A favorite poem can reveal something about a person. On October 26th, teachers across every subject at BASIS International School Nanjing shared that personal connection with their students during Poem in My Pocket Day. Led by the English department, the event brought poetry into classrooms across campus, creating opportunities for reflection, conversation, and connection.
What is the poem in your pocket?
In contrast to the world of AI-driven-slop leading to a lack of cultural engagement and contemplation, the English department led the Poem in My Pocket Day; placing depth, meaning and personal reflection at the centre of learning. Over this day, the joy and love and beauty of poetry was immersed into the everyday experiences of staff and students.
One week before the event officially launched, AP Literature Teacher and initiator, Dr. Jonathan Smith kicked off a warm lead-up. Each day, he read an excerpt from a poem chosen by one of the teachers in the morning announcement, setting a poetic tone for the school day.
On October 26th, teachers school-wide chose their favorite poem and carried it in their pocket through the day. At the start of every lesson; they read and discussed it with their students; and it meant that students were exposed to 9 poems in a day. This was in every subject; not just English, Literature, History, but also Maths, Science, and PE: all students would have exposure to poetic depth from their teachers.
The students’ involvement was pivotal, some came with their own favorite poems to read in response; there were age-appropriate personal reflections in their English classes; and ultimately, the personal ruminations meant students saw the power of poetry in their teachers’ lives—and its power to change the world.
In a world overly focused on STEM disciplines, GPA’s and Artificial intelligence that seems to rise and rise against all unique natural thought, a Poem in My Pocket seeks to capture something that is still rooted in the heart of human emotion.
Conclusion
Poem in My Pocket Day offered a glimpse into how teachers at BASIS International School Nanjing bring their personal interests into the classroom and create meaningful connections with students. For educators who value sharing their passion, collaborating across subjects, and encouraging thoughtful discussion, these moments are part of what makes a school community rewarding.
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