Poetry Out Loud (POL) is a national competition that seeks to foster the next generation of literary readers by capitalizing on the latest trends in poetry - recitation and performance. The program builds on the resurgence of the oral art form of poetry, as seen in the slam poetry and spoken word movements. The program invites these dynamic aspects into the classroom, where teachers engage students through classroom memorization, performances, and competition.
The National Endowment for the Arts and the Poetry Foundation partnered with the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities (CAH) to support Poetry Out Loud, a FREE high school program that encourages the nation's youth to learn about great poetry through memorization and recitation. This dynamic program helps high school students master public speaking skills, build self-confidence, learn about their literary heritage, and compete for more than $100,000 in awards.
Poetry Out Loud 2025
Planet Word Museum, 925 13th St NW, Washington, DC, Saturday | March 15, 2025, 12:00 - 3:00 PM
Participating Schools:
Ballou Senior High School
Benjamin Banneker Academic High School
Capital City Public Charter School
DC International High School
H.D Woodson High School
KIPP DC College Prep
St. Anselm's Abbey School
Duke Ellington School of the Arts
Washington Latin Public Charter School