Spoken Word

Founded in 1999, Oak Park and River Forest High School's Spoken Word Club has grown into the largest after-school program of its kind. Students write and share poetry while building community and leadership. Spoken Word Club prides itself on being a place where students feel a sense of belonging.  Alumni often speak about missing the sense of family Spoken Word Club provides. Any student who is willing to commit to the process is welcome to appear in the showcases. 

Additionally, each year, an eight-person slam team competes in Rooted & Radical Youth Poetry Festival (formerly Louder Than a Bomb), which draws 120 other Chicago-area teams. Spoken Word participation and success has correlated with academic success, college readiness, and college acceptance. For more information, contact Adam Levin (alevin@oprfhs.org).