Poetry Out Loud (POL) is a national, high school poetry recitation competition developed by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Poetry Foundation. Participation helps students master public speaking skills, build self- confidence, and learn about their literary heritage. The program increases student engagement in literature classes, provides non-academic scholarship opportunities for students, and builds statewide cultural connections for schools. 

  

Congratulations to the twelve students who participated in this year's Poetry Out Loud state finals competition! This year's top three winners are 2nd runner-up Malachi White from Covington High School; 1st runner-up Karma Williams from Benjamin Franklin High School; and State Champion Camilla Howell from Zachary High School. Camilla will go on to represent Louisiana at the national competition in Washington, D.C. in May. This year's national semifinals and finals competitions can be livestreamed on May 9 and 10!

STATE FINALISTS

• Alana Bailey, Covington High School
• Sage Bell, Neville High School
• Amerie Brown, Neville High School
• D'Merik Carey, Zachary High School
• Bird Fuller, Episcopal School of Acadiana
• Camilla Howell, Zachary High School
• Siyeon Joo, Episcopal School of Acadiana
• Alaina Kron, Patrick Taylor Science and Technology Academy
• Jazmyn Mason, Caddo Magnet High School
• Tanya Mina, Choudrant High School
• Malachi White, Covington High School
• Karma Williams, Benjamin Franklin High School

In addition to being FREE, POL is easily implemented by a school, cultural institution such as a library or community theatre, or individual teacher or artist. To get involved, access POL resources here.