In this public narrative, a student illustrates the hardships his uncle has faced to argue for a path to citizenship.

This narrative piece contemplates the struggle of immigrants during the pandemic.

In this personal narrative, a student describes their family origins with an intimate point of view

Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.

A student finds her wings in unexpected places in this piece about the transition to college.

This poem offers a very-real answer to "What do you want to be when you grow up?"

This bilingual poem explores the harrowing story of a boy working while in school to save his mother.

In this poem, a student reflects on their roots and their desire to grow.

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.

In this poem, an echoing question strikes a chord and reveals the tragic loss held within systemic injustice.

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.

This personal narrative addresses the struggles of students graduating high school during the pandemic.

This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.

A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.

This creative short horror piece explores the mysteries and danger of a night in the woods.

A student recounts separation with a beloved friend through a nostalgic lens.

In this poem, a student reflects on identity.

In this poem, a student reflects on their first encounter with forced assimilation.

A student reflects on memories of home and what binds her special community together.

A powerful poetic piece about the experience of being Black in America.

This student reveals the mysterious origin story of the king cake. Hint: it includes Big Freedia, DJ Chicken Wing, and a massive party.

When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.

In this public narrative, a student makes the case for creating community change by building youth centers in her neighborhood.

One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.

A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.

In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student shares gratitude for the dedication of nurses and gives “credit where credit is due.”

The stunning and vulnerable poem processes feelings of loss, grief, and hope for the future.

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.

A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.

A student spins through space and a treasure trove of memories in this poem.

This creative narrative imagines how the coronavirus views humanity during the pandemic.

Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”

In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student shares how essential workers’ courage and compassion center her during these hectic times.

Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.