Award-Winning Author Kwame Alexander Inspires Graded Students Through Poetry, Storytelling, and Creativity Workshops

Who can get an auditorium of middle school students to chant poetry with enthusiasm?

Graded was thrilled to welcome Kwame Alexander, poet, educator, publisher, and #1 New York Times bestselling author. He is also the executive producer, showrunner, and writer of the Emmy-winning series The Crossover, based on his Newbery Medal-winning novel.⁠

Throughout the week, Kwame engaged with students in grades 2-10. He presented at lively assemblies, led a community event for Graded families, and hosted a writing workshop during which students in grades 4-8 explored haiku and received personalized feedback. Upper school digital media and film students also had the opportunity to learn from his experience in storytelling and production.

⁠This impactful visit, which included a Kwame Alexander book for every middle school student, was sponsored by the Graded Annual Fund.