Poetry Out Loud

Poetry Out Loud (POL) is a national recitation competition organized by the Tennessee Arts Commission in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and the Poetry Foundation.

This literary arts program offers dynamic performance and learning opportunities for students to succeed in and beyond the classroom. The Tennessee champion will win $1,000 and represent Tennessee in the National Finals. Runners-up of both competitions will also receive cash prizes, as well as money for their school. POL is open to all public, private and homeschool students in grades 9-12 and encourages teachers of all subjects to participate.

Host a Poetry Out Loud Competition at your school

Give your students the opportunity to strengthen public speaking skills, build self-confidence, and foster a lifelong appreciation for poetry.  

• For public, private, and homeschool students in grades 9-12 

• Flexible program that can be implemented in a variety of ways 

• All teachers of any subjects can participate 

• Cash prizes for students and schools ranging from $150 – $20,000 

• Free workshops available  

Interested in knowing more? Access Teachers’ Resources  and contact Julia Stark, Arts Learning Specialist at julia.stark@tn.gov

Register your School Competition Here

2026 Dates: 

January 16: Deadline to Register and Hold School Competition

January 31: Deadline to Register School Champion for State Finals

February 27-28: State Finals

April 27-29: National Finals in Washington, D.C.