The microphone was on, and more than 30 Wantagh Middle School students and staff stepped in front of it on the evening of April 12 for the seventh annual Word on the Street literacy celebration. 

Not coincidentally, the event was held during National Poetry Month. It was presented by the English department and coordinated by teacher Christine Hult. Student Connor Smith was the master of ceremonies, introducing each reader and even sharing a poem himself. There were 31 performances, which included some duos and trios. 

Students, teachers and administrators could choose where to read an original piece or the words of noted poets like Maya Angelou, Robert Frost and Shel Silverstein. Several readers chose song lyrics that inspired them.

Ms. Hult said that there was a lot of buzz leading up to event, which actually led to a few students signing up at the last minute. She added that it was a great opportunity for them to gain some public speaking experience while expressing themselves in a safe space. Many parents and siblings also came out to support the young readers.