A magazine by the Poet-Athletes of America SCORES

SPRING 2013

IN THIS ISSUE: • A letter from Shep Messing • MLS Stars Steve Zakuani and Kevin Hartman • In the Spotlight: Triniya and Dave Berg america • Your Words, Your Poetry scores 1 Kicker!...the by-kids, for-kids magazine of America SCORES. This publication is designed to showcase the accomplishments of our poet-athletes.

TABLE OF CONTENTS NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS Benjamin Chrnelich, NYSE Euronext (Chair) A Letter from Shep Messing // Page 2 Bennie Smith (Vice Chair) Brendan Moylan, Sports Endeavors, Inc. (Treasurer) Meet a Poet-Athlete: Geovanni from New England // Page 3 A.J. Twombly, Goldman, Sachs & Co. (Secretary) Barbara Birke, Consultant National ! // Pages 4 and 29 Douglas Boggs, Patton Boggs, LLP Kathy-Ann Edwards, PwC A Year in Poetry // Pages 5 - 31 Paul Friday, Marlin & Associates Burton Haimes, Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe, LLP MLS Star Kevin Hartman // Page 7 John Harkes, D.C. United & Comcast In the Spotlight: Girls Team from // Page 10 Lisa Hyman, LeadDog Marketing Group, Inc. Matthew Levin, Aon Corporation In the Spotlight: Soccer at the White House // Page 12 John Linnehan, Guggenheim Investments Christopher Perry, Thomson Reuters MLS Star Steve Zakuani // Page 13 Fred Popp, TeamUp Antonio Zea, adidas Meet a Graduate: Lupe from Milwaukee // Page 16 Honorary Board Members EDITORS In the Spotlight: Triniya from Saint Louis // Page 18 Peter Galvin Charly Schwartz Fall Frenzy, SLAM!s, Jamboree! and More! // Pages 21 and 22 Gale Griffin Michelle Wong Bob Shay Making an Impact // Page 27 graphic DESIGNER National Staff Greta Schwartz Reflections // Page 28 Holly O’Donnell Charly Schwartz Meet a Graduate: Leasly from Los Angeles // Page 33 Michelle Wong Nicholas McRae Your Schools // Page 34 1 Dear America SCORES Poet-Athletes,

Our dreams are important because they challenge us to aspire to great heights and more importantly fuel the inspiration to achieve. When I was a ten year old boy growing up in , , I dreamed that one day I would play in the Olympic Games and also play the trumpet on a television show. My love of soccer took me to Harvard, to the Olympic Games, to a professional career around the world and then back to New York. As I stood on the field next to my former teammate and friend Pele during his retirement game, he asked the 80,000 people in the crowd to repeat after him, “Love our children, love our children, love our children.” That is what America SCORES has done and as a result, you, the poet-athletes, have risen to the challenge.

Your accomplishments through America SCORES amaze me, not only for the results but for what you have learned by participating. You are both brilliant and courageous for taking the most important first step toward your dreams - using a sport that we love, soccer, and expressing your feelings through the powerful medium of poetry. You show the unlimited potential to be brave and to make a difference. I thank you for inspiring us with your efforts every day and allowing me to be part of it.

SHEP MESSING • Born October 9, 1949 in The Bronx, New York

• Position: Goalkeeper

• Played seven seasons in the North American Soccer League with The New York Cosmos, Minutemen, Oakland Stompers, and

• Played six seasons in the Major League with the

• Played for the U.S. soccer team at the 1972 Summer Olympics

• Member of the New York Sports Hall of Fame, the Nassau County Sports Hall of Fame, and nominated for the National Soccer Hall of Fame (2013)

• Authored a best-selling book, “The Education of an American Soccer Player” 2 Meet a Poet-Athlete: GeovanI from America SCORES New England

I am from

I am from Massachusetts. My mom is from El Salvador. My dad is from Guatemala. I am an American. My American dream is to run for president! To have my mom with me for the first time. To have a huge mansion. To have a good job, to make a lot of money. To get married and have a nice family. To become a billionaire. To do something that no one has ever done before, like sky dive from 10,000 feet! My American dream.

-Geovani S., age 12 Donald McKay Elementary New England

Geovani is representing New England at the 2013 ! because…

he demonstrates sportsmanship he is a leader “What I learned from all of the cultures and kids “In a classroom, I’m a leader because I help [ of my SCORES team ] is that just because you everyone. If my friends have a problem, I try to lose a game or you don’t score this game, doesn’t solve it. When some other kid is bothering or mean you have to get upset about it... friendship picking on me or one of my friends, I tell them, is what everyone cares about and to play hard is ‘Calm yourself, because this is life. Don’t just get winning actually.” worked up about it.’”

he supports his soccer team and he is an amazing poet! “I’m a leader on the soccer field, because I don’t “I just want the world to know that I’m a great think, ‘Oh, I’m just [going to] take the ball for poetry guy, and not just [the people] in my school. myself.’ I think that other kids on the team deserve I want everyone to know that I can make a good to actually play and score. Not just [me],… they poem and if they love it, well, good. If they don’t, need opportunity too.” suit yourself.”

3 THE NATIONAL POETRY SLAM!: 27 poet-athletes win trip to NYC from fourteen America SCORES cities

Christian and Libni Avante From America SCORES From America SCORES Saint Louis

21 fourth and fifth graders from ten elementary During Walbridge Elementary’s all-school assembly, schools in Denver auditioned before a panel of sixth-grader Avante was surprised with this big judges for the opportunity to represent their city at ticket and the news that he had been selected to the National Poetry SLAM!. While the judges had represent Saint Louis at the National Poetry SLAM!. a difficult time deciding among the participants, Avante was part of a trio of poets that won the local Christian wowed the judges with his answers to the Poetry SLAM! in December with a poem titled “I am interview questions and Libni, usually really shy, Just A Kid You Know.” After honing his poetry and surprised the judges with her loud and proud stage soccer skills for three years with SCORES, Avante presence! The trip is a grand reward for Christian’s has become a leader on his team. Described by his outstanding sportsmanship and two-year dedication coach as “a rose growing in concrete,” Avante is all to his SCORES team and for Libni’s leadership and about school and quietly creates his masterpieces in perseverance - making her the first in her family to the background. fly.

Geovani, Christian, Libni, Avante and 23 other poet-athletes from 14 cities performed at the America SCORES National Poetry SLAM! in New York City. For three days, they explored Times Square, played soccer in Central Park, and performed at the New York Stock Exchange.

Do you want to go to New York and perform at the National Poetry SLAM!? Be sure to sign up for America SCORES next year and to keep practicing our core values: teamwork, National Poetry leadership and commitment.

On page 29, see photos and more from SLAM! the 2012 National Poetry SLAM! weekend! 4 Love, Friendship & FAMILY Friendship LOVE I Love My Hero My friend Karen It’s like an arrow in flight, I love my Brother. My hero is my father. runs super fast. When in it, no one is right. Because he is deaf. He helps me out. I hope our friendship As sweet and succulent I love the sun He doesn’t get mad at me. will always last. as a peach Because it brights and He helps me with my Our friendship started But oh so rarely can it be shines. homework, my troubles. early at school. reached. I love emotional movies When I have troubles, he Now we play soccer. Laid a beauty, Because my eyes always cry. helps me with it. Aren’t we cool? With no Beast. I love my mom He may not be a superhero Angelie M., age 10 If she was killed, The earth Because she always tells me but he is stronger. Windlake Elementary would be sealed. to be strong. Milwaukee It’s fast asleep, But you can I love the fair Dominick A., age 10 hear Because I can ride a lot of Palms Elementary it weep. cool rollercoasters. Los Angeles Teenage Love Pain Feel the winter breeze I love money Blisters I have you’ve hurt me Right under your feet. Because I can buy shoes or The Look of a Mother to my soul It makes you fall to your go on a cruise. These are the only reminders knees, I love my Jennifer and A look of a mother of the reason my heart was so With great ease Yamilet when she gets close to a crib cold It’s not a beast Because they’re my BFFs. has the brightness of the sun You’d think because of my Nor a treaty of peace. I love Mr Mauro and the touching of the moon looks I’m as sweet as can be It’s as sweet as honey Because he is cool and I can for every mother that is gone But you really don’t know But not as funny. see him tomorrow. a star is born in the sky what’s hidden inside of me. It’s good to your tummy I love Dallas SCORES and the one that was born for my mother Ceoria C., age 13 As good as a gummy! Because they give me soccer had to be the most amazing Coretta Scott King Young clothes. one Women’s Leadership It’s my mom I love the show Jersey Shore Academy Who has courage and heart Because it is really cool. I would like to go to heaven Atlanta From this very moment I love all animals Where the holy father is and From the very start! Because they are playful. On my knees, ask him To give my mother back to Me and My Brother I love my teachers. It’s love, love, love… me. Me and my brother Melissa S., age 10 DeAndre W., age 10 McKayla A., age 8 We believe in each other César Chávez Learning Center Perry Street Preparatory Artemus Ward School We play fights but turn real Dallas Public Charter School Cleveland His punches hurt but I laugh DC sometimes We kick back and relax, Family Inside of Me watch some t.v. My Family My family is lovely Inside of me, I hear my We are the brothers that will My family is wild My family is like you’ve never grandma’s voice. doubt each other My family is a pain in the butt seen. It sounds like birds chirping. But the brothers that will My family’s feelings are kinda My family is like a teacher at It feels like a soft hug. always love each other sad, mad, funny home. It looks like her chocolate We are the brothers that will My family is mad when we My family is like a waiter that brown skin. live to the end don’t clean up asks us what we want. It makes me hear her voice We love each other from the My family is happy when we My family is like a map that again. beginning get new stuff leads me from wrong to right. When I hear it, I feel proud. Even though we’re not at the My family is sad when My family is like a doctor that Inside of me, I hear a person. same place something breaks helps me when I am sick. Sienna E., age 10 There will be electricity My family makes me shine My family is what creates love Carter G. Woodson I am little, he is big My family is a shiny gold star in our home. Elementary We stick up for each other My family is a wonderful Like I said, “My family is like Atlanta That’s how it is generation you’ve never SEEN”! We were born in the same Adam S., age 10 Andrew A., age 10 state César Chávez Learning Center César Chávez Learning Center It’s our brotherhood Dallas I most appreciate! Dallas Kendin A., age 9 Bailey Gatzert Elementary 5 Love, Friendship & FAMILY CHALLENGES & Loss

Tell Me Why He’s Gone Land of the Free Mom, Dad, why can’t we all My dad was great Pablo wakes up An old man with a Russian be together? He was all I had To a beautiful morning accent Why do we have to be in He was special The peaking sun shines Enters the room and selects separate places? Always buying me things I upon his jagged face Pablo, a Mario, an Elias, and I wish you could tell me why. wanted His wife Juanita stands a Joshua Always being there when I Why do I feel lonely? Over the stove needed They load up on a bus with Why do I feel sad? Making frijoles con queso I love him in a special way several others For Maria, Carolina and sol Why do I feel like you guys I used to tell him every day And begin traveling an open Andrea don’t love me? Then the fighting began road Why do people call me My mom cried over and over His chapped lips smoothes The men ride and sing “bien orphan? again Across her soft cheek pedo bien loco” Is that what I am? Her heart broke She hums good morning my Pablo thinks of Juanita, Can’t you tell me why? Also did mine love Maria, Carolina, A sol Andrea Why do I feel like I am in a More and more every time Then he kisses his daughters They are his angels white room? It’s hopeless on the forehead With no one to talk to? Said my mom Then the bus pulls over, And he sees their sulken Why do I feel like I did Next morning, everything was A police officer slowly faces something wrong and gone approaches the bus And hears their growling That’s why I can’t see you? Even my dad stomachs Can’t you tell me why? I yelled to my mom and Mexican while driving And hope he’ll find work Why, why, why? looked for him The officer asks for license With nice pay That is my question He never called me ever and registration The driver has it The only thing that I know is again To silence their bellies The officer says open the that I love you Each night I wish for him And keep a techo over their back of the van And wish that one-day we will Jennifer L., age 10 heads all be together He orders the rest of the men César Chávez Learning Center He’s scared And I’ll stop asking you off the bus. Dallas He lives in Phoenix, Arizona Why!!!! Pablo walks off worried but And he’s Mexican, while strong Dulce F., age 10 driving Pablo fears this morning will César Chávez Learning Center He’s undocumented, while Breathe In Death be the last time his chapped Dallas working lips He’s brown while standing on Will smooth his wife’s soft Breathe in death the corner cheeks Death Breathe out life as a child And he’s go an accent while Breathe in sadness Everyone is going to die laughing Pablo is still Mexican while Breathe out the happy times Sometimes close, sometimes standing Breathe in the memorial He walks out the door and far On the shoulder of the open Breathe out the time you went through the community So we should worship our road to see a movie with him Sees his people-lonely, lives Pablo is still undocumented Breathe in sad tears frightened And not waste it in a bar while being frisked Breathe out joyful tears Some people don’t want to He has no nickels and dimes Pablo is still brown while Breathe in the pain understand For the homeless being handcuffed Breathe out the happiness The cause of our life But he shares pearls of He still has an accent while Breathe in the nightmares Some do and they get wisdom remaining silent Breathe out your dream married with a lovely wife To give them warmth Breathe in the suffering Pablo and the men wait on Some don’t understand Breathe in my tios death He car pools to the day work another bus And they leave it up to fate Breathe out my tio saying center A bus that will take them to a So what I am saying is It’s okay Where other men are talking familiar border. Enjoy life before it is too late. And praying Erick T., age 10 All Star Poets: Jesus O., age 10 Hoping for better lives for Cleveland Elementary Tiara H., age 14 (Chalmers) César Chávez Learning Center their families Bay Area Dallas James H., age 12 (Eli Whitney) He drinks coffee and eats Karla D., age 11 (Pilsen) conchas for energy Ernesto T., age 13 (Castellanos) This will be his only meal Jessica R., age 14 (Castellanos) today Karneil S., age 12 (Corkery) Chicago 6 Soccer and writing go together like a hand and a goalkeeper glove.

Kevin Hartman has been an MLS goalkeeper for 16 years and has played for LA Galaxy, Kansas City Wizards, Kevin wants to know: and FC Dallas. He is the owner of Kevin Hartman Shutout Do you ever get stuck when you are Goalkeeping, a training company based in Dallas, Texas. writing? What are your tips to finding the words to express yourself? What Kevin tells us why being a “student athlete,” not just an athletic student, is kind of books do you like to read and pivotal to his soccer success and wants to know what you think: why? Fact: Reading helps you learn through other’s experiences. By reading the words on this page, you are already learning through my experiences. Kevin wants to know: I remember sitting at our kitchen table I’m sure you are a role model to struggling over a difficult assignment – I bet someone. What do you think you are that happens sometimes when you are writing teaching to those who look up to you? poetry. Reading more helped me find the What do you think makes someone a words to tell my story so I can share it with good role model? you. Now I enjoy reading so much that my wife and I wrote a book about soccer! If you enjoy reading, then you can learn more about my experience in my book, “Boots Saves the Day.” Kevin wants to know: Do you want to play soccer after Fact: To play high school soccer, you must take your classwork seriously. America SCORES? Where will your I’m thankful for my elementary and middle school teachers and parents who good grades take you? never allowed me to neglect my studies, the same way your SCORES coaches and teammates are there for you. It’s important to have a good role model and Send your answers to to be a good role model. Today, I try to make sure my daughter understands the [email protected] importance of sports and reading the same way my parents taught me.

Fact: The top soccer colleges are also academically elite. When I was looking at colleges, everyone kept telling me that “my good grades are really going to help me get into the school.” If I didn’t take my schooling seriously, I may never have played at UCLA or have had the chance to play professional soccer for the past 16 years of my life.

www.kevinhartman.com 7 8 SCORES and Proud! What time is it? My Time Life Above I’m a Soccer Player that’s What time is it? My time in America SCORES Soccer is life. what I am It’s time to play our game. is fun Soccer is pride. I’m a soccer player, that’s My team is bright like the When I kick the ball it makes what I am The whistle blows my heart shining sun! me happy. I have my game face on explodes I love both subjects: Soccer is awesome. My goal is set to get that ball We try to kick the ball but it Poetry and Soccer It’s like eating ice cream on a into that golden net wouldn’t go But the thing I most love are hot hot day. If I win I’ll shout We miss the shot and the my teachers: I love when Sharp, Sam, Che, Hurry if I lose, I’ll walk away other team scored Coach Wingate, Coach Rob, Erikca, Luis, Lopez, Rody, with a sad face The whistle blows my heart Coach Tova, and Coach and Cristian are by my side But still I can never give up, explodes Chelsea. supporting me at soccer. that ball is mine and I’m never It’s time to run a little more These teachers are very nice I wish I could play soccer giving up and score some goals. They show me that they are every day. I’ll try my best to pass this It’s so hot, we sweat a lot. my best friends! I am glad LA SCORES was test It’s in our mouth, yuck, yuck, I love America SCORES made. I’m a huge fan yuck! I will NEVER QUIT… Soccer is my hobby and it’s I’m a soccer player that’s We pass the ball, and score like my hobby that I wake in Until I get to 6th grade… what I am two goals! and out every day. When And have to split! my team scores it feels like People say that ball’s not The whistle blows my heart Gilberto A., age 9 if they gave me a million mine explodes PS 192 Jacob H. Schiff dollars. But I’ve practiced hard, I did We won the game! Elementary Soccer is just my thing. my time Now it’s time to celebrate New York Soccer feels like the city by This is a professional sport, the bay. which is exactly why I went to We shake hands and get our Soccer Sisters It just makes me happy very court. snacks happy. Soccer is life. This isn’t an ordinary game; It’s a great day to be with our Awesome! it’s a special sport, that’s why friends More games please Anonymous I came Jocelyn V. Jazmin, Jennifer, Palms Elementary Girls Team People ask why I have a tan, Josselyn G Los Angeles Nathaniel Pope Elementary it’s because I’m a soccer Rapping and Writing Chicago player and that’s what I am Sade, Kelly, Leeannie, Alina, Shania, Team Poem Boys and Girls Teams Who We Are E.L. Haynes Public Charter Cool Soccer Sisters We have spirit. We have We are Dunlap Girls Middle School Almedina, Shantell, Marilou heart. SCORES DC Sports and soccer We are from César Chávez We play soccer galore. Cute School. Outstanding We Are Palms We’re like light, Our cheer is: Record Rap, Coach Flood We are Palms We shine bright, “Diablos! Diablos! Evelyn, Yanelis, Coach Listen to our song We are noticeable and Reach our goals! Toomajian We are strong always in sight. César Chávez! Jazmin A., age 9 Go! Go! Go!” Like an atomic bomb We have a lot of brains PS 192 Jacob H. Schiff We work together to make Desperation, cooperation and when we play soccer Elementary goals of our own. that’s our motivation We drive you insane. New York We like cheering for our To be the best team. Smoking isn’t cool SCORES, SCORES, What SCORES Means to Me We are soccer players and Unless you’re a fool SCORES lovers of our team. Don’t be a bully That’s all you hear SCORES is my life. We love our coach. That’s not right The crowd can’t help but If there was no SCORES, I We are rigor people and If you come to Palms cheer! would not be happy at all. SCORES will help me go to smart. Boys and Girls Teams Girls Team college. We love our school. Palms Elementary Dunlap Elementary We love being a part of Los Angeles Seattle SCORES makes me proud. SCORES makes me loud. America SCORES School. I love SCORES a lot. We like our teammates. Vanessa L., age 9 Alan S. & Oscar S., age 10 Maple Elementary César Chávez School Seattle Portland

9 SCORES and Proud! In the Spotlight Nathaniel Pope Elementary Girls Team from America SCORES Chicago

Pope Elementary has always been known for its great spirit. It is hard to believe that a couple of seasons ago, the Pope 6th-8th grade girls could not pull it together for a win. All coaches and spectators could tell the Pope girls were ready to play, but for some reason the girls had trouble connecting and working together on the field. After a lot of hard work and patience, the Middle School girls managed to turn their unfortunate series of losses into an undefeated season in the Fall! The Pope girls were now the team to beat. The same girls, who had trouble making one pass on the field, were now connecting multiple passes on the field, all the way to the goal.Their new sense of pride was infectious, and watching them grow as a team was remarkable. At the end of the year, the Pope 6th-8th grade girls received the League Trophy. They were elated! The trophy is now sitting in the Main Office at their school, so each person who walks into the office can see that the Pope girls are a true example that hard work pays off.

10 Inspirations Light of Life When I Ride a Horse American Graduate Untitled

The way I play it I see the sun rising, I see the When I’m in college When we join hands, Is the way I say it wind blowing the tall and long My brain will be like a tree that we’re together. It’s my own life grass. grows and grows When we flap our wings, And this is my time to tell you I run up the tall hills. It goes up I can hear the education that has we’re above each other. why I love my life and down. been taught We might not be together Because my life is like a nest I hear birds chirping, wind As it roars in a loud voice forever, of eggs, waiting to be hatched blowing dogs barking, cars So now I’ve got a choice but happily, now we are. It’s amazing how it happens driving and babies crying. I feel To work in McDonalds for eternal Sometimes we have to let go, Because life is like the sun in my hair blowing back as the Or go to college and be the but it is hard. Number One Pro the sky horse runs! I feel the horse’s You can’t hold on forever, but It shines really bright and I am heart beating! you can try. I choose....COLLEGE bright The faster we go, the harder All of us are different, I will be in the light of life her heart beats! When I graduate, it’ll feel like I and we should be happy about The seat bounces up and made my first goal it. Joel S., age 12 down side to side I’ll have so many responsibilities War should stop. Jamaa Learning Center It is fun riding on a horse. I am That I will explode Because that will make us let Saint Louis sad now the ride is over but When I graduate I’ll be the go. tomorrow, Number One Pro I will ride again!! Alice Collum G., age 11 Now applause spreads like César Chávez School The Brightest Diamond Sade B., age 11 affection Portland Wade Park School To my mom and all around the The diamond that shines bright Cleveland world is as bright as the stars in the I will succeed sky. I will be an American Graduate The diamond that shines bright is as bright and sparkly as my Untitled Demontre B., age 11 pretty eyes. Jefferson Elementary The diamond that shines bright My important thing is to pass Saint Louis is as bright as my personality. high school and college; The diamond that shines bright to be a good goalie when I is me! grow up I am the diamond that shines because it is my favorite thing the BRIGHTEST! to play in soccer. I think I am the shiniest and I like soccer. most beautiful diamond the Soccer. Go. Go. Go. world has ever seen. The end.

Momeeka P., age 10 Christian M., age 8 Willow Elementary César Chávez School Cleveland Portland

Untitled Untitled

I like soccer and my life is big I’m from Chiapas State. as a beach. And I was born. Sun School is cool as a pool. And my dream is to be a My mother is a flower that it soccer pro. grows up And I hope that’s my dream. and takes care of you and gives food to you. Kevin T., age 10 César Chávez School Eduardo S., age 9 Portland César Chávez School Portland

11 In the Spotlight

In May 2012, 34 America SCORES students from DC, Denver and Saint Louis were invited to the White House to recognize the LA Galaxy’s MLS Cup championship. Students were selected based upon their sportsmanship, leadership and commitment to education.

The students gave President Obama a rousing applause when he entered the room. Following his warm welcome, the First Lady talked to our students about the importance of living healthy lifestyles and about Let’s Move.

“She said she was happy to see us,” said Deontrel, a poet-athlete from Saint Louis. “She knew we were from all around the country and that the State Room was where they had their special guests and that we were their special guests.”

The First Lady left the students with a final message of “Eat your vegetables!” and opened up the floor for our students to ask greats like Landon Donovan, David Beckham, and other Galaxy players about their soccer careers. Donovan spoke about the importance of knowing the foods you’re putting in your body and their effect on your athletic performance.

Meet a Team: Bancroft Elementary School from DC SCORES I am help us

I am America. I salute this country from head to toe. I’m a native, yes I know

Yo soy Guatemala, el lugar más bonito de mi vida. I am Mexico, a land filled with thunder and lightning. Yo soy El Salvador que tiene mucha agua alrededor, y que tiene muchos arboles llenos I am a place with strong hearts I am the cheesy cheese of de frutas and people who are fighting cheese fries. Yo soy el fútbol, un deporte I am Hollywood; where breast cancer Yo soy la deliciosa pizza que divertido y mágico. famous people do their best tv Yo soy el amor de mi madre enamora a la gente por su Somos DC SCORES! shows. que me consuela sabor I am the palm trees of We are BANCROFT! Yo Soy zapatillas que se I am best friends. Angels that California that sway in the cambian cada mes. god sends along that always wind I am Vietnam, a place full stay besides you whenever Yo soy las flores de los of the roars of motorcycles things go wrong. cerezos que son Boys and Girls Teams engines. Yo Soy pupusas revueltas y tan bonitas Bancroft Elementary School Yo soy los dibujos de un queso que lo hacen mi madre I am the advances of science DC artista mejor que nadie that will cure diseases and 12 Steve Zakuani of the Seattle Sounders Over the years, a lot of fans have asked me what it’s like to be a professional soccer player. I normally tell them that it’s the best job in the world but I don’t usually have the time to explain why. So I thought it would be good for me to expand on that answer by giving you some insight into my life as a professional soccer player. I’ll do that by answering a few common questions I receive.

Is it hard to be a professional soccer player? Why did your family move from your place of Yes, but it’s also fun. It’s hard because we put a lot of hours birth? into practice, we travel a lot, and we compete against other The short answer is that my father got a job in , very good players. But it’s fun because this is what I dreamed England. We were living in the Congo at the time. I was four of when I was a child, and it’s great to be able to do it for a years old, and so I don’t remember much about Africa but I living. am glad we moved to London because I had some wonderful times growing up there. What inspired you to play soccer? I can’t pinpoint one thing or person who inspired me to play Is there any kind of food you like to eat before this sport. It kind of just happened. In London, where I grew the game? up, all the kids played on the streets everyday and I used I normally eat rice and chicken. Sometimes I’ll have some to play with them. I then joined club teams and just kept pasta and chicken. I don’t eat too much because I hate progressing to the next level. Once I knew that I was good feeling heavy when I play a game. I sometimes will have enough to become a professional I just worked hard and some fruit, like a banana, an hour or so before the game. I pursued my dream. also drink lots of fluids.

How do you inspire kids to be the best? What did it take for you to become the man Personally, I always tell kids to make sure they have fun you are today? when they play soccer. If it’s not fun and feels like a chore, I became who I am today because of the experiences I’ve then they shouldn’t do it. I think the best way to inspire kids is had, the people I’ve met, and the decisions I’ve made. Each to be a good example for them. To show them that you need phase of my journey has contributed to make me who I am to work hard to achieve your goals and that you need to be today. I am still on that journey and still evolving as a human prepared to make sacrifices to maximize your potential. being. The experiences I have in the future will also shape me and make me who I am to become. 13 Strength

A Fighter I want to be fierce Today My Name Is Life I am a girl. I want to be fierce Today my name is champion It has a crazy way of Hear me roar!! I want my legs to be fast I feel proud I’m alive explaining itself I am the type of girl As a cheetah I pretend I’m rocking out at a It’s not only about the riches Who fights for peace Running in the open grass soccer game and wealth. And tries her best to stop the I want to be an eagle Yesterday my name was loser It’s a survival in life. wars between friends. Powerful in flight I heard I am not cool A rollercoaster I am a real fighter. Soaring through the night I found out I just have to That’s one way to explain it. I am the type of girl Soccer is a sport I use all my believe in myself Every time something goes who says okay, might Tomorrow my name will be wrong I messed up, To go down the field nice kid you can’t have a fit. Now I know And stay out of sight I will forget about those dumb Life has ups and downs What I should do next. I want to be fierce names You can smile, sometimes I am the type of girl I want my poems to flow I will remember to believe in frown Who never says die. To show myself You can’t always get your I might not be tough That New York is where I Cristian C., age 10 way. But I still try my best, want to go CMS Community School You just have to live by it Like my dad fighting for his Ray’miah M., age 9 Denver Day by day life. Jamaa Learning Center Even though it hurts I am the type of girl Saint Louis You can’t lose your Who is hard to A Diamond composure Defeat You have to keep yourself I am a diamond, I can shine The way a rock is Powerful together Hard to break. against the sun And know that you’re not a I am the type of girl I am as powerful as the voice No one can shine like me. loser Who has a heart of light. I am strong, beautiful, and My voice shines so bright that unique, Christian B., age 10 As big as a rainbow of Tubman Elementary people are amazed. No one on this earth is quite fantastic colors. DC I am the type of girl My voice shines like the sun like me! beaming down right at you. Who won’t ever give up What makes me smile is Like my Dad I shine so bright I inspire people full of courageous when others smile. The Takeover Who won’t ever give up on But sometimes when I am me thoughts. I am more than somebody My voice is full of light and angry I don’t shine Open the door for me Diane C., age 10 inspiration I am like boiling steam. I’m taking over Cleveland Elementary My voice will cure the My expressions and feeling My little voice speaks up Bay Area sicknesses of life. are my own, Stand up! My voice will always be there No one is quite like me! This is my story to make anyone feel cheerful. I’ll never hurt such kind My back-up plan for my family My voice will always be in I am as sweet as a plum and To not be forgotten your heart FOREVER! As sour as a lime The doctor, the lawyer, Tiarra J., age 11 the singer, the rapper I sing, I dance, I sit alone and Palms Elementary Words, beats, raps, and me Los Angeles I play Watch this little voice speak No one will get me that way Stand up! That’s what makes me a Police officer, archaeologist, diamond. astronaut I am not the same as you, Take over skies, take over the you or you and that’s okay streets Cuz there is no one else I’d Shout the peace rather be. For my mother, my father, my brother, my sister I shine and I never break a I’m taking over promise I will make the world better. And that’s what makes me shine Boys and Girls Teams I AM A DIAMOND in the sky! C.W. Harris Elementary DC Kastenny C., age 10 Marie Reed Elementary DC 14 Meet Me I Am I Am… “I am poem” Freedom I am fast, dangerous, and I am a crocodile because I I’m the wind blowing through I am an wild like a cheetah like to eat the trees. Eagle because Not slow, common, and safe I am a pig because I like to I am a bird flying in the sky. I am wise like a fish I am a feather falling on the sniff I am ground. Oh wait the wind is I am rare and dangerous like I am a whale because I swim Sunday because blowing me again. poison ivy very slow I play soccer Not yellow, common, and I am tree because I love to I’m a skyscraper standing tall That day safe like a daisy stay still I am a bunny wondering I am converse I am a bird because I wish I where I am going next. I am hot and relaxing like could fly Because it sounds I am a squirrel looking for my Like universe summer I am a seagull because I like food. Not cold and stressful like to eat fish I am a book being read all the I am blue winter I am a siren and elephant time. I like the sky I am loud, heavy, and because I am loud I am a soccer player I am the I am a square because it is sometimes annoying like a I am me and no one else can Sound of peaceful and quiet drum take my place in this world. BOOOOM Not soft and light like a flute I am a lime green leaf Because I am loud because I am sensitive Elizabeth D., age 10 I am fast, cool, and amazing I am a cheetah because I can John F. Kennedy Elementary I am circle Because it’s like a Volkswagen run fast New England Not slow, uncool, and Like a quarter Paris P., age 9 sluggish like a cargo truck Roger Clap Innovation School I am a I Am Trombone I am dangerous, scary, and New England Because I am violent like a hurricane I am water Big and loud Not delicate like a fall breeze I flow around the world All About Me I fall from faucets Jorge V., age 10 I am heavy and full of value I fall from the sky Hayes Bilingual Elementary like gold I am super fast. I get people wet Milwaukee Not light and of little value like I love to read. I am hot silver I like to race and play soccer. I am cold I’m doing my work and But I am still water I am bright and inspirational Untitled That’s one of my goals. like red Lexis M., age 10 My other goal is to I’m a cloud in the sky Not dark and uninspiring like Eagleton Elementary Learn all day and I am never going to die black Denver Do what’s right. I love to try I never like to lie I am smiling and laughing like “I am poem” when you’re happy! AeRonde B., age 10 I’m greatest inside the pages Carter G. Woodson Elementary Not frowning and angry like I am me, I am the breeze in I think pink is my favorite Atlanta being sad. the wind, I am what you are, I color am gorgeous I shine. My name is Shantell Jorge C., age 10 I am a superstar, I shine My father’s name is Fantel PS 192 Jacob H. Schiff I am, I am not I am a soccer player, I make I miss the twin towers Elementary goals Just like sunflowers New York I’m a leopard, I am fast I am a girl, I represent My friends are the best I’m not a slow snail and tiny I am a leaf taking a voyage They treat me like a guest I’m a rose and I am loveable I am a branch swaying from Shantell M., age 9 Untitled I am not poison ivy and a side to side stinky plant P.S. 325 I am like a broken clock. I am the grass freezing I’m summer and shiny New York I am never the same I am the world spinning I am classical music, sharp I’m not winter and cold around And calm I’m green and happy I am the sun shining I am like a hidden camera I’m not blue and sad like a I am the monkey eating Watching your every move slug peanuts I am an isolated fish I’m water and cool I am Dominican It’s bad I don’t have many I’m not fire like a bad guy I am me! friends Laylanie M., age 9 Alizah D., age 11 I am green, without it Gardner Pilot Academy John F. Kennedy Elementary I’d be lost New England New England I am me. Gaea C., age 10 Cheltenham Elementary Denver 15 Unique Me A Recipe of Me What’s in Ivan I Am My hands have strength. I am laughter I might seem simple and easy One gallon of love, I use them to throw far. Turning the biggest frown but I am really sharp 2 quarts of concern Dark like the night My heart has caring. upside down 1 cup of caring Watch out because I am here I always help other people. I am earth 1 pinch of angry I am good with my people My feet have speed. Renewing life’s energy with 3 cups of friendship Soy Mexicana and American I am faster than my brother, the power of my core 160,000,000,000 gallons of I might be good with my Oscar. I am gravity heart grades I have power in my arms. Keeping dreams grounded and 200 quarts of compassion but not my attitude I hug my nephew when he alive 2 tablespoons of helpfulness A future doctor, Dr. Cervantes cries. I am shelter 3 teaspoons of sternness Successful in life I am a special kid. Protecting all of humanity I am all of the above so 500 quarts of strength Ivan V., age 10 I am the Statue of Liberty Time for me to spread my 400,000 gallons of speed. Windlake Elementary Standing tall and proud wings Christopher C., age 11 Milwaukee I am Chicago and say goodbye. Carter G. Woodson Elementary My big shoulders hold the Ruvi C., age 10 Atlanta Who is Devonte? weight of 100 worlds building, Newlon Elementary breaking, rebuilding Denver I am Fire Devonte is a boy with skill. I am bright Devonte sometimes tries to My mind shines eclipsing all I woke up with energy. show it. Guitar the stars in the sky I feel active and ready to go. I like to play soccer. I am love I am fire When I am mad, I look like a I am a guitar Building friendship to conquer During the day the bright fire in snake making music that goes hate my mind helps me learn. Looking for food. through people’s I am perfect laughter I am fire When I am happy I look like a ears making them feel a Renewing earth’s humanity Because I am special kid smiling. sensation Keeping dreams standing inside of them I keep the world active by my I have more madness than bright My music might fire goodness in me. Building love make people feel I am fire I have problems. I Am Me angry, happy, sad, Every time I do well my fire Everyone has bad days. or funny gets bigger and stronger. I want to show people Emily R., age 11 But I don’t care But I just feel like I can’t. Phoebe A. Hearst Magnet I just love the music Bradlee M., age 12 I love myself. But do you? School that comes from my guitar Mound STEM School Chicago Cleveland Devonte R., age 12 Allison P., age 10 Carter G. Woodson Elementary Eagleton Elementary Atlanta Denver Meet a Graduate: Lupe from America SCORES Milwaukee Lupe participated in SCORES from 2006-2008. She is now in 10th grade and has some words of wisdom to share…

“The advice I would probably give to current or future SCORES participants would be to actually enjoy everything you do, from playing to writing to volunteering, and to put some thought into each activity they do with you, because it’s actually helpful in life, even if you might not realize it at the moment. Everyone involved with the SCORES program is trying to prepare you for the future, and they do prepare you well, you just have to be willing to receive that help.”

Despite residing 2,000 miles away and starting SCORES 4 years earlier (2002), Leasly from America SCORES Los Angeles agrees with Lupe on Page 33. Years ago, Leasly and Lupe were playing soccer, writing poetry, and helping the community just like you! Will you write to Kicker! 10 years 16 from now? I Have THE PotentiaL Victory Untitled Soccer My Dream

Victory is my sister My superpowers are my Played on a big field My dream is to be overlord She makes me laugh all day actions. Running back and forth supreme. I love her more and more My words are as strong as a through the grass Strong and dependable, I each day thunderbolt. From daylight to sunset could make you a good friend I haven’t seen her since the My acts of kindness can stop you know. summer a speeding train. We fight, first class My dream is to be a singer It is such a bummer When people look up to me So we won’t be last that’s famous and rich, with a I talk to her on my phone I feel like I did something Pass the ball left then right very nice pitch. But I still feel pretty alone amazing. As we defend our goal My dream is to be a dentist, Her birthday is on March 25, When I listen it can change Letting the wildcat go through so I can keep people’s teeth of 2010 of course the world’s fate. our soul sturdy not dirty. I don’t know how to say it My voice is as strong as a My dream is to be a vet, Like a battle we defend But let’s just say it tsunami. I would love to help a pet. And fight for our victory I’m sad because she lives 4 I circle the world helping My dream is to be a very Representing our school, our hours away. people with their problems. good cook, history Some that other people with my very own book. Zeyla A., age 10 created. There’s no losing, just winning My dream is to be the world’s César Chávez Learning Center Keeping the ball on our side most famous actress on the Dallas Evan R., age 10 As they try and try planet. Charnock Road Elementary Also to have the world’s most Los Angeles We won’t let them get by rarest magnet. Hard Work Pays The sun slowly goes down and My dream is to be saluted by The wind starts to blow It’s been a while since the Recess Move our feet and keep the they’ve heard of me, what’s President of the United flow changed? I was barely coming outside States. Kick the ball towards the goal More maturity, most certainly When everyone started My dream is to live in Los and score! if you were me you’d get the running all around Angeles California, picture perfectly, Then I realized be an actress and make it Now their turn big. But everyone assumes things We were out in the They trip, they fall, so allow me to explain it to playground I can see it now, the paper filled with pain and sorrow headlines: you thoroughly We win but we’ll see I ran to the ring of soccer 10 year old girl makes it as a Sometimes you can be on the our opponents tomorrow Then they gave us a ball big time stairway of success but get We cheer for our victory Everyone ran toward it singer and actress. tired of the rail, our claim to fame. It’s like building houses out of I almost started to fall My dream is to be me and grades, William M., age 10 that’s my ultimate dream. They passed me the ball but I ran out of nails, Walton Elementary School I started to run Karter H., age 10 But then it finally hit me, Cleveland Everyone said it Michael R. White STEM School This wasn’t me, it couldn’t be. Was supposed to be fun Cleveland All of this isn’t where it should be. I ran and I ran I Am Ashley All of this is nonsense, Then I shook every player I am a soccer player Don’t let your falls sit on your I was running I am a puma with brown eyes conscience. In just one layer Life is a movie, and I guess I am white and pink like a lily were on set, I couldn’t get enough I am athletic like an Olympic I was having so much fun Gold WINNER! Don’t look back even if your That was good stuff I am Powerful neck hurts, That I could be number one So I can do whatever I want! Why slip, if you can gain No one can boss me around. forever, I scored a goal I am Ashley!… Pride sits, shame is never. Everyone came And I am AWESOME! They all started to cheer Andres G., age 12 And I finally had fame Ashley L., age 10 Windlake Elementary School PS 192 Jacob H. Schiff Milwaukee Jesus O., age 10 Elementary César Chávez Learning Center New York Dallas 17 In the Spotlight Triniya from America SCORES Saint Louis Meet Triniya. She is an America SCORES poet-athlete from Saint Louis. By the 4th grade, she was already an accomplished poet, soccer player, and local television celebrity.

Among the 320 kids in 12 cities that spent the fall writing with artists like Psalm One, the poet- athletes at Jefferson Elementary composed and recorded “I Can Be What I Wanna Be” with Grammy Award winning song writer, Dave Berg. Triniya received the exclusive opportunity to practice one-on-one and perform this song as a duet with Dave before a live and televised audience at STL Celebrity Voices. “He’s like my best friend that I (Dave Berg ) I left Nashville in the evening, can sing with” Triniya said. “I drove all night long would like to tell Dave, thank heading up to Saint Louis to write me a song you for letting me sing a solo with some kids from a school. What I didn’t know is, and YOU ROCK!!!” turns out, they were more like poets sayin’ things like… Today, people in Saint Louis can still watch and enjoy their performance of the song, “I Can Be What I Wanna Be” as it (Chorus ) continues to play on the Nine Network channel in Saint Louis. I can be what I want to be Hear the song at www.americascores.org/ascap I can be what I want to be I am smart I am funny And I have dreams I can be what I wanna be

(Triniya’s solo ) I am a tree Tall like the sky I am a mountain Way up high Way up here I can see I can be what I wanna be Special thanks to Dave Berg, Shock City Studios, and The ASCAP I can be what I wanna be Foundation Irving Caesar Fund. 18 COLORS & DARKNESS What is Red? Blue Halloween Black

Red is the color of a I love blue Dark like my shadow at night. Black is as dark as the strawberry Blue is beautiful Candy as sweet as my sister. shadows. Inside of the watermelon Blue is my eyes Cold like a spooky witch. Black makes you think of the And cherry. Blue is a flower to me Orange like a carved pumpkin. night The color of shoes Blue is my hair Jack-o-lanterns are on. Night makes you think of “La And a crab on the beach. Blue is the shiny blue ocean I am so scared that my hair Llorona” Red is salsa I am lonely will turn blonde! Black is the color and R & B. If you come with you will Of the grim reaper’s robe. Red is a blinding color My heart is blue have to carry me through the Black reminds me of the… Blinding me. It is lonely haunted house. Actually, just black. The fresh smell of roses Blooming in spring. I am Blue. Halloween is spooky like my Timothy V., age 9 The color of love brother sneaking up on me!! Gust Elementary And fall leaves. Emely S., age 11 Denver Red is dangerous, PS 192 Jacob H. Schiff Britney A., age 10 Very actually. Elementary Windlake Elementary It is the juicy smell New York Milwaukee Black of grilled meat On a summer afternoon. Black is a color, but black is Red is the 49ers colors more than that running Light and Darkness Black is anything Through my veins. Black is the sun as it rises, Light is bitter just as dark can then sets Sianna M., age 9 be pure, Black is a pack of wolves Junipero Serra Elementary For the light causes blindness howling at the full moon in the Bay Area and pain toward the eyes midnight sky Black is the human race as While darkness is rich soil gift they try to unite these United Monsters States, President Barack Demon Cats from mother earth. Obama In the day, Light burns down buildings Black is a baby’s cry heard Murkiness fogs the room as During the night, and loved ones and darkness from miles away because her I’m surrounded by cats. All the creatures come out to rests the eyes of everyone family left her behind They grow hidden, immoral bite. bringing them fresh new Black is a raven’s claw wings, and they start to scat. With sharp pointy teeth, and dreams to comfort them. latching on its prey as it Their ruffling wings bloom out Large round claws tries to scurry away from its bulky and bold. They’re at the reef, Light strikes down everyone doomed fate They scratch, they hiss, they And out at the malls. with a strong, shocking, and Black is stylish start to dance. piercing strike just as the Perhaps when we are They spin and swirl out colors, There the Loch Ness Monster, darkness of space is filled with imaginary to the things that a line of black, a smudge of Fred, vast knowledge for all of us to rule the earth blue, And the one that hides under learn. just maybe black may rust and a splash of red fills the your bed, and turn into a speck of dust room. There’s the cookie monster If you think very closely of that no one may ever know The demon cats hug a breath But he’s not that scary –He’s their meanings they can My skin is black, so they say and inhale the cold. just really hairy! appear to be opposites. What color black are you, just Soon the sun begins to rise. And he’s blue, but not that think about that Do you believe I saw that? mean. In order to have peace you Black is a color, but black is Believing what you feel, letting Although if you mention veg- must have them both and more than that your imagination blow. gies, when they are together the Black is anything I promise you, if you did, your He’ll scream! world will not be gray, but personality will start to grow. silver and when that happens I Taylor-Corrine B., age 11 Dallas A., age 12 see a perfect world of riches Maple Elementary Markham Elementary Aaron T., age 12 Seattle Eagleton Elementary Portland Jason Y., age 10 Denver James Hennigan School New England

19 More inspirations... Chocolate Brainstorm I’m Sorry Math Invasion Chocolate is sweet. There is a storm in my brain I’m sorry for Oh No! Chocolate is nice. I hear thunder roaring and annoying you It’s a math invasion! Every time I see chocolate bursting I kind of knew Hurry up, what’s the equation? I would like a bite. Words are falling like little rain that you were going to be mad. 5+8? 2+9? Help me now! drops Forgive me, I’m losing my mind! Chocolate is wonderful. Wind is blowing I loved the sweet It’s blowing up! Just like me. Words are flying all around me music of the words, It’s burning down! And every time I eat a bite A tornado of ideas spins “Stop it!” It’s flying all the way out of I feel soooooo free! town! destroying everything in its Selvin M., age 9 So if you have chocolate Addition, subtraction, path Junipero Serra Elementary Don’t be surprised Lightning strikes electrifying multiplication, division Bay Area What’s the answer? Guess what might happen madness! What’s your decision? When chocolate passes my It feels like the storm is never I hope it ends eyes! going to STOP Words I hope it ends Stacy S., age 9 Is this a brainstorm? As sweet as hot chocolate So math and I can once again Bailey Gatzert Elementary Tiana L., age 11 I will smell you be friends Seattle Pilsen Community Academy I will taste you Now I’m free! Chicago Words From the math invasion! I don’t need the equation Soft as a bunny helping me Pen Pal We finally have a relation relax like a day at the spa And now it’s time for relaxation I’ve been used and abused for Am I an Animal? Words eleven months Am I an animal? Hot as lava consuming my Samuel L., age 8 I’m important Monday thru No. I’m a human. body in flames Redding Elementary Friday Words Bay Area Am I a cat going meow? Use me when you need Light as a piece of paper No. I’m a human speaking someone to listen to floating and landing where right now. You will be smart if you use me they choose My Class I’ve been pushed, torn when Am I a bird soaring up high? Words My class is like a zoo something is wrong No. I’m a human walking down Tart like acid slicing through When they scream a lot Please save me, don’t tear me on the ground. emotions My class looks like a snake or throw me away Am I a snake with no arms to exposing sadness that’s When they get out of line I’m your lucky charm grab stuff? hidden My class is like crazy monkeys I’m special in so many ways No. I’m a human with arms to Words of praise from my Mom When they talk a lot You use me every time grab a tiny puff. You are bright as the sun My class looks like traffic Words When they are in line I want to be organized and Am I a bear sleeping in the You are the most magnificent My class is like a circus saved dark? thing in the world When they run around too Please don’t let me be messy No. I’m a human waking up in much Andres R., age 11 I’m helpful if you respect me the light. On the playground or at recess Rosario Castellanos Let’s help each other and be My class are like tigers Am I a wolf hunting to feed? Elementary friends When they run so much or No. I’m a human buying food Chicago You will not find me if you lose at Jollib ee when they are really fast me Fernando G., age 10 Am I a fish swimming for You will miss what you said to César Chávez Learning Center survival? Bamboo Bread me Dallas I’m your thoughts, dreams, and No. I’m a human running at the Benji baked bamboo bread memories carnival. The panda wanted that Your pen pal, your notebook Am I an animal? bamboo. Smelly Grumpy Trash No. I’m a human. He BANG! On Benji’s head. Africa T., age 10 You might ask yourself Bailey Gatzert Elementary Benji got mad at the panda. Juvanni P., age 11 The panda didn’t care. Why I’m grumpy Seattle Dunlap Elementary He still wanted that bamboo. My smell is always funky Seattle so he BANG! BANG! BANG! Because they don’t clean my Skunky, metal, beat up On Benji’s head. Trash Can body Benji fainted and the panda left with the bamboo. Kevin F., age 10 James Whitcomb Riley Guillermo P., age 8 Elementary Academia de Lenguaje Y Bellas Milwaukee Artes (ALBA) Elementary Milwaukee 20 FALL FRENZY, POETRY SLAM!s, JAMBOREE!s & MORE in all 14 America SCORES cities!

FALL FRENZY We kick off of the year with a city-wide soccer festival. Do you remember yours? Here’s what happened in Portland! Busses from seven schools were packed with eager, enthusiastic poet-athletes ready to play soccer. To their surprise, they pulled up to the adidas Village and were welcomed by the ! They put on their SCORES uniforms, played soccer on the incredible adidas field, and learned real pre-game warm ups from the Timbers’ fitness coach.

POETRY SLAM! Thousands of poet-athletes participated in poetry workshops devoted to honing their poetic talents for the Poetry SLAM! Did you perform at yours? Here’s what happened in New York! 65 poet-athletes took over the auditorium and performed their original poetry to a packed crowd. Four teams performed a group poem, topics ranging from anti-bullying to families to teamwork. Then a few students from each team performed individually for the chance to perform at this year’s National Poetry SLAM!, judged by star forward Kenny Cooper and soccer reporter Cesar Diaz.

JAMBOREE! The spring SCORES season means 300 communities improved, thanks to you! We celebrate with another city-wide soccer festival. Here’s what happened in Washington, DC. More than 1,000 poet-athletes gathered at Trinity University. The DJ blasted beats while 27 schools played soccer all day long! Poet-athletes also enjoyed face-painting, relay races, a haiku writing station, honing their soccer skills, and getting cool giveaways from event sponsors.

21 FALL FRENZY, POETRY SLAM!s, JAMBOREE!s & MORE in all 14 America SCORES cities! Atlanta You play soccer almost every Bay Area day so you are experts on For poet-athletes in the Bay Area, finding great books sportsmanship and respect on to read and someone to read with is as fun and easy the field. That’s why poet-athletes as coming to the park to play soccer! At every Game were invited to help referee the Day, students choose from hundreds of titles to take SCORES Cup tournament in home from the field-side Book Zone and add to their Atlanta. AeRonde from Carter home library. The Book Zone helps ensure that every G. Woodson Elementary and child has equal his SCORES team worked the access to great sidelines: cheering, running to children’s books. get the balls, making sure that everyone was playing fair and having fun. After sharing poetry and soccer skills, they signed autographs for their new fans.

Dallas New England The César Chávez Learning Center girls team got Tajah and Sarah from all dressed up for a superstar performance at the Boston attended SoccerBall Gala in Dallas. Rewarded for winning the the inaugural Poetry SLAM! every year and for always having top Empowerment notch poems, Melissa Reddick, from the FC Dallas Through Sport Foundation, and her friends spoiled them with a dress Leadership Series, an shopping spree for these elegant gowns to wear to the event aimed to inspire Ball. They blew the audience away with their brains and instill qualities of and talent, performing poetry about family, soccer, leadership in young and a team poem about female athletes. They César Chávez, whom heard insightful and their school was named motivational speeches after, for over 300 people from a wide range of including celebrities like presenters: athletic the owners of FC Dallas. directors, leaders in health care, Heather O’Reilly (three time Gold Medalist), and Abby Wambach (FIFA World Player of the Year). The speeches, coupled with a smoothie social and breakout activities, sparked important dialogue about healthy living and lessons learned through physical activity.

22 NO BULLYING ZONE Bullies In School Bullying Team Poem What I See The sky is blue. Bullies are so tough and mean Bullying is Bad Soccer is our sport. I look up. They make me eat a jellybean It doesn’t get you nowhere We may be short. It’s a cool dragon fly Do they have to be in our It makes the one you pick on sad We play in a field. And an airplane. school? You push them around We play in a court. I look down and you know what They act like dumb old fools Hit them and call them names We play by a shore. I see? But why do it? We play by a door. A flower. They always say that I am in last Is it because you are in pain Sun School is cool. I see a school bus. place Lets put an end to bullying It’s always full in the mall in the In the school bus I see kids And they always hit me in my And all just get along fall. being respectful and responsible face To the bullied that were bullied and using teamwork. They say P.U. you stink and I Stand up and be strong Bona K., age 9 & Miguel R., age 8 I also saw behind the bus a lady say So I say NO to bullying César Chávez Elementary with a good community and she At least I can think No more hurt Portland was working at Braddock Drive No more pain Elementary at LA SCORES. Stop (Haiku) I say at least I am smart To all the bullies that are out Amanda C., age 8 You only know how to fart there Braddock Drive Elementary I say at least I test well You should all be ashamed Bullies mean and cruel Los Angeles You fall down in a well Hold on, be strong, Don’t hate others, just love you No matter what you are going Stop bullies, today! David M., age 10 through César Chávez Learning Center You know that it is going to be Dai’mone M., age 11 Dallas OK. Washington Elementary Saint Louis Too Much (Haiku) Lakeina R., age 10 César Chávez Learning Bullying too much Center You think you are tough, you’re Dallas not You got to chill out

Kaleb J., age 8 Washington Elementary Saint Louis

HOW POET-ATHLETES NATIONWIDE ARE In Saint Louis, Washington Elementary poet-athletes WORKING TO STOP BULLYING studied the effects of bullying and presented to their school to raise awareness and to discourage their classmates from using bullying behavior.

In New York, PS 325 poet-athletes created an anti- bullying rap, which they performed in front of all SCORES students at the local Poetry SLAM! in New York.

In Washington, DC, Burrville Elementary poet-athletes came up with slogans, made posters and marched around their school during recess. They also gave a presentation on bullying to their principal and made daily morning announcements against bullying.

In Los Angeles, Palms Elementary School poet- athletes used technology, language, and performance to bring the topic of bullying front and center at their elementary school. The project embedded an understanding of how people treat each other 23 in the consciousness of students, teachers and administrators. TEAM POEM

The world can be sad. People can be mean. The Weather They insult me harshly Hip Hop Weather Otoño Fall Try to tell me who to be. The sun beams around the Otoño has llegado Fall has color changing leaves. You’re a stick! You’re a wimp! You clouds Las hojas caen It’s time to harvest the crops. are weak! Peaking to see if anyone’s Las hojas vuelan It’s time to cover up and look NO! I’m fearless! I am brave! paying attention Adonde irán? fat. I don’t care what you think! Am I bright enough to make a Play time with family and difference? Una taza de friends in the pile of leaves. Your parents have no money Do you see the sparkle in my Chocolate caliente It is celebration time for special To get you toys. eyes? Me espera holidays. The rain pours down, hitting En casa It’s time to put on our costumes Only girls can like pink. the ground like a boombox Jugosas and go trick or treating. Pink isn’t for boys. Sadly the tears slide down my Calabasa BOOO! You can’t eat lunch! face Granadas comemos It’s time to get together and You can’t eat that! Reaching the pavement En el otoño have a feast. You’re too tiny! You’re too fat! And feeling the bass We hope you had a safe You can’t like girls! Hip hop, tap, and rap Otoño te puedo ver Halloween and we hope you You can’t like pink! Feelin’ the need to step back Por la ventana have a great Thanksgiving. You can’t be nice! I never know when the Otoño no te vayas Have a fun fall You have to be mean! weather’s gonna change Por favor te voy a extrañar But I definitely know Hip Hop’s Girls Team NO! I make my own decisions! my name Henry L., age 11 Eli Whitney Elementary I’m a human being. My voice makes a sunset Mission Education Center Chicago I have friends, family, teachers, explode with colors Bay Area coaches, Red, blue, black and pink Sweety Sara Who care about me! My pen refills with ink Sunset I believe in myself! I have pride. As time goes by, like an hour Sweety Sara smiles with a No one on Earth can change me! I glass full of sand Sunset is beautiful. smirk. will not hide! The earth just stops with one The brightness and darkness She saw a snowflake shining musical command come together so bright. Hip hop gives me inspiration to She said it’s so shiny and You can’t wear shorts: The color red and orange begin love each note The moon is getting brighter beautifully silver. Your legs are ashy! I write my rhythms and rhymes So are the stars. Somehow she shakes and You can’t take a haircut: like a wrinkle in a time The sun is going West. does something weird. You look like a bum! From the west to the east to Down mountain and valley it She shivers and says, “Can I You can’t buy Jordan shoes: the north to the south went. get my They’re too cool for you! That’s what hip hop weather is The sun is resting. Sweet smelling sweater?” You’re too little! all about The moon comes out. She goes to see the sunset You’re too dumb! Peace The sun is going to another and says soon it will start hemisphere. getting warm. NO! I am amazing! Samari A., age 10 Peacefulness and night came The sun is slowly arriving You can’t change me! Dunlap Elementary and lullaby the people to sleep. Pretty soon it will be summer! I am strong! I am brave! Seattle I am smart! I am free! Bao H., age 9 Natalie G., age 10 You can’t tell me what to do. Painful Rain Rogers Street Academy Lincoln Avenue School I don’t like the words you say! Milwaukee Milwaukee Painful rain bursting from the Don’t bully me. blue sky Don’t call me names! The dark clouds drifting back and forth So if someone’s ever tried The beautiful red roses getting To tell you what to do, hurt Remember, you are free to be From the painful rain however suits YOU! Hurray! The painful rain has I am amazing! gone away No one can change me! So we say, bah bye painful rain I am strong! I am brave! Word. Dunlap Elementary I am smart! I am free! Pride.

Boys Team Mizpajoy G., age 10 PS 192 Jacob H. Schiff Dunlap Elementary Seattle Elementary 24 New York OUR FREEDOM I Challenge You Stand Up For This King! What Happened to the Dream? Statistics say there is a child Crowds of people descended His words moved swiftly dropping out of school every on the National Mall on Martin Luther King had a Like the ocean waves day October 16th. dream to make peace in the Listening to his speeches for No matter what color, age, or Young and old, white, black, world Days size, some of these kids have and brown! But now it seems no one cares He said we should all be free taken their own lives They came to show respect Everyone is acting like wild But today, those thoughts are It’s a shame, what bullying can to one of the greatest kings bears. history do around! Dr. King was very kind I can’t go back in time Falling victim… it could happen He was the mountain of hope And had a brilliant mind But I know the future is mine to you! that grew out of despair! His But if Dr. King, were to see I believe in his dream I’ll follow Kids today… we can’t even chants of “I have a Dream” and this, terrible tragedy, his dream Do YOU believe? learn… because every bully “Free at last” … He would feel unappreciated Can YOU achieve? wants a turn “Free at Last” helped our He would see… People that If you can, lets come together Our parents are scared for us nation declare what’s right and FIGHT! and make peace too, so now we must challenge fair! In the middle of the NIGHT! To make Dr. King’s dream you! He taught us to boycott, march Killing for no reason, REALITY Don’t laugh at us or call us for what was right, and move to Destroying families for seasons names the front of the bus and stop all Ayanna V., age 11 Don’t take pleasure in our pain! this fuss! Noyes Education Campus Bully…find yourself something He’s the reason I can dream DC positive to do big and succeed! How would you feel if someone I stand tall and proud because were bullying you?! I know this King! Thank you Dr. Martin Luther Boys and Girls Teams King for letting our freedom Arts & Technology Academy ring! DC Kennijah D., age 9 Arts & Technology Academy A Special Thank You DC

To fathers and mothers in our military Who are fighting here and over there Who make so many sacrifices to be everywhere

Your bravery is outstanding Whether you are on land, in the air or the seas You are constantly leaving your loving and caring families To protect us to keep us in the free.

Because of what you continue to do Please accept this hearty “THANKS” from us to you and yours Along with this special “SALUTE” too!

Trenton S., age 12 Brookland Education Campus DC

25 My Community Dallas When I Open My Eyes… My Community What Did They Do To My Beautiful Earth Dallas is a palace. When I open my eyes… The sky is blue A kingdom indeed. I see my friends, teachers, The grass is green I’m up in the sky looking at All that we do is tend to and family. That is what people succeed. When I open my eyes… the community is for me Throwing trash to the floor We help people in need. I see nature all around me, The floor is clean I say, “No, No you better pick Plus earn the honor to lead. like birds, and grass, trees, The flowers are blossoming that up” Welcome to Dallas where and flowers. Every hour. I love the smell I was so angry for what they The Rangers play. When I open my eyes… of my community did to my earth If you don’t like to lose, it’s I see life, people dying, In the morning, People cutting trees The Earth was so sad best you stay away. people cry. I see people trying The birds are chirping She felt so brown If you like big buildings, come to survive. I love the sounds There was no oxygen check out downtown. When I open my eyes… Of my community People look what they did to If you got a minute take a I see the world. The best things our Earth stroll and walk around. In this life Ideal L., age 11 The Garbages were so full I sure do love my town. Mather Elementary Can be found No more trash could fit I love to see amazing things New England In my community There were a lot of factories all around. Tano M., age 13 The air was not clear Dallas is the most awesomest Buhrer Dual Language It turned into something awful palace Sights Around Me Cleveland that no person could smell it My wonderful Dallas. It surrounded the whole world I see tall buildings all around Karina C., age 10 The next day I was so mad César Chávez Learning Center me When I open my eyes I just wanted to make the Dallas I see beautiful flowers all When I open my greatest thunderstorm around me eyes I see a land And I did How to Help I see leaves all around me of nature and I splashed everything the Environment Is the wind blowing me? peace. Not even a crumb of trash I wonder what you feel When I open my Everyone was happy To save our planet from What do you see when you eyes I see everybody No more factories that spread global warming and pollution step outside? together and we out the smoke We must come up with a safe Maybe, you will see and feel own this world forever. I am always watching solution just like me! When we open our eyes let’s For those days I have not Let’s plant more trees When my community is dirty make the world a forgotten in the sky For cleaner air and breeze I can help better I am a cloud Litter, litter, litter, all over the I can clean, clean all day place. And I will never forget what street American SCORES can plant A really they did to my Beautiful Earth Pick it up, so it doesn’t smell flowers better place. Hector S., age 10 César Chávez Learning Center like feet In my neighborhood Jacory M., age 10 Dallas Trash can, trash can, where Community Service is. Henry Grew School are you? Jameka D., age 11 New England Do you want me to litter or Earl Nance, Sr. Elementary come find you? Saint Louis Paper, plastic, aluminum cans too Recycle, recycle, it’s the right thing to do Don’t waste energy, turn off the lights Don’t be afraid to do what is right Pick up your trash, keep the world clean Do your part, so our Earth can stay blue and green Boys and Girls Teams H.D. Cooke Elementary DC

26 MAKING AN IMPACT AS COMMUNITY LEADERS

Through more than 200,000 hours of community service, America SCORES students complete hundreds of projects each year, making an incredible impact on communities nationwide.

CLEVELAND The boys and girls from the Artemus Ward middle school teams organized games and movie-watching held during recess. They asked people to bring canned goods in order to participate and sold popcorn during the movies - collecting over 500 cans and raising $150 for two Cleveland youth to participate in the Salvation Army’s summer camp.

DENVER Cowell Elementary boys and girls teams worked together to reduce bullying in their school. After researching bullying and its effects, they created anti-bullying posters for the school’s hallways and organized a school-wide talent show with a professional acting troupe that helped present the anti-bullying message to the whole school.

SEATTLE The Roxhill Elementary SCORES boys team investigated litter in their community by mapping how much litter there is in the park and trying to find out the causes and the effects of littering. After their investigation, they participated in the White Center Community Development Association’s “Spring Clean” Day and with help from adults from the White Center community, were able to make their local park a better, cleaner place to be for the entire community!

NEW YORK The PS 325 girls team showed what it means to them as girls to be playing sports, and why more girls should join them. After noticing that they were the only girls’ team that practiced soccer on the field, they created a girls-only field day and invited girls from the entire school to try out different sports. The poet-athletes encouraged their peers to stay active and play sports.

27 MAKING AN IMPACT RReflectionseflections AS COMMUNITY LEADERS

“What I like about writing a poem is that it helps me express my feelings and what I’m like on the inside instead of on the outside.” Erin B., DC

“I like soccer because it’s fun and you get to learn teamwork with your friends. I love game days because we get to make friends with the other team and score goals.” Zeyla A., Dallas

“It’s amazing because I know one day our garden is going to grow even larger around our community and eventually people will come to us for fresh fruits and vegetables instead of going to the market.”

Tre’Shaun A., Cleveland “I like poetry because it helps you express your feelings in what you do in your life. And we get to perform them in front of other people.” ShaeLynn D., Portland 28 THE 2012 NATIONAL POETRY SLAM! Harlem’s World-Famous Apollo Theater

With each awe-inspiring poem, the 6th Annual America SCORES National Poetry SLAM! showcased how incredibly brave and gifted our poet-athletes are. From Black History Month to Demon Cats to Shining Smiles, no topic was left out in front of a captivated audience of families, coaches, and supporters. The evening was hosted by John Harkes (D.C. United), featured a musical performance by smart-rapper Psalm One, honored Chris Heck (New York Red Bulls), and welcomed New York Red Bulls players: Mehdi Ballouchy, Kenny Cooper, Stephen Keel, Dax McCarty, and Jan Gunnar Solli.

Meet a National Poetry SLAM! Star: Tya From America SCORES

Day 1 Seattle

Roy and Tatiyanna (Atlanta) checking in at the airport Hi, Karina (Dallas) and Tya (Seattle) having a blast at the orientation Andres (Portland) travels This is Tya from America SCORES 3,000 miles, 30,000 feet in the air Seattle with “Tya’s Tips To Terrific Trips” – as in trips to New York City and performing at the National Poetry SLAM!

#1: practice your poem over and over again – until you can practically say it in your sleep!

#2: PROJECT YOUR VOICE – say it loud and proud! Day 2 #3: practice using hand and body movements to emphasize William (Seattle) rehearsing Nisrine (Bay Area) at the Tiana and Andres (Chicago) your points. at PS 192 Empire State Building at Times Square #4: don’t be nervous – have Poet-athletes and confidence in yourself! Chaperones at Central Park #5: go back to #1 – practice, practice, practice.

Oh, two more things – when you are in New York, make sure to visit Central Park and finally (Cleveland) and most importantly –Go out Day 3 and Jose on stage and HAVE FUN! (Dallas) with NY Red Bulls So long for now! Poet-athletes performing with Psalm One 29 -Ty a THOMSON REUTERS CONGRATULATES AMERICA SCORES AND ALL POET-ATHLETES We salute all who lead healthy lives, are engaged and have the confidence and character to make a difference in the world.

She Held Me Tightly

My mom held me tightly She held me tightly like Saturn holding its rings Even warm-up laps are a race. We were in Morocco on a camel’s back I was five and the camel smelled like bitter chocolate But I wasn’t scared because my mom held me tightly

I heard thunder loud as a howling wolf I saw a flash of lightening Right outside my bedroom window in San Francisco I was six and my mom told me “It will be ok” My mom spoke louder than thunder #iamready My mom is strong She climbed a hill steep like a mountain for me America_Scores_Ad.indd 1 3/15/13 10:37 AM Every week she climbs the streets of the Castro Raising money to support me My mom’s love for me is strong THOMSON REUTERS Bismillahihrahmanirahim She opens the gate to reading the CONGRATULATES Koran I memorize lines AMERICA SCORES AND Scrambling words until I put them together ALL POET-ATHLETES She teaches me what she learned in her childhood We© Thomson salute Reuters all 2013. who All rights lead reserved. healthy 1002617 0313 lives, are engaged Her wisdom and love will live on in and have the confidence and character to make a me. difference in the world.

Nisrine R., age 11 Redding Elementary Bay Area

Nisrine performed this poem at the 2012 National Poetry SLAM! in New York, on local NBC during The Great © Thomson Reuters 2013. All rights reserved. 1002617 0313 America SCORES Soccer Dribble, for the Mayor of San Francisco and at a corporate conference in 1002617_America SCORES.indd 1 3/15/13 10:14 AM Las Vegas.

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1002617_America SCORES.indd 1 3/15/13 10:14 AM all in for america scores adidas is proud to support America Scores poet-athletes who know what it means to be all in.

© 2013 adidas AG. adidas, the 3-Bars logo and the 3-Stripes mark are registered trademarks of the adidas Group.

We Can Do More

Soccer is my favorite sport I go into the game and sometimes I feel PS192, they really rock We kick it up and down the court shame When they came out they gave We keep it so fresh on the microphone But I really don’t blame me a shock! We like no interruptions when the game Because I take responsibility for who I is on! am! They show teamwork on the field Their goalie is a human shield! I’m not small, I’m very tall I go to the goal They have good kicks Sometime I fall, so my parents I call! I have a lot of soul They make me sick! I like loud claps that make me score I use teamwork They have good passes My parents keep saying, “Score some I lead the team They don’t pass gases more!” When we come out They play like Heather We are bravely seen They’re light as a feather And they ALWAYS play together

Our coaches wonder if we’re a team, and we understand And we run out there like we’re a band Our coaches say, “I know we can do it” Then we say, “There’s nothing to it” Our coaches wonder if we’re a team They stop in the hallway and wonder and dream We ARE a team and we can do more I’ll tell you why: Zimani performed this poe Because we’re America SCORES

Zimani A., age 11 PS 325 31Zimani performed this poem at the 2012 National Poetry SLAM!, as a duet with Kenny Cooper of the New York Red Bulls, and on PBS for American Graduate Day. New York all in for america scores adidas is proud to support America Scores poet-athletes who know what it means to be all in. Volkswagen Group of America is proud to sponsor Maria Reed Elementary School for six years in a row! Go Reed!

© 2013 adidas AG. adidas, the 3-Bars logo and the 3-Stripes mark are registered trademarks of the adidas Group. you (Option A) Insperity volkswagengroupamerica.com (Option B) Did you know... When become an client, (Option A) (Option B) (Option A or B) America SCORES was can help your business run better, grow faster and make more founded in 1994 by Julie

money. After all, ’s powerful HR and business Kennedy, a teacher who (Option B) loved soccer and poetry. performance solutions allow to focus on (Option A or B) Maria Reed Learning Center managing and growing your business. was where it all began!

800-465-3800 | insperity.com Thanks Volkswagen for keeping it there! 32 Meet a Graduate: Leasly from America SCORES LA

Leasly joined America SCORES in 2002. After participating in SCORES in elementary school, middle school, and high school, she got her diploma and headed to Duke University in North Carolina. She has traveled across the country, from LA to Durham, and across the ocean, from USA to Spain!

“America SCORES isn’t just some after- school program for students; it’s a family, a community that never leaves you, even if you do end up 3,000 miles away from home – or 6,500 miles away on a different continent.” Leasly says.

Hear how America SCORES helped Leasly write, play, and achieve:

SCORES has made me so much more passionate about soccer and what it means to play it. Playing soccer isn’t just about having skills and talent – you have to be smart about the game. America SCORES isn’t just about playing soccer; it is about learning teamwork, camaraderie, sportsmanship, community, and giving back. I’ve made amazing friends just

HIGH SCHOOL discussing the players from Barcelona and Real Madrid, and we always have a round of free-for-all soccer when we get the chance.

SCORES’ writing program helped me develop my creativity as well as my sense of community service. I had never written poetry before America SCORES, and now I write dozens in free verse, and do creative pieces. I would never think of going into a retirement home and brighten a senior’s day with poetry dedicated to her. At America SCORES, I learned the importance of giving back to the community, MIDDLE SCHOOL especially since my community has helped me get to where I am. The skills and tools you take away from America SCORES help you in the future in ways you can’t even imagine.

SCORES [is] a program to help kids develop study skills. America SCORES was filled with role models, and I could see myself becoming a role model in my tutees’ eyes. I stepped into the shoes of our writing ELEMENTARY coaches and took their role in this new community. 33 YOUR SCHOOLS

ATLANTA DALLAS DENVER NEW YORK Carter G. Woodson Elementary César Chávez Learning Center Barnum Elementary PS 192 Jacob H. Schiff Coretta Scott King Young Lorenzo De Zavala Elementary Brown International Academy Elementary Women’s Leadership Academy Anson Jones Elementary Cheltenham Elementary PS 325 Jean Childs Young Middle LO Donald Elementary CMS Community School School Leslie A. Stemmons Elementary Cowell Elementary PORTLAND Ignacio Zaragoza Elementary Eagleton Elementary Markham Elementary BAY AREA Nancy Cochran Elementary Gust Elementary César Chávez School Maria Moreno Elementary Knapp Elementary Junipero Serra Elementary James John Elementary Munroe Elementary Cleveland Elementary Barnes Elementary DC Newlon Elementary Bryant Elementary Harold Oliver Elementary Bret Harte Elementary Aiton Elementary LOS ANGELES Parklane Elementary Hillcrest Elementary Alice Deal Middle School Whitman Elementary E.R. Taylor Elementary Anne Beers Elementary Braddock Elementary Davis Elementary Marshall Elementary Arts and Technology Academy Charnock Road Elementary Longfellow Elementary Bancroft Elementary Palms Elementary SEATTLE Paul Revere Elementary Brightwood Education Campus Palms Middle School Bailey Gatzert Elementary Redding Elementary Brookland Education Campus Dunlap Elementary School Webster Elementary Burrville Elementary MILWAULKEE Highland Park Elementary John Muir Elementary Capital City Public Charter Academia de Lenguaje Y Maple Elementary Salvation Army at the KROC César Chávez Public Charter Center Bellas Artes (ALBA) Roxhill Elementary Middle School for Public Elementary Up on Top at Tenderloin Policy - Chavez Prep Hayes Bilingual Elementary Community School César Chávez Public Charter SAINT LOUIS Middle School for Public James Whitcomb Riley CHICAGO Policy - Parkside Campus Elementary Barack Obama Elementary C.W. Harris Elementary Lincoln Avenue Elementary Hamilton Elementary Rosario Castellanos Elementary Davis Elementary Rogers Street Academy Jamaa Learning Center John Hay Elementary E.L. Haynes Public Charter Windlake Elementary Jefferson Elementary Community Academy Garfield Elementary Earl Nance, Sr Elementary Phoebe A. Hearst Magnet Hart Middle School NEW ENGLAND Walbridge Elementary School Washington Elementary Matthew A. Henson Elementary H.D. Cooke Elementary Donald McKay Elementary James W. Johnson Public School Howard Road Academy Gardner Pilot Academy Pilsen Community Academy J.C. Nalle Elementary Henry Grew School Nathaniel Pope Elementary Jefferson Middle School James W. Hennigan School Eli Whitney Elementary Dr. John Hayden Johnson John F. Kennedy School Middle School Thomas Chalmers Specialty John Marshall School Kelly Miller Middle School School Mather Elementary KIPP DC: Shaw Campus Washington Irving Elementary Mattahunt Elementary MacFarland Middle School Daniel J. Corkery Elementary Mildred Ave K-8 School Marie Reed Elementary John MIilton Gregory Orchard Gardens Pilot School Elementary M.C. Terrell/McGogney Elementary Patrick J Kennedy School John Spry Elementary Roger Clap Innovation School Community School Moten Elementary Noyes Education Campus Boston Teachers Union School K-8 Orr Elementary CLEVELAND Henry Dearborn Middle School Oyster-Adams Bilingual School Thomas A. Edison K-8 School Artemus Ward School Paul Public Charter Buhrer Dual Language School Clarence R. Edwards Middle Powell Elementary School Fullerton Elementary Raymond Education Campus Lille G. Frederick Pilot Middle Michael R. White STEM School Sacred Heart Bilingual Catholic School Mound STEM School School Washington Irving Middle Patrick Henry School Seaton Elementary School Robinson G. Jones School Shaw Middle School at John W McCormack School Wade Park School Garnet-Patterson William B. Rogers Middle School Walton School Thomson Elementary Franklin D. Roosevelt K-8 School Willow School Truesdell Education Campus Mario Umana Academy Tubman Elementary Wheatley Education Campus

34 America SCORES Atlanta PO Box 11201 Atlanta, GA 30310 404-803-0390 America SCORES America SCORES National Office Bay Area 520 8th Avenue 400 Alabama Street Suite 201C San Francisco, CA 94110 New York, NY 10018 415-486-1310 212-868-9510 DC SCORES 1224 M Street, NW Suite 200 Washington, DC 20005 202-393-6999 America SCORES America SCORES Cleveland Dallas 3631 Perkins Avenue 2633 McKinney Avenue Unit 2CE Suite 130-348 Cleveland, OH 44114 Dallas, TX 75204 216-881-7988 214-760-8133 America SCORES America SCORES Chicago New England 600 W. Cermak Road 29 Germania Street Suite 204 Jamaica Plain, MA 02130 Chicago, IL 60616 617-472-6737 America SCORES 312-666-0496 America SCORES Denver Milwaukee 4900 W. 29th Avenue 7101 W. Good Hope Road Denver, CO 80212 Milwaukee, WI 53223 303-832-5879 414-358-2510 x208 America SCORES America SCORES LA Portland 3685 Motor Avenue c/o AC Portland Suite 110 5055 N. Greeley Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90034 Portland, OR 97217 America SCORES 310-204-6455 America SCORES 971-234-2755 New York Seattle 520 8th Avenue 2450 6th Ave South Suite 201C Suite 203 New York, NY 10018 Seattle, WA 98134 206-988-1000 646-660-0404 America SCORES Saint Louis 4236 Lindell Blvd. Suite 204 Saint Louis, MO 63108 314-533-0302

America SCORES would like to thank the following supporters who give more than $100,000 to grow the minds and bodies of youth across the country:

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