Ohrenberger SLIFE Students Discover the Power of Storytelling at 826 Boston

Ohrenberger SLIFE students create and collaborate on writing projects at the 826 Boston headquarters in Roxbury this spring.

This spring, ESP Boston facilitated a transformative writing experience for the Ohrenberger School's cohort of Students with Limited or Interrupted Formal Education (SLIFE) through a partnership with the non-profit 826 Boston. This writing, tutoring, and publishing organization helps students in grades K-12 and beyond share their stories, amplify their voices, and develop as leaders in school and in life.

As part of this partnership, seventeen Ohrenberger students in grades 4–7 traveled by public transportation to the 826 Boston Roxbury headquarters for an interactive writing workshop. For many of these students, who are new to the country and learning English while they acclimate to a new school, this trip represented much more than a day outside the classroom; it was an opportunity to explore a different learning environment, build community with their peers, and engage in literacy-building enrichment designed specifically to honor their immigrant experience.

Students shared the both their unique personal experiences, as well as the shared aspects, of journeying to a new country while brainstorming.

The workshop centered on storytelling and immigration narratives, inviting students to reflect on their personal background while collaborating with their classmates. Together, they developed a main character and storyline before each student crafted a unique ending to their story. By drawing on their perspectives and emotions surrounding the journey to a new country, students strengthened their English literacy, their writing skills and their ability to self-reflect.

The experience concluded with the publication of a book featuring each student's unique story. Printed copies were later delivered to the students in their classrooms, giving the young authors a lasting reminder that their voice and ideas matter.

For two years, ESP Boston has been working with the Ohrenberger School to provide targeted enrichment and community experiences in support of their SLIFE cohort. Having successfully partnered with 826 Boston at another public school, the ESP team was eager to introduce this organization's meaningful and culturally responsive programming. This new connection between the Ohrenberger and a trusted community partner fostered students’ creativity, confidence, and belonging - elements that drive the ESP mission.

Ohrenberger SLIFE social worker, Melissa Quinones, reflected on the program:

"It was a highly impactful and deeply transformative experience for all involved. I am excited to sing the praises of 826 Boston to our professional community here at the O! and beyond. I will definitely be encouraging other educators to reach out."

With the help of educators, families, and youth-serving organizations across our city, ESP Boston strives to expand public school access to enriching experiences that support academic growth, personal development, and community engagement. Thoughtful partnerships, like this one between the Ohrenberger School and 826 Boston, ensure that students not only strengthen essential skills, but also see themselves as valued members of their community.