NFA P-TECH Scholars Participate in Inaugural Poetry Slam Competition

NFA P-TECH scholars and parents gathered at Sadie’s Books and Beverages for the school’s first annual Poetry Slam Competition. Students worked prior to the event with Juan-Carlos Piñeiro to analyze mentor texts, create their poems and explore the art of slam poetry performance. Thanks to generous donations from Sadie’s, four winners were recognized, and all student participants were invited to pick a book from the store in honor of their willingness to share their work. One of the adult attendees remarked “These kids are so much braver than I was at their age.” P-TECH ELA teachers Christine Baumann, Melinda Martinez, and Jacqueline Hesse are excitedly brainstorming plans for next year’s event.

Student Performers: 

Aaliyah Baker

Denise Gonzales

Kimora Johnson

Brandon Machuca

Elisa Mejia

Jeremy Niare

Josiah Placide

Brayan Rodriguez Fuentes

Janeilla Stewart

Anneliese Vargas

Anecia Williams-Finch

Honorable Mention Performers:

Sydney King

Eric Amaya

First Prize Performers:

Tristan Robinson

Lesley Trinidad

Story and photos provided by Ms. Jacqueline Hesse.

ATTENTION: Are your scholars or colleagues doing something great? Please contact the district Communications Team at communications@necsd.net. We’d love to visit your class or event and/or post your pictures and recap to highlight the amazing accomplishments throughout our district!