Ben Franklin Elementary School’s Ms. KD Meucci students brought the art of poetry to life on Dec. 17 with a class Poetry Slam, turning her classroom into a cozy “coffee shop” to celebrate student creativity and confidence.
As part of their recent CKLA unit on poetry, students spent weeks studying the art form, writing their own original poems, and practicing their performances at home with the help of their families. For the event, they could perform a poem provided by Ms. Meucci or showcase one of their original works.
The Poetry Slam wasn’t just about the students—it was a community effort. Parent volunteers transformed the classroom into a warm and inviting space with a coffee shop vibe. They pretended to be baristas, serving hot cocoa and snacks to the students. Adding to the ambiance, Tim Kellander, a parent from last year’s class, played live piano music, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
During the event, students stepped up to the stage, performing their chosen poems under a spotlight with a microphone. They had been taught how to respectfully listen and support their peers, making the experience positive and empowering for everyone involved.
"The purpose of this activity is to build students' confidence to speak in front of a group, celebrate our poetry unit, and practice performing poetry,” Ms. Meucci explained. "I know that public speaking can be nerve-wracking for many students, but this event gave them an opportunity to shine and feel proud of their hard work."
The Poetry Slam marked the culmination of the class’s poetry studies, aligning with CKLA standards that emphasize listening, speaking, and creativity. The event celebrated the students' learning and demonstrated the power of a supportive community in making education engaging and meaningful.
The success of the Poetry Slam will undoubtedly be remembered by Ms. Meucci’s students—and their families—as a highlight of the school year.