My mother’s words burden me.
My mother’s name is Maria Vasquez and this is her story. Once my mom told me to sit down and hear what she had to say, I knew in my mind at least part of her life had to be painful to hear. She told me that she found a job at the age of 8 in Ecuador, where she grew up in a two-story house she had to clean and cook 24/7. Her boss paid her well and let her sleep in a room. She saved up her money her whole life and she enjoyed her job making tamales, cooking, cleaning. It was hard work for her. But also she told me that she didn’t have a mother or father, but she had a sister. Her sister took care of her and she taught my mother how to clean but the sister died right before she found a job. This hurt her so much but was able to focus on work and she cried all the time.
My mother’s words burden me when my mother finished talking about how hard she worked when she was a kid. She talked about the people she lost. She lost her father and mother in an accident and they were the only family members my mom had during the time when she was a kid. Her sister taught her many things and also disciplined her and helped her in a way. But then her sister died unexpectedly and she was left alone with no father, no mother, not even a sister, but she pulled through it. Then when she was in her late 30s, she got married to a person I didn’t know. She loved him so much they even had a cat, a house, and everything but then everything changed. Her husband died in a car crash and she was alone again then she was forced to put the cat up for adoption because she couldn’t take care of it anymore. She lost her job and she felt hopeless so she crossed the U.S.A. border for a new life.
No materials available for download.
by Cristeta Boarini, 826 MSP
Students will identify something they have inherited from their families, conduct interviews, and write a narrative essay. This lesson is…
by Asa, 826CHI
This narrator embarks on a mysterious vacation in the sky!
by Jeremy Hsiao, 826 National
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem reminds activists that "to change everything, we need everyone."
by Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
by Anthony, 826DC
This poem gives insight to what it's like growing up Black in America.
by Kaleo V.C., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student looks back on their first day of kindergarten and how they've changed.
by John, 826NYC
A creative commentary on food justice in which Digestive Man defends local farms from Corn Boy and the Factory Farmers!
by Caroline, 826 Valencia
A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
by Alonso, 826 Boston
An insightful set of instructions for surviving a day as a 7th grader in the Boston Teachers Union School.
by Rockelle Rodd, Grade 11, 826NYC
This poem uses analogies to describe all of the pieces of the writer's personal history.
by Leslie, 826NYC
In this imaginative narrative about food justice, Golden Girl and LoLo go up against the evil Chemical Bug so kids everywhere can eat healthy fruits and vegetables.
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 Raymond A., Grade 10, 826 Boston
A bilingual poem that expresses the love of one's culture and people
Jerieliz Garcia & Jaiden Vinti, 826NYC
Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
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 Annapoorani L., Grade 7, Seattle WA
A student recounts their experience with a school shooting in a letter to the next U.S. President to reform gun control.
by Natalie, 826CHI
Weaving together Spanish and English, a student shares the discovery of a family secret.
by Julianna Cruz, 826 Dallas Project
This narrative piece contemplates the struggle of immigrants during the pandemic.
by Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by Vivian, 826CHI
A narrative about loving to run—and learning to never quit!
by Victor, 826CHI
An epic memoir about an epic volleyball match! Who will win: the teachers or the students?
by Iliana, 826CHI
A student searches for answers in their community.
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 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 Anjum, 826CHI
A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).
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 Rey, Grade 9, 826 MSP
Aliens give this student superpowers to help him fulfill his greatest dream.
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 Tina N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student describes their shark like imaginary friend.
by Timothy T., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student tells the story of how his family has influenced his life.
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 Fahima Dahir, 826 MSP
A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An acrostic poem about the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Kayla Wayne, Grade 11, 826NYC
In this poem, a student reflects on their first encounter with forced assimilation.
by Xaria, 826 Valencia
An argument against the wage gap that prevails in the U.S. and across the globe.
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 Lukoiy V.R.G., Grade 12, Woodburn, OR
A poet speaks out as a voice for change and all those who cannot speak.
by Jizelle Villegas, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
The stunning and vulnerable poem processes feelings of loss, grief, and hope for the future.
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 Roger, 826 Valencia
An essay in English and Spanish that traces connections between two movements in modern American history for the rights of people of color.
by Mercury, 826CHI
A student explores the representation of LGBTQIA+ minorities and youth in US pop culture.
by Mateo, 826CHI
An informative entry on the meaning and usage of a student-inspired word: doomungous.
Alex P., Grade 10, 826 National
A poem to the next president of the U.S. demanding change and advocating for transgender rights.
by Vanessa Ramon-Ibarra, 826DC
Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.
by Angel, 826CHI
A student writes about the transformative experience of changing schools.
by Jonas K., 826 National
A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.
by Maggie Munday Odom, Kailua, HI
This poem personifies Earth as a mother coping with the brutalities of climate change.
by Kevin, 826NYC
An informational briefing on a horrible incident in the year 5176 that changed the hoverboarding industry forever.
by Evelyn Escamilla, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
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 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 Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
by Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by Aphra, 826CHI
A student considers realistic happy endings and the representation of LGBTQIA+ youth through the analysis of two webcomics.
by Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
by Jamie, 826 Valencia
A metaphorical poem about frustrations, from homework to homelessness.
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 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 Jason, 826 Valencia
A student reports on the death of a college student from Bernal Heights, San Francisco, who neighbors believe was killed due to racial profiling.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Colin Y., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student describes how volunteering saved him from his online prison.
Amara, 826 New Orleans
An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.
by Brandon R., 826LA
A student recounts the epic highs and lows of high school track and cross country.
by Inge S., Age 13, 826CHI
Part riddle, part observations, this poem leaves the reader with big things to think about.
by Duanté, 826 Valencia
A personal narrative about race and identity.
by Olivia H., 826CHI
A piece that explores the connection between stars, legacy, and Black resilience.
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 Alphonsine M., 826LA
A student reflects on the journey and struggle of growing in the face of adversity.
by Sabrin, 826 MSP
The written word is a powerful tool, and this poem shares a few reasons why the author continues to write.
Yashasa Fluker, Grade 9, 826 New Orleans
A student describes the eeriness of liminal spaces.
by Jahruwach Hamilton, Grade 10, 826NYC
In this rousing poem, a student asserts her strength and worth as a woman.
by Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
by Salma Khalif, 826 MSP
A powerful poem that lifts up Black women.
by Satis, 826 Valencia
A student argues for the importance of transgender rights in response to current events.
by Franny, 826CHI
A student spins through space and a treasure trove of memories in this poem.
by Arianny, 826 Boston
A poem that celebrates being Latino
by Albin C., Age 18, 826 Boston
A student recalls how he was able to take charge and turn his life around.
by Jesus C., Grade 12, 826LA
A poet identifies with a trapped ocelot at the zoo.
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 Denisse Reyes Gonzalez, Age 17, 826NYC
Using metaphors, this bilingual poem explores the idea of lost love.
Virginia Walker, age 18, 826 Boston
A student writes to a grandmother she never met.
by Cora B., Grade 8
This narrative uses nature imagery, to help the reader walk through a day in the speaker's shoes
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A middle school student firmly protests the flavor and quality of her school’s lunches.
by Jasmine J, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on her origins to deconstruct social borders and seize her boundless future.
by Jana C., 826LA
A celebration of self and exploration of core values.
by Salome Maldonando, 826CHI
A poem about unrequited love.
by Jennifer Alcocer, The 826 Dallas Project
This personal narrative addresses the struggles of students graduating high school during the pandemic.
by Nhu N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A young writer reconciles their sexuality with the beliefs of their community.
by Crystal Colorado, Age 12, 826 Valencia
This poem will take you to the beach and make you wonder if it was all a dream.
by Riti Shrestha, 826NYC
In this poem, metaphor is used to describe who the narrator is.
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.
Rosman A., age 18, 826CHI
Smells swirl about a student walking around an ice cream shop.
by Christian, 826michigan
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.
by Djeneba Soumaoro, 826michigan
A student’s manifesto!
by Alanis T., Age 17, 826 Boston
A student reflects on how her relationship's with her parents has influenced her life.
by Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
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 Kiara, 826CHI
In this personal narrative, a student explores growing up young and black in Chicago.
by Elizabeth W., 826 Valencia
A persuasive piece for women and girls to unite and cultivate a culture of body image positivity.
by Madison, 826CHI
In this compelling essay, a student rejects apathy and explores what really matters in conversations about solving gun violence towards black and brown men.
by Bianca Morcho, 826 MSP
A personal essay that explores the different shades of the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Sergio M, 826 Valencia
This piece reminds us that a smile is not always what it seems.
by Eva, 826 Valencia
A student celebrates the journey of discovering whom to love.
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 Dayana Alvarado, 826CHI
A student shares finding home in two places: Mexico and Chicago.
by Elizabeth W, 826 Valencia
Even though we may look different, we remain united with one another.
by Pretty S, 826 Valencia
Peek into the mind of a student who considers artistic influences in her life.
by Sam, 826CHI
In this poem, a student pits mathematics against the unknown.
by Jack, 826 Valencia
An argument against the overconsumption of sugar outlines the ways its effects are anything but sweet.
by Sela, 826 MSP
This poem holds big dreams for the speaker's future.
by Claire Leiva, Grade 6, 826michigan
A poem about the writer's favorite animal—corgis!
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 Jazlyn Moses, 826 National
One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.
by Anonymous, Grade 8, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
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 Andy, 826CHI
In this memoir, a few friends bond over a rare Pokémon Go catch.
by Numan Khan, age 16, 826 Boston
A bilingual "I am" poem filled with conviction and courage.
by Tylor, 826NYC
A lean but essential checklist for readers to determine if they are awake.
by Jesus Sanchez, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative short horror piece explores the mysteries and danger of a night in the woods.
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 Sharoya Bracey, 826NYC
In this memoir, the narrator recounts the struggle of being the bigger person in a very small space.
by Aniah, 826 MSP
A student is lifted up by the dance of her ancestors.
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
Yamilet J., 826LA
A student reflects on the fear and wonder of becoming a mother.
by Arielle B., Grade 8
This poem invites readers to remember that people are often going through more than choose to show.
by Jabari, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
A poem about wanting more from life.
by Samantha Wint, Grade 9, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to explore many dualities of the narrator's life.
by Yvanna Bodiana, Age 13, 826 Valencia
A reflection on freedom and Black resilience in the face of opposition.
by Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games night turned into a nightmare.
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 Renee, 826NYC
A poem about a place where ideas can grow.
by Kayla, 826 Boston
This poem offers a very-real answer to "What do you want to be when you grow up?"
by Kevin G, 826 Valencia
This narrative calls us to see the world through the perspectives of others.
by Camille, 826LA
A student finds her wings in unexpected places in this piece about the transition to college.
by Sarah X., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student shares how they've uplifted their community.
by Issa Caothien, 826NYC
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that if you work together, you're golden!
Kenya G., 17, 826LA
A poet relates her experience as a queer woman in the closet to a peacock in the zoo.
by Isabel, 826 Boston
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem features a student battling with the voices constricting her freedom.
by Kalyn Jackson, 826 New Orleans
Through this short story, Kalyn explores ideas of home and change in an altered world.
by Lisbeth M.F., 826NYC
A story about how Marcus becomes Marcela.
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 Leydi Di Villanueva, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative narrative imagines how the coronavirus views humanity during the pandemic.
by Gisel J., 826LA
The power of public speaking shines through this student's memoir.
by Charles, 826 MSP
A student reflects on his life, stemming from the life of his father.
by Sahir M., Grade 7
This poem uses metaphors to describe who the speaker really is.
by Oriel, 826NYC
In this poem, an echoing question strikes a chord and reveals the tragic loss held within systemic injustice.
by Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
by Gabriela T., 826 Valencia
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that inclusive leaders take action—they don't wait for others to make a difference.
by Laila, 826CHI
A memoir about losing a parent—and a community’s support.
Cate H, Grade 12, 826CHI
A poet sets the stage to showcase her reflections on being trans.
by Renée, 826NYC
A persuasive letter detailing to the recipient the pointlessness of writing a persuasive letter. A helpful example for reluctant writers.
by Amalia O'Brien, Grade 10, Novato, CA
A letter to the future Madame President of the United States.
by Navayah, 826 MSP
Through redefining a label, a student reclaims a piece of their identity.
by Jordan, 826 New Orleans
Crawfish, crayfish, or mudbugs. Whatever you call them, the writer of this poem doesn't like them.
by Cindy, 826LA
A student compellingly argues that immigrants deserve respect and to be free of discrimination.
by Jiaxi, 826CHI
A student’s worldview is forever altered after a lesson on the Segregation Era and Jim Crow.
by Yojannie Pizarro, Age 17, 826 Boston
This poem explores the beauty of friendship.
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 Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
by Lesly, 826 Valencia
A sports poem about the losing blues.
by Ibrahim, Grade 7, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, 7th grader Ibrahim thanks Nurses for the heart and soul they put into caring for their patients and fighting disease.
by Justis Porter, age 16, 826 Boston
A neighborhood ode filled with sights and sounds of the poet's street.
by Curtis, 826michigan
A rhyming (inverse) ode to a very irritating noise.
by Cristina, 826CHI
A student recounts separation with a beloved friend through a nostalgic lens.
by David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
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.
by Karina Centeno, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
This poem takes an honest look at two sides of the writer's culture.
by Earl Williams Jr., The 826 Dallas Project
A powerful poetic piece about the experience of being Black in America.
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by CA, Grade 7, 826CHI
A writer's honest view of who they are and their potential.
by Karla M., 826LA
A poem for lovers of love and the moon.
by Jason, 826michigan
Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".
by Jazmine & Vanessa, 826CHI
Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.
by Soraya, 826NYC
This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.
by Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
by Rafael, 826CHI
A student remembers an afternoon adventure around town and explores what Chicago and community mean to him.
by David, 826CHI
A student writes about the smell, taste, and pace of their neighborhood.
by Sylvia C., 826 Valencia
A poet demonstrates their devotion to love.
by Calvin, 826michigan
A student professes love—to a jalapeño!
by Sebastian Cendejas, 826CHI
A student reflects on how much Chicago means to them.
by Izzy T., 826 Valencia
A student reflects on memories of home and what binds her special community together.
by Terra C., Grades 10-11, 826NYC
A student recalls their journey on how they discovered their LGBTQIA+ identity.
by Itzel Medina Luna, 826 Valencia
In this poem from the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, a student walks through her neighborhood searching for hidden stories.
by Elsy M.E., Grade 11, 826 Valencia
A poet imagines a better and more harmonious world.
by Lucas Hu, 826 Boston
A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition
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 Yazmine-Gizelle, 826DC
This poem uses a fundamental poetry technique, repetition, to share the writer's future plans.
by Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
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 Lola, 826 Valencia
A poem that portrays the arc of a love story told through the gift of a cigarette lighter.
by Angel, 826CHI
Several friends harness a new source of energy and develop superpowers—with a surprise ending! Both Spanish and English versions available.
by Ella, 826 Valencia
A persuasive argument for co-ed teams in the face of gender stereotypes, supported by results from primary research conducted by the author.
by Sara Sofia Becerra L., Age 14, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love for music with the world.
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 Christian Z., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.
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 Piya, 826 Valencia
A demand to the public stop to buying ivory that seeks to explain the devastating effects of poaching on elephant and rhino populations.
by Isabella Serrato, Grade 7, 826 Dallas Project
This poem uses sound devices to enhance the overall tone.
by Maya M., Grade 11, Newburg, OR
A student reflects on the memories they made while backpacking.
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 Emmanuel J., 826NYC
An avid basketball fan discusses the rise of the Golden State Warriors through its individual players.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by V.G., 826LA
A poem that muses on the purpose of borders in question and answer format.
by Arianna R., Grade 11, 826 Boston
A beautiful ode to home and self.
by Junaynah R., Grade 11, 826NYC
Full of exquisite imagery, this poem explores the idea of second chances.
by Mya, 826CHI
A piece packed with vivid description about taking risks at an ice rink.
by Isabella C., Age 13, 826 Valencia
The misadventures of finding a missing wallet.
by Raheem, 826 New Orleans
A student compares themself to the place they live, New Orleans, as both evolve through great obstacles.
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
by Sharon, 826CHI
A memoir about finding true friendship.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Keyshana, Grade 11, 826CHI
Black strength, beauty, and pride soar in this poem as a student discusses overcoming brutality and discrimination.
by Jeff, 826CHI
In this piece, a student describes Christmas as a holiday best spent together.
by Isabella, 826NYC
This poet rejects judgement based on the color of one’s skin.
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.
Annasian Walters, Grade 11-12, 826NYC
A student explores gratitude and love through sharing food.
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 Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
by Samuel Wang, Grade 10, 826NYC
A poem about the complexity of love exchanged during the holidays.
by Tammy Fong, 826NYC
A soccer-filled, feud-fueled memoir.
by Diego, 826CHI
On the funniest day of this student’s life…
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 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 Luke, 826 Valencia
An essay shared in English and Spanish discusses the effects of global warming on penguins and their source of nutrients, krill.
by Melody Marcano, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on their roots and their desire to grow.
by Chris O., Age 15, 826 Valencia
A freshman describes their first day of school on their own.
by Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
A trans student reflects on their desire to be male.
by Sally Phan, 826 Boston
A memoir that questions the idea of home and how it changes with time.
by Michaiah Anderson, The 826 Dallas Project
In this poem, a student describes their family origins with an intimate point of view
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 Amaya, 826michigan
A letter devoted to a favorite fruit that’s sweet and sour just like this student’s favorite candy: Sour Patch Kids!
by Cayden, 826DC
This poem lists all of the pieces that make up the writer's whole.
by Ryker, 826michigan
Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”
by Salvador M., Grade 7, 826DC
A peaceful reflection on what type of place a student would be.
by Steysi Hailee, 826LA
A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.
by Janelle Suazo, age 12, 826 Valencia
A school dare gone horribly wrong!
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