Poetry Out Loud Program

What is it?

Poetry Out Loud is a national poetry recitation competition created by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and the Poetry Foundation and administered in partnership with the state arts agencies. Each participating school receives a teaching artist residency and the opportunity for the school champion to compete in the state competition. The state champion goes on to the national competition in Washington, D.C.
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Who's eligible?

All Kentucky high schools, public and private, may apply. Home-schooled students may compete through a participating local high school or a home school regional competition hosted by a local library or community center.

When is the deadline to apply?

Oct. 1, 2021, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern

How do I apply?

1. Carefully review the program guidelines.
2. Complete the registration form.

What are my responsibilities?

• The Kentucky Arts Council will email a grant agreement form (GAF) to your superintendent/CEO for a digital signature. Ensure the GAF is signed and submitted to the arts council in a timely manner.
• Send a letter to each of your state legislators. (Sample)
• Acknowledge the Kentucky Arts Council, the NEA and the Poetry Foundation in all public communications. (How?)
• Host a fully funded interactive residency from a professional teaching artist to help students prepare for competition.
• Conduct a schoolwide competition and select a school champion.
• Arrange for your school champion to compete in the state competition on March 1, 2022.
• Submit a final report within 30 days after the completion of your school contest.

If I have questions, who can help me?

Samuel Lockridge
Arts Education Director
samuel.lockridge@ky.gov
502-892-3124