Poetry Out Loud is a national arts education program that encourages the study of great poetry by offering free educational materials and a dynamic recitation competition for high school students across the country. This program helps students master public speaking skills, build self-confidence, and learn about literary history and contemporary life. Poetry Out Loud is a partnership of the National Endowment for the Arts, Poetry Foundation, and the state and jurisdictional arts agencies.
Each year students across the nation compete in school, regional, and state competitions to perfect and showcase the art of poetry recitation. The Arts Council of Southeast Missouri hosts school winners from our region and a panel of judges selects a winner that then moves on to compete at the state level for a chance to perform on the national stage.
2024 Southeast Regional Competition
Congratulations,
Harlie Hinkle!
Harlie, of Woodland Senior High, was crowned the 2024 Southeast Regional Champion. Wish her luck on her journey to State Finals in Jefferson City!
Congratulations to Harlie Hinkle of Woodland Senior High, Nelson McGuire, and Shandy Elfrink of Here. Lit Magazine Program for their incredible recitations at the Regional Competition held on Saturday, February 17th, 2024. Thanks to our incredible judges: Joshua Newth, Joni Hand, Ash Durrance, Jasmine Jones, and Carol Horst. We are so grateful to teachers Mia Pohlman, Nichole Stegeman, and Bob Clubbs for participating.
Lastly, thanks to the staff of Rust Media and Scout Hall for giving us such a special space to hold the competition, and for getting everything ready with us.
