The annual Poetry Slam was held on Thurs. Feb 17.  This event, held in the library, showcased many students, who could choose to either read a poem written by someone else, or read one of their own.

Students gathered to share their personal feelings and hearts, choosing to express themselves through the medium of slam poetry, and some came to support their friends.  “I came here because I was excited to see my friends go, and I wanted to support them,” said Addyson Murphey, 12.  Murphey and many others came to fill the atmosphere with support, which is a large part of poetry.

“I like this specific type of writing, because it teaches students how to use their voices,” sponsor, Stephanie Simpson, said.  “While other methods of expression like drawing, painting, or even playing an instrument can be difficult, anyone can write.  It’s more accessible, and it gives a chance for students to hear each other, and understand each other.”

Simpson notes that anyone can write poetry, regardless of any limitations.  One student who wrote her own poem was Safiya Benhajlarbi.  “I started by writing the first and last sentences, and just decided to fill in the blanks,” Benhajlarbi, 12, said who performed her poem ‘Rain’.  “If you’re interested in writing poetry, I say just go for it, write everything that comes to mind.  Just give it a try.”