For the past several weeks, students in AP Literature and Composition have been preparing their poems for an in-class open mic, a forum that is centered around student writing, hosted by ELL and English teacher Shawn Sinacola. 

“It’s a time where people can bring their creative writing to share with an audience,” Sinacola said. 

Some see an open mic as an opportunity to address and talk about unseen issues, or an outlet that gives students the ability to express themselves creatively. 

“Kids would open up and be super honest and talk about real issues that they were afraid to talk about otherwise,” Sinacola said. “The things kids were producing during open mics were amazing, not even words could describe.” 

Some students feel that the open mic creates a sense of connection with peers because they are allowed to share some personal experiences.

“I think it’s really cool to learn about everyone in the class and connect with them in different ways,” senior Harper Williams said. “We’re all kind of sharing things that make us vulnerable.”

The “relaxed” environment of the open mic can make peers feel more accepted or less judged because of how centered it is around supporting students.   

“It’s a very accepting atmosphere, no one’s judging you at all because everyone’s just trying to listen,” Harper said. 

Some students feel that the open mic can be an event that creates a sense of belonging and spreads awareness making students feel less alone in their struggles. 

“The more that I listen to all these poems, I feel like everyone has a lot in common with each other and I think it’s nice to know that you could be going through something but you’re not alone,” Harper said

Sinacola’s open mic may not be enjoyed by everyone, but its goal is to empower and strengthen students’ minds and voices. 

“I want students to have the experience of entering a brave space where they can find their voice, take risks, speak their truth, and speak truth to power,” Sinacola said.