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East Rockaway students showcase original poems in 'March Madness' poetry tournament
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Summary
The district's March Madness poetry competition culminated in student finalists reading original work at the board meeting; directors and teachers praised the students' courage and creativity.
Students from across grade levels performed original poems as part of the district's March Madness poetry tournament during the April 28 Board of Education meeting, a tradition introduced by English‑department staff to celebrate student writing.
Kristin Anisis, director of humanities, and teacher Sarah Peron introduced the finalists and described the tournament structure, modeled after the NCAA bracket format where poems advance through rounds until finalists perform for the school. Senior Shannon Mahoney, junior Vincent Virga, and other finalists read their pieces. The winner, Divine Allen, was not present and had their poem read aloud by a teacher.
The board and superintendent praised student bravery and the English department's work. "It's a celebration of creativity and vulnerability," a presenter said, and board members gave a round of applause for the young poets.
The event was accompanied by photos and brief remarks recognizing student participation; no policy changes were discussed in connection with the poetry presentations.
