With 18 poets performing for an enthusiastic audience at the Options gym on Nov 19, the 9th Annual LPS Poetry Slam once again provided a stage for the poets to be seen and heard as they shared their words. The poets represented a cross section of LPS schools and competed by performing original works in front of an audience and judges, with points awarded on manner and enthusiasm as well as content and style. With heartfelt stories that related personal experience and perspective, the poems included doses of vulnerability, social justice and humor. 

Jovan Mays, 2012 National Poetry Slam Champion, emceed the event and hosted a workshop for the participants prior to the event.  The evening also celebrated the role of Robyn Zagoren, LPS District Wellness Coordinator, as one of the founders of the LPS Slam event. 

Taking home Slam microphone trophies were Anna Young from Littleton High School (1st place), Mheret Tatek from Arapahoe High School (2nd place), and Sophie Patrick from Arapahoe High School (3rd place).

9th Annual LPS Slam Poetry participants

l-r: Jovan Mays, emcee and 2012 National Poetry Slam Champion, Mheret Tatek (Y) - AHS - 2nd place, Anna Young (Y) - LHS - 1st place, Sophie Patrick (Y) - AHS - 3rd place.

Saying thank you to Robyn Zagoren (center, with flowers) are l-r: Alex Spare, AHS Counselor, emcee Jovan Mays, Nate Thompson, Director of LPS Social, Emotional and Behavioral Services, and Jon Saliman, LHS English Teacher.