Nearly 40 Wantagh Middle School students and teachers stepped up to the podium and read poetry aloud at the 11th annual Word on the Street literacy celebration on April 16. The event coincides with National Poetry Month. 

The cafeteria was transformed to look like a coffee shop, creating a more intimate setting for the popular gathering. The program was coordinated by English language arts teacher Christine Hult, with students Paige Reilly and Lexi Davis serving as the masters of ceremonies, introducing each of the readers. Mira Binckes opened the show leading the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance.

As audience members noshed on pizza and cookies, they enjoyed close to 30 poetry performances. Many students and staff read solo, but there were also several duos and trios. Participants could read a published poem or song lyrics, or share an original piece. Every year, eighth graders create a poetry collection in English class and many of the readers selected a piece from their portfolio.

Ms. Hult commended all of the readers for stepping up to the microphone and reading, which often requires middle school students to step out their comfort zone. She added that Word on the Street has grown over the past decade to become a highly-anticipated event that is special to the Wantagh Middle School community.