Poetry Out Loud, the nationwide program that encourages high school students to explore poetry through memorization and performance, once again inspires young voices in Yolo County and throughout California. Currently, students are participating in local competitions with hopes of advancing to the state finals and beyond.

According to a press release, the program, founded by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Poetry Foundation, aims to promote poetry appreciation and help students develop public speaking skills. Participants memorize and perform poems, interpreting the verses with emotion and creativity.

The winner of the Yolo County competition, senior Noah Marin from Esparto High School, impressed judges with his performances of carefully selected poems. As the county winner, Marin will advance to the California State Finals in Sacramento on March 15, where he will compete for the chance to represent the state at the national competition in Washington, D.C.

“What I have learned from being a part of the Poetry Out Loud contest was of course, the focus on its memorization, poets, and performance, but what I have gained and learned from this opportunity was confidence, self-expression, trust, and most importantly how poetry can be perceived differently to each person, with different and unique meanings,” Marin shared.

Additionally, Marin stated, “For a contest like this, I would say making sure you are comfortable with the poem you choose, this includes the meaning and understanding of what the poem is trying to say. Knowing the poem and the message can be key to knowing how you will perform it. I would also say trusting the process and embracing the uncomfortable, funny, and embarrassing moments while preparing for something like this.”

California has a strong history in the program, with its champions often placing highly in the national finals. The program’s commitment to poetry education is reflected in the growing participation in Poetry Out Loud. Teachers and mentors see it as an opportunity to engage students with literature and gain new skills.

“Involvement in the annual Poetry Out Loud Contest helps students build confidence, improve public speaking skills, and deepen their understanding of poetry. It fosters self-expression, creativity, and critical thinking while providing a platform to celebrate the power of words and performance,” said Esparto High School Principal Gerri Leonardis.

Across the state of California, students advancing in the competition in February will have the chance to represent their county in the state finals in March. Poetry Out Loud leaves a lasting impact on participants, helping them discover the power of poetry in shaping their voices.

For more information about Poetry Out Loud, visit the Yolo County Arts Council website or the national Poetry Out Loud website.