North Ridge Elementary School student Mathew Rushing wrote a series of poems for this year’s graduating class and personally distributeD them at Canyon Springs High School’s cap and gown distribution day on June 1.
“Dear Graduates” is the name of the first poem he shared. It reads, “What a year we had...You will not have a normal graduation but you could still have a celebration… 2021 has been a dangerous year, but you don’t have to shed more tears… Stay positive and don’t lose your hope...Stay strong class of 2021, soon these memories will be in the past.”
Mathew is 9 years old and lives in the city of Moreno Valley. His autobiography indicates that he enjoys playing video games and likes to collect rocks, but he has left a lasting impression on district and school officials.
“My seniors have had such a challenging year, and your words will make such a difference in helping them know that people care about them,” responded Tamara Kerr, principal at Canyon Springs Elementary School in an email to Mathew. “Your kind gesture has truly touched my heart. I am so excited to know that you will one day be a student on our campus.”
Mathew put his poems together in a booklet titled “Hard Times” and includes various drawings, colored art and photographs of his pets. His booklet is dedicated to doctors, nurses, firefighters, police officers, drivers, store workers and school staff.
“It’s incredible how a student that young is thinking about others like that,” said Superintendent Dr. Martinrex Kedziora. “For a child to think about everyone that has been battling through this worldwide pandemic and write poems for them, is just beyond amazing. We are so proud to have students like Mathew in our district.”
Mathew was recognized at a school board meeting on May 25, 2021.
“Poetry and words can have such healing power and be a powerful unifier,” said Moreno Valley Unified School District Board President Darrell Peeden. “It’s such a touching gesture as we start to come together in celebration of our seniors.”
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