Grades 6–7
Informational, PersuasiveWritingCan you imagine being picked on or verbally or physically abused in the bathroom? Can you imagine going to the opposite one because the law forced you to? This is a reality for many people in America.
Recently there has been a lot of talk about the transgender community. Last May, North Carolina passed a bill that requires people to use the bathroom that matches the sex on their birth certificate. South Carolina tried to pass similar legislation but failed.
In Los Angeles, a student told the Highland Park School District that they felt uncomfortable about using the bathroom. They would often “hold it” all day just to avoid going to the bathroom. Traditionally there are two bathrooms; boys and girls. In Highland Park, this was the case. But there is a growing transgender/bisexual/gender-neutral population. Many people now feel comfortable enough to come out. The student requested to have gender-neutral bathrooms or some other form of integration. The transgender community and its allies rushed to support the student, and on May 23rd, 2016, an expanded transgender rights policy for the district went up for a vote. The expanded policy was approved.
Last May, President Obama addressed the United States, saying that the Department of Education must allow students to use the bathroom and locker room of their choice, and must have some transgender bathrooms available. Schools are also required to change the gender on school records when asked by a parent or guardian. In North Carolina, people said that people might use the bathrooms as “homosexual hangouts” that pose a threat to gender-binary people, or people who identify as male or female.
Around when you get into your teens, you start to realize your identity. This is why middle schools and high schools around America now face a big issue: how are they going to make all genders feel comfortable doing their business?
Now some schools are trying to find solutions to help make transgender or gender-neutral people feel more comfortable. In SFUSD they have already started integrating. They have taken down the binary signs in some schools or are building completely new bathrooms in others. At my school, Aptos Middle School, transgender, queer, or questioning people and their families consult with staff to get permission to use staff single-stall bathrooms.
There is a real danger for LGBTQ people in bathroom. Especially when you are young, you are still judging how the world perceives you, and this makes you vulnerable. “The safety of young people is determined by what bathroom they choose and where, and how the other people using the bathrooms will react to them,” Said Nicole Giannone, who works at Ali Forney Center, a place in New York where young LGBTQ people can be housed and supported when they are experiencing difficulties. “Because of where I work, I see and witness everyday what young transgender people go through when they are homeless. When you don’t have somewhere to live or that you can only access at night to sleep because it is a shelter, that means you are looking for a public bathroom often.”
Many people of the LGBTQ community also feel that the legislation in North Carolina and South Carolina is another form of oppression. Giannone, who is gender-neutral and prefers the pronoun they, believes that the government is proposing laws that invite the idea that transgender or gender-neutral people are just “faking it” or it’s just “dressing up.” “I think that it is outrageous that the government can make decisions about where people can use the bathroom,” they said. “If you step back and really think about what that means, it seems like there is possibly endless power to oppress people in so many different ways.”
Bathroom integration is an important step to end LGBTQ oppression. It’s funny that this small choice most of us have made every day has made such a big change.
“You know when you really have to pee and there is a line? How many times do we think, ‘Whatever, I am just going to go use the other bathroom because I am about to pee my pants,’” Giannone said. “When that happens, sometimes people are like, ‘What are you doing here?’ But mostly, people look out for each other and they’ll say ‘coast is clear’ or ‘no sweat, there is a stall with a door.’”
I think people should be more accepting. This is a small part of our lives. We need to start looking for change. This will be a long battle, and some say with such a small outcome. But for LGBTQ people, this is a big change. For binary people, only a small part of the bathroom experience will change to make a whole community of gender-nonconforming people feel comfortable. “As long as people are unwelcoming, transphobic, and defining gender identity by our sexual anatomy, we will have a long way to full integration,” Giannone said.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
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 Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Krisbel D.L.M., Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A letter to the next President asking them to support immigration laws that will allow them to see their family.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Kevin, 826NYC
A wizened middle schooler offers the benefits of sixth grade to younger readers, sprinkling in a few tips to survive and thrive in their year ahead.
by Evelyn Escamilla, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
by Mateo, 826CHI
An informative entry on the meaning and usage of a student-inspired word: doomungous.
by Lesly, 826 Valencia
A sports poem about the losing blues.
by Guinevre, 826CHI
A persuasive letter with a few ideas on how to improve cafeteria lunches at school.
by 826NYC students
This collaborative poem explores the many sides and senses of laughter.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An acrostic poem about the Black Lives Matter movement.
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 Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
by Janelle Suazo, age 12, 826 Valencia
A school dare gone horribly wrong!
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
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 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 Kelis, 826michigan
This student describes what it would be like to become the first female president, campaigning on education for all, friendlier attitudes, more food and housing, and snow days!
by CA, Grade 7, 826CHI
A writer's honest view of who they are and their potential.
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by Jason, 826michigan
Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem about a place where ideas can grow.
by Gael, 826CHI
A poem about becoming a dancer.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Inge S., Age 13, 826CHI
Part riddle, part observations, this poem leaves the reader with big things to think about.
by Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
by Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
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!
by Alonso, 826 Boston
An insightful set of instructions for surviving a day as a 7th grader in the Boston Teachers Union School.
by Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
by Armaan, 826CHI
This author recounts the beginning of a family tradition: the best homemade sandwich ever!
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 Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
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 Fahima Dahir, 826 MSP
A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by John, 826NYC
A creative commentary on food justice in which Digestive Man defends local farms from Corn Boy and the Factory Farmers!
by Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
by Mady, 826 Valencia
A student examines the mermaid industry today through a historical lens that begins in the late-nineteenth century, turning fantasy into a profession.
by Sara Sofia Becerra L., Age 14, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love for music with the world.
by Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
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 Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning sushi to surviving the sixth grade.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Jamie, 826 Valencia
A metaphorical poem about frustrations, from homework to homelessness.
by Sophia, 826CHI
In this poem, a student makes some noise about resilience and beating the odds.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Calvin, 826michigan
A student professes love—to a jalapeño!
by Eva, 826 Valencia
A student celebrates the journey of discovering whom to love.
by Angelina Do, Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A poem about living in the space between two cultures.
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 Jacore, 826 Valencia
An intriguing and educational essay discussing environmental consciousness and the devastating effects of global warming.
by Renée, 826NYC
A persuasive letter detailing to the recipient the pointlessness of writing a persuasive letter. A helpful example for reluctant writers.
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 Sam, 826CHI
In this poem, a student pits mathematics against the unknown.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Djeneba Soumaoro, 826michigan
A student’s manifesto!
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Ari, 826CHI
In the Realm of Virtues, a search for attention and significance teaches these characters an important lesson about what it means to be human!
by Curtis, 826michigan
A rhyming (inverse) ode to a very irritating noise.
by Kyle I., Grade 6, Kansas City, MO
A gender-fluid student's call to action to the next U.S. president to protect LGBTQIA+ rights.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Isabella, 826CHI
A student describes a scrumptious five-course meal—everything except the vegetables, that is!
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 Kevin, 826NYC
An informational briefing on a horrible incident in the year 5176 that changed the hoverboarding industry forever.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Ramatoulie, 826DC
A student shares memories of transitioning from Gambia to a new home in the United States, complete with a snowy encounter.
by Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
by Khari Garris, New York, NY
A student remembers what life was like before the COVID-19 pandemic, and imagines a brighter day when schools reopen.
by Sela, 826 MSP
This poem holds big dreams for the speaker's future.
by Najah, Grade 6, 826 MSP
A student appreciates and reflects on her mother's kindness over the years.
by Duanté, 826 Valencia
A personal narrative about race and identity.
by Asa, 826CHI
This narrator embarks on a mysterious vacation in the sky!
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
by Isabella Serrato, Grade 7, 826 Dallas Project
This poem uses sound devices to enhance the overall tone.
by Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by V.G., 826LA
A poem that muses on the purpose of borders in question and answer format.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Gael, 826CHI
A short but powerful poem about the circular nature of history.
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
by Yanni, 826NYC
This poem is written in the style of William Carlos Williams’ “This is Just to Say” and celebrates small acts of unapologetic joy.
by Sahir M., Grade 7
This poem uses metaphors to describe who the speaker really is.
by Claire Leiva, Grade 6, 826michigan
A poem about the writer's favorite animal--corgis!
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 Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
by Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games night turned into a nightmare.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
bookmark