Poetry Out Loud helps students build public speaking skills, confidence, and an appreciation for poetry.

SCSC hosts Minnesota's Poetry Out Loud program, offering high school students free educational resources and the opportunity to compete in a statewide poetry recitation competition.

Since 2005, Poetry Out Loud has reached more than 3.8 million students and 60,000 teachers from 16,000 schools in every state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Learn more at poetryoutloud.org.

Learn more about POL in this article from the Minnesota English Journal.

The anthology will be updated for the current year on September 1, 2026

Minnesota Poetry Ourselves

Students who participate in Poetry Out Loud at any level may also submit original poetry for inclusion in Minnesota Poetry Ourselves, an annual e-book showcasing student work.

We thank the participants and invite you to view the 2025-26 edition.

Upcoming Events:

Informational Webinar, Monday, Oct. 5, 2026 at 3:30 p.m. RSVP

Old Town Day of the Dead Poetry Speaking Event - Oct. 31, 2026 - Registration and more information 

Register to participate by December 10, 2026 for Poetry Out Loud

Regional Dates: Feb. 1–7, 2027

State Competition: March 5, 2027

‍

State Competition Results:

2026 Poetry Out Loud State Competition:  View the recap