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Renaissance Amplifies Student Creativity with Flocabulary Rap Contest

Renaissance, a prominent player in pre-K–12 education technology, is set to host a thrilling nationwide rap contest through its engaging platform, Flocabulary. This initiative aims not only to foster creativity among students but also to provide educators with a unique means to connect with their learners. The emphasis is on celebrating student voices by encouraging them to explore historical figures that inspire them while honing their writing and research skills.

The Flocabulary Student Voice Rap Contest invites students across the country to engage deeply with history through rap. Contestants are challenged to select a historical figure that resonates with them, conduct research, and then pen at least 16 bars that effectively weave together their findings into a compelling lyrical piece. This approach utilizes the rhythm and flow characteristic of hip-hop, while also emphasizing vocabulary development and engagement with the curriculum.

Two lucky winners will be chosen in two categories: grades K–5 and 6–12. Winners will see their original compositions transformed into Flocabulary videos complete with supplementary learning activities designed to enhance educational outcomes. These winning lessons will reach an impressive audience of over 20,000 schools across the United States, further spreading the impact of student creativity in educational settings.

Dr. Mervin Jenkins, the Director and Solutions Consultant at Renaissance, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, "The lyricism in hip-hop serves as a fantastic tool for engaging students. It helps them to express themselves and refine their writing capabilities. The storytelling potential inherent in hip-hop connects deeply with curriculum objectives and creates memorable learning experiences. I eagerly anticipate witnessing the creativity our students will exhibit through this contest."

Flocabulary stands out as a dynamic educational platform within the Renaissance ecosystem. It uniquely combines hip-hop musical elements and storytelling to instruct on various academic concepts. With over 1,300 video lessons aligned with education standards, Flocabulary effectively aids vocabulary acquisition and comprehension for K-12 students. The engaging content not only captivates learners but also provides a memorable context for fundamental learning experiences.

The contest has the potential to inspire a new generation of poets and historians, as showcased by past winners whose lyrics reflected deep engagement with history. For example, Isabella V. from California won the Black History Month Contest in 2023 with her rap about Sojourner Truth, emphasizing her courage and commitment to justice. Alaina S. from Ohio also won in 2024, illustrating the tale of Grace Fryer, a radium factory worker who unknowingly suffered the effects of the toxic substance. These examples highlight the robustness of student voices when given a platform to shine.

Renaissance is now accepting entries for the Flocabulary Student Voice Rap Contest until November 30, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. EST. Winning entries will be showcased as official Flocabulary lessons during the month of April 2026, coinciding with National Poetry Month. This timing ensures that the celebration of student creativity aligns with a broader appreciation of poetry and self-expression.

To learn more about the contest and how to participate, interested students, teachers, and educators can refer to the official contest details on Renaissance's website. Renaissance remains committed to the belief that technology, combined with creative expression, can unlock a more effective, personalized learning experience. By enabling students to see their voices represented, Renaissance is ensuring that education remains a vibrant and inclusive environment.

In summary, the Flocabulary Rap Contest represents a significant opportunity for K-12 students to enhance their learning while having fun at the same time. Hip-hop lyricism not only cultivates strong writing skills but also engages students in essential historical knowledge, fostering a new generation of informed and creative thinkers.

For more information on this exciting opportunity, visit Renaissance's website.