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.

Join us for the 2023 Southwest Ohio Poetry Out Loud Regional Semi-finals. The regional semi-finals winner will advance to the Ohio Poetry Out Loud State Finals in Columbus, OH on March 10, 2023.

The Ohio Poetry Out Loud State Finals winner will advance to the Poetry Out Loud National Finals in Washington, DC May 8 - 10, 2023.

A total of $50,000 in awards and school/organizational stipends will be given at the Poetry Out Loud National Finals, including a $20,000 award for the National Champion, $10,000 for 2nd place, $5,000 for 3rd place, and $1,000 for 4th-9th places.