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Free program helps young men of color excel at school and life

The free writing program aims to boost graduation rates in South St. Petersburg.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Inside a room at The Poynter Institute, spoken word artist Pedro El Poeta demonstrates rhythm and rhyme. 

“The movement feels different this time. Its persistence is prime,” he recites.

His audience — a group of middle and high school boys, mostly from South St. Petersburg. It’s not exactly the typical activity you’d think of for some teens on a Saturday morning, but The Write Field program is anything but typical.

Started 13 years ago, the free program teaches writing skills to help boys of color excel at school and provide an outlet for life’s emotions.

“The power of writing can help you navigate this journey as you try to discover who you are,” explains program co-director Ernest Hooper.

16-year-old Chase Temple has spent several years attending the monthly Saturday sessions and he can see results.

“I personally have become a better writer,” Temple says. “It’s helped me get into certain camps and hopefully apply for scholarships in college because I know they ask us to write essays.”

And at just 13, Darren Gooding has some big plans for his writing skills. 

“I want to be a lawyer,” he says with confidence.

The Write Field also provides unique experiences, like going to a Tampa Bay Rays game and getting the opportunity to interview pitcher Taj Bradley and other local leaders.

There’s power in putting pen to paper and it’s celebrated with a graduation ceremony every spring because these young men are focused on writing a positive future.

Many of the boys come back to the program year after year and what they accomplish makes Hooper’s heart swell with pride.

He says, “It’s been incredible to see their growth, their maturity, and to see that in their writing.”

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