Students are often asked to write. They write in their English, social studies, science and mathematics classes. But most students don't realize their writing could win them awards and recognition. This year in February and March two young women at BEST High School reaped the rewards of developing their craft as writers.
Nichole Zefkeles and Mary Jane Bradford entered writing contests. Nichole entered the creative communications poetry contest and Mary Jane entered an essay contest sponsored by the Anti-Defamation League.
Nichole's poem was selected to be published in this year's anthology; she also won a monetary award for being one of the top ten poets in her grade category, 10-12, this year.
Mary Jane wrote an essay addressing of how high school students can combat stereotyping in their high school. Mary Jane's effective writing won a $1,500 scholarship. It is rewarding to see students taking risks by putting their writing out to the public. These two girls will be graduating this year. As is evidenced by their success so far, they will accomplish great things.
1960
By Nichole Zefkeles
Lace softly decorates the delicate oak saloon,
as the sun shines through frosted window glass,
and shadows wash the room.
Old portraits brushed with color,
gently hang on frowning walls,
enlightening spirits who fight their freedom
at the beautiful brown-skinned ball.
Orange polish sadly stains
floral patches on silk gowns,
as drooping rose buds wilt
in the parade of burning hate downtown.
Young children sit and stare,
marching soldiers carelessly glare,
driven, unnoticed, shaken bare.
Crouches in sheltered indifference,
on cracked porches dirty with dust
a black and white created bust,
cold, sick, broken lust,
cries to the whirling wind,
heaven will make peace divine,
people have been so unkind.
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