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.

Interested in knowing more? Download the Teacher’s Guide and contact Julia Stark, Arts Learning Specialist at julia.stark@tn.gov

2024 Tennessee Poetry Out Loud 

January 13, 2024: Deadline to Register School Competition

February 1, 2024: Deadline to Register School Champion

February 1, 2024: Deadline to Apply for Travel Assistance 

TBD: TN State Finals

April 30-May 2. 2024: POL National Finals in Washington, D.C.