Poetry Out Loud® lifts poetry off the page, creating community and connection. Since the program began in 2005, more than 4.5 million high school students have participated in this dynamic poetry recitation competition. Poetry Out Loud can help students improve public speaking skills, build confidence, and grow their appreciation for poetry.
In recognition of America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, the 2025-2026 Poetry Out Loud program will focus on poems that celebrate the rich tapestry of American history and culture. Click the “Find Poems” tab for an updated list of poems for this year’s competition. *Note: There may be additional poems added to this anthology through October 31, 2025.
Contact your State Coordinator to get involved.
For Students
What's It Like to Compete?
Nervous about reciting? Unsure of where to start? Don’t be—everything you need to help you perform a successful recitation is right here.
“POL is one big family. Everyone is in support of each other. It surprised me how much it didn’t feel like a competition; instead, it felt like a group of people who were simply passionate about poetry sharing it with each other and an audience.”
Niveah Glover, 2024 Poetry Out Loud National Champion
For Teachers and Organizers
The Power of Poetry
Every year thousands of teachers integrate Poetry Out Loud into their curricula. This section has everything you need to run a successful program in your classroom.
Congratulations to the 2025 Poetry Out Loud National Champion, Isavel Mendoza!
May 08, 2025
Isavel Mendoza, a 12th-grade student at Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The Second-Place winner is Teonna Randle, a 12th-grade student at Jefferson High School in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The Third-Place winner is Kaitlyn Lubega, a 12th-grade student at the United World College – USA in Montezuma, New Mexico. Read more here!
