BRMS champions young writers’ success

At Blue Ridge Middle School, nurturing strong writing skills is a top priority. Through publication opportunities, engaging workshops, and prestigious competitions, students at BRMS are given opportunities to thrive as writers.

One writing program that encourages writers is the Blue Ridge Middle School Literary Magazine. Dr. Angela Hyatt, a sixth-grade English teacher, oversaw students who curated a literary magazine, giving students a platform to publish and share their creative works with the community. 

Sixth grade student, Brooke Coleman, commented about the magazine, “The best thing was seeing the creativity of my classmates.”

Rebeca Chicas Saenz, also in sixth grade said, “The best thing about working on the Lit Mag was that everyone had a part to do.” 

Aidan Plunkert, a seventh grade student who has worked on the Lit Mag for two years said, “My favorite part was getting to work with an amazing team to work with and bringing something from the past back up. I got to ask for ideas and go on the announcements to advertise the Lit Magazine. I will definitely do this next year.”

In the eighth grade under the guidance of English teachers Eric Kursman and Susan Keller, students work to submit pieces for the Scholastic Writing Awards, a prestigious competition that has recognized literary icons like Sylvia Plath,Truman Capote, and Joyce Carol Oates. 

Over the past three years, 33 BRMS students have earned awards. This year’s winners include Sophia Bhalla, Krish Nayyar, and Zach Thorn who were Silver Key recipients, and Weston Hamilton and Avalyn Ludden who received Honorable Mentions. These achievements highlight the talent emerging from BRMS.

Additionally, the PTO-sponsored a creative writing club, led by Mary Litton Thornton, provided aspiring writers the chance to develop original short stories. Their efforts culminated in a published book provided to each student, celebrated with a festive book signing and ice cream event for the community to attend.

As a culmination at the end of the year, all eighth grade students compiled a writing portfolio, allowing them to reflect on their progress and present their work and growth to parents and community members. 

Eric Kursman, eighth grade English teacher said, “This year’s English portfolio presentations were particularly strong because students were invested in explaining their growth and accomplishments to an authentic audience.  It’s one thing for students to grow as readers and writers, but to clearly, concisely, and eloquently share that growth with parents and community members is at another level. We, as teachers, couldn’t ask for more.”

Said Blue Ridge Principal Brion Bell, “Middle school is where voices begin to take shape—teaching writing at this stage isn’t just about grammar, it’s about helping students discover the power of their own words.”

From excellent opportunities to competitive recognition, BRMS continues to foster a culture of excellence in writing—ensuring that the next generation of accomplished authors begin their journey at BRMS.