Rachel G. is a 5th grader, and she likes hiking and biking. She also likes spending time with family and friends at her grandma’s house or at other places. Her favorite foods are pizza, burgers, hot dogs, and her favorite desserts are ice cream, cakes, and cupcakes. Her favorite games are Good Pizza, Great Pizza, Roblox, and Toca Boca. And most importantly, she loves baking with her cousins.
Dear Chancellor Aviles Ramos,
Have you ever wondered about other cultures? Learning about different cultures in school helps us understand our classmates, teachers, and people outside of the school buildings.
One reason we should learn about different cultures is that it helps us understand how people feel and what they like to do. EduBirdie says, “Knowing things about other cultures can help us avoid making anyone upset over something silly.” By learning about other cultures, we can be nicer and make sure we don’t hurt anyone’s feelings by accident.
Another reason why we should learn about different cultures is that it gives us important information about other people. It helps us understand what they want, how they feel, what their cultures mean, and what they are all about. By learning this, we can appreciate others more.
Finally, learning about other cultures teaches us to be more accepting. This helps all students feel comfortable with their differences in the classroom and creates a friendly and safe environment for everyone.
However, some people might say that focusing too much on differences could divide people instead of bringing them together. They may feel that it’s better to treat everyone the same. I believe that understanding different cultures can actually make people closer by helping us appreciate and respect what makes each person special.
In conclusion, this is why I think it is important to learn about different cultures. It helps us understand our classmates, be more accepting and helps us learn more about different cultures around the world and around us.
Sincerely,
Rachel G.
***
This piece was originally published in 826NYC’s Let’s Make Kindness a Priority.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Alyssa, Kevin, Gustavo, Jocelyn, and Gabriel, 826LA
In science class, Victoria the Manticore makes fun of Carla the Witch for using magic, and a few bystanders step in to take a stand against bullying.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
by Yasmeen Whitney, Age 9, 826 Valencia
This poem declares a student's love for snow globes!
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
Neveah H., Grade 5, 826NYC
Brooklyn is the place to be over the summer! A young writer reflects on how summertime cookouts bring family and community together.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
by Natalie, 826CHI
A spirit named Janet haunts a dance studio as five young dancers arm themselves with a vacuum, a bottle, and the internet.
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
by Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
by Noel, 826 Valencia
The creation story of a new school, reimagined to improve learning. (Paid for by Taylor Swift with free water bottles, an Italian restaurant, a movie theater, and a comfortable and safe environment.)
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
by Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I Am From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
by Selene Freudenberg, 826michigan
This hero’s journey leads an unlikely suspect into a land of books with a plot-disrupting villain who must be destroyed in order to save a multitude of characters, including Harry Potter!
Ms. Lowe’s Fourth Grade Class at Roberto Clemente Learning Academy in Detroit, Michigan
An example of a "Neighborhood Poem" created as a class as part of 826Michigan's Rare Air/Aire Raro Young Authors' Book Project.
by Abdikabir, age 8, 826 MSP
This poem uses the 1st person point-of-view to show what life looks like for a timber rattlesnake.
by Kelsey F., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
This poem shares an honest look at a big feeling: anxiety
by Carolyn Danielle Wong, Age 9, 826 Valencia
In this poem, the writer showcases self-love and joy.
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
by Zaid Rodriguez, 826 Valencia
This story immerses the reader in sensory details to tell the tale of what lies behind a mysterious door.
by Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Stefany Moreira, Vivi Small, Ana Rosas, Eugenia Rosas, and Jason Carrillo, 826NYC
This poem describes a warmer, tastier world run by young people.
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
by Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by Brayan Luna, 826michigan
In this poem, a student vividly recounts watching The Undertaker perform a signature chokeslam on WrestleMania. Written in Spanish and English.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Faisa, age 9, 826 MSP
This poem writes from the perspective of a Prairie Shooting Star flower, detailing a day in its life.
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
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 Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Chelsea, Grade 5, 826NYC
A student passes on their favorite tips for having fun and surviving fifth grade.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
by Gabriella Mcclellan, Grade 5, 826michigan
This sci-fi piece shows the importance of talking things out with friends.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
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 Salimatou, Grade 5, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Ana, 826DC
A student learns an important lesson about staying calm while recounting a trip to Olive Garden that spiraled out of control!
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Johny, 826 LA
A riveting interview with Godzilla, Superman, and Dragonbolt—a cast of characters that will try to outdo one another before this TV special is up.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Matthew, 826CHI
Originally written and recorded as a podcast, these two unlikely heroes and the technological crisis of year 3016 will have you gripping the edge of your seat!
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
by Travis Cao, Age 8, 826 Valencia
This poem shows the importance of saying thank you to yourself!
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
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 Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Vanessa, 826CHI
A story about a mermaid named Luna and the epic battle to save Benzo, a rainbow-colored kingdom, using the power of love.
by Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
Raquel Campos, Age 10, 826 Valencia
Three friends, inspired by a stream of butterflies, bake a beautiful cake.
by Levi, 826NYC
An origin story for healthy food, involving an epic battle between purveyor of high-fructose corn syrup, Ronald McDonald, and a heroic band of chefs.
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
Vivien Norton, Age 12, 826michigan
A poet explores their love for writing with their friend.
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by L.M., 826CHI
The story of a lonely ghost named Annabeth, a plan to kidnap children on Halloween, and an unlikely encounter that reveals the true nature of friendship.
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
by Benny, 826 Boston
Inspired by Jeff Kinney's Diary of a Wimpy Kid, this piece contains a series of journal entries and rules for a new sport by fictitious NASA operative Agent Smitty.
Dylan Sanderson, Grade 5, 826NYC
A student dreams of the most joyful place in the world--somewhere with their family and money!
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
by Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.

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