MAINE'S 2025-2026 POETRY OUT LOUD PROGRAM

AUGUSTA, ME — The Maine Arts Commission is pleased to announce that registration is now open for the 2025–2026 season of Poetry OutLoud, a dynamic, nationwide poetry recitation program that helps students develop public speaking skills, build confidence, and deepen their understanding of literary arts.

Throughout 2025, high schools and community-based organizations across Maine are invited to host classroom, school-wide, or organizational competitions. Winners will advance to regional contests in February, followed by the statewide finals in March. Non-school organizations, including after-school programs, libraries, and nonprofit groups, are also eligible to participate. Students may compete through either their school or an organization, but not both.

Teachers, educators, and coordinators have access to free, standards-based curriculum materials at PoetryOutLoud.org, including an online poetry anthology, lesson plans, and instructional videos to support classroom and community learning.

Maine’s state champion will advance to the Poetry Out Loud National Finals, where $50,000 in awards and school stipends will be distributed.

At last year’s 20th anniversary Maine Poetry Out Loud State Finals, held at the Waterville Opera House, Pendo Dawe, a senior at Maine Coast Waldorf School, was named the 2025 Maine State Champion. Selected from among ten of Maine’s strongest high school reciters, Pendo impressed judges with her compelling, heartfelt interpretations and exceptional stage presence.

In May, Pendo represented Maine at the 2025 National Finals in Washington, D.C., where she stood among the top youth reciters from across the nation. Though she did not advance to the final round, Pendo delivered moving performances that showcased her artistry, discipline, and poise on a national stage.

From the Maine Poetry Out Loud Program Coordinator

"I have been involved as a judge, an emcee, and a teaching artist through previous Maine Poetry Out Loud programs,” said Maya Williams, Maine Poetry Out Loud Program Coordinator and former Poet Laureate for the City of Portland. “It has been a joy to coordinate programs for this 2025–2026 school year. I look forward to how community members throughout the state will be involved in each regional competition. Be on the lookout for more ways to be involved in poetry reading and discussion outside of competition needs in January." Poetry Out Loud Awards

Each state champion receives $200 and advances to the national championships. The national champion receives a $20,000 prize, part of the larger $50,000 in awards and school/organization stipends distributed each year. State champions’ schools or organizations also receive a $500 stipend to purchase poetry materials. First runners-up receive $100, with $200 awarded to their school or organization.

About the National Endowment for the Arts

Established by Congress in 1965, the National Endowment for the Arts is the largest funder of the arts and arts education in communities nationwide. By advancing opportunities for arts participation and practice, the NEA fosters and sustains an environment in which the arts benefit everyone in the United States. Visit arts.gov to learn more.

KEY Dates

Questions? Contact the Poetry Out Loud Maine Coordinator, vog.eniam@zsaruK.anitsirhK