Brockton Selects New Youth Poet Laureate

Ryan Simmons, a 10th-grade student, begins a two-year term representing the city through local literary programs.

Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in People

Interior view of an empty, historic library reading room with wooden tables and tall arched windows bathed in warm morning light. — The Brockton Public Library has appointed New Heights Charter School student Ryan Simmons to a two-year term as the city’s youth poet laureate. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Brockton Public Library has named Ryan Simmons as the city's newest youth poet laureate. Simmons, a student at New Heights Charter School, officially began his two-year tenure following an inauguration event.

Why it matters

The youth poet laureate position aims to foster local engagement by providing a platform for young voices to lead community workshops and readings. This appointment highlights the role of public institutions in supporting student artistic development in Brockton.

Ryan Simmons is currently a 10th-grade student at the New Heights Charter School of Brockton. He will serve in this public role for a two-year term, overseeing various community outreach programs.

The players

Ryan Simmons

He is a 10th-grade student at New Heights Charter School of Brockton who now serves as the city's youth poet laureate.

Brockton Public Library

This local institution managed the selection process for the laureate and hosted the official inauguration event.

New Heights Charter School

This educational institution serves as the current school for the youth poet laureate.

The details

A panel of judges selected Simmons through a formal process conducted by the Brockton Public Library. As the new laureate, he is tasked with hosting a series of public readings and literary workshops for the local community.

October 10, 2026: Ryan Simmons officially began his two-year term.
October 10, 2026, 2 p.m.: The inauguration ceremony took place at the Main Street Library.

Market Landscape

This appointment mirrors the structure of the U.S. Youth Poet Laureate program, which utilizes local library systems to elevate student voices. By formalizing this role, Brockton aligns itself with national trends focused on community-based arts advocacy.

Residents can expect increased opportunities to attend youth-led literary workshops and public readings hosted by the library. These programs provide families with free, accessible cultural events throughout the two-year term.

The takeaway

Supporting youth poets provides students with essential public speaking and leadership skills. Community members are encouraged to attend upcoming library events to support local student artists.