Coastal Voices, an adjudicated anthology of writing by Sunshine Coast elementary and secondary school students, has just published its 11th edition. Featuring diverse works by over 150 students, Coastal Voices, a joint initiative of School District No. 46 (SD46) and the Sunshine Coast Festival of the Written Arts, celebrates student achievement in writing.
“Our students have crafted these words and shared their stories during an unprecedented time in history,” said Kirsten Deasey, principal, learning and innovation for SD46.
“Throughout this past year, the students and their dedicated teachers have navigated life against the backdrop of a global pandemic. And yet, despite the challenges that this year has posed, this book confirms that the creative spirit is not only alive but is indeed bursting with energy,” Deasey said.
This year’s edition features writing from students in kindergarten to Grade 12, and from almost every school on the Sunshine Coast. The judges had the extremely difficult task of selecting 150 pieces from almost 900 submissions. The poetry, prose and personal narratives in the anthology demonstrate the uniqueness of the young writers’ voices, as they speak their truths and tell their stories.
The Coastal Voices production team gratefully acknowledge Edmund Arceo, from Zoom Magazine, who has volunteered his time and creativity for the last 11 years, as well as the teachers, principals, school district senior staff, and, most importantly, the students and their families, for supporting Coastal Voices over the years.
Copies of the 2021 Coastal Voices may be purchased through the Festival of the Written Arts office by calling 604-885-9631.
