Poetry Out Loud

Poetry Out Loud in Iowa is an arts education program that encourages high school students to study great poetry and compete in a recitation competition at local, state and national levels. Students master public speaking skills, build self-confidence and learn about their literary heritage.

It was created by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Poetry Foundation with the collaboration of state arts agencies in all 50 states and U.S. territories.

About the Program

High school teachers implement curriculum using free, standards-based materials. Classroom studies culminate with a contest in which each student selects and recites poems from the Poetry Out Loud anthology. Classroom winners advance to school-wide competitions and school champions advance to regional and state competitions. State champions advance to the National Finals in Washington D.C. where a total of $50,000 in scholarships and school stipends are awarded as prizes.

Iowa’s state champion receives $200 and an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C. to compete for the national championship. The Iowa champion’s school receives a $500 stipend for the purchase of poetry books and the first runner-up receives $100 plus $200 for his or her school.

Past State Champions

View past state champions of the Iowa Poetry Out Loud program.

How to Participate

1. Read the Poetry Out Loud Participation Guide
2. Complete the Poetry Out Loud Registration Form