“Poetry Out Loud is the best way I’ve ever seen to teach poetry in a classroom. This program gets the students to essentially teach poems to their classmates by reciting them in a way which gives the poem life. As a poet, I’m so grateful for this program and what it does.” – Poet Matt Mason
Poetry Out Loud encourages teens to learn about poetry through memorization and recitation. The program helps students master public speaking skills, build self-confidence, and learn about their literary heritage. Poetry Out Loud is an exciting way to bring poetry alive for both students and teachers.
As always, POL activities, including teaching artist sessions are FREE of charge.
Follow Nebraska Poetry Out Loud on Facebook for more information.
Registration Deadline: October 15, 2025
Teachers, librarians, and non-profit administrators: use this form to register for Poetry Out Loud. Once you submit your registration form, NAC will contact you about artist visits, program stipends, and other information.
Nebraska high schools, public libraries, and non-profits are invited to participate in this free program. Participating students compete for a free trip to Washington D.C. and more than $50,000 in scholarships and prizes.
Poetry Out Loud meets many Nebraska ELA and theatre standards, as well as NCTE standards. Nebraska Arts Council provides personalized assistance to help you get started with your program.
We are pleased to offer stipends of up to $200 to support your program activities. NAC will contact registered schools and organizations with details.
We are offering free, in-person visits by poets and performing artists this year! Artists will make visits during early October and requests are due by September 23rd. Visits are subject to scheduling availability and cannot be guaranteed.
Free virtual (online) artist coaching sessions are also offered once again. Requests for online coaching sessions must be made by December 1 (sessions may be scheduled through January).
Travel stipends will be offered.
