Poetry Slam 2026

Thank you for making our 3rd Annual Poetry Slam such a great success!

The event was held on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at Books, Inc. in Alameda. Thank you to all the students (representing Paden, Maya Lin, Edison, Love, ACLC, Nea, Lincoln MS and Alameda HS) who either read their own poems, or had them read by our fabulous readers! You were all brave, expressive and passionate! We hope to see you back next year! And many thanks to Books, Inc. and Events Coordinator, Jerry Thompson. Without your help and support this event would not have been possible.

View photos from the event here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/B3Phj6R28bAsn9Sr7

Where I Live

The prompt this year, Where I Live, is inspired by Alex D. da Silva’s paintings: Warriors and The Meanderings of a Watershed (see below). This abstract work is filled with our history including the Ohlone people, Neptune Beach and the Navy base during WWII.  The Meanderings of a Watershed was inspired by a geological map of Alameda from 1963.

Our city is a great subject for a poem (think of our shoreline, parks, wildlife, the old Navy base, two main streets, neighborhoods, bridges, trees). Poems can take place in the present, the past or in the future. Write about your amazing home town or on any subject that inspires you!

Participating AUSD students will had the opportunity to read their poetry in public. Books Inc. gift certificates will be given to participating student poets.

If you have any questions please email [email protected] or Pam Riley Chang, [email protected].

Alex D. da Silva's The Meanderings of a Watershed