To rhyme or speak in free verse, that was the challenge.
Either way, eighth graders competing in the fourth annual Good Shepherd Episcopal School Poetry Slam needed to present on a topic important to them for 90 to 180 seconds and employ at least three different literary devices such as similes, metaphors, or alliteration.
After two weeks of preparation, the top poets from each of Elizabeth Schmitt’s English classes advanced to the final round on April 16 with 10 community leaders serving as judges.
“The poets who advanced to the finals worked in and out of class to prepare and polish their performances,” Schmitt said. “Their dedication, creativity, and courage to perform in front of the judges and their peers truly shone through. I am incredibly proud of each of them.”
Avery Long and Charlotte Williams won with “Their Expectations,” followed by Harper Dickson and Yvie Lampl with “Teachers’ Kids.” Third place went to Stella McClatchy for “Turn, Flip”, and fourth to Caroline McAfee and Cisy Oishei for “Sea Turtles.”
The judges: Dolf Berle, CEO, Nothing Bundt Cakes; Marissa Chaney, executive director-Texas Chapter, Speedway Children’s Charities; Rosaura Cruz, executive director, Junior Players; Laura Rea Dickey, CEO, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit: Dr. Shawnda Floyd, provost/vice chancellor of workforce education, Dallas College; Jenn Hunter, chief impact officer, Big 12 Conference; Kristina Kirkenaer-Hart, director of cultural tourism, Visit Dallas; Molly Mehle, account manager, brand experience and social, LST Marketing; Crystal R. Ross, deputy director, Dallas Park and Recreation; and Kit Sawers, president and CEO, Klyde Warren Park.
Neighborhood Spotlight
Preston Hollow
– Compiled by staff
