KAIROS x Pen Power Poetry Program
Monthly poetry workshops at KAIROS Academies St. Louis
This workshop was very focused on showing the kids that poetry is like rap or music. From playing "Poetry or Rap" to reading poems about gratitude, we demonstrated how poetry can have rhythm—a powerful rhythm, just like rap. We wanted to break down the idea that poetry is formal or inaccessible and show them that it’s something they can connect to in their everyday lives.​
Workshop Highlight:
After writing their own poems, the kids got the chance to perform them with beats, transforming their words into vibrant, musical expressions. It was incredible to see their excitement as they found their unique voices and rhythms.
The energy in the room was electric as each child shared their work. Some added handclaps or stomps to build a groove, while others leaned into the natural cadence of their words.
The connection between poetry and music truly clicked for them, making this workshop not just about writing but about expressing themselves in a way that felt natural and empowering.
"No one can do it like Izzy. It has to be her [leading the workshops]. Izzy makes poetry fun, and to be honest it's never something that I ever thought was fun. Our monthly workshops are the best, and I am always excited for them. She's the funnest teacher ever. Every month, I am so excited for Pen Power Poetry's workshop."
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– 7th grade student at KAIROS Academies St. Louis