Voices 2 0 2 6
A Student Literary and Art Publication
2026 Theme:
Our Wondrous World
See Our Wonderful World
By Andrew (Falcon Heights Elementary School, Grade 4)
Welcome to 2026 Voices! In this year’s issue of Voices, you will be amazed by our students’ creations inspired by Our Wondrous World. As you peruse the pages, you will hear happy morning sounds, see the bright colors of flags of different countries, feel the power of people joining together for our community, and reflect on the beauty of natural wonders like the
See the world spin and spin around a blazing sun, See the bird dive down and swoop back to the sky. See the cougar cry on the mountain top, See the wolf sing its song in the pale moonlight. See the sun rise and set over a sparkling sea with its red and orange glow cast over the world. See the sun come down, see the moon come up, see the stars turn their light to our side of the world. See our wonderful world!
Worldwide Wonders
By Caleb (Parkview Center School, Grade 6) Each country has different landmarks, and I think they should all be recognized.
ocean. While our world faces real challenges, it is also filled with moments of awe, connection, and hope. As ninth grader Heba beautifully writes, “But even in the hardest moments, the world keeps giving us pieces that feel like magic, that make us stop and breathe and remember how alive we really are.” We are proud to share the creativity, insight, and imagination of our students, whose voices remind us that wonder can be found everywhere when we take the time to notice. —Emily Bloomquist Grade 6 Parkview Teacher —Trina Hira Advanced Academics Coordinator 20 ● T H E R A I D E R V O I C E
A Window to the World
By Grace (Roseville Area Middle School, Grade 7) When you look out the window what do you see? Do you see flowers of every color or trees of green? Do you see the magic flowing through the sky? When you look out the window, do you see the stars in the sky at night and the way the moon glows so bright? Do you see the hate drowning the world or the heat cooking it up? Do you see happy families walking by or the sad faces beginning to cry? When you look through the glass you think it’s all fake but some know that life’s not a piece of cake. You are not the only one who sees this too, many people see the hate drowning it all but most choose to ignore it. The world is not a happy place all the time but to some it is and that’s just fine. So ask yourself what do you see when you look out the window at the world outside, Is it good? Is it bad? There’s no way to know unless you open the window.
Voices Cover Art: Giant Pacific Octopus
By Kate (Brimhall Elementary, Grade 6) Nowadays, a lot of ocean species and coral reefs are slowly dwindling, and humans are only making it worse. People need to start helping with conservation efforts, charities, and recycling the trash that is slowly poisoning our oceans to help these species to stay on the planet.
The Wonders of Our World By Heba (Roseville Area High School, Grade 9)
Our world is full of beauty. Not the kind you scroll past, or see in a picture and forget, but the kind that stops you and makes your chest tighten because it feels like home, even if you’ve never been there. There are mountains that rise like giants, quiet and steady, watching over everything without asking for anything in return. Oceans that crash and roar, relentless and alive, like they’re holding a secret
they’ve been keeping forever. There are people everywhere, living their lives, laughing, crying, dreaming— cultures and stories woven into the world like threads that you can reach for if you just notice. Animals, too— running, flying, swimming, living exactly as they are, reminding us that just being is enough.
And there’s us. We make music to hold our hearts, we make art to speak the things we can’t say, we tell stories to remind each other that we are not alone. It’s not perfect. It’s messy. It hurts sometimes. But even in the hardest moments, the world keeps giving us pieces that feel like magic, that make us stop and breathe, and remember how alive we really are.
Nature is Life
By Lincoln (Roseville Area Middle School, Grade 8) Nature is life Looking outside makes me relaxed I see the swaying leaves of a tree I see the birds in the sky I see the leaders of life I see the potential in my soul Nature is life Hearing the soothing ambience calms my emotions I hear the birds quietly singing on my birdfeeder I hear the tree branches crashing against the wind I hear the voices of pride I hear my future self Nature is life I feel the presence of greenery I feel the absence of hatred I feel the power of wind I feel the power of hope Nature is life Everyday I grow like a plant I think of myself as “capable” While looking at the waving grass Improving should be everyone’s goal Just like how a tree branch grows
The Heart of the World
By Maliyah (Fairview Alternative High School, Grade 12) I made this to describe the love and care I have for our planet.
Disclaimer: Selected pieces were chosen from work submitted by teachers and students in spring 2026. Due to space limitations, not all submitted pieces can be included. More Voices submissions can be viewed online at isd623.org/learning/voices. Also, in a few cases pieces have been lightly edited from their original form. T H E R A I D E R V O I C E ● 21
I Love Being Me
By Dre’Anna (Central Park Elementary School, Grade 4)
🦶🏾 ✋🏃 🏃🏾💆🏾 🎟️🎢 🤯
I love my nose, I love my toes! I love to spin. I love my brown skin! I love to smile, love to run a mile I love to wash my hair. I love going to the fair! I love my eyes . I love a big surprise! I love being me I love to knit I love my baseball mitts! I love being me, I love to dream, I love my team! I love birds, I love words I love to cook! I love to read a book I love to write. I love to fly a kite. I love to plant flowers I love April showers I love being me
🌀 🏾 💆🏾♀🎟 👀 🧶🌙
😂
☔
🪁
☔️
We Will Talk
Ladybugs
By Eva (Roseville Area High School, Grade 9) I love being outside in nature, and noticing the little things, like ladybugs. I think that even the littlest of details in the world matter.
By Sydney (Roseville Area Middle School, Grade 7) Roseville strong, we talk without fear, We show our opinions safely where no one gets hurt! Roseville will talk, we will share, we will fight! You missed your chance we won’t stop, our voices unite Together you can’t keep us quiet now. We will talk! We stand one and all keeping peace there is no End we’ll keep it up! I.C.E. can’t stop us we’re Too strong keeping our sanity honoring the deceased who Sacrificed their life to keep others safe! We will never Quiet our mouths because we are strong! Over the Obstacles, throughout the darkness, we will find light! Roseville strong we will never be forgotten stronger than Most! We have thick skin we take your slurs and walk Away, we are the bigger person! We are Roseville Strong! WE WILL NOT BE SILENCED!!! WE WILL TALK!!!!
Never Give Up
By Nicholas (Edgerton Elementary School, Grade 4) I composed and sang this song because I find the world beautiful. The stars are beautiful and everything is interesting to me. Scan the QR code to listen to “Never Give Up.” How to Use a QR Code Open the camera on your smartphone, point it at the QR code, and tap the link that appears on your screen to open the webpage or information. 22 ● T H E R A I D E R V O I C E
Flowing and Growing
By Josephine (Parkview Center School, Grade 6) The pages turn like the ever-turning tides of the great blue seas The words flow like a soft stream in a calm forest. The ideas Ripple like a pebble thrown into a pond. See the circles, small then into big. The ideas start as a seed. It seems so small. The daydreams then grow into a sprout Growing bigger, knowing more It sprouts a stem leaves maybe even petals. The ideas, From a small seed into a great tree for our Wondrous World To read To see To breathe To feel. Some way to feel, Whether it’s the water or the leaves, or the pages or the pencil All a part of our Wondrous World.
Schifahren
By Nina (Roseville Area Middle School, Grade 8) “Schifahren,” is what it’s called By my dad, when he’s sprawled All across the snow He likes to let us know That we’re not the only ones who love it so There’s no way he can love it as much as me though Flying down the slopes It feels like all my hopes And dreams don’t matter All that does is going faster and faster Down, down, down, down My face is the opposite of a frown
Up and down again all afternoon But it’s all over all too soon I’m warming my face with a steaming cup Of sweet hot chocolate, I’ll drink it all up Once it’s done and I’m driving home, all I want Is one more shot at the top, just one last jaunt…
The world is wondrous from the blue waves to the beautiful sunsets, from the green trees in summer to the many colors of fall. The world is wondrous for us all. There’s air to breathe and food to eat, so many wonderful people to meet. The world is wondrous so enjoy it but please just don’t destroy it.
Cereal box Crsch platz Sunlight Hwosh
Music Tch blup bub bub bub
But really, if I go tumbling head over heels, who cares? That’s half the fun, that and riding up the rickety chairs Up, up, up; higher and higher Other people might say I’m a liar But I promise you, I’m faster than anyone, anything Only one word for it, and that’s “exhilarating”
By Colin (Falcon Heights Elementary School, Grade 6)
By Eliana (Roseville Area Middle School, Grade 7)
Pets Woff, mrew, chepirp
Because I’m beaming as the wind whips my face I know it isn’t one, but I pretend like it’s a race While I’m soaring down the hill I don’t think I’ve ever had my fill Of those black diamonds and blue squares As I start to hurdle down, I’ll whisper my prayers
Our World
Morning Sounds
Forest vs. City
By Roscoe (Falcon Heights Elementary School, Grade 5) Concrete buildings are so bleak Forest creatures chirp and squeak Cities are no place to live Forests have so much to give Cities are so dull and gray One tall tree gives lots of shade Cars and taxis move around Forests are so full of sound Cities just are not for me In a forest I will be
Sink water Plushhhhshhh pup pup Calm silence Shhh Footsteps Tump tump Happy murmuring Ha! What about that? Yum. hi! Yeah buddy. Stillness Mhmph Breakfast Tum, tum, tlapatamp, sizzzshhh, charrrrr Chair creaking Eecks Laughing Heheha hamuhh Mornings Crsch platz Hwosh Woff, mrew, chepirp Tch blup bub bub bub Shhh Tump tump Ha! What about that? Yum. hi! Yeah buddy. Mhmph Tum, tum, tlapatamp, sizzzshhh, charrrrr Eecks Heheha hamuhh T H E R A I D E R V O I C E ● 23
My Backyard
By Rosa (Emmet D. Williams Elementary School, Grade 4) My backyard has rippling water when the ducks go for a swim, scampering squirrels as they bound up the trees, and chirping birds soaring through the sky. My backyard is full of colors as the sun hides behind the trees, the perfect spot for the deer to snack, and stuffed with beautiful blooming buds.
The Flags of Our World
By Blake (Harambee Elementary School, Grade 3) The flags of our world represent different people in different places. All together, if we could get along, it would be a beautiful and kind place to live. It would be a wonderful world!
My Family
By Phoebe (Edgerton Elementary School, Grade 4) Family they feed me they help me they take care of me We go to the cabin trip hanging out with them in the hammock I like to go camping and hiking with them I like to go on fun trips with them I’m good at taking care of them I help my family by being responsible
My backyard holds memories of running around in the grass, the roots of the cottonwood trees scrape the skies, and the feeling of calm as you stare out over the water.
Window Screen
By Molly (Roseville Area Middle School, Grade 8) It’s a beautiful summer day outside The grass is green As I see it through the window screen I’m trapped indoors Between walls and floors But outside the world can be yours In yellow fields of endless dandelions You can sit waitin’ Or lyin’ You can swing from trees Get stung by bees Swim when it’s 100 degrees Scrape your knees Or have a picnic with crackers And cheese It’s a beautiful summer day outside The grass is green As I see it through The window Screen
Beauty Prevails
By Gabby (Falcon Heights Elementary School, Grade 6) The world has a lot of problems, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t beautiful things.
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We’re Our World
By Helen (Falcon Heights Elementary, Grade 6) The curls on one’s head are like the waves of the wild sea The straight locks cascade on one’s head like the flat plains over the sunset A crimson looks like the redwood forest at zenith of dawn emitting an alluring glow An onyx cascade is like the black swan, twirling and contorting at every swift move.
Cross Lake
A golden mane is like sun rays beaming and bouncing on the surfaces
By Elise (Falcon Heights Elementary School, Grade 6) Every summer my family goes to my grandparents’ cabin on Cross Lake. It is so beautiful. It is such a special place to me. Some of my best memories have been made out on the lake with my family and friends or around the bonfire watching the sunset. We should all try a little harder to preserve and take care of the Earth. If we all do just a few small things we can make a big difference. So let’s all celebrate our wondrous world.
Copper strands are like a brew of an aromatic coffee, the smell twisting and turning in the gale Chestnut eyes are like resin forming over millions of years Yet common still exquisite Robin egg colored eyes are glinting even through dark times Mint eyes are like emeralds, rare a site to see
The Moon Moth
By Paloma (Harambee Elementary School, Grade 6) I rest, on the branch of a big willow tree. My beady eyes shine, tired. The moon shines onto me as I drift to sleep. The birds make one last song, before they fall asleep, with me. I watch the moon, but this time I won’t go flying toward it. I don’t camouflage, even though it still feels a little frightening, but everything feels so still, and everything feels calm. I feel safe.
Timeless Night
By Aubreanna (Fairview Alternative High School, Grade 11) I enjoy the world through its natural beautiful sites like waterfalls, mountains, and the moon -somewhere where we just sent astronauts.
Kanashimi
By Wesley (Edgerton Elementary School, Grade 5) I enjoyed composing and performing this beautiful song. Scan the QR code to listen to “Kanashimi,” which is Japanese for sorrow.
My Two Identities
By Sumayyah (Harambee Elementary School, Grade 3) My two identities represent 1: Where I am now. 2: Where I am from. How we dress, how we speak and what we eat is not the same in my country as it is in America, where I live now. If we learned about and accepted different cultures and people, the world would be a more wondrous place. T H E R A I D E R V O I C E ● 25
Our World is Changing
By Harvey and Laszlo (Falcon Heights Elementary School, Grade 6) Our world is changing constantly From the desert to the snow But in the big scheme of things What do humans really know I think we Can all agree It really took too long To look around and find the things that are really going wrong
Unidentified Composure
By Maximino (Fairview Alternative High School, Grade 12) Cats are cute and a world without music would be a mistake.
Humans are always thinking Of their own success But I think we, should really think About ourselves a little less The world around us needs us And as it’s getting hot We need to get to work right now We need to help a lot
I Love My Culture
By Olfa (Edgerton Elementary School, Grade 1) I love my Salvadoran culture! I eat pupusas and rice. I play with my sister. I eat tortillas and eggs. This is why I love being Salvadoran!
The Iconic Rookie
By Cody (Fairview Alternative High School, Grade 12) My artwork shows rookie OBJ one-hand-catching a football. He made the most famous catch in football history. This catch made people all around try the “OBJ” challenge, and it brought joy to people. 26 ● T H E R A I D E R V O I C E
The Joy of Connection
By Tara (Fairview Alternative High School, Grade 11) The joy of creation is most wondrous to those who partake. The experience of growing and evolving your craft over time is one of the greatest things an artist can experience.
A Sweet Flashback
By Elizabeth (Roseville Area Middle School, Grade 8) It’s a summer day where everyone is out I can feel the warm air wrapped around me like a blanket Excitedly I take off my shoes and run around in the grass feeling the small breeze hit me And the roughness of the grass poking at my feet This is what summer means to me I can also see people riding on bikes and walking around too I can hear the leaves calmly dancing around with the wind I can smell the sweet scent of flowers around me Suddenly I hear music from the ice cream truck Quickly I ask my mom for money as if it’s the last day, am I ever getting ice cream Little me is so excited she couldn’t wait for the ice cream As soon as I get the ice cream I start to relax and feel happy This is what summer means to me
Fox in the Forest
By Ethan (Little Canada Elementary School, Grade 6) A beautiful wild fox living in a Minnesota winter forest is part of our wondrous world.
Pond
The popsicle I get from the ice cream truck is cool on my tongue I choose a character that I can’t seem to remember who it was but had the taste of raspberry and small bubblegum eyes that slowly melts on my hand Once I finish my popsicle, I ask my sister to come with me to the lake to dip our feet into the water We feel only a little scared of what could be underneath Together we giggle at the bumpiness of the rocks and the feeling of the cold water This is what summer means to me
By Elena (Parkview Center School, Grade 8) What sits there silently, And a weeping willow tree, Towering above it, Knowing how to be free. What sits there peacefully, And a lily pad or two, Drifting across its quiet surface, Knowing how to be true. What sits there respectfully, And humidity hanging in the air, Washed away by a cool breeze, Knowing how to care. What stands there disruptively Through the vines they tear, Look into the pond they see, The only real monster there.
4G
By Elias (Fairview Alternative High School, Grade 11) I’ve definitely had the best memories, and this is the truck that made those memories possible.
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What a Wonderful World
By Eden (Roseville Area High School, Grade 9) Louis Armstrong wrote the song What a Wonderful World and as soon as I heard that the theme was OUR WONDROUS WORLD, I thought of how Louis Armstrong contributed beautiful music to what we call our world and showed how amazing our planet is. Our Earth and all the other planets work together to create a wonderful world in our small corner of the universe.
My Lay Lay
By Warsan (Fairview Alternative High School, Grade 12) This is my cat Layla. I think cats make the world wondrous by bringing joy into people’s homes, making them feel safe and welcome.
The Ocean
By Aiden (Parkview Center School, Grade 6) Green Blue Brown Never ending Swaying Calming Many creatures Life to all The growing source The ocean was made From mother nature’s cries For the sea life and all lives 28 ● T H E R A I D E R V O I C E
Trees
By Benjamin (Parkview Center School, Grade 6) My painting of a tree in the wind with leaves falling shows beauty on the earth.
Earth
By Willa (Parkview Center School, Grade 6) Red is the bright red rose blooming on a windy spring day, Orange is the sunset setting while paddle boarding on the glistening lake, Yellow is the feeling you get when it’s finally summer, Green is the vine growing on an old building, Blue smells like the calming, calming fragrance after it rains, Purple tastes like freshly picked blackberries from a blackberry bush, Pink sounds like the cicadas chirping all day long, Brown looks like the scared fawn on the side of the highway, Black feels like a loud thunderstorm that’s calming and overwhelming at the same time, White makes me feel like the powdered snow when it’s finally winter, Rainbow is the sign of life
Water
By Dylan (Edgerton Elementary School, Grade 4) Fresh Water For drinking Swimming in pools In the salty sea Squid, shark and jellyfish Warm water cleans my body Water connects us with countries Water is impacted by climate change Don’t pollute the air to help save the water
Our Love
By Micaiya (Roseville Area Middle School, Grade 8) My family, so warm and wide. All of us the same chocolatey brown eyes They make me feel like a bird soaring through skies In cold silent mornings our love still chimes, growing as a gentle tide Its steady pulse sustains us, never will we say it has died We gather close round the table where stories intertwine Each laugh a bright light and each tear now a softened line Our roots run deep beneath the earth, unseen yet strong The walls scream shouts saying we all belong Through trials we are forged like steel in fire Yet your heart emerges still alive, and that I admire Your voice, a steady unbroken drum, a sweet sound with no pain You speak lanterns that guide me in the darkness of the rain So here’s to blood and bond, to endless love lasting for years To the times we acted cruel to be kind, to the laughter and the tears In quiet evenings we share a much needed sigh A good reminder of each and every goodbye Yet when storms come we lean on one another’s cry A refuge built of love that never questions why Those before me may lay in the ground But their end is my beginning, and on their lives I will expound
Our
By Hasan (Roseville Area High School, Grade 9) This artwork relates to “OUR WONDROUS WORLD” by showing the one word that makes us equal and one. OUR is a word that I see as something equal, representing that there’s nothing that is reserved for only one person, that we are together in this beautiful world.
Choir Gahhs 2
By Cameron (Roseville Area High School, Grade 9) The name for this piece is a play on what choir soundfonts are traditionally called in retro videogame music. The G at the start is just for fun, usually it would be called Choir Ahhs. I used a sample of my own voice and added reverberation to make this sound; around half of the sounds you hear are versions of my voice. I love using the tools I’m given to create something that I personally think sounds peaceful or magical. It’s fun seeing what I can do to produce content and music in my own little wonderful world!! T H E R A I D E R V O I C E ● 29
Our Wondrous World
By Abe (Falcon Heights Elementary School, Grade 6) Our wondrous world from the sea to the sky a beauty to an untrained eye to the coldest mountain peak to the hottest mountain core our wondrous world makes my stomach flip and fold. Bad days can make life feel cold but I can just smile because of our beautiful world.
Penguins in the Night
By Santrel (Fairview Alternative High School, Grade 12) You never know the truth or full story of anything because the under of the iceberg is unseen while the smaller part is exposed.
Save the Soil
By Karla (Edgerton Elementary School, Grade 4) I love nature and animals. We need to take care of the earth’s soil in order to take care of nature and animals.
My Little Dancer
By Camilla (Harambee Elementary School, Grade 5)
Masterpiece
By Shenya (Fairview Alternative High School, Grade 12) My artwork shows a beautiful view of “the big apple” New York City. 30 ● T H E R A I D E R V O I C E
We dance for laughter We dance for tears We dance for madness We dance for fear We dance for hopes We dance for screams We are the dancers We create the dreams
Our Wondrous World
By Adelaide (Falcon Heights Elementary School, Grade 6) The world is a curious place, Full of adventure and possibility. Things don’t make sense in our wondrous world that we exist in today, People are always trying to find answers Instead of basking in the beauty unknown. People find spectacular things in our wondrous world, The heart of nature is out there for someone to discover, But the question isn’t when someone’s going to discover it, It’s a question of when it’s ready to be discovered. The ocean is a mysterious place, There’s a whole other world down there, And so many questions that will never be answered, Like, how far does the ocean go down? And, what’s left to be discovered?
Imagine
By Tuulia (Falcon Heights Elementary School, Grade 6) This drawing connects to the theme by showing a girl painting at her easel, showing how she views the world. It also shows Finnish flags all around, showing her culture.
There are so many questions and so few answers In our wondrous world. Yet the questions have answers, But the joy is wondering how the answers came to be.
Wondrous Artwork
By Jason (Fairview Alternative High School, Grade 12) This expresses the beauty of nature in the form of black and white to show that with or without color, nature can be a peaceful wondrous thing.
Love Through the Sea, Amor a través del mar By Marina (Little Canada Elementary School, Grade 1) Los dos peces estan nadando. Se encuentran con un pulpo. Los tres jugaron juntos. Los tres hasieron amigos.
Our Wonderful World By Wyatt (Little Canada Elementary School, Grade 6) This is a globe and a person spinning it like a basketball, with the O in world being a peace sign.
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I Love My Culture Reflections
Students at Edgerton Elementary School contributed writing and artwork to express how they love their culture.
By Josiah (Grade 1)
By Bentley (Grade 1) By Adrian (Grade 1) I love my Karen culture! One reason is I can go to Thailand. Another reason is I have a Karen soccer team. Also, I can go to Karen New Year. That is why I love being Karen.
By Chloe (Grade 1)
By Zeus (Grade 1)
The Ocean
Amazing Cats
By Lyla (Parkview Center School, Grade 6)
By Lainey (Falcon Heights Elementary School, Grade 4) Cuddly! Adorable! Totally Awesome! Super Cute!
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Boomer
By Nancy (Brimhall Elementary School, Grade 4) I love animals of all kinds, especially dogs. Dogs make our world a wonderful place.
I’m big, blue, and full of life The Ocean I’m pretty and fierce The Ocean Sharks, whales, dolphins, and fish The Ocean Big, blue, and full of life The Ocean
By Lia (Grade 1) I love my Mexican culture! One reason is I can celebrate Christmas. Another reason is I like mini pancakes. Also I like to go to fancy parties. This is why I love my Mexican culture.
By Saw (Grade 2) By Joshua (Grade 1) I love my Hmong culture. One reason is I eat rice and Hmong food. Another reason is I eat more rice and Hmong food. Also at Christmas, we get presents. This is why I love being Hmong.
Pink
By Angel (Fairview Alternative High School, Grade 11) The background is pretty pink and glowy.
By José (Grade 2)
We Only Have One Planet
By Dinah (Parkview Center School, Grade 6) Our planet is special because we’re the only planet in our solar system that has life.
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Our Oceans and Us
By Abigail (Falcon Heights Elementary School, Grade 4) Oceans are more than just big, salty lakes. They are home to more than thousands of marine animals. The oceans also give us an easier way of transporting cargo and ships. We use big ships carrying lots of stuff and people. They also give us (and animals) a large water supply by covering more than 70% of our planet.
My World in Zentangle
By Addie (Harambee Elementary School, Grade 3) I like to do Zentangle because it helps me when I am worried and have other feelings. Most often, I feel great in our wondrous world.
But sadly, our oceans are in grave danger. People are polluting and having oil spills in them. The trash is killing animals. Imagine a baby turtle with plastic tangled around his flipper. As our turtle grows bigger, the plastic grows tighter. The plastic digs in their skin, by the time when our turtle is full grown the flipper gets partially cut off. This happens to many animals, sometimes on their neck, killing them. Other tragedies like that happen, too. Sometimes it is just because the water is unclean and unsafe. The water gets unsafe and polluted because of many different reasons. I am calling to you help save our wondrous world and the creatures in it.
Fun to Cook Together
By Carolyn (Edgerton Elementary School, Grade 4) Good friends Family Food is cool Ramen with egg yum Fun to cook together With your family Homemade brownies You and your friends can make them homemade
Orange Sunset
By Naomy (Fairview Alternative High School, Grade 11) It shows how beautiful and natural the world can be and the colors the sky can create.
Languages
By Charley (Little Canada Elementary School, Grade 5) I view our wondrous world through languages because it relates all through their culture in their history. I am interested in all languages because it shows their culture in a very diverse way. XX ● T H E R A I D E R V O I C E
Nature
By Noor (Harambee Elementary School, Grade 3) Walking around and looking at nature fills me with joy.
The Wondrous Chickens of Our Wondrous World
By Serena (Falcon Heights Elementary School, Grade 4) Have you ever wondered where your eggs are actually coming from? Have you wondered how old they are, or the condition of the animals they came from? I will tell you the power you have in Roseville to keep our feathered friends away from factory farms, and the pros of having them as pets. The first reason you should keep chickens is to keep them away from factory farms. These “farms” are basically animal cruelty that’s legal [trust me, look into it]. The second reason you should get chickens is because they make amazing pets; they give you fresh eggs for breakfast, plenty of cuddles, and they’re extremely smart! Chickens can actually feel complex emotions such as grief, love, and empathy! Some steps you can take to get chickens are finding a trustworthy farm supply store, checking your city ordinances, and doing tons and tons of research! In conclusion, here in Roseville you have the power to save chickens from factory farms and raise them in your very own backyard!
Frogs
By Franklin (Fairview Alternative High School, Grade 12) I saw a picture of these frogs on this weird branch, and I thought it was really beautiful and shows the weird differences of the world.
Animals in Nature
By Peyton (Edgerton Elementary School, Grade 4) I find the world beautiful because of the animals in nature.
Wonders of the World
By Ann (Roseville Area Middle School, Grade 7) The world has lots of cool things in it. It is also just a magical world.
Ignore the Dragon
By Ryan (Falcon Heights Elementary School, Grade 5) Crabby is a hard-shelled cutie. He has lived in the sand for as long as he remembers. Hiding from crazy predators acting as lonely prey. Crabby hasn’t seen another crab in twelve years, yet he is merely eleven. His favorite food is whatever he can find. No matter the condition even if Seawing is blocking it he will pinch them in the nose and steal the food. Crabby doesn’t have any parents. They left him when he was in the egg. Crabby is a lonely crab who loves food and water because he can barely find any. He has not lived well through his entire life. His life is tough, so please give him food. Crabby is smart, tough, and brave. Except he’s not. Please help him. “Bye!” said Crabby.
Finns da Intrusive Thoughts By Timajay (Fairview Alternative High School, Grade 12) He was a big part of my childhood growing up.
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The World Is Your Oyster!
By Seth (Falcon Heights Elementary School, Grade 6) The radiant sunrise over the roaring blue waters, the defined silhouette of the evergreen trees against the blue-pink sky, a desert of shining sand like sprinkles on a great big ice cream cone called Earth.
Flower
Our Cultures
By Kylee (Fairview Alternative High School, Grade 11) The flowers represent how time will always let things grow.
By Jeslyn and Present (Edgerton Elementary School, Grade 6) Karen culture refers to the traditions, languages, and history of the Karen people, an ethnic group indigenous to Myanmar (Burma) and Thailand. Hmong Culture includes a rich tradition of storytelling, shamanistic healing, and unique social structures, like a taboo against marrying someone with the same surname. We also have Hmong clothing. The Karen have a history spanning over 2,000 years in what is now Myanmar, facing significant persecution and conflict, which has led many to refugees. In Hmong Culture we have is Banh Mi (Crusty bread, Cucumber, Carrots, Mayo, Pate, Green onions, Cilantros and Chilli). We also have Spring rolls (Oyster sauce, sesame oil, cilantro, Shrimp and basil). “Htoo” is a name with multiple meanings, most commonly associated with Burmese and Karen cultures, and can mean “golden” or “extraordinary”. It is often used as part of a
Sports
By Haakon (Falcon Heights Elementary School, Grade 4) Super Physical Optimizing Resilient Tremendous Skillful
compound name and reflects qualities of strength, excellence, and eminence, such as “special,” “unique,” or “excellent”. The name has its roots in languages like Burmese and has been linked to the Pali word for “strong” or “powerful”. In Hmong culture we also have Hmong dances to represent the rich cultural identity. How to say “Hello” in Hmong is Nyob zoo ( “Nah-xoing” ) How to say “How are you?” in Karen is Na oh sue oh klay ah?” ( “Na ooh hsoo ah?”)
Our Earth
By Abby (Falcon Heights Elementary School, Grade 4) Our Earth is wild, beautiful, and free, But it is not always what you believe. Under that coat of beauty we think we see every day, is something that will make us mostly dismayed. But when you’re out there, always remember you have the power to change the upsetting things that are unfair to most living things! Help save our Earth! XX ● T H E R A I D E R V O I C E
Earth Pond
By Nelly (Little Canada Elementary School, Grade 6) The pond with origami frogs sends a message of the importance of keeping lakes and ponds clean. “Earth Pond is clean and frog-o-mazing. Do you like it? FROGESO!”
Kind Friends
By Victoria (Edgerton Elementary School, Grade 4) Kind Nice friends They play with me They stand up for me They say I’m a good friend They make me feel so happy They play Marco Polo with me We play at the field together We play dinos at recess all the time
The Earth’s Beauty
Love
By Phio (Parkview Center School, Grade 6) People are coming together to fill in the heart. And they are being kind to each other.
By Estelle (Parkview Center School, Grade 6) When the sun comes to a rise, there stands the grand prize. Once the flowers bloom, there is no gloom nor doom. Skin battling against the sun only to meet defeat. Hot. Too hot. We need a breeze. In the water with fish to tease, splashing around and will soon gobble down ice creams. Leaves turning such a pretty color. Soon going to fall and become duller. Arching over raking piles. So deep could go for miles. Look outside only for a surprise. Many snow clumps that look like guys. Steaming cocoa comes out fresh. Used to heal your freezing flesh.
Puppies
By Elilli (Falcon Heights Elementary School, Grade 4) Puppies are loyal and cute. Puppies cuddle up with you when you’re gloomy. Puppies are the most innocent creatures alive. Puppies have trust stronger than the gravity on the Earth. Puppies Rule!!!!!!
Ocean Shore
By Elizabeth (Parkview Center School, Grade 6) The ocean is beautiful in so many ways, the animals, and the way the sunrise reflects on the water. The ocean is very wondrous.
Love Beach Etheree
By Ella (Edgerton Elementary School, Grade 4) Sun Sandy Cousins, mom, dad Pets, friends, shells, fish Siblings, boat, seagulls Dolphins jumping, yelling Trip to Florida, love it And in the hot sun mom tanning All cousins and dad and a floatie I love all of my family and friends
Our Wondrous World
By Vihan (Harambee Elementary School, Grade 3) We should always connect no matter what skin color we have. If we were all connected there would be no racism, no bullying, no teasing and no negativity or hate. It would be a wondrous world! T H E R A I D E R V O I C E ● XX
Our Wondrous World
By Clara (Falcon Heights Elementary School, Grade 4) Out of school yay! Under the light in our house I read. Rounding the corner I see the stop sign. Wow! I say as I see a crow. Onto the school grounds. Now I am very tired from running. Doing math makes me feel different emotions. Every second is closer to lunch! Recess is soon! Outside time is over soon. Upsettingly knowing more lessons are coming. Soon the day is over. When I get home I read Only when my mom says it’s dinner, I stop reading. Reading is my life. Life is nice. Doing things that make you happy is great!
R@1nb0w n00bz
By Jadara (Parkview Center School, Grade 6) It shows the beauty of the world by noticing all the pretty colors.
The Story of Elephants
By Abigail (Edgerton Elementary School, Grade 6) Once upon a time, not so long ago, there were so many elephants in Africa. Too many to count! All the elephants were so happy to have all these friends. But then one day some humans came to their home and destroyed it and killed their elephant friends. Only three got away. They took their tusks for jewelry. All of the elephants cried. Then some other humans came. All of the elephants ran. They used to trust humans, but after what happened they didn’t let the humans get anywhere near them. The humans used cooing words like “come here, we won’t hurt you,” so the elephants let them get closer and give them treats. But then they poked needles in all of them and they got very sleepy. When they woke up, they were in a white block, trapped. Then the same humans came in and opened the huge door. The three of them were so scared, but they didn’t know what to do. The door opened and all the elephants they could ever imagine were there. They finally realized that not all humans are bad. Some are trying to save their species. The reason this is an OUR WONDROUS WORLD story is because this shows that even though there are terrible people in the world, there are lots and lots of amazing people in the world, too. We need to recognize people who help endangered animals, even if all they do is donate to charities.
Soul Thorns
By Felix (Fairview Alternative High School, Grade 12) I see the world in a very spiritual way. A rose wilts and decays into the ground that makes us all the same as how the energy we put out into the world shapes it and how we live as any creature does.
Bugs
By Anja (Falcon Heights Elementary School, Grade 6) Bugs and humans can be seen as similar. This questions why humans are seen as superior. XX ● T H E R A I D E R V O I C E
The Cat and the Crow
By Paloma (Harambee Elementary School, Grade 6) A shadow comes out of the darkness, big pointy ears, a long lashing tail, and big golden yellow eyes. She looks around for a moment, and walks out of the darkness. Her fur turns a rusty brown in the sunlight. A crow perches on a branch, near her. His black eyes shine in the light of the sun. He notices the cat and flies over to her, eyes locked in on her. He swore he had seen this cat before, but with a black coat. The cat notices the crow
and swats at it at first, but the crow begs, “I come in peace!’’ The cat scowls, “Well, next time, don’t come flying at me so fast!” “I’m sorry, but I’ve been losing my balance recently, and it’s been hard to steer my wings.” The crow says, “But I do have a reason for coming to you.” The cat tilts her head, “Why then?” “Because, I am dying.” Says the crow, sternly. The cat freezes. “What? What do you mean you are dying???” “I am turning 20 years old today, and I am getting far too old, I suspect I will die any hour, or so.” Says the crow,
sadly. “Well, why did you come to me?” Says the cat. “Because, I know and trust you, and you know this little town more than anyone.” Remarks the crow, “Well, what do you want me to do?” Asks the cat “I need you to take me to my nest, so I can rest, peacefully.” The cat nods “Thank you.” The crow flies onto her back and sits, And the cat starts walking where the crow says to go.
and the cat could see all the moths that live there with him. The crow flies up to his nest. “Thank you, you are a dear, good, friend” The cat nods sadly. “No problem… I will miss you, little crow. Have a good rest.” “I will miss you too, goodbye…” The cat stays next to the side of the tree, lying down.
The crow and the cat talk about life after they have parted as they walk. The cat and the crow reaches the willow tree where the crow’s nest is,
The cat never saw the crow again, but she always felt his presence in the nice, warm, Sun.
Dolphins of Our World
Viola
BBy Jordyn (Falcon Heights Elementary School, Grade 4) Diving Oceanic Leaping Playful High-spirited Intelligent Nurturing Social
The crow sleeps peacefully, and the cat stays until dark, and then heads back home in the morning.
By Bobby (Falcon Heights Elementary School, Grade 4)
Stars
Vibrant Invigorating Orchestral Luxurious Admirable
By Zelda (Parkview Center School, Grade 6) The world is beautiful and I love looking at the stars in the sky. T H E R A I D E R V O I C E ● XX
The World
By Asiya (Edgerton Elementary School, Grade 5) The world is beautiful to everyone. I love the world because I’m in it. The sunset is so beautiful as You see the orangish pinkish sky set until the beautiful night sky appears with its cute sparkling stars showing your bravery now know every one of you are beautiful you are beautiful you are brave, cute, nice. I know for a fact you are beautiful. You are handsome, strong, you know you’re you. If you have any doubts read this maybe then you will realize if you haven’t already realized that you might have to go to the mirror and take a good look at who you are.
Reduce. Reuse. Recycle.
By Aysha (Falcon Heights Elementary School, Grade 6) A drawing to tell people to save the earth because the earth is saving us.
The Greatest Trees of our World By Maggie (Falcon Heights Elementary School, Grade 4)
Our world is the home of the oldest and tallest trees. These trees come in a range of species. The oldest non-colonel tree is a Great Basin Bristlecone Pine (Pinus Longaeva) named Methuselah who is estimated to be 4855 years old. Old Tjikko is a Norway Spruce (Picea Abies) that may be the world’s colonial tree (but fairly outstripped byPpando) (read more to find out about them.) Old Tjikko’s branches and trunk are newly regenerated, but its root system still started perhaps 10,000 years ago. The actual oldest and largest colonial tree colony alive today is a quaking Aspen named Pando. Also called the “Trembling Giant” ( whose name is Latin for “I spread”) covers 106 acres and has 47,000 trees weighing an estimated 13 million pounds. Some of the tallest trees are Hyperion, a coast redwood, the tallest tree known in the world. Another one of the tallest trees is the General Sherman. A giant sequoia, and centurion a swamp gum. These are the oldest and tallest trees of our wondrous world!
Wondrous World
By Zelda (Parkview Center School, Grade 6) The world is beautiful and I love looking at the stars in the sky.
The Love of the Art
By Soren (Parkview Center School, Grade 6) It simulates the joys of the world and the beauty of living in it