Defying Expectations, Redesigning Community

Turning their uniquely challenging experiences and powerful feelings into moving prose, more than 30 students showcased their learning and talent at the annual poetry slam event this week. 

The students from San Diego County Office of Education's (SDCOE) Juvenile Court and Community Schools (JCCS) programs made their voices heard as they offered unique perspectives on the theme, “They Say, I Say.” 

For many, this was their first time performing in front of a crowd. 

“I’m feeling really anxious and nervous, but kind of proud,” said Carla, a student at North County Technology Academy. “I feel like I need to let some of my feelings out, even if it’s in front of people I don’t know, so I can feel good about myself.”  

Uplifted by the words of affirmation from teachers and fellow students, Carla shared her poem, “The Sun Still Rises After Dark,” a lyrical exploration of life experiences that helped her defy the expectations of others and embrace life’s beauty. 

As the capstone to their English Language coursework, the Poetry Slam empowered students to reflect on the expectations and opinions of themselves and others, touching on topics such as climate change, immigration, family separation, peer pressure, and self-doubt — as well as the strength and resiliency they found within themselves to overcome such obstacles.

One student from San Pasqual Academy (SPA), a residential school for students who are in foster care, spoke passionately of the sense of belonging she found there in her poem, “The House We Fight For,” delivered in both Haitian Creole and English. 

“After everything we went through, SPA took us in. We found people who love us,” she said. “Even if we were hesitant to accept it, we finally found family.”

Using math and science to reimagine community spaces

For the first time, the event included a STEAM Digital Gallery showcasing projects that highlight creativity, problem-solving, and the application of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. 

Inspired by the theme, “A Future Without Boundaries,” students used spatial analysis and scientific justification to redesign a real community space. While many focused on environmental sustainability and community-centered design, others explored changes to classrooms and common spaces that promote physical health and mental well-being. 

With their poems delivered and nerves settled, students celebrated with lunch and music from DJ Robert of Friday Night Live, an SDCOE youth development partnership.