Pahranagat Valley Middle School eighth-grade students share courage, creativity and personal expression during 2026 Poetry Slam

Pahranagat Valley Middle School eighth-grade students shared courage, creativity and personal expression during the 2026 Poetry Slam held Monday, May 11, in the multi-purpose room at Pahranagat Valley High School.

At the beginning of the event, guests were introduced to appropriate poetry slam etiquette and asked to support students with applause, cheers and positive encouragement in whatever respectful way they felt comfortable. A student spokesperson welcomed the audience and thanked everyone for attending.

“Thank you for coming to our 2026 Poetry Slam. We appreciate your support, and we are scared,” the student shared honestly with the crowd. “We wrote meaningful poems by personal choice on subject matter. Please listen with respect. Join us in cheering each other on.”

The assignment had been introduced weeks earlier in Mrs. Rasmussen’s English class. Students were challenged to select their own topic, write an original poem, memorize it and present it aloud while using emotion, expression and eye contact to connect with the audience.

The poems reflected a wide range of subjects and emotions. Some students chose lighthearted themes centered around favorite things, pets, animals or humorous experiences, while others explored deeper topics such as silence, personal struggles, patriotism, kindness, goodwill and emotional challenges. The variety of subjects allowed each student’s personality and voice to shine through in a unique way.

Throughout the event, students stepped to the microphone one by one, many visibly nervous at first, but supported by an encouraging audience that applauded each performance. The poetry slam not only highlighted writing talent but also helped students build confidence, strengthen public speaking skills and learn to express themselves in meaningful, vulnerable ways.

Mrs. Rasmussen organized the event as part of her English curriculum, creating an opportunity for students to move beyond traditional written assignments and experience the power of spoken word and presentation.

“I am so proud of these students,” Rasmussen shared. “They worked really hard and were able to present a wonderful poetry slam expressing their best writings and public speaking.”