Grades 11–12
MemoirWritingAbner L. lives in DC but grew up in Honduras. He is 17 years old and enjoys playing video games. His favorite movie is American Sniper and his favorite class in school is English. He loves to play soccer. In the future, Abner hopes to be a police officer or actor.
In English my name means Abner.
In Spanish it means Padre de la Luz
It means happy
It is the name of Hercules
It is like the number 10
A red color
My name is like a beautiful life.
At school, my name is Abner
And at home, my name is Abner
My name comes from the Bible
This piece was originally published in Nuesta Vida by 826DC.
by Manuel C., 17, 826DC
Manuel sees his name as joyful and strong, linked to faith, fun, and his favorite characters, with two names that reflect who he is at home and at school.
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 Karina Centeno, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
This poem takes an honest look at two sides of the writer's culture.
by Sharoya Bracey, 826NYC
In this memoir, the narrator recounts the struggle of being the bigger person in a very small space.
Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
A trans student reflects on their desire to be male.
by Sergio M, 826 Valencia
This piece reminds us that a smile is not always what it seems.
by Jennifer Alcocer, The 826 Dallas Project
This personal narrative addresses the struggles of students graduating high school during the pandemic.
by Augustus Griffith Jr., 826 National
From the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem explores the aftermath and lasting impacts of school shootings.
by Daniela Martinez, Grade 12, 826 Boston
A poem exploring an electric, freeing moment shared on the dance floor.
by Jeremy Hsiao, 826 National
From the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem reminds activists that "to change everything, we need everyone."
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 Sarah X., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student shares how they've uplifted their community.
Kenya G., 17, 826LA
A poet relates her experience as a queer woman in the closet to a peacock in the zoo.
by Leydi Di Villanueva, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative narrative imagines how the coronavirus views humanity during the pandemic.
by Kaleo V.C., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student looks back on their first day of kindergarten and how they've changed.
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 Olivia H., 826CHI
A piece that explores the connection between stars, legacy, and Black resilience.
by Salma Khalif, 826 MSP
A powerful poem that lifts up Black women.
by Samuel Wang, Grade 10, 826NYC
A poem about the complexity of love exchanged during the holidays.
by Terra C., Grades 10-11, 826NYC
A student recalls their journey on how they discovered their LGBTQIA+ identity.
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 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 Colin Y., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student describes how volunteering saved him from his online prison.
by Jizelle Villegas, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
The stunning and vulnerable poem processes feelings of loss, grief, and hope for the future.
Rosman A., age 18, 826CHI
Smells swirl about a student walking around an ice cream shop.
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
by Lisbeth M.F., 826NYC
A story about how Marcus becomes Marcela.
by Emmerson Todd, Grade 11, Novato High School, Novato, CA
This list poem shares tips to manage the anxiety that can come along with making a phone call.
by Alanis T., Age 17, 826 Boston
A student reflects on how her relationship's with her parents has influenced 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 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 Junaynah R., Grade 11, 826NYC
Full of exquisite imagery, this poem explores the idea of second chances.
by Sally Phan, 826 Boston
A memoir that questions the idea of home and how it changes with time.
by Camille, 826LA
A student finds her wings in unexpected places in this piece about the transition to college.
by Melody Marcano, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on their roots and their desire to grow.
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 Earl Williams Jr., The 826 Dallas Project
A powerful poetic piece about the experience of being Black in America.
Yamilet J., 826LA
A student reflects on the fear and wonder of becoming a 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 Vanessa Ramon-Ibarra, 826DC
Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.
by Albin C., Age 18, 826 Boston
A student recalls how he was able to take charge and turn his life around.
by Tyler, Grade 11, 826DC
In this powerful letter to the United States Congress, this student stands up for representation of young people in government.
by Jahruwach Hamilton, Grade 10, 826NYC
In this rousing poem, a student asserts her strength and worth as a woman.
by Cristina, 826CHI
A student recounts separation with a beloved friend through a nostalgic lens.
by Bianca Morcho, 826 MSP
A personal essay that explores the different shades of the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Rowan Yordy, Grade 11, 826michigan
This poem uses imagery to describe a small moment of joy.
by Raheem, 826 New Orleans
A student compares themself to the place they live, New Orleans, as both evolve through great obstacles.
by Elsy M.E., Grade 11, 826 Valencia
A poet imagines a better and more harmonious world.
by Abby S., Grade 11, 826 Boston
An author reflects on their correspondence with their friend from the past.
by Jesus Sanchez, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative short horror piece explores the mysteries and danger of a night in the woods.
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 Jana C., 826LA
A celebration of self and exploration of core values.
by Jordan, 826 New Orleans
Crawfish, crayfish, or mudbugs. Whatever you call them, the writer of this poem doesn't like them.
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 Soraya, 826NYC
This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.
by Lucas Hu, 826 Boston
A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition
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 Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
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 Jarmani M., Age 18, 826 Boston
Jarmani reflects on the pain of being rejected from his top high school, but through that challenge, he finds motivation. He grows more focused, disciplined, and driven to succeed in all areas.
by Denisse Reyes Gonzalez, Age 17, 826NYC
Using metaphors, this bilingual poem explores the idea of lost love.
by Alphonsine M., 826LA
A student reflects on the journey and struggle of growing in the face of adversity.
by Jazlyn Moses, 826 National
One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.
Cate H, Grade 12, 826CHI
A poet sets the stage to showcase her reflections on being trans.
by Arianna R., Grade 11, 826 Boston
A beautiful ode to home and self.
by Timothy T., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student tells the story of how his family has influenced his life.
by Michaiah Anderson, The 826 Dallas Project
In this poem, a student describes their family origins with an intimate point of view
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.
Virginia Walker, age 18, 826 Boston
A student writes to a grandfather she never met.
by Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
by Keyshana, Grade 11, 826CHI
Black strength, beauty, and pride soar in this poem as a student discusses overcoming brutality and discrimination.
by Karla M., 826LA
A poem for lovers of love and the moon.
by Tammy Fong, 826NYC
A soccer-filled, feud-fueled memoir.
Annasian Walters, Grade 11-12, 826NYC
A student explores gratitude and love through sharing food.
by Numan Khan, age 16, 826 Boston
A bilingual "I am" poem filled with conviction and courage.
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 Izzy T., 826 Valencia
A student reflects on memories of home and what binds her special community together.
by Steysi Hailee, 826LA
A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.
by Jesus C., Grade 12, 826LA
A poet identifies with a trapped ocelot at the zoo.
by Justis Porter, age 16, 826 Boston
A neighborhood ode filled with sights and sounds of the poet's street.
by Julianna Cruz, 826 Dallas Project
This narrative piece contemplates the struggle of immigrants during the pandemic.
by Yojannie Pizarro, Age 17, 826 Boston
This poem explores the beauty of friendship.
by Tina N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student describes their shark like imaginary friend.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Kayla Wayne, Grade 11, 826NYC
In this poem, a student reflects on their first encounter with forced assimilation.
by Brandon R., 826LA
A student recounts the epic highs and lows of high school track and cross country.
by Franny, 826CHI
A student spins through space and a treasure trove of memories in this poem.
by Rockelle Rodd, Grade 11, 826NYC
This poem uses analogies to describe all of the pieces of the writer's personal history.
by Sylvia C., 826 Valencia
A poet demonstrates their devotion to love.
by Kayla, 826 Boston
This poem offers a very-real answer to "What do you want to be when you grow up?"
by Riti Shrestha, 826NYC
In this poem, metaphor is used to describe who the narrator is.
by Nhu N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A young writer reconciles their sexuality with the beliefs of their community.
by Gisel J., 826LA
The power of public speaking shines through this student's memoir.
by Maya M., Grade 11, Newburg, OR
A student reflects on the memories they made while backpacking.
by Oriel, 826NYC
In this poem, an echoing question strikes a chord and reveals the tragic loss held within systemic injustice.
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.
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