There’s something powerful about sharing your voice—not just in a classroom, but out in the world.
At our recent Poetry Slam at Gulu-Gulu Café, Phoenix students did just that. After spending time writing their own poetry, each student selected a piece to read in front of an audience of families, friends, and even café patrons. It was a brave step, and one they met with creativity and heart.
Students collaborated on group poems before stepping up to share their own individual work. Their writing reflected the depth and range of their learning experiences, with poems inspired by topics like Artemis II, our Global Wildlife Center trip, birds, and personal “I Am” reflections.
We were especially moved by the way our community showed up for one another. Some of our younger students felt nervous, but they weren’t alone. Older students stepped in as leaders, offering encouragement and standing beside them as they presented. It was a beautiful example of the multi-age connections that make Phoenix so special.
Students explored a variety of poetic forms, including cinquain, limerick, villanelle, abecedarian, and tanka. Experiences like this reflect what we value most at Phoenix: empowering students to take risks, express themselves authentically, and support one another along the way. Watching them stand in front of an audience and share their voices was truly something special.