Poetry Out Loud

Poetry Out Loud is a free poetry recitation contest for high-school students (grades 9-12) in both public and private schools. Poetry Out Loud 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 history and contemporary life.

Congratulations to the 2022 Oklahoma Poetry Out Loud Champion!

Ashlyn Sears, Bethany High School

2022-2023 Contest Information

National Poetry Out Loud Website

Watch a recording of an informational POL virtual workshop here.

Download the Poetry Out Loud App
Apple Store (iOS)
Google Play Store (Android)

Important dates

September 1 – December 1, 2022
School Registration Window

October 29, 2022
10:00 – 11:30 am
FREE Virtual POL Workshop for Teachers and Coordinators
Registration Opens in September 2022
2021 Workshop Recording available here

November 1, 2022 – February 1, 2023
Classroom/Schoolwide Competition Window

February 1, 2023
Deadline for Submitting School Winner to OKA+

March 7, 2023
Statewide Contest at the University of Central Oklahoma (Edmond)

Spring 2023
National Contest in Washington, DC

Congratulations to the 2022 School Champions

2021-2022 Participating Schools

Bethany High School, Classen School of Advance Studies, Coweta High School, Dewey High School, Guthrie High School, Harding Fine Arts High School, Lawton High School, Madill High School, Putnam City North High School, Rural Oklahoma Museum of Poetry,?? Taloga High School, Union High School, and Walters High School