Poetry Out Loud (POL) encourages students to learn about great poetry through memorization and recitation. This program helps students master public speaking skills, build self-confidence, and learn about literary heritage and contemporary life. Created by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Poetry Foundation, Poetry Out Loud is administered in partnership with the State Arts Agencies of all 50 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico.

The 2019 Ohio Poetry Out Loud regional semifinal for Cincinnati/Southwest Ohio will take place at Elementz on Feb. 8 at 5 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.