Grade 12
Narrative, PersuasiveDear healthcare workers,
I know it may not be easy right now. But you can do it. My mom is a nurse at Hennepin County Medical Center, and over there they’re bracing for it too. But you can do it. The term “hero” may seem daunting or inappropriate, but to me, you all are my heroes. You are the toughest, kindest and most intelligent bunch I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. You are prepared, you are ready for this. It will be hard, but you will prevail. From the bottom of my heart I thank you. You are doing the job not many would be up for.
I believe in every single one of you.
Helen, a senior at South High School in Minneapolis
by Cristeta Boarini, 826MSP, and Skylar Burkhardt, 826 National
Few expressions of gratitude are more meaningful than a personalized letter. In this lesson, students reach out to essential workers…
by Leydi Di Villanueva, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative narrative imagines how the coronavirus views humanity during the pandemic.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Melody Marcano, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on their roots and their desire to grow.
by Kayla, 826 Boston
This poem offers a very-real answer to "What do you want to be when you grow up?"
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
by Michaiah Anderson, The 826 Dallas Project
In this personal narrative, a student describes their family origins with an intimate point of view
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 Steysi Hailee, 826LA
A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.
by Oriel, 826NYC
In this poem, an echoing question strikes a chord and reveals the tragic loss held within systemic injustice.
by Karina Centeno, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
This poem takes an honest look at two sides of the writer's culture.
by Jennifer Alcocer, The 826 Dallas Project
This personal narrative addresses the struggles of students graduating high school during the pandemic.
by Jizelle Villegas, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
The stunning and vulnerable poem processes feelings of loss, grief, and hope for the future.
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 Cristina, 826CHI
A student recounts separation with a beloved friend through a nostalgic lens.
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 Soraya, 826NYC
This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.
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 Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
by Jesus Sanchez, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative short horror piece explores the mysteries and danger of a night in the woods.
by Kayla Wayne, Grade 11, 826NYC
In this poem, a student reflects on their first encounter with forced assimilation.
by Ryker, 826michigan
Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”
by Jonas K., 826 National
A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.
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 Julianna Cruz, 826 Dallas Project
This narrative piece contemplates the struggle of immigrants during the pandemic.
by Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
by Jazlyn Moses, 826 National
One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.
by Izzy T., 826 Valencia
A student reflects on memories of home and what binds her special community together.
by Franny, 826CHI
A student spins through space and a treasure trove of memories in this poem.
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 Vanessa Ramon-Ibarra, 826DC
Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.
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 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 Camille, 826LA
A student finds her wings in unexpected places in this piece about the transition to college.
by Earl Williams Jr., The 826 Dallas Project
A powerful poetic piece about the experience of being Black in America.
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