Thanks to over 500 poets, parents and teachers for making Haiku Fest successful.

Please note that as soon as the Haiku Festival Awards Program can be rescheduled (due to COVID-19), cash prizes and certificates will be awarded.

We proudly announce the following commendations for participants in grades 5 and 6:

First Prize

aging bonsai tree
owners seeking perfection
patience rewarded

Kierra Chambers, Age 10, grade 5
St. Christina Elementary, Chicago


Gwendolyn Brooks Award

the lanterns raised high
geishas dance in the moonlight
flowers shake with joy

Reese Carey, age 12, grade 6
Norman Bridge Elementary, Chicago


Honorable Mention

beautiful night sky
creatures silently sleeping
habitats in reach

Bree Chambers, Age 10, Grade 5
St. Christina Elementary, Chicago


Honorable Mention

violets blue as sky
waving hello to the dawn
breathtaking meadow

Charlotte Senese, Age 10, Grade 5
St. Christina Elementary, Chicago


Teacher of the Year:

Ms. Lauren McNeela
Norman Bridge Elementary, Chicago


Teacher of the Year Honorable Mention:

Ms. Mindy Gonzalez
Josephine Locke Elementary, Chicago


School of the Year:

Josephine Locke Elementary, Chicago

Ms. Mindy Gonzalez
Ms. Joanne Hernandez
Ms. Jennifer Salen
Ms. Jessika Maldonado
Mr. David Kissane
Ms. Kristina Jubera
Ms. Mary Selim


School of the Year Honorable Mention:

Norman Bridge Elementary, Chicago

Ms. Lauren McNeela