What is Poetry Out Loud?

Poetry Out Loud lifts poetry off the page, creating community and connection. Since the program began in 2005, more than 4.5 million high school students have participated in this dynamic poetry recitation competition. Poetry Out Loud can help students improve public speaking skills, build confidence, and grow their appreciation for poetry. In recognition of America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, the 2025–26 Poetry Out Loud program will focus on poems that celebrate the rich tapestry of American history and culture.

Michigan high schools, libraries, and other youth-focused community organizations are eligible to take part; there is no cost for program partnership. The program and all materials are provided to each partner at no cost.

Participating partners host their own competitions and select a student to represent their school at the Michigan State Finals. The champion advances to the national finals in Washington, D.C. and competes for a $20,000 college scholarship.

Poetry Out Loud is a partnership of Michigan Humanities, Michigan Arts and Culture Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

If you’d like to read more about the national program, visit the National Endowment for the Arts’ Poetry Out Loud website.

• For partners who have taken part in Poetry Out Loud in past years, the FAQ section provides an overview of recent changes.
• The online list of resources available to Poetry Out Loud partners is available and updated during the program year.

Awards

State Finals: The Michigan Poetry Out Loud State Champion will receive at least $200, and their school/organization will receive $500 for poetry materials. The first runner-up will receive $100; their school/organization will receive $200 for the purchase of poetry materials.

National Finals:  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. The representing schools/organizations of each of the top nine finalists receive $500 for the purchase of poetry materials. There will be one honorable mention in each of the three national semifinals competitions. Those students will not advance to the finals, but will each receive a $1,000 cash award and a $500 school/organizational stipend.

Partner Expectations

• Incorporate poetry recitation into curriculum or afterschool programming (at partner’s discretion) during fall and winter 2025–26.
• Hold local competition(s)—virtually, in-person, or in a hybrid format—to determine student champion.
• Provide student champion’s information to Michigan Humanities by Jan. 30, 2026.
• Ensure student champion will attend state and national championships (if selected).
• Be prepared to report expenses, dates (programming and competitions), and participation numbers. Full contest rules are available in the Poetry Out Loud teacher and organizer’s guide.

Michigan Humanities’ Commitment

• Distribute POL digital resources to each participating partner.
• Host virtual workshops for partners and students leading up to the State Finals.
• Provide a fuel stipend (at least one per school/organization) for students, parents, and teachers traveling 100 miles or more round trip to the State Finals competition.
• Offset expenses for student, parent, and teacher lodging at the State Finals competition. Please note the State Finals location may not be held in Lansing this year; details will be announced in late 2025 about a central location for partners.
• Offset expenses for student meals at the State Finals competition.
• Provide State Champion with the Poetry Out Loud traveling trophy, to be kept at their school for one year. They will also receive a minimum award of $200 and a chance to compete for a $20,000 scholarship at the national competition.

Current & Recent Champions

• 2025: Nour Al-Yasseri, Star International Academy, Dearborn Heights
• 2024: James Cook, Interlochen Arts Academy, Interlochen
• 2023: Glenn Doss, Melvindale High School, Melvindale
• 2022: Gabriel Blaikie, Interlochen Arts Academy, Interlochen
• 2021: Madison Ganzak, Roosevelt High School, Wyandotte

Social Media

Get updates, post questions, and share your photos via the Michigan Humanities accounts below and with #MIHumanities, #MIPoetryOutLoud, and #IamPoetryOutLoud.

Follow Michigan Humanities