The 2024-2025 school year marks the 20th anniversary of Poetry Out Loud, an arts education program and dynamic poetry recitation competition for high school students that lifts poetry off the page, creating community and connection. A partnership of the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), Poetry Foundation, and state and jurisdictional arts agencies, Poetry Out Loud takes place in all 50 states, American Samoa, District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Schools and organizations are encouraged to contact Dr. Traci Currie and Sheila Dean Ross to get involved in this year’s competition.
Participating in Poetry Out Loud and using poetry in the classroom can have a positive impact on students' Social Emotional Learning (SEL). By engaging with poetry, students are able to explore complex emotions and ideas, and develop empathy and understanding for others. Additionally, the act of reciting poetry in front of an audience can help students build self-confidence and overcome anxiety. Poetry and Literature can improve SEL by offering positive avenues to explore emotions, cultural difference, and understanding.
Interested in participating in Poetry Out Loud 2024? Register today!
Important Dates
School Registration Deadline - October 20, 2024
Classroom Instruction/School Competitions - September - December 2024
Deadline to Report School Winners - December 20, 2024
Student Coaching and Preparation - January-February 2025
Delaware State Finals - February 20, 2025 at Smyrna Opera House
Poetry Out Loud National Finals - May 5-7, 2025 - Washington D.C
