humanity during the pandemic.
by Tammy Fong, 826NYC
A soccer-filled, feud-fueled memoir.
by Julianna Cruz, 826 Dallas Project
This narrative piece contemplates the struggle of immigrants during the pandemic.
by Jasmine J, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on her origins to deconstruct social borders and seize her boundless future.
by Keyshana, Grade 11, 826CHI
Black strength, beauty, and pride soar in this poem as a student discusses overcoming brutality and discrimination.
by Michaiah Anderson, The 826 Dallas Project
In this poem, a student describes their family origins with an intimate point of view
by Cristina, 826CHI
A student recounts separation with a beloved friend through a nostalgic lens.
by Franny, 826CHI
A student spins through space and a treasure trove of memories in this poem.
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
by Sarah X., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student shares how they've uplifted their community.
by Corazón, 826 New Orleans
In this essay, a student threads their identity across cultures, histories, and places, engaging with legacies of violence and the movement of people.
by Colin Y., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student describes how volunteering saved him from his online prison.
by Jonas K., 826 National
A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.
by Vanessa Ramon-Ibarra, 826DC
Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.
by Isabella, 826NYC
This poet rejects judgement based on the color of one’s skin.
by Anjum, 826CHI
A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).
by Lisbeth M.F., 826NYC
A story about how Marcus becomes Marcela.
by Reuben & Giselle, 826CHI
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.
by Luciana, Grade 10, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a sophomore at South High School in Minneapolis gives thanks to Children’s Hospital employees.
by Christopher, Bryan, & Jahir, 826CHI
In an exchange of letters, three students across one city share stories about where they came from and the places that matter most.
by Karla M., 826LA
A poem for lovers of love and the moon.
by Lukoiy V.R.G., Grade 12, Woodburn, OR
A poet speaks out as a voice for change and all those who cannot speak.
by Gisel J., 826LA
The power of public speaking shines through this student's memoir.
by Kalyn Jackson, 826 New Orleans
Through this short story, Kalyn explores ideas of home and change in an altered world.
by Raymond A., Grade 10, 826 Boston
A bilingual poem that expresses the love of one's culture and people
by Mercury, 826CHI
A student explores the representation of LGBTQIA+ minorities and youth in US pop culture.
by Alexis G., Grade 11
In this narrative, the author uses vibrant language to explore their identity, in all its complexity, through different landscapes.
by Jahruwach Hamilton, 826NYC
In this rousing poem, a student asserts her strength and worth as a woman.
by Sabrin, 826 MSP
The written word is a powerful tool, and this poem shares a few reasons why the author continues to write.
by Savannah, 826NYC
Using dialogue and detailed description, this poet investigates whose voices are heard and whose voices are left behind when injustice occurs.
by Salma Khalif, 826 MSP
A powerful poem that lifts up Black women.
by Kaleo V.C., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student looks back on their first day of kindergarten and how they've changed.
by Camille, 826LA
A student finds her wings in unexpected places in this piece about the transition to college.
by David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
by Augustus Griffith Jr., 826 National
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem explores the aftermath and lasting impacts of school shootings.
by Chris O., Age 15, 826 Valencia
A freshman describes their first day of school on their own.
by Pretty S, 826 Valencia
Peek into the mind of a student who considers artistic influences in her life.
by Kailyn Espinosa, 826NYC
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student shares how essential workers’ courage and compassion center her during these hectic times.
by Earl Williams Jr., The 826 Dallas Project
A powerful poetic piece about the experience of being Black in America.
by Albin C., Age 18, 826 Boston
A student recalls how he was able to take charge and turn his life around.
by Riti Shrestha, 826NYC
In this poem, metaphor is used to describe who the narrator is.
by Justis Porter, age 16, 826 Boston
A neighborhood ode filled with sights and sounds of the poet's street.
by Anonymous, Grade 8, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
by Gilbert, 826LA
One teen writes a letter to his 14-year-old self, citing his past fears but looking towards his present, a brighter future.
by Sharoya Bracey, 826NYC
In this memoir, the narrator recounts the struggle of being the bigger person in a very small space.
by Sally Phan, 826 Boston
A memoir that questions the idea of home and how it changes with time.
by Alphonsine M., 826LA
A student reflects on the journey and struggle of growing in the face of adversity.
by Rockelle Rodd, Grade 11, 826NYC
This poem uses analogies to describe all of the pieces of the writer's personal history.
We are thrilled to have you as the newest member of our online community. Stay up-to-date on the the latest and most relevant resources, student publication opportunities, and what’s new with the 826 Digital community.
bookmark
download
Share