Spring ISD hosted its fifth annual Rising Writers Expo at Dekaney High School on Jan. 29, bringing together students, families and educators to celebrate the unique voices of youth and young adult writers across the district. Centered on this year’s theme, Once Upon Our Time, the event highlighted the power of storytelling and how writing helps students share who they are with the world.

The districtwide expo provided students from elementary through high school with a platform to showcase their written work through poetry, short stories and longer works of fiction that reflected their experiences, dreams and perspectives—reminding attendees that everyone has a story worth telling. This year, 382 students were recognized with certificates for their work, while 174 students earned medals for outstanding writing achievements.

“Some students come to school excited about sports or spending time with friends, but this event celebrates those who find joy and passion in reading and writing, giving them a chance to grow and be supported on their journeys,” said Spring ISD Reading Academy Specialist Christin Kimball. “Rising Writers shines a light on academics and gives every student—even the shy child quietly writing in a journal—the opportunity to share their work and possibly become a published author.”

Throughout the event, students proudly presented pieces that demonstrated not only creativity, but also growth and perseverance. Students wrote about topics they are deeply passionate about. 

Gabriella Razo, a fifth grader at Bammel Elementary School, for example, turned her love for music into a story about a young girl who expresses herself by writing songs, illustrating how personal interests can inspire meaningful and authentic storytelling.

“People are coming up to ask lots of questions about my writing,” said Razo. “It makes me feel really good and accomplished. I feel like I’ve done something meaningful, especially because my family is here.”

Also in attendance was Demarcus Robertson, a third grader at Thompson Elementary School. Similar to Razo, Robertson drew inspiration from his personal interests. A football enthusiast, he decided to write a book centered on the sport he loves.

“Jake inspired me from the game Subway Surfers that I play on my tablet,” Robertson said. “I have a lot of cool stuff in my book and this is my second interview of the day. I practiced for this.”

Rising Writers has continued to grow over the years, inspiring students across Spring ISD to explore their creativity. A special highlight came from 16 talented Wells Middle School students receiving special education services, who reached an exciting milestone by co-authoring and publishing their work as part of The Can-Do Book project over the past three years. The students published Things We Like during the 2023–24 school year and Our Favorite Animals in 2024–25. Their third book, Discovering the World, is currently in the editing phase and scheduled for publication during the 2025–26 school year.

Another shining example of student achievement is Abigail John, a sixth-grade student at Roberson Middle School. Abigail demonstrates that age is no barrier to creativity or accomplishment. A proud product of Spring ISD, she has participated in Rising Writers for the past years, continuing to hone her passion for writing.

“Rising Writers helps students get inspired,” John said. “Knowing how to write is so important—not just if you want to become a published author, but because it’s a valuable skill to have later in life, especially when writing for college or job applications.”

John has already published two books on Amazon:  Watch Out for My Neighbor and Watch Out for the House in the Woods— and plans to release the next installment by the end of 2026. Now in her first year of middle school, she shared that while her schedule is full and she has a lot on her plate, she remains committed to pursuing her passion for writing.

Spring ISD Superintendent Dr. Kregg Cuellar echoed the importance of storytelling and self-expression, emphasizing how writing connects generations and helps students embrace their voices and celebrate their identities.

“The Rising Writers Expo demonstrates what happens when our students put in that one extra degree of effort,” said Cuellar. “From those just beginning to write to students who have already published books, their dedication, creativity and perseverance shine through. We are proud to celebrate their voices and the incredible impact that writing can have—not only in their own lives but also in inspiring others across our district and beyond.”