Argonne Elementary turns local officials into poets

On Thursday, Argonne Elementary School held their first annual “Poem in Your Pocket Day” in recognition of National Poetry Month. Donna Campbell, a teacher and librarian at Argonne, says the event has become a tradition in many schools across the country.

“The idea is simple – students select a poem that they love (original or otherwise) and carry it with them, ready to share with anyone who asks,” Campbell said.

So who showed up with a poem in their pockets? None other than Richmond District Supervisor Eric Mar and his playground buddy Phil Ginsburg, General Manager of SF Rec & Parks Department. Mar read “I, Too, Sing America” and “The City,” by Langston Hughes. Ginsburg read “Casey at the Bat” by Ernest Thayer.

Richmond District Police Captain Richard Corriea and City Librarian Luis Herrera also came by to share their favorite poem with students and teachers. Herrera read different poems in each classroom and included a couple of Shel Silverstein classics, “The Crocodile’s Toothache,” and “I Often Repeat Repeat Myself.”

Donna wasn’t sure what Captain Correia’s poem was but she says “it was about spaghetti and quite humorous.” Officer Feliciano from the Richmond PD also came along and read “The Joke” by Jack Prelutsky. He also handed out police badge stickers, which were a big hit with the kids.

Thanks to Donna for sending in the news and photos. Can’t wait to see who turns up next year with a poem in their pocket!

Sarah B.