(Black PR Wire) From the opening remarks, the atmosphere was electric at the Omari Hardwick bluapple Poetry Network’s third annual Poetry and Leadership Conference, “Crossing the Street”, which took place on Saturday, February 28th and was hosted at McArthur High School in Hollywood, Fla. Well over 200 students and teachers representing 34 middle and high schools from as far away as Orlando braved the torrential rains to attend the conference, the purpose of which was to bring together poets and artists from different schools and diverse backgrounds, and empower them with a voice and means to be heard in a supportive forum.

Darius Daughtry, Jason Taylor Foundation Director of bluapple Poetry Programs, kicked off the day with an original poem entitled “Word Power” before welcoming the enthusiastic artists to the conference. Students attended their choice of workshop, selected from six options during each of the two 70-minute sessions, led predominantly by current bluapple Poetry Network teaching artists, educating them on different styles of poetry and performance, challenging them to share their beliefs and original pieces, and connecting them with students across the state of Florida.

“This is an amazing opportunity for both student and teacher to be inspired and transformed through this art form.” Daughtry expressed. “The instant camaraderie and passion of these students is a testament to the work we are doing and the work that yet needs to be done.”

Teachers, coaches and club sponsors attended a specialized instructional workshop during the first session which was co-hosted by Daughtry and Jason Taylor Foundation Education Director, Kevin Sawyer. The special session was designed allow the discussion of best practices, provide detailed information regarding the upcoming Louder Than A Bomb Florida poetry competition, and to encourage the same connection that is inherent in the student association.

Following lunch provided by #LTABFLA partner and bluapple Poetry supporter, PDQ, conference attendees were ushered back to the main auditorium for an open mic session and team collaborative showcase. Brave young artists, bot familiar and new to the bluapple Poetry Network, dazzled their peers with one inspired poem after the next. One of the many highlights of the afternoon was the brilliant performance by Stranahan High School senior and bluapple SPEAK! poet, Savannah Ashton, who recited her original poem “Writer.”

Feedback was immediate, in person, via email, and on social media. The Jason Taylor Foundation is proud that the programming it provides is able to so profoundly impact the lives of our South Florida youth. This programming is only possible thanks to the contributions from supporters like you.