What's happening: Ramsey High School recently had the honor of hosting a remarkable event featuring Elizabeth Acevedo, the renowned Young People's Poet Laureate and recipient of the National Book Award for Young People’s Literature for her novel in verse, titled “The Poet X.” The day was filled with inspiration, engagement, and a celebration of diverse voices, thanks to the collaborative efforts of faculty, students, and the Ramsey community.
The event was made possible through the tremendous support of the Ramsey Public Education Foundation (RPEF), which funded a grant submitted by Ms. Jenn Mejia, English Teacher at Ramsey High School. Her collaboration with Media Specialist, Mrs. Nicole Wohlrab, played a crucial role in ensuring the day's success.
Acevedo's presence illuminated the importance of representing a multitude of experiences in literature, particularly through her powerful novels in verse. Her words resonated deeply, offering students a profound connection to poetry and music while highlighting the beauty and complexity of diverse narratives.
What they're saying:
"I had the opportunity to speak with and observe students during the moderated lunch. Their excitement and passion for this program was palpable! I am truly proud that Ramsey High School is able to provide a variety of programs to meet the wide spectrum of student interests." -Ms. Laura Leonard, Ramsey Board of Education
“Thank you for inviting the author to our school. I felt a connection with the character, Xiomara, from “The Poet X” because I am someone who recently moved here from a neighborhood like the one she describes in the book and I was able to relate her experiences. -Jose Ayala, RHS Sophomore
The bottom line: The success of the event underscores Ramsey High School's commitment to providing diverse and engaging programs that cater to the wide spectrum of student interests. Through initiatives like this, we continue to cultivate an environment where every student feels valued, empowered, and inspired to explore the world through the lens of literature and creativity.
