Students turn to poetry, music to share personal stories

Organ Mountain High School seniors are set to take the stage May 17 at the Mad Hatter Gallery, bringing original poetry and music into the spotlight in a showcase that pushes their work beyond the classroom. 

Now in its third year, the event gives students the opportunity to present their work in a public setting, highlighting creative voices that don’t always get the spotlight during the school year. Organizer and teacher Tim Staley said the goal has been to connect student work with the broader community. 

“I wanted to get the poetry out of the classroom and into the community,” Staley said. 

Staley, who has taught in Las Cruces since 2001 and at the high school level since 2008, centers his classroom on poetry, encouraging students to explore creativity in a more open and personal way. That approach has helped students grow more comfortable sharing their work, especially in front of an audience. For many, the showcase represents a chance to step outside their comfort zones and be heard. 

“I’ve never shown anybody outside of my house my music, so I’m really excited to share it with the community,” said senior Liliana Hernandez.  

Hernandez, who will perform an original song, said writing has become an important outlet and something she plans to continue beyond high school. 

“I will never ever stop writing,” she said. “It’s something that I love and care for deeply.” 

Other students are also blending poetry with music, adding a new dimension to this year’s performances. Veronica “Ronnie” Steele, 17, plans to perform an original song built from poetry she has written throughout the year. 

“It’s always been a way for me to let out my feelings—kind of like my own diary,” Steele said. 

Steele said turning her writing into music has helped her connect more deeply with her work while building confidence in sharing it with others. The showcase offers students a chance to present work that often remains private, giving the community a look at a different side of student life. For senior Robert Burns, the event is another opportunity to step forward and try something new. 

“I just know that I’m going to be saying it alone,” Burns said with a laugh. 

Burns said writing has become a simple way to express himself during his final year of high school. As the event has grown, more students have begun incorporating original music alongside poetry, expanding the range of performances. Staley said the showcase is also about highlighting students in a different light. 

“I wanted to highlight students in a creative light,” he said. 

For those taking part, the night represents more than just a performance—it’s a chance to share their voice with the community. 

“I hope people are inspired enough to make something of their own,” Steele said.