Cleveland student headed to New York for National Poetry Slam!

CLEVELAND -- Cleveland students are learning the power of their words thanks to a unique after-school program.

America SCORES Cleveland is a program that empowers inner city youth in Cleveland neighborhoods through a unique combination of creative writing, soccer, and service-learning. America SCORES Cleveland gives at-risk kids a safe place to learn and grow after school.

This year, students expressed themselves in the fifth annual citywide America SCORES Cleveland Poetry Slam!

250 elementary students from eight Cleveland schools performed original works of poetry.

10-year-old Gonzalo Villafan took part in the Poetry Slam! The event not only allowed Gonzalo to express his feelings, but also helped him conquer his fears in the classroom and on stage.

Gonzalo was one of 16 individual performers at Poetry Slam! He has been chosen to go to New York for the national Poetry Slam! competition.

For more information on America SCORES Cleveland, click here.