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Recently, Middle School students published the Spring 2024 issue of “The Spiral Staircase,” SSA Middle School’s digital literary magazine. “The Spiral Staircase” is a student-driven publication highlighting original student artwork and writing, fostering a platform where diverse perspectives can flourish. Its current digital format began in 2021.

The "lit mag" student editorial staff includes: Veronika M., Vivian M., Lindey B., Eva B., Mahika C., Lauren G., Eisa K., Maria K., Amanda L., Eira P., Pilar P., Isabelle P., and Siena W. The issue includes works by these and many other Middle School students. 

In this issue’s Letter from the Editors, the students themselves describe the publication as “a blank canvas for individual perspectives” that “represents a significant form of expression.” As eighth-grader Lindey B. says, “Lit Mag became an outlet for a lot of emotions and opinions that students might not have shared yet.” This emphasis on individual perspectives nurtures creativity and promotes a balanced worldview, encouraging students to appreciate and respect different viewpoints. 

The students met daily during the Spring term with faculty advisor and English teacher Lauren Cannon to produce the issue. Students had ownership over the entire process including visioning and brainstorming the themes they wanted to include in the issue, soliciting submissions, creating their own pieces, making editorial determinations, and laying out the magazine. As Mrs. Cannon mentioned, each student wore many hats throughout the process and had to stretch themselves in ways that led to growth. 

Students also participate in groups where they share writing that is in process, opening themselves up to constructive feedback. Through their involvement in the entire editorial process, students gain invaluable real-world experience that will prepare them for academic, professional, and personal success. 

Of the experience, eighth-grade student Veronika M. said: “[The editorial staff] worked in unison, blending artworks and literature, offering constructive criticism when sought, and supporting one another with reminders to not ‘burn our salads’ as Mrs. Cannon often says—our code for staying positive and not being too hard on ourselves. This camaraderie uplifted every member of our friendly circle, fostering an environment where creativity thrived.”

This issue includes short stories, poetry, illustrations using various mediums, and more. Themes vary from music and movement, identity, confidence, and insecurities to relationships, memoirs, and nature. Mrs. Cannon pointed out that some of the more sensitive topics spurred important and thoughtful conversations about readership and the messages that some art may send to certain members of the community. 

The magazine transitioned to a digital format during the COVID pandemic. That transition eliminated page count limitations that came with traditional printing and allowed for more student voices and art to be showcased. This year, the digital format included a new interactive element. Some students were able to record themselves reading their own piece and embed it on the page accompanying the written version so that readers could choose to listen to the piece in the writer’s voice if they chose.  

By participating in “The Spiral Staircase,” students not only hone their artistic and literary talents but also learn important life skills such as teamwork, project management, and effective communication. It gives them a space to explore their complex emotions through art and express themselves freely. 

“The Spiral Staircase” is published yearly in the Spring. You can read the Spring 2024 Issue here and explore past issues of “The Spiral Staircase” here.