High schools are invited to participate in Poetry Out Loud, a national poetry recitation contest in which students recite poems at class, school, state and national levels. The contest gives students an opportunity to select, memorize and perform poems in front of peers and audiences, ultimately gaining a better understanding of poetry and themselves.

Poetry Out Loud helps students master public speaking skills, build self-confidence and learn about literary heritage. Encouraging students to study, memorize and perform some of the most influential and timeless poems of the English language immerses them in powerful expression and provocative ideas.

The competition begins at the classroom level, with each school determining champions who go on to the state finals March 7 in Frankfort. Each state sends one finalist to the national competition. Teachers can use Poetry Out Loud to address arts education standards, and participation in the program is often cited by schools as evidence for their Visual and Performing Arts Program Review.

The deadline for schools to register is Sept. 15. Click here for more information and a link to registration.