At Lafayette Parish School System (LPSS), we believe in empowering students to find their voices and use them to inspire, challenge, and create change. For Gavin Crayton, a ninth-grader at David Thibodaux STEM Magnet Academy, the recent Poetry Out Loud competition was more than just a chance to perform—it was an opportunity to advocate for social justice and self-discovery.
Gavin's journey to the competition began with a simple question from his teacher and coach, Brittany Turner: "Would you like to participate in the regional competition for Poetry Out Loud?" His immediate "yes" set the stage for a remarkable experience that highlighted his passion for advocacy and storytelling.
Finding Meaning in Poetry
The competition required participants to choose two poems: one written before the 20th century and one with 25 lines or fewer. For Gavin, the selections weren’t just academic exercises—they were deeply personal.
Gavin’s first poem, "We Are Not Responsible" by Harryette Mullen, explores systemic discrimination through the perspective of an oppressor, placing the audience in the shoes of marginalized individuals. Gavin connected with its message on a profound level, recalling a conversation with his assistant principal about the challenges faced by Black boys in America. “This really struck me because I have never had a conversation like that with any staff at my school besides my coaches,” he shared.
His second selection, "Infelix" by Adah Isaacs Menken, delves into themes of grief and unfulfilled promises, resonating with Gavin’s understanding of vulnerability and the unpredictable nature of the future.
Preparation and Mentorship
Gavin credits his success to his dedicated coaches, Ms. Turner and Jacob Leger, who guided him through the intricacies of performance and interpretation. “They really helped me embody my poetry and opened me up to new ideas,” Gavin said. “They made sure I could be the best performer I could be.”
The support of his coaches exemplifies the LPSS commitment to fostering growth through mentorship, a cornerstone of the district’s Speech and Theatre programs.
A Platform for Advocacy and Growth
For Gavin, the competition was more than a performance; it was a platform to voice issues that matter. As a student passionate about advocacy—demonstrated by his second-place finish at a national debate tournament last summer—he sees Speech and Theatre as vital tools for encouraging students to speak out on important topics.
“Programs like mine offer kids safe places to use their voices and strive for change,” Gavin explained. “They allow us to find ourselves, make new friends, and become better people socially and personally.”
Gavin’s experience at the competition was as enriching as it was inspiring. He described meeting talented peers and supportive mentors who reinforced the power of art and advocacy. “It was an honor to share my voice and have a space to do so,” he said.
The LPSS Difference
Gavin’s story is a testament to the opportunities available to LPSS students, where programs like Speech and Debate encourage critical thinking, creativity, and leadership. At LPSS, students are not only learning to perform—they are learning to advocate for a better community and a brighter future.
As Gavin puts it, “I always find it beautiful when someone finds themselves and spreads their message.” With students like Gavin leading the way, it’s clear that the next generation is ready to make a difference—one poem, one debate, and one voice at a time.
