Spoken Word Program
Uplifting Student’s Voices and Stories
OPEF’s Spoken Word Program provides opportunities for middle school students to write and revise poems that reflect their own experiences, interests, and opinions. Our goal is to annually reach all 1,800 D97 middle school students with a week of instruction in their Language and Literature classes. Each class is guided by our Spoken Word residential artist, who collaborates with D97 teachers to deliver a curriculum that focuses on the art of poetry, reflective writing, and the development of performance speaking skills.
So happy to have OPEF’s Spoken Word program as part of my language and literature class. I see so much growth from my students during this process and our class comes together through this process. It is a highlight of our school year. Thank you OPEF for bringing this program to Brooks each year!
— Brooks Language and Literature Teacher
Spoken Word Program Goals
Students are encouraged to write about topics that are personally relevant to them. The program helps students find their unique voices and connects them to the wider world. Students share their work in both the classroom and at grade level poetry slams. This process provides them with opportunities to develop and practice their performance skills. Spoken Word aims to provide:
Fosters Creativity
Provides a safe space that fosters creativity and self-expression in young people.
Literacy Skill Development
Assists in the development of literacy skills of D97 students through poetry and performance.
Builds Confidence
Support in building social and emotional skill sets including awareness, communication and self-confidence.
Our Mission is Strengthened by Our Values:
To develop and support programs that embody these guiding principles: Equity and inclusion, A sense of belonging, Inspiration, Real-world Connections, Innovation, Community Engagement and Fun
Spoken Word Club for Brooks and Julian Middle School Students
OPEF’s goal is for D97 students to build their confidence and literacy through performance in a safe space that fosters education and inclusion.
