Silver Hills Middle School student's poem featured across Denver

Silver Hills Middle School is proud to celebrate Jordan Castillo, a talented young writer whose work reached readers far beyond the classroom. As a seventh grader, Jordan entered a poetry contest through Poetry to Go and Columbine Poets of Colorado, a program that highlights student voices from across the region. His poem was one of the select few chosen to appear on RTD bus placards throughout the Denver metro area—giving thousands of riders the chance to read and reflect on his words.

Jordan’s poem has a unique origin story. When he first submitted it, it didn’t yet have a title. His ELA teacher asked him to read it aloud and think about what the lines made him feel. After a moment, Jordan answered simply: “Fear.” That honest and thoughtful response became the title of his winning piece.

Jordan’s achievement was celebrated by his family and school community at Silver Hills Middle School, all of whom recognize the creativity, courage, and insight his writing displays. His accomplishment is a reminder that student voices matter—and that powerful poetry can come from unexpected places.

Congratulations, Jordan, on sharing your voice with the entire Denver community.

Fear

The sky is not blue today. 
It has a bruised canvas, 
smudged with the memory of rain.
People walk faster when clouds are near
as if water could wash away
more than just dust. 

by Jordan Castillo