First graders celebrated both the written and spoken word during a poetry celebration at Park Avenue Elementary School on May 14. Family members were invited to share in the accomplishments of the young writers.

Students were immersed in a month-long poetry unit in April led by teachers Patricia Assande, Mary Berry, Amanda Baxter and Alexa Laskowitz. They learned about all different styles of poems, then wrote original pieces. After a few weeks, they had created personal collections with acrostic and rhyming poems, haikus and more.

The celebration began with a grade-level assembly in auditorium. Students sang several songs they had been rehearsing with music teacher Carol Ng, such as “It’s You I Like” and “What a Wonderful Poem.” Together, they also recited the “Kind of Deeds” and “I Can’t Wait” poems.

Back in the classrooms, each student read aloud one piece from his or her poetry collection. Children then sat with their special guests and flipped through a class poetry book that was a keepsake for every family.

Click here to view the Proud Poets Perform and Present at Park Avenue slideshow.

Date Added: 5/23/2025